Project manager volunteer roles in chalk farm, greater london

The job entails working closely with project/programme managers in ensuring the smooth running of the organisation's internal operations, external networking, HR, events, communications & fundraising. Successful candidates will be able to gain proven experience in each of the highlighted areas. 

The successful candidate must be a quick learner, trustworthy, intelligent and pro-active self-starter, highly organised and able to multitask effectively.

Key responsibilities include:
Provide receptionist and general admin support to the team, including basic bookkeeping
Provide seamless support to project leads, contractors and freelancers
Help with events and conferences.
Help with writing of funding proposals, publicity & marketing 
Update social media, website, marketing and promotion content

The Ideal Candidate will:
Be Intelligent & Trustworthy - have gained great academic results
Demonstrate excellent writing skills and speaking ability
Pay attention to details and exhibit high degree of precision with work assignments
Be Tech Savvy - Be competent/confident with CRM, CMS, social media and spreadsheets 
Have some interest in Art Galleries, Creativity, Research, International Devevelopment and/or business administration 

Benefits:

• Career Development Plan Support 
• Access to paid training and qualification enhancement
• Work references for future jobs application
• Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses

The Senior Researcher in an Initial Research Team is the operational lead for one
particular project at a time, they will work with the Research Manager and within
the Initial Research Framework in order to plan and execute the research. At the
conclusion of research projects the Senior Researcher is responsible for providing
an accurate research report which allows for consideration as to what happens
next with the research inline with our organisation's purpose.The role of Senior
Researcher is key in our organisation's progress and overall positive output as it is
the starting point for all of our work. It is therefore important Senior Researchers
are committed and capable.

Responsibilities may include:

• To oversee and take part in the planning and execution of initial research projects

• To supervise a team of approximately 4 research volunteers, delegating and creating tasks according to the research plan

• To work with and support the Research Manager, ensuring task coordination across platforms such as ClickUp and a high level of communication across the team 

• To ensure outputs such as literature reviews and surveys are completed to the highest standard possible, in line with ethical considerations if relevant

• To comply with and advise on using the OSCOLA referencing system

• To organise analysis of Freedom of Information request data sets

• To collaborate with the rest of the team and the RM to provide an internal research report at the end of the research project, including a summary and key recommendations for next steps

• To conduct 1-1s and lead team meetings where necessary

• To regularly communicate with team members about their task progress, welfare and support needs

Required experience and qualifications:

• To have experience in supervising or managing a group of people

• Clear communication skills and a demonstrable level of academic writing to a high standard 

• In depth knowledge of qualitative research methods and secondary data analysis, quantitative experience a plus

• To have knowledge on children’s human rights in the UK and other related areas

• To have an undergraduate degree, master’s degree a plus, in a related subject

A Little About Us!

Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organization. We use a research-led approach to protect the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work, research, services, events. We promote and empower change.

Why we need you!

Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for volunteers to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organization. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. Without our volunteers we cannot grow and appreciate those who apply with us!

What we offer!

Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to apply for one of our volunteering positions. We will speak to you about what your aims are to ensure that the volunteering position you are applying for is suitable. By volunteering you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organization who is looking to help young people in the UK.

The country’s only dedicated ancient tree charity, the Ancient Tree Forum (ATF), is looking for a new Trustee with Fundraising Experience.

About us – The ATF seeks to secure the long-term future of ancient trees through advocacy of no further avoidable loss, good management, and the development of a succession of future ancient trees. The ATF is needed now more than ever – this is a critical time for ancient trees, the habitats they support and the landscapes in which they can survive and flourish. Their protection is crucial, not least because these living monuments represent a globally important resource, for biodiversity, cultural connection, mental & physical health, carbon capture, and soil conservation.

The profile of the ATF continues to grow, and its expertise is sought at the highest level. We raise awareness and understanding of the value and importance of ancient and veteran trees to biodiversity, soils, landscape, heritage, and climate. We work with a mix of national charities, landowners, land managers, local authorities, and policy makers in national government and offer specialist training, advice, guidance, and outreach projects. 

What we’re looking for – Do you have the ability, empathy and commitment to make a major contribution to the protection of the oldest trees in the country, and all their associated wildlife, history and carbon impact? 

Are you an experienced fundraiser from the environmental or wider charitable sector? 

If so, we encourage you to consider applying. 

If you also understand current ancient and veteran tree-related challenges and issues this would be an advantage, although a background in the wider environment sector and in charities at a relevant level is more important. 

Job description - Trustee

We are a successful and professionally run charitable preschool at the heart of Walthamstow with a strong ethos and excellent reputation. We’re here to make sure everyone has access to high quality and affordable early years education and childcare.

