Research volunteer roles

Join Arts University Plymouth as Chair Designate of the Board of Governors. In this role, you will lead the body accountable for the strategic oversight of a bold, creative, and forward-thinking institution, as it shapes the future of arts education and innovation.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Tuesday 26th August 2025

Location: Plymouth, Devon

About Arts University Plymouth

Established in 1856, we are proud to be the Arts University in Plymouth, Britain’s Ocean City.

Founded in 1856 as Plymouth Drawing School, Arts University Plymouth offers a range of Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Pre-Degree study across Art, Design and Digital Media.

Our campus is home to our creative studios, workspaces and laboratories, our public gallery, ‘MIRROR’, Fab Lab South West, and Plymouth Arts Cinema. Making Futures is the university’s flagship international research platform.

Arts University Plymouth is the UK’s newest specialist arts university, and recently achieved the title of 2025 University of the Year (South West) at the Whatuni Awards, as well as being ranked 5th in the UK for Student Satisfaction and 2nd in the UK for staff to student ratio by the Complete University Guide. With a vision for a new kind of arts university for the 21st century, one that prepares graduates uniquely positioned to provide creative solutions to the complex global challenges of our time, our university is confident that we offer the best education to support the next generation of talent to succeed.

Our 2030 strategy, ‘Creative Education for a Changing World’, will ensure that our work is energised and designed to meet the ambitions of our students and staff, while acknowledging the shifting realm of creativity through new technologies and the workplaces of tomorrow.

About the role

To help us take the next transformative steps in delivering our strategy, we are seeking an experienced Chair with a passion for the power of creative education and research to transform lives, societies and cultures.

This is an exciting non-executive leadership opportunity for someone who can steward the university’s governance towards our 2030 ambitions, whilst working with the Vice-Chancellor’s Executive team to navigate the ever-changing and challenging higher education sector. This role will be pivotal in maximising the institution’s potential and positively impacting students and communities.

As Chair, you will champion sustainable growth, social justice, and the empowerment of our graduates to meet tomorrow’s challenges.

Who we are looking for

This is an opportunity for a strategic leader to make a significant impact whilst advocating Arts University Plymouth’s place within the specialist HE sector.

We are seeking to appoint a Chair Designate with significant experience in governance who can lead with confidence, influence, and integrity.

The ideal candidate will work to foster a supportive environment while constructively challenging when necessary, helping us to push boundaries and achieve our goals.

The successful candidate will be an exemplary leader who champions our mission and values and who actively engages with students, staff, and other members of the Board of Governors.

The person appointed as our next Chair will demonstrate a deep commitment to inclusivity and reflect our dedication to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of their leadership.

Importantly, we hope to appoint a values-led individual to become our next Chair, who shares our passion for the university, our pride in Plymouth and the South West region, and our deep commitment to creativity and innovation.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Tuesday 26th August 2025

Over past decades, enormous advances have been made in our understanding of MS. Research has got us to a critical point, and we can see a future where nobody needs to worry about their MS getting worse. Our Stop MS Appeal needs to raise £100 million to find treatments for everyone with MS.

Our Stop MS Champions help us reach more people and inspire them to get involved in our Stop MS Appeal by encouraging raising funds and awareness by delivering presentations, attending events and identifying new audiences to speak to. They inspire people to engage with and influence fundraisers and groups, enthuse people and make sure our community’s voice is heard.

As our Lead Stop MS Champion, you’ll motivate your team of Stop MS Champions to help reach more people and inspire them to get involved in our Stop MS Appeal.

By using your ability to motivate and support, you will oversee and lead a team of 5-10 Stop MS Champion volunteers, encouraging them to engage the people they know to raise funds and awareness, and provide reliable information and guidance.

You’ll also network to engage with and influence fundraisers and community groups, enthusing people by delivering presentations at events and finding new audiences to speak to. In this role, as well as developing your leadership, networking, influencing, communication, organisation and presentation skills, you’ll have a chance to be part of something amazing – you could help us stop MS.

 Volunteer Opportunity: Writer / Journalist / Storyteller

Help Us Tell Stories That Matter – Join SayAphasia

Do you believe stories can change lives?
Can you listen with empathy, write with heart, and give voice to those often unheard?
SayAphasia is looking for a volunteer writer / journalist / storyteller to help shine a light on the lived experiences of people with aphasia — a communication disorder that affects a person’s ability to use language.

What You'll Do:

• Interview people with aphasia and their families

• Craft meaningful articles and blog posts

• Collaborate with our team to research and gather stories

• Help raise awareness of aphasia

• Support our mission to create a more inclusive, understanding world

 What We’re Looking For:

• A personable, empathetic and patient communicator

• Strong writing, interviewing, or journalism skills

• Curiosity and willingness to learn about aphasia

• A flexible, open mind and an inclusive approach

• Commitment to completing a short induction course on communicating with people who have aphasia

This is perfect for you if:

• You're a journalist, blogger or writer looking to make an impact

• You’re passionate about people, inclusion, and human stories

• You want to build your portfolio while doing good

Additional Creative Skills Welcome:

Are you skilled in videography, photography, or audio recording?

