Research volunteer volunteer volunteer roles

Role Purpose

The Manager leads the Ethics Team as a volunteer, ensuring that all research conducted across the organisation meets high ethical standards. They translate strategic goals into practical plans, support volunteers in their development, and maintain a positive, inclusive team culture. The Manager provides oversight, guidance and operational leadership to ensure ethical, responsible and consistent research practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and support the Ethics Team to deliver high‑quality ethical oversight.

• Translate strategic objectives into clear operational plans and manageable tasks.

• Allocate volunteer capacity effectively and ensure smooth day‑to‑day functioning.

• Provide expert guidance on ethical standards, research integrity and data management.

• Support project teams in designing ethically robust research methodologies.

• Make operational decisions that maintain compliance and effective team performance.

• Monitor and evaluate volunteer performance, supporting development and confidence‑building.

• Promote a positive, inclusive and supportive volunteer environment.

• Resolve conflict, encourage collaboration and strengthen team cohesion.

• Supervise Senior Officers/Senior Researchers/Senior Advisors and provide ongoing support.

Competency Requirements (Manager)

To succeed in this volunteer leadership role, the Manager should demonstrate:

• Strong ethical awareness and the ability to guide others in applying ethical principles.

• Clear, confident and sensitive communication skills.

• Collaborative leadership that encourages shared responsibility for ethical practice.

• Professionalism, integrity and fairness in all interactions.

• Confident problem‑solving and risk‑aware decision‑making.

• The ability to translate strategy into practical, achievable plans.

• Supportive people‑management skills, including coaching, feedback and conflict resolution.

• Effective resource and capacity management.

• A commitment to volunteer wellbeing and positive team culture.

Role Requirements (Manager)

Because this is a senior volunteer leadership role, the following experience is required:

• At least 4 years of experience conducting research and managing ethical considerations, including applying ethical frameworks and handling data responsibly.

• A minimum of 2 years of progressive supervision experience in a research or ethics‑related context (e.g., supervising researchers, overseeing ethical review processes, or leading project teams).

• A strong understanding of research governance, ethical risk and responsible data management.

• Experience supporting others’ development, ideally in a volunteer or mixed‑experience environment.

EDINBURGH MARATHON FESTIVAL

​We are delighted to be Charity Partner for the Edinburgh Marathon this year, and are looking forward to supporting the event and all of the wonderful participants, some of whom will be running on our behalf.​

In order to support this event, we are looking for a team of volunteers to help with a couple of roles which will include:

• Cheering on the runners, to create a supportive and engaging atmosphere
• Charity Tent Marshalls 

​The event takes place on the ​24th May 2026, so if you would like to get involved as a volunteer, are perhaps local to the area or able to travel for the day, then we would be delighted to hear from you.

​​​For further details please take a look at our Volunteer Role Description 

If you’re interested in volunteering, please complete your details by clicking the Apply for this Job button and we will be in touch to discuss your role further.​​

​

A volunteer is someone who provides unpaid support to Brain Tumour Research.

Volunteer Prospect Researcher
This role supports our fundraising efforts by identifying and researching potential donors, funders, and partners. Responsibilities include online research, data analysis, and preparing prospect profiles to support strategic fundraising.

What we’re looking for:

• Strong attention to detail and good organisational skills

• Comfort working with data, research, or CRM/databases (training can be provided where needed)

• Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality

• An interest in fundraising and supporting our mission

What we offer:

• Flexible, remote volunteering opportunities

• The chance to develop or apply valuable fundraising and data skills

• A supportive team environment and meaningful contribution to our work

Alfie Boe Concerts – Volunteer Collectors

We are delighted to be supported by our Patron, Alfie Boe, during his upcoming 2026 Tour. We will be collecting donations at all of Alfie Boe’s concert dates and are looking for volunteers to join us and help manage those collections at their local venue.