The Board

The Board can have up to nine members and may include a Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer. The role of the Board is to make sure Shernhall Preschool acts within the law and within the best interests of residents (we currently have 5 members).

We’re keen to recruit people with experience of any of the following:

• Professional experience of working in education/teaching

• Professional expertise within Human Resources

• Financial management experience.

The Board must act as a group, not as individuals and takes decisions collectively.

· Ensure that Shernhall Preschool complies with its governing document (its Articles of Association), charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations,

· Keep up-to-date with the Charity Commission’s Regulatory Framework,

· Contribute actively to the Board by giving firm strategic direction to Shernhall Preschool, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets

· Ensure the financial stability of Shernhall Preschool,

· Ensure the organisation’s accounts are a true and fair representation of the organisation’s finances,

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

· Make decisions for the benefit of the organisation, exercising independent judgement and declaring any interests, exercising reasonable skill, care and diligence in carrying out activities,

· Safeguard the good name and values of Shernhall Preschool,

· Adhere to Shernhall Preschool’s Code of Conduct.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise.

To apply

Please send the completed application form outlining why you’re interested in our organisation and what you would bring to the Board along with a CV to our Manager, Lilijana Markaj.

Deadline: Tuesday 29th April 2025

Ofsted Registration: 153685

Registered Charity No: 1123684

Company Number: 6420566

Role: Welcome volunteer

Team: Tooting Hub – CARAS ESOL (Youth/Adult)

Supervised by: Team Project Coordinator

Location: Tooting Hub site

Activity times: Monday or Wednesday

Time commitment: 2 hour shifts on a rolling basis.

We ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 4 months

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work:

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.

About the Role:

We are currently recruiting a team of volunteers to join our new Welcome team at Tooting Hub. This is a new role. Welcome volunteers will provide a friendly face to existing community members attending our regular projects. They will also be the important ‘face of CARAS and our welcome at the door’ to people attending projects for the first time, to visitors and to people dropping in unannounced to enquire about CARAS’s service. Volunteers will meet and greet, and ensure all visitors are responded to appropriately and introduced to the relevant member of staff, activity, project, or meeting. There will be an administrative element to the role (updating registers and emailing enquiries to CARAS staff, for example).

Who will you be?

We work hard to ensure our services feel welcoming and inclusive. It is important that this new team is representative of our diverse local and internal CARAS community. Whether you are new to volunteering with CARAS or are a regular volunteer looking to vary your role or a community member wanting to develop some leadership skills or volunteering experience, this might be the exact project for you.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

· Signing up to a shift/s on the Tooting HUB welcome team rota

· Able to be at Tooting Hub in person to complete agreed shifts

· Welcoming staff, volunteers, existing and potential new community members and visitors

· Ensuring all visitors are responded to appropriately and introduced to the relevant member of staff, activity, project, or meeting

· Ensuring everyone completes the onsite register on arrival to comply with safeguarding, health and safety and fire evacuation policies

· Taking agreed initial intake information for new / drop in visitors wanting to attend a taster activity

· Conducting induction tours of the building and introductions to facilities, key staff, and partners

Requirements (all experience can be from paid or voluntary roles): 

Essential: 

· A calm, friendly, kind, and patient approach

· Happy and confident to meet new people and put them at their ease

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English

· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds

· Confidence in using one’s own judgement to follow agreed policy

· Good IT admin skills in using Microsoft office, outlook, Google search, online forms etc

· A commitment to confidentiality and data protection

· Punctual and reliable

· To be able to volunteer on Mondays or Wednesdays for a minimum of four months

Desirable:

· Lived experience of seeking sanctuary and/ or the UK immigration system.

· Personal experience of working with people seeking asylum.

· Proficiency in one or more of the following community languages: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Oromo, Pashto, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tigrinya, Urdu, or Vietnamese.

We will prioritise applicants with lived experience of the asylum process.

Benefits to Volunteering:

· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum.

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team.

· Develop your skills and competencies.

· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.

· Obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering

· All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. *

· You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role.

Introduction

The Passage is establishing a new Special Events Fundraising Committee to support the Senior Events and Community Manager, with the primary goal of growing income from Special Events and attracting new supporters to The Passage.