We’d love to harness your talents to bring stories to life in multimedia formats — short films, audio clips, photo essays and more. Visual and sound storytelling can be especially powerful when working with individuals who communicate in different ways.

Why Volunteer?

• Build your portfolio with real-world impact

• Learn from a caring community and support network

• Be part of a mission-driven charity, led by people with aphasia

• Spread empathy and amplify voices that are often overlooked

Do you want to make a real difference?

At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre-loved items and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!

Increase Your Skills: If you have a particular interest, you can build on it to gain valuable retail experience to add to your CV, such as merchandising, customer service, and teamwork.

Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.

Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do help out. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

Volunteer Role

Stock Volunteer

Volunteer Manager

Shop Manager

Where you will be based

Shop: Oxfam Boroughbridge Shop

Why we want you.

Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged,

18 and over.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full.

training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be.

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep,

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst,

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the

team.

Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety,

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need.

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you.

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people.

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manager for assistance.

Volunteer Role

Ecommerce Volunteer

Volunteer Manager

Shop Manager

Where you will be based

Shop:  Oxfam Shop Ripon

Why we want you.

Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged,

18 and over.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full,

training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be,

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep,

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst,

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

Describing items for online listings.

Preparing items for postage and dispatch.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety,

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need.

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you.

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people.

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manager for assistance.

Volunteer Role

Ecommerce Volunteer

Volunteer Manager

Shop Manager

Where you will be based

Shop:  Oxfam Shop Goodramgate, York

Why we want you.

Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged,

18 and over.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full,

training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be,

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep,

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst,

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

Describing items for online listings.

Preparing items for postage and dispatch.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety,

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need.

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you.

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people.

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manager for assistance.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the North Durham Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Fundraising Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year. You could be researching and talking to prospective supporters to develop links with local organisations, planning and organising group fundraising events, coordinating and supporting others involved in fundraising.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills. Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Could you be a star baker, master chef or perhaps you simply enjoy baking or cooking! We are recruiting for a volunteer to join our team supporting individuals to learn new recipes together as a group.

Baking and cooking helps to relax, get creative and indulge in our senses. Often, it can spark nostalgia and helps us to recreate positive experiences or memories. Inspire and motivate people in our services to do something that brings joy, an opportunity to learn new skills whilst connecting with others over sharing baked goods and delicious meals.

What you will be doing

• Research and plan new recipes for cooking/baking sessions in collaboration with the group each week
• Encourage individuals to participate in the sessions and delegate cooking tasks
• Support individuals to shop for ingredients needed for the session
• Support individuals each week in setting up for the sessions and tidying away afterwards
• Encourage individuals to participate in all aspects of the planning and attendance
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Food Safety Certificate/knowledge or willingness to complete relevant training
• Passion and knowledge of healthy eating and cooking
• Ability to engage, encourage and motivate individuals to participate in sessions
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere

What's in it for you

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

Volunteer Role

Stock Volunteer

Volunteer Manager

Shop Manager

Where you will be based

Shop: Oxfam Shop Thirsk

Why we want you.

Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged,

18 and over.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full.

training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be.

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep,

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst,

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the

team.

Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety,

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need.

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you.

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people.

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manager for assistance.

Volunteer Role

Stock Volunteer

Volunteer Manager

Shop Manager

Where you will be based

Shop: Oxfam Shop Goodramgate, York

Why we want you.

Please note: This role is only suitable for applicants aged,

18 and over.

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a

difference in their community. No prior experience is needed, as we provide full.

training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a

passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

You have the time to become a volunteer in your community; you might be.

looking for work experience, the opportunity to meet new people, or keep,

active.

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces

you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst,

learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:

Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.

Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the

team.

Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.

Researching valuable and vintage stock.

Photographing and listing items for the online shop.

This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe

working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety,

training to all volunteers.

The skills you need.

We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering.

Full training and support are given for this role - no prior experience is

required

Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others.

What's in it for you.

Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to

understand what is covered)

Access to training and development

Grow your confidence and meet new people.

Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle

Free confidential support by the Retail Trust

Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information:

We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an

inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs,

please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments.

We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon

application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please

speak to a manager for assistance.

�� Location: London, UK
�� Work Type: Hybrid (Required in the office with the Social Media team on Mondays once every two weeks)
�� Hours per Week:

• 12 hours/week when working remotely

• 17 hours/week when in the office (once every two weeks, 11am–4pm)
  �� Time Commitment: Flexible hours
  �� Work Arrangement: Remote or hybrid (office attendance flexible — can attend once a month or more depending on availability)

Job Summary:
We are looking for a skilled and passionate Head of Communications to lead the visibility of our brand, enhance media engagement, and develop compelling content that communicates the impact of our work with children and families.