The dates we are looking for support on are:

Tuesday 14th April – Dundee Caird Hall

Wesdnesday 15th April – Aberdeen Music Hall

Friday 24th April – Hull City Hall

Thursday 7th May – Warwick Arts Centre

Saturday 9th May – Ipswich Regent

Monday 11th May – Kings Lynn Corn Exchange

Wednesday 13th May – Cambridge Corn Exchange

Tuesday 19th May - Llandudno Venue Cymru Theatre

Saturday 23rd May – Southend Cliffs Pavillion

Sunday 24th May – Folkestone Leas Cliff Hall

Timings are roughly 5pm – 10.30pm. Please note: This volunteer opportunity does not include tickets to watch the show.

Roles, Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collecting donations before the show, after the show, and during the interval via collection buckets and handheld contactless devices
• Represent Brain Tumour Research and make a real contribution to Brain Tumour Research and our much needed more
• All volunteers will be provided with a t-shirt and collection buckets

Volunteer person specification:

• Polite manner
• Good verbal communication skills
• Trustworthy
• Reliable and committed
• Ability to work with others

What we offer:

• The chance to be part of an exciting opportunity and support one of our fundraising events
• The opportunity to add to your CV
• The chance to make a real contribution to Brain Tumour Research
• Paid travel expenses if needed

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Volunteer Researcher to support our Corporate Fundaising team. Your role will be pivotal in identifying and researching prospects and Charity of The Year Partnerships who align with our mission. You will help us grow our pipeline of supporters and inform personalised, strategic approaches that lead to meaningful engagement and transformational support.

About Us:

Rays of Sunshine is dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill young people and their families by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospital and within the community. We are seeking a motivated volunteer to support our major gifts team by conducting research and helping to build our partnerships pipeline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and research prospective corporate partners, with a focus on Charity of the Year opportunities

• Build and maintain a structured prospect pipeline to support new business development

• Research CSR strategies, ESG priorities, funding history, key decision-makers and employee engagement programmes

• Strong research and analytical skills

• Commercial awareness and understanding of corporate partnerships

• Excellent attention to detail

• Confident using LinkedIn, Companies House, Charity Commission and online research tools

• Self-motivated and comfortable working independently

What You’ll Gain:

• The opportunity to directly contribute to securing high-value corporate partnerships

• Insight into charity new business and pipeline strategy

• Experience working with a dynamic, ambitious team

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families

• A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering

Do you have experence of fundraising reserach and/or writing grants applications? Want to put those skills to use and make  a difference for those whose lives are affected by cancer?

This role would suit those with experience or interest in research, bid writing, charity fundraising, marketing, creative writing, commissioning, public sector tenders or grant assessment who is looking for a meaningful, regular volunteering commitment. Anyone with expertise or transferable skills in the area of research and/or writing compelling proposals/marketing who is interested in volunteering is encouraged to have a chat with us as we can be flexible.

The Mulberry Centre is looking for opportunities to identify and apply for relevant grants, trust and foundations funding in a competitive market. Grant requests will be on average £500-£10,000 for specific services as well as core Centre costs. This Fundraising Volunteer (the role can be undertaken by one volunteer or split into two parts and shared) will work closely with the Fundraising and Engagement Team to help streamline the research and application process. The first part of the role is to research and check grants and trust funding lists and databases for current opportunities and deadlines for applications to determine which are relevant, where we meet the necessary criteria, and how quickly we need to apply. The second part of the role is to draft and adapt application information to inspire and appeal positively to specific funders. 

Podcast Guest Booking & Story Research is about people, not just content.
When we understand this:

• Trust is built through consistent, thoughtful outreach and clear communication with potential guests

• Safeguarding is embedded in how we approach stories, ensuring ethical research and respectful handling of sensitive topics

• Respect is what keeps guests engaged, valued, and willing to share their stories authentically

About Us:

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is a survivor-led social enterprise dedicated to uncovering hidden truths about the world, exposing childhood sexual abuse and systemic illusions, and fostering conscious, humble, and empowered individuals. Our mission is to create a book club that educates, challenges, and awakens members to understand the “matrix” of society, the New World Order, and the realities often hidden by mainstream narratives.

About the Role

We are seeking a motivated Book Club Manager / Community Lead to develop, run, and expand our book club. This role requires someone passionate about knowledge-sharing, community-building, and guiding members through thought-provoking books and discussions that challenge conventional thinking.