Purpose of the Committee

• The purpose of the committee is to support The Passage’s Senior Events and Community Manager in delivering successful fundraising events that generate significant income and expand The Passage’s network of supporters. Specifically, the Committee will:
• Work collaboratively with the Senior Events and Community Manager to meet or exceed fundraising goals through special events.
• Source exclusive, money-can’t-buy auction items and experiences to enhance the appeal and revenue of live and silent auctions.
• Leverage personal and professional networks to sell tickets and tables for events like A Little Night Music and the Sports Quiz.
• Introduce new supporters to The Passage through event participation.
• Explore and implement creative ways to promote The Passage’s events to a wider audience, increasing awareness and attendance.
• Utilise personal and professional networks to identify potential corporate sponsors.
• Leverage connections to bring celebrities or high-profile individuals to the event to increase its visibility and appeal.
• Assist in innovation of the Special events portfolio.

Desired skills & expertise

• Sales and Business Development experience
• Marketing and Comms skills
• Knowledge of fundraising
• Networking and relationship building
• Creativity and innovation
• Entertaiment or sports industry connections
• Committed to the values of The Passage

How to apply

Please submit a short covering letter outlining your motivation and suitability for joining the committee and link to your LinkedIn / a very brief employment history to Martina Tamburrino​​​​, People Services & Volunteers Partner.

We are also able to arrange an informal discussion with Emma Noble, Director of Income Generation & Communications and Rachel Fenton, Senior Events & Community Manager.

Above all we are looking for inspiring and committed individuals who have a genuine desire to support people, and to help them to rebuild their lives.

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About the CARAS ESOL Team:

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to adults at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling people to attend college and access other services in the future.

About the Role:

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face adult ESOL classes in Tooting. Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session every Wednesday during these times: 

• Mondays ESOL 9:30 to 13:30

• Tuesday 9:30 to 11:30

• Tuesday One-to-one employability and language learning support 15:00 to 17:00 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities:

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• To be 18 years or older; 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• An interest in education and English language teaching; 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• The ability to volunteer on Mondays or Wednesdays during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of three months; 

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• *Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role. 

 *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

URBAN YOUTH - VOLUNTEER WITH US!

New Start-Up - New Beginning - Endless Opportunities

You MUST be in London to apply for this role!

Are you passionate about making a difference and shaping the future of young people? Urban Youth is seeking dedicated and visionary individuals to join our board as Trustees. In this role, you’ll provide strategic guidance and oversight to ensure Urban Youth achieves its mission of empowering young people across London.

In this role, you will:

• Provide Strategic Leadership, to help set Urban Youth’s vision, goals, and priorities, ensuring alignment with the needs of young people and the community.

• Ensure Good Governance, to oversee Urban Youth’s operations, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including safeguarding policies and charity law.

• Support Financial Sustainability, to monitor budgets and financial performance, ensuring resources are managed effectively to achieve our mission.

• Advocate for Urban Youth, to act as an ambassador for Urban Youth, representing Urban Youth at events and within the community to raise awareness and build support.

• Bring Expertise and Insight, to share your skills, experience, and perspectives to strengthen Urban Youth’s impact and effectiveness.

• Champion Diversity and Inclusion, to promote an inclusive approach to decision-making and ensure Urban Youth reflects the diversity of the community it serves.

We're Urban Youth

Urban Youth is an exciting and vibrant new start-up youth work organisation based in London, passionate about empowering London's youth to get involved, discover their path, and shape their destiny. Our vibrant community organisation is dedicated to uplifting young people through engaging, impactful youth work activities that inspire growth, connection, and self-discovery.

JOIN US AT URBAN YOUTH

Get Involved | Discover YOUR Path | Shape YOUR Destiny

Join Our Founding Board of Trustees at SUNSHINE

Are you a visionary leader ready to steer transformative change? As we launch SUNSHINE—a soon-to-be registered charity committed to combating loneliness and forging genuine human connections—we invite experienced, passionate individuals to become our inaugural Board of Trustees. Your strategic guidance will be essential in shaping our future and ensuring we launch with the highest standards of governance and impact.

About SUNSHINE

At SUNSHINE, we believe that every person deserves to feel connected and valued. Our grassroots initiative is designed to spark joy, foster community, and provide innovative solutions for social isolation. As we prepare for official registration and set our mission in motion, your leadership will play a critical role in defining our direction and legacy.

Your Role as a Trustee

As a founding member of our Board of Trustees, you'll be at the helm of SUNSHINE's strategic evolution. Your insights and expertise will ensure we build a robust framework for success, guiding us through the essential stages of registration, compliance, and sustainable growth.

Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Leadership: Define SUNSHINE’s vision, mission, and long-term strategy as we transition from start-up to impactful charity.

• Governance & Accountability: Establish and uphold the highest standards of ethical practice, legal compliance, and financial oversight.

• Risk & Opportunity Management: Identify potential challenges and opportunities, ensuring the charity's resilience and adaptability in a dynamic environment.