This role calls for a creative and strategic thinker with experience in brand development, digital marketing, stakeholder engagement, and public relations. You will oversee media relations, social media, and content development, ensuring brand consistency and impact across all channels.

Key Responsibilities:

✅ Media & Public Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets

• Manage press releases, interviews, and PR efforts to raise brand awareness

• Develop and execute strategic PR campaigns highlighting our initiatives

✅ Digital & Social Media Management

• Develop a strong digital strategy to increase online engagement

• Oversee content creation for social media in line with our brand voice

• Use analytics and market insights to guide and improve campaign performance

✅ Branding & Content Creation

• Shape and implement cohesive brand strategies

• Work closely with graphic designers to maintain consistent branding

• Produce high-quality written and visual content to tell our story

✅ Strategic Marketing & Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal teams, third-sector partners, and agencies to deliver impactful campaigns

• Manage marketing budgets to ensure effective use of resources

• Use data to refine strategies and maximise reach and effectiveness

Required Skills & Experience:
✔ Experience in brand strategy and communications across sectors
✔ Strong background in digital marketing and content creation
✔ Proven media relations and public relations skills
✔ Ability to analyse campaign outcomes and leverage market research
✔ Excellent stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration
✔ Budget management experience
✔ Familiarity with WordPress and social media platforms

Location: Remote
Job type: Volunteer
Hours: Approx 6 per week

What will you be doing?

Join us as a Volunteer Content Editor & Community Storyteller at Long Covid Support. You’ll shape clear, compassionate messages that empower thousands of people living with Long Covid-right from your home. With your strong editing and writing skills, you’ll make a direct contribution to our cause by refining how we inform, support, and inspire both our community and the wider public. You’ll edit, proofread, and occasionally draft a variety of content, including website pages, blogs, newsletters, reports, policy briefings, and campaign materials.

What are we looking for?

You’re a confident writer and editor with a keen eye for detail, able to adapt tone and style to suit diverse audiences. You thrive on meeting deadlines and managing your own time remotely, and you’re passionate about using clear, inclusive language to support our community. Ideally, you’ll bring experience from health related charities or a lived-experience led setting, though this is desirable rather than essential.

What difference will you make:

By volunteering with Long Covid Support, you will directly influence public understanding of Long Covid. Your work will help thousands find reliable information, connect with peers, and ensure their voices shape research and services.

Key Responsibilities:

* Edit and refine newsletters, website copy, reports, policy briefings, and campaign materials so they’re accurate, engaging and accessible

* Write short blogs, community updates, and summaries that bring our stories to life

* Maintain and share editorial guidelines to keep our tone consistent and inclusive

* Collaborate with our teams to ensure every message supports our mission and values

Application Process:

Please submit a CV, and a brief writing sample demonstrating how you meet the criteria.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We provide equal opportunities for all, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. We actively encourage applications from all individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those with lived experience of Long Covid.

Ready to use your editing expertise for a cause that matters? Make your mark on a vital cause and apply today!

Rideshare Group

Rideshare Group is a network of niche carpooling platforms designed to reduce carbon emissions, increase transport accessibility, and foster stronger community connections.

Mobility Rideshare Football Rideshare Mountain Rideshare Festival Rideshare Surf Rideshare

By enabling people with empty seats in their vehicles to easily share rides with others travelling to the same destination, we directly address issues of sustainability, affordability, and social inclusion.

Our platform serves diverse communities — from outdoor enthusiasts (Mountain Rideshare, Surf Rideshare), to sports fans (Football Rideshare), to cultural event participants (Festival Rideshare). In addition, we actively work to include passengers with mobility challenges or disabilities who often face limited transport options, particularly in rural or underserved areas. By making carpooling more accessible for disabled individuals, we help remove barriers to social participation, employment, healthcare, and recreation.

Beyond the environmental benefits of reducing single-occupancy vehicle use and lowering CO₂ emissions, Rideshare Group contributes to more affordable, inclusive, and sustainable transportation solutions that strengthen both local and regional communities across Europe.

Driving alone is inefficient, expensive, and unsustainable.

70%+ of car journeys in the EU/UK are single-occupancy Rising fuel costs and climate concerns

Public transport often doesn’t reach remote destinations like mountains, festivals, or surf spots

Safety concerns and lack of trust in generic carpooling options

Rideshare Group A family of COMMUNITY SPECIFIC carpooling platforms designed to connect like-minded travellers with shared destinations… SUSTAINABLY!

Looking forward to connecting with people who would help DRIVE the Rideshare project forward!

Grants and Funding Specialist

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Research and identify relevant grant and funding opportunities to support our mission.

Write compelling grant proposals, manage submissions, and build relationships with funders.

Work closely with our founder to align proposals with the Rideshare Group’s social impact goals in sustainability, mobility accessibility (including disabled access), and community-building.

Weekly Time Commitment

7-9 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

3-5 months