The position is volunteer, with opportunities to transition into a paid role as the organization expands.

Why This Role Matters

Be part of a global, purpose-driven initiative focused on awakening, knowledge, and conscious community-building.

Flexible, remote work with the ability to shape and grow the club from the ground up. Opportunities to transition from volunteer to paid leadership as the club expands.

Make a real impact on members’ understanding of the world, fostering critical thinking and conscious living.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

• Experience running or managing book clubs, discussion groups, or community programs is a plus, but passionate and motivated individuals are encouraged to apply.

• Strong organizational and event management skills.

• Excellent communication and facilitation skills for leading discussions.

• Knowledge of tools and platforms for virtual book clubs (Zoom, Discord, social media, event management platforms, etc.).

• Ability to research, source, and recommend books that challenge mainstream narratives and promote critical thinking.

• Passion for personal growth, education, and community development.

• Ability to engage members aged 16–35 and foster a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment.Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Develop and establish the structure of the book club, including mission, themes, and long-term goals.

• Schedule and organize regular book club sessions, both online and offline.

• Manage and moderate discussions to ensure engaging, respectful, and thought-provoking conversations.

• Source, curate, and recommend books aligned with the club’s mission of awakening, education, and self-reflection.

• Create and host events such as webinars, author talks, workshops, or live discussions.

• Promote the book club through social media, community networks, and other channels to grow membership.

• Develop systems and processes to streamline operations, track member engagement, and improve overall club experience.

• Mentor and guide members on critical thinking, awareness, and personal growth.

Additional Notes

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work

• Avoid handling sensitive data or detailed reporting

• Are seeking immediate paid employment

• Are uncomfortable applying analysis to strategic decisions

Important to be clear:

• This is a volunteer role during the CIC’s build phase

• It carries real responsibility for data integrity and donor relations

Formal qualifications are not required, but desirable.
Essential equivalent experience mandatory.

Next Steps:
Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• A values-led conversation

• A practical discussion about event planning, coordination and execution

If you believe that well-organised, purposeful events can change communities and that experiences inspire action, this role is for you.

Podcast Guest Booking & Story Research is about people, not just content.
When we understand this:

• Trust is built through consistent, thoughtful outreach and clear communication with potential guests

• Safeguarding is embedded in how we approach stories, ensuring ethical research and respectful handling of sensitive topics

• Respect is what keeps guests engaged, valued, and willing to share their stories authentically

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is seeking an experienced and dedicated academic with a strong interest in paediatric palliative care, or related field to join our Research Governance Committee as a Volunteer Academic Member. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of research at a research active children’s hospice, to ensure that our research activities meet the highest standards of integrity, ethics and governance. 

You will work with the Committee Chair, the Research Fellow, and other committee members to support research that makes a meaningful difference to children with life-limiting conditions and their families as well as bereaved families, including those where a child died unexpectedly. 

Appointment to the Committee will be subject to confirmation by the Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Trustee Board.

Duties and key responsibilities

· Participate in quarterly meetings: Attend and contribute to online committee meetings held four times per year (papers and slide deck will be prepared by the Chair). 

· Review research proposals: Provide expert review of project proposals, contributing to the assurance of ethical and governance standards. 

· Support research oversight: Help ensure that all research complies with regulatory and ethical requirements and reflects best practices. 

· Contribute academic expertise: Share your knowledge and experience to strengthen the quality and impact of the charity’s research portfolio. 

· Promote collaboration: Encourage partnerships between Shooting Star Children’s Hospices and wider academic, clinical, and research communities. 

· Champion good governance: Actively promote equity, transparency, and excellence in research oversight. 

Essential skills and experience

· Proven experience in academic research, research governance, and research ethics. 

· Strong academic background in higher education, and health or social care research. 

· In-depth understanding of research compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HRA, UKRIO, Caldicott Guidelines, or equivalent). 

· Ability to evaluate research proposals and provide constructive feedback. 

· Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 

· Confidence using virtual meeting platforms and digital collaboration tools. 

Desirable attributes

• Academic research background with a track record of publications in the area of paediatric palliative care or related field.

• Previous experience serving on or chairing a research committee or governance board.

• Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in research.

Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (Approximately 1 hour per meeting).

• Reviewing project proposals (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• Email communication and ad hoc queries (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• 2–3 years in the role would be appreciated for both parties to gain the most out of this experience.

• This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses related to attendance and participation will be reimbursed. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

The National Institute for African Studies (NIAS) is a London-based think tank that provides objective information on African affairs, looking to appoint a Research & Publishing Intern within its office in South West, London. Our main publication, The Saharan is an interdisciplinary journal published by NIAS aimed at exploring the dynamic relationship between culture and development in Africa/UK.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

- Support the editors in the sourcing & production of blog and journal publications

- Checking material for completeness, copy-edit and check appropriate non-technical material such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter updates

- Generate, check and correct files with names, contact information, number of articles, review assessments, and consent forms.

- Serve as a custodian of approved originals of all documentation produced for The Saharan journal

- Use NIAS LinkedIn account to connect to academics and groups to promote the journal, acquire papers, and attract skilled scholars to become reviewers

- Coordinate the publication flow of the journal and all stages of the editorial processes upon the release of each issue

- Review and adjust publications according to the style of the journal, ensuring the correct usage of references and plagiarism checking

- Update wordpress website and a range of social media accounts with news, updates and promotions

THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE MUST:

- Have a minimum of undergraduate degree

- Excellent knowledge of MS Office applications

- Good knowledge of wordpress, crm, social media tools

- Demonstrate excellent editorial and administrative skills together with high attention to detail

- Ability to work under pressure to tight schedules and deadlines

TO APPLY:

- CV

- Covering Letter

- Official transcript(s) of universities attended

- Contact information for two referees (email and telephone preferably from both universities and workplaces)

The position is based in London, UK. Only candidates who already possess the right to work in the UK should apply. The contract is for three months with a probation period of six weeks, extendable upon agreement and contingent on a continued volunteer/paid position.

Candidates should send a covering letter explaining the skills they would offer to NIAS, attaching a CV and a list of referees. The deadline for this round of application is 30 April. Due to the high number of applicants, only those selected will be contacted.

Flexible Working Options Available:

• Flexitime
• Work from home/university
• Part-time

Job Types: Volunteer, Internship

Benefits:

• Travel Expenses, Flexitime
• Support with relevant training
• Career Mentorship
• Sponsored attendance/Presentation at cultural events, conferences, seminars

Education:

•  BSc. and equivalent or higher (required)

Experience:

• Publishing: 1 year (preferred)
• Research 1 year (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

We are looking for a Volunteer Researcher / Guest Relations Officer to support our Podcast Production Team.

This role combines research, guest outreach, and communication to ensure podcast episodes are well prepared and guests feel informed and supported.

Key Responsibilities

• Research podcast topics and relevant background information
• Identify and approach potential podcast guests
• Communicate with confirmed guests and coordinate availability
• Prepare guest briefing notes and episode research summaries
• Maintain organised records of guest communication
• Support respectful and professional guest engagement

Who We're Looking For

Essential

• Strong research and information-gathering skills
• Clear written communication
• Strong organisational skills
• Ability to manage multiple conversations and tasks
• Comfortable working with sensitive topics

Bonus Skills

• Experience in research, journalism, communications, or outreach
• Experience working with communities or social impact organisations
• Interest in media, podcasting, or storytelling

Formal qualifications are not required — relevant experience or transferable skills are welcome.

Why Join Us

• Gain experience in podcast research and guest coordination
• Develop communication and editorial preparation skills
• Work with a mission-driven media team
• Contribute to meaningful social impact work
• Priority consideration for future paid roles

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, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role...

Every penny counts when it comes to improving the lives of the thousands of cats and kittens across the UK that need our help each year. Our Collection Box Volunteers help us raise vital funds by collecting and distributing collection boxes in their local area. Making a difference can mean as little as raising 20p, which is enough to feed one cat in our care for a day, to £150 which is the average cost of a cat in our care.

What can I expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• Researching local shops, pubs and businesses to place Collection Boxes
• Delivering Collection Boxes to locations
• Recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters
• Collecting and replacing Collection boxes when they're full
• Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of Volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathy to cats and our values
• Good communication skills
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Confidence in handling money

How much time is expected of me?

Our Collection Tin Volunteer role is very flexible and can be completed at your own pace, independently with our dedicated support.

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 encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!

United Colors of Cancer (UCC) is seeking a passionate and detail-oriented volunteer to support a groundbreaking health equity initiative focused on improving data representation in the BIPOC cancer community.

This role will contribute to the development and implementation of surveys designed to capture psychological, cultural, and socio-economic experiences of BIPOC individuals affected by cancer. The data collected will support the creation of the State of BIPOC Cancer Report, an initiative aimed at addressing critical gaps in cancer research and informing more equitable healthcare strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in designing culturally responsive surveys and research questions
• Conduct background research on disparities affecting BIPOC cancer patients
• Support survey distribution strategies and community outreach planning
• Help analyze responses and identify key themes and insights
• Contribute to early-stage findings for the State of BIPOC Cancer Report
• Collaborate with the UCC team to ensure research reflects lived experiences and community voices

Ideal Candidates May Have Experience In:

• Public health, healthcare research, or health equity initiatives
• Survey design, research methodology, or data collection
• Sociology, psychology, or community-based research
• Nonprofit or social impact work
• Cultural competency and a passion for addressing racial disparities in healthcare

This is an opportunity to contribute to one of the first initiatives focused on capturing the lived experiences of BIPOC individuals impacted by cancer and helping build a data foundation that can drive systemic change in healthcare.

Minimum Hours per Week:

7-9 hours per week

Duration:

3-5 months

Grants from charitable trusts and foundations are an essential source of funding for community organisations working with deaf children, young people and their families. This support allows communities to develop work that meets the needs of deaf children and young people. With your knowledge of grants and persuasive writing skills, you’ll help support communities to research and submit life-changing funding bids.

About you

• Aged 18 years and over

• Knowledge of potential funding sources both locally and nationally

• Ability to volunteer independently from home under your own initiative

• Well organised with good attention to detail

• Proactive and reliable

• Confident user of Microsoft packages and databases

What you will do

• Support community groups and organisations to identify and win new sources of funding

• Research trusts and foundations (both locally and nationally) that may support work in communities

• Prepare information about funders including deadlines and criteria for applications

• Develop links with funders and share information

• Work with organisations to write compelling applications that meet the required conditions

• Understand the boundaries of the role and ask for support where appropriate

What will you gain from the role?

Other volunteers have told us that training and volunteering has given them:

• Increased confidence and new skills

• A broader understanding of childhood deafness and the issues faced by families

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of families, children and young people. You will be asked to complete a self-disclosure form, provide references, and complete our essential training.

• A sense of achievement by making a positive difference

Support and training
We will provide you with:

• Basic training to help keep yourself, others, and data safe

• Feedback on the funding bids to which you contribute and their outcomes

• A named point of contact at the National Deaf Children’s Society

• Reimbursement of agreed expenses such as travel costs

• Clear information about what to do and who to contact if you are worried about something

Are you passionate about making a real difference to families facing financial hardship?
Bromley Brighter Beginnings is a local charity founded in 2012 which provides essential baby, child and household items to families facing poverty.
We believe no child should be disadvantaged because of financial hardship, and no parent should have to struggle to meet their family’s basic needs.

Join our team as a Grants & Fundraising Volunteer and help secure the funding that keeps our services going. In this role, you’ll support our Fundraising & Communications Lead with tasks that directly impact how many families we’re able to help.

What You’ll Do

• Research and identify potential grant funding opportunities (“horizon scanning”)
• Help maintain our 'tracker' of funding opportunities
• Assist with drafting and editing grant applications
• Attend relevant online events or webinars to stay up to date with funding trends
• Support the preparation of reports and updates for current funders

 About You

You’ll thrive in this role if you have:

• Experience of researching and / or writing grant applications / funding bids
• Great attention to detail
• Good IT skills
• An understanding of the charity sector (helpful but not essential)
• The ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• A genuine commitment to supporting families living in poverty

For further information on the role and details of how to apply please visit our website.