• Resource Development: Oversee funding strategies and resource management, laying the financial groundwork that supports our mission and future growth.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and nurture relationships with key partners, sponsors, and the community to drive collective impact.

• Charity Set-Up: Guide and lead on the formal processes including registration with the Charity Commission, HMRC account set‐up, and the development of robust operational policies.

What We’re Looking For

We are seeking dedicated trustees with:

• Proven Leadership: Demonstrated expertise in governance, strategic planning, or financial stewardship within charitable or non-profit settings.

• Vision and Passion: A genuine commitment to community well-being and a passion for creating systems that empower and connect individuals.

• Innovative Thinking: The ability to adapt to the dynamic nature of a start-up charity, balancing bold ideas with meticulous attention to detail.

• Collaborative Spirit: A willingness to work closely with a diverse team and an openness to new perspectives that drive collective success.

• Commitment to Excellence: An eagerness to shape policies, uphold accountability, and be instrumental in building a sustainable and far-reaching organisation.

Why Join SUNSHINE’s Board of Trustees?

Becoming a trustee with SUNSHINE is more than a role—it’s a chance to craft a legacy. By lending your expertise at this pivotal stage, you will:

• Shape the Future: Directly influence the strategic direction and governance of a charity dedicated to changing lives.

• Build a Legacy: Contribute to a foundational framework that ensures our long-term success and impact on community well-being.

• Drive Innovation: Help steer a dynamic start-up environment where every decision you make contributes to groundbreaking community solutions.

• Experience Deep Fulfillment: Enjoy the profound satisfaction of making a lasting difference while collaborating with like-minded leaders committed to social change.

Step Into Leadership with SUNSHINE

If you’re ready to bring your wealth of experience and passion for impactful change to an organisation poised to transform communities, we invite you to join our inaugural Board of Trustees. Help us lay the cornerstone for a future where every individual shines with the light of connection and empowerment.

Welcome to SUNSHINE—where visionary leadership creates brighter tomorrows.

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

JOB DESCRIPTION FOR CHARITY TRUSTEES

Overall Purpose

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

Main Responsibilities

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

 Main Duties

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

Accountable to:

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

URBAN YOUTH - VOLUNTEER WITH US!

New Start-Up - New Beginning - Endless Opportunities

We're looking for an organised and enthusiastic individual to join us at Urban Youth in the volunteer role of Volunteer Coordinator, where you will play a crucial role in supporting our mission to make a meaningful impact on young people’s lives across London.

In this role, you will:

• Recruit and Onboard Volunteers helping to grow our team by attracting passionate and dedicated volunteers, facilitating the application process, and ensuring a welcoming and informative onboarding experience.

• Act as the Primary Point of Contact for our volunteers, ensuring they feel valued, motivated, and supported in their roles.

• Coordinate Volunteer Activities and organise volunteer schedules, assign tasks, and manage attendance to ensure smooth and effective running of our programmes and initiatives.

• Develop Training Programmes, including identifing training needs and organise engaging, interactive sessions to help volunteers thrive in their roles and develop skills.

• Promote Team Spirit by fostering a positive and collaborative environment among volunteers, organising team-building activities to ensure everyone feels part of the Urban Youth family. You will build a close knit team spirited community of volunteers.

• Maintain Records and keep accurate records of volunteer information and activities, ensuring compliance with Urban Youth's policies and procedures. This includes creating and maintaining the volunteer database and other files.

• Raise Awareness and represent Urban Youth at community events, helping to raise awareness of our work and attract new volunteers.

We're Urban Youth

Urban Youth is an exciting and vibrant new start-up youth work organisation based in London, passionate about empowering London's youth to get involved, discover their path, and shape their destiny. Our vibrant community organisation is dedicated to uplifting young people through engaging, impactful youth work activities that inspire growth, connection, and self-discovery.

JOIN US AT URBAN YOUTH

Get Involved | Discover YOUR Path | Shape YOUR Destiny

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

• CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
• The reading group is in Tooting and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education.
• Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
• The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
• The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
• Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
• Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates. 

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

We’re looking for a new honorary treasurer who will work closely with the chair of the business management and finance committee to advise the trustee board on all aspects of business management and finance matters related to the work of Girlguiding Scotland.

The honorary treasurer will contribute to the delivery of Girlguiding Scotland’s strategy as a member of Girlguiding Scotland’s trustee board and the business management and finance committee.

As honorary treasurer you will have oversight of the finance function, provide guidance on matters of finance and investments to the trustees, and work closely with the finance manager and with the chair of the business management and finance committee (BM&F committee).

As a trustee you will be an active member of the Girlguiding Scotland trustee board which is chaired by the chief commissioner. The board focuses on the strategic direction and current performance of Girlguiding Scotland ensuring we continue to develop in response to member needs.

The key skills and attributes that we’re looking for in an honorary treasurer:

• Experience of setting and monitoring investment strategies and supervising the performance of a significant investment portfolio.
• Experience of reporting to board level, audit and knowledge of charity SORP (FRS102).
• Experience of preparing budgets and forecasting, management accounting and statutory financial reporting.
• Ability to work and join meetings remotely using a variety of technology and the ability to access papers and information online (instructions and support will be given).
• Eligibility to become a trustee in Scotland.

 The following would be an advantage:

• CA, CIMA, ACCA, ACA or other similar qualification.
• Experience of working with volunteers.
• Ability to think of the bigger picture for the benefit of members and potential members across Scotland.
• Approachable, open minded and flexible, with the ability to work with others.
• Excited to be part of shaping the future and responding to challenges.
• Capacity to be proactive and involved in building relationships with key volunteers and staff to facilitate the work between meetings.

We’re for all girls and we want Girlguiding Scotland to be a safe and welcoming space for every person that wants to join us. Our volunteers should be as diverse as the girls that we support and inspire, which is why we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. In particular, we would welcome applications from people with disabilities and individuals from ethnic minority groups.

Who they are

Citizens Advice Richmond is a local charity that has helped the people of Richmond since 1940. They offer generalist advice on any issue and specialist debt advice. Citizens Advice Richmond is a member of the national Citizens Advice service, a network of around 300 local advice centres.

The role: What will you do?

● Complete an induction for your role.

● Maintain an awareness of how the local Citizens Advice is operating.

● Plan the board meetings, including the dates and the agenda, with the Company/Charity Secretary and the Chief Officer.

● Read papers for board meetings and attend six board meetings per year.

● Facilitate the trustee board meetings by leading the meeting, ensuring that agenda items are discussed, enabling all members to contribute their views and take part, and seeking clarification where necessary.

● Ensure that decisions and actions taken at board meetings are carried out.

● Ensure that the board decisions are made within the remit of the Citizens Advice membership agreement, governing documents, and policies.

● Monitor attendance and commitment of all trustees.

● Provide or arrange training or support for trustees if needed.

● With other trustees and the Chief Officer, recruit a trustee board with a diverse range of skills, experience, and knowledge, with an aim to promote trusteeship to underrepresented groups that represent the community.

● Ensure that all trustees receive an induction and the training needed for them to fulfil their role.

● Be proactive in recruiting successors to key positions such as Chair, Treasurer, etc.

● Arrange or provide support and supervision for the Chief Officer, including an annual appraisal.

● Together with the Treasurer, ensure proper management and control of local Citizens Advice finances.

● Together with the Chief Officer, represent the local Citizens Advice in relationships with funders or potential funders, at local events, and in the community.

● Work together with all trustees to ensure that the board can:

♦ Set policy and strategy direction, set targets, and evaluate the performance of Citizens Advice Richmond.

♦ Monitor the financial position of Citizens Advice Richmond, ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, and ensuring there are clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management.

♦ Monitor whether Citizens Advice Richmond complies with its governing document and meets the required standards.

♦ Seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community.

♦ Ensure the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers.

♦ Review their own work and how effectively they operate, including action for improvement.

♦ Work on specific projects to further the strategic objectives of Citizens Advice Richmond.

What’s in it for you?

● Make a positive impact for people in your local area by ensuring the local Citizens Advice is sustainable and meeting the needs of the community.

● Meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff, and other volunteers.

● Build on your governance, leadership, and strategy skills.

● Increase your employability.

And they will reimburse expenses too.

What do you need to have?

You’ll need to:

● Understand the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice.

● Understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities as trustees.

● Be non-judgmental and respect views, values, and cultures that are different from your own.

● Have a good basis of leadership skills.

● Be able to facilitate and lead meetings.

● Have good interpersonal skills.

● Have good listening, verbal, and written communication skills.

● Be able to exercise good independent judgment.

● Have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the Treasurer.

● Be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles, and policies, including confidentiality and data protection.

● Be willing to undertake training in your role.

How much time do you need to give?

You will need up to one day a week for the regular activities, but this will vary. Trustee boards usually meet in the evenings, and you’ll likely need to give 12-15 hours per year to attend these. Sub-committees meet quarterly and a further 4-6 hours per year are required for these.

Valuing inclusion

Their volunteers come from a range of backgrounds, and they particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities