Safeguarding team member volunteer roles

Will you share your counselling or psychotherapy skills as a counsellor or therapist to join an online counselling service for patients and families affected by a chronic pain condition (Complex Regional Pain Syndrome)?

We're looking for 5 qualified counsellors, psychotherapists or psychologists volunteers ideally with some experience of working with chronic pain patients or lived experience of chronic illness, who may want to volunteer their skills supporting our adult service users (aged 18 & over) and help us to continue developing a mental health support service. 

As a Volunteer Counsellor/Therapist you’ll be providing remote counselling/therapy support services to adults aged 18 and over many of whom are isolated and in need of mental health services. You’ll be providing one-to-one counselling/therapy sessions online via Zoom or by phone. With your recognised counselling qualifications and experience you will be an asset to our small charity and to our services users.  

Depending on your qualifications, skills and experience, our volunteer counsellors / therapists provide person centred counselling (general talking counselling) or integrative counselling, or specialist services such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), ACT, CFT and EMDR for CRPS patients, or their families & close relatives.

People will be referred both by health or legal professionals as well as having patients and carers themselves referring into to the service.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your counselling and therapy skills, organisation, communication and team working skills.

Most importantly you’ll be providing essential services that help make sure no one has to face CRPS alone. Be the hope for CRPS.

What the role involves

This role may vary depending on needs, but is likely to include:

• Undertake a client assessments, followed by person-centred counselling (via Zoom or phone) to our clients, offering up to 20 sessions for each client plus 4 psychometric assessments

• Providing one-to-one counselling sessions to clients aged 18 & over

• Update our database with the client’s information, sessional notes and session attendance

• Maintain succinct, relevant session notes and store these confidentially and securely in acccordahce with GDPR

• Attending and participating in peer supervision support

• Attend CPD training to ensure your knowledge stays current

• Participating in volunteer meetings
• Maintaining client confidentiality, upholding data protection and equal opportunities principle

• Attend monthly Supervision and peer support sessions to ensure safe working practices

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, including a full induction. You will have a chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us. We can offer you a supervisor as well as expenses for annual insurance and an external supervisor if required.

What you need for this role

Essential

• Be a member (including student membership) of one of the recognised membership organisations (see below)
• Level 4 Diploma level qualifications as a minimum (unfortunately no students at this time), Degree or Masters in Counselling, Counselling/Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, Art Therapy, EMDR 
• Minimum of 100 hours supervised
• Proof of professional indemnity insurance annually - we may consider paying this as an expense but commitment to the charity is required
• A valid DBS certificate (enhanced version), which is less than three years old and renewed every three years (the charity can provide where necessary)
• Able to keep people’s personal data safe

• Willing and able to provide counselling via Zoom from a private location with a stable WiFi connection

• Able to support a minimum of 3 clients a week, being three hours of your time for therapy sessions plus time for administration. We ideally hope you to offer the charity a minimum commitment of six months.

Desirable

• Knowledge of chronic pain or Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
• Previous experience as a chronic pain or CRPS counsellor or psychologist 
• Committed to our values
• Willing to develop skills and experience
• Enjoy working as part of a team
• Effective administration skills, planning and organisation skills
• Approachable, presentable, enthusiastic

We also welcome training counsellors and counselling/clinical psychologists who are looking for placements.

Once we’ve assessed your application, you may be invited for interview. If you are successful, we will arrange for you to have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service DBS or Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) check.

Recognised Organisations You Must Be A Member of:

• British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP)
• British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapists (BABCP)
• EMDR Association UK
• Complimentary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
• British Psychological Society
• General Hypnotherapy Register (GHR)
• British Society for Clinical Hypnotherapists (BSCH)
• National Council for Hypnotherapists (NCH)
• United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
• The National Hypnotherapy Society (HS)
• National Counselling Society (NCS)
• Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)
• The Association for Professional Hypnosis and Psychotherapy (APHP)
• National Register of Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists (NRHP)

Making a difference

What impact will the opportunity have?

You will join the charity during a critical and challenging period where referrals are on the rise and your expert knowledge and experience will be invaluable to our success. You will have a key role in not only developing a counselling service for our clients but also ensure we provide counselling services and mental health support to our CRPS patients & their families who are in need of our support and inclusion on a regular basis. With your help we will expand our support and mental health services to ensure our service users receive mental health support that they may not have been offered.

What's in it for you as the volunteer? 

You would be a part of our small, friendly, forward-thinking charity team, focused on reaching people affected by this rare, painful and debilitating chronic pain condition and to provide them with psychological support whether they are patients, their partner, relatives, friends or carers. As this service is rapidly expanding, you would have a key role in developing our counselling and psychotherapy programme and to complement our support services that we offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to make a real difference in our clients' life which is already isolated and painful, who may not have received any psychological support.

Join Gloucestershire College as a HR Governor to play a vital part in shaping the College’s vision, mission, and values, develop its long-term strategy and contribute to the future success of the organisation.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 10th November 2025

Location: Gloucester

Time commitment: 40 hours per year

About Gloucestershire College

Gloucestershire College (GC) is a career-focused further education provider operating across three campuses in Cheltenham, Gloucester, and the Forest of Dean. We are proud to have been rated “Good” in our latest Ofsted inspection and to have strong financial health.

We offer a range of academic, professional, and technical training programmes for school leavers, adults, and employers. These include award-winning apprenticeships, university-level and professional qualifications, part-time, online, and short courses, with tailored support for students from start to finish.

Our mission is to deliver ‘learning that works‘ through practical courses that offer skills businesses really need in industry-standard facilities, taught by passionate, subject specialists.

We provide bespoke training solutions to more than 1,300 employer-partners, enabling them to fill skills gaps and build a solid talent pipeline for the future. We provide training programmes in a wide variety of areas, including accounting (AAT), automotive, business support, construction and building services, education and early years, engineering, hairdressing, health and social care, hospitality, human resources, IT and cyber, management and marketing.

All our learners benefit from tailored support and development throughout their journey to higher education or employment, including valuable work placement and enrichment opportunities.

We are committed to ensuring all individuals are valued and work in a safe environment, promoting the ethos of safeguarding and equality, diversity, and inclusion in all our practices. We expect all Board Members to share this commitment.

About the role

The Board of Governors aims to set and take forward an ambitious vision for the College that equips its learners for their future lives and meets the needs of the community, employers and the wider Gloucestershire community whilst maintaining the College’s financial health.

The role of a governor is to contribute to the work of the Board as follows:

• The Board sets the strategic direction of the College and monitors College performance by setting targets and agreeing key performance indicators with the Executive Team.
• The Board, led by the Chair, provides checks and balances to the operational Executive Team led by the Principal & CEO.
• The Board is accountable for its stewardship of public funds to deliver a quality service and for the performance of its legal and statutory duties.
• The College values its governors’ breadth of experience and skills and recognises the contribution that governors make to the success of the College.

In return, you will benefit from joining a high-performing board and thriving College, with the opportunity to develop your professional, contribute to the local community and transform lives.

Who we are looking for

We are looking to engage a new Governor from a wide range of backgrounds with the skills, experience, and commitment to play a pivotal role in shaping all aspects of the future of the College. We are particularly keen to engage strategic HR/OD expertise on the Governing Body that will help support the future direction of our college, bring valuable insight and support, and hold the executive to account on the full portfolio of board-related matters.

You will need to bring your own sector knowledge, professional curiosity and a passion for societal change through education. There is no requirement for you to be an expert in education, and both fellow board members and the executive team will value your experience from outside the sector.

If you are looking to develop your board skills or to use the skills and experience you have gained to give back to your community and help others to succeed, and you share our passion and commitment to our goals and values, we would welcome your interest.

Peridot Partners and Gloucestershire College are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

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. Monday 10th November 2025.

Fundraising Volunteer

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our vision is a society where every cat has their best possible life because they are protected, cared for and understood by everyone.

We are a movement of people championing the welfare of cats. We lead society in a richer understanding of all cats and care for those that need our help.

Our Purpose is to to help people see the world through cats’ eyes

Our brand new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

A bit about this role:

As a charity we can help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations from our supporters. Raising funds is a key role in our charity, helping to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need.

As a fundraising volunteer, we will support you every step of the way to ensure your time at Cats Protection is a positive and rewarding one. Whatever time you can give really does make a big difference We have lots of exciting activities to choose from for example attending a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, handling administrative tasks, or contributing to the development of new fundraising ideas. Whatever your skill set, this role could be perfect for you!

What can you expect to be doing?

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

• face-to-face fundraising – organising or helping with fundraising events, attending supermarket collections and monitoring collection boxes.
• online fundraising – assisting with online appeals, increasing social media engagement to maximise funds raised.
• bringing new ideas! We always love to come up with new ideas to raise funds for cats and we’d love to help bring yours to life.
• engaging with your local branch and Fundraising Hub and feeling like an integral part of the team.

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:

• Sympathetic to cats and our values
• Happy to be part of a team of dedicated volunteers and employees.
• Flexible and adaptable to different events/activities
• Open to new ideas and ways of fundraising

Time expectation

This role is very flexible, often certain times of the year are busier than others. You can choose your level of involvement to suit your schedule.

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 well being 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.

AHO Head of Fundraising (unpaid, Volunteer role)

Responsibilities and Duties

The Volunteer Head of Fundraising assists the Director of Fundraising in developing and implementing a comprehensive multi-year funding strategy that encompasses diverse income streams, working collaboratively with senior leadership to coordinate efforts and maintain an up-to-date funding pipeline. 

The Volunteer Grants Head assists the Director of Fundraising to:

• Develop and drive a multi-year fundraising strategy to support the organisation's growth ambitions.  To include a mix of both existing and new income streams and the resources needed to reach the goals.
• Work with the CEO, Director of Fundraising, and Grant Managers to implement the strategy in a coordinated and effective way.
• Create and maintain the fundraising pipeline, keeping it up to date in the CRM, in collaboration with other Volunteers and staff members.
• Lead on fortnightly Business Development meetings to keep everyone aligned and updated.
• Lead the development of new income streams, including government procurement opportunities and individual donations.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to ensure alignment between income generation and programme delivery.
• Work closely with the Board of Directors to establish and leverage networks and opportunities.

Essential Skills, knowledge, and behaviours:

• Proven track record of developing and delivering successful fundraising strategies at a senior level.
• Proven track record of meeting or exceeding income targets across multiple income streams.
• Experience managing multiple income streams, including statutory income, individual, corporate, and grant fundraising
• Strong leadership and people management skills with experience developing high-performing teams
• Excellent relationship-building skills with the ability to engage a wide range of stakeholders
• Financial acumen, including budgeting, reporting, and performance analysis
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including bid writing and donor presentations
• Strategic thinker with a proactive, innovative, and resilient approach
• Knowledge of fundraising regulation, GDPR, and best practice in supporter stewardship

Please note that this is an unpaid role. Don't apply if you plan to negotiate a pay or deal.  Volunteering allows people to give their time for free to society while gaining the experience they need when applying for future paid jobs.

For the full role description and other volunteer opportunities, please visit our website.

How to apply

Please apply by submitting your CV and cover letter using the Charity Job system.  If you use any method other than the one specified, we will not review your application.

Global Canopy is a data-driven not for profit delivering real transparency and accountability for market impacts on nature and people. Our special focus is on ending deforestation – an essential step in achieving urgent global goals on climate, nature and human rights.

We deliver our work via three main strategies:

1. on open data (including via major global data platforms like Trase, Forest 500, Forest IQ, and ENCORE);
2. on creating stronger voluntary and compliance frameworks to address nature loss (we are a founding partner of the TNFD);and on accelerating accountability and action by the finance sector towards deforestation-free portfolios.

Global Canopy Initiatives (GCI) is a new Social Enterprise subsidiary wholly owned by Global Canopy.

The purpose of the social enterprise is to create sustainable revenues for open data on nature – a critical challenge for nonprofits working in this space. Done right, this will help safeguard the availability of open data for all as more commercial incumbents enter this space, will drive uptake by the market and identify where gaps remain, and will help ensure the sustainability of our vital offering. 

GCI ultimately aims to maximize the impact and uptake of our work to tackle market-driven impacts on nature, forests and people. Any profits from these activities are invested back into the charity.

Forest IQ Pro

Forest IQ is an open data partnership and platform that brings together aligned, best-in-class, and actionable data on how more than 2,400 major companies are addressing their links to deforestation.

Forest IQ Pro is a paid-for tier, specially designed for financial institutions to help enable their transition to deforestation-free financial portfolios. Offered through GCI, it includes access to licensed data, financial identifiers (ISINs), a bespoke API, and priority technical and customer support.

The role: overview

This is an exciting time to be joining the Board of Global Canopy Initiatives. As Chair of the Board you will be a key leader for the organisation, responsible for guiding the Board of Directors in governance, strategy, and oversight.

You will ensure that Global Canopy Initiatives fulfils its mission effectively, flourishes commercially, and fosters strong relationships with key stakeholders – from major financial institutions that are our customers, to data and ESG service providers that are our partners, to the trustees of the parent charity Global Canopy. 

This is an opportunity for a passionate and experienced leader to drive environmental innovation and impact at a high level – while helping to tackle a key challenge for the future: how to ensure the sustainability of high-quality open data provided by the non-profit sector.

We ask for a minimum commitment of 2 days per month for GCI, including board meetings and strategic engagements. There are opportunities to go above and beyond this minimum for those that wish.

The Chair of the Board is a voluntary, and therefore unpaid, position, with all expenses covered. The Chair is typically appointed for an initial term of three years, with the possibility of renewal subject to board approval.

As Chair of GCI, you will contribute to our wider organisational culture of kindness, collaboration, rigour and accountability in equal measure. You will come to this work with a sense of urgent mission, but one balanced by emotional intelligence. You will share our conviction that it is not just what we do that matters in our working life, but how we do it too.

The role: responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction.

• Facilitate and preside over board meetings, setting agendas in collaboration with key stakeholders in GCI and GC.

• Support our ongoing and agile strategy development in a fast-changing market

• Serve as a key ambassador for the company (and its parent charity), opening doors and representing it to key audiences including customers, technology partners, policymakers and donors.

• Ensure financial oversight, risk management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Foster a strong, collaborative relationship between the Board and GCI Leadership Team.

• Recruit, mentor, and support board members to enhance board effectiveness.

• Uphold and model our organisational values, while fostering a culture of operational excellence and ambition in fulfilling our mission.

About you

To be successful in this role, these are the things that will matter the most: 

• Your will have DEEP KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE in finance sector environmental due diligence and reporting, and the data needed to deliver on requirements.
• You will be a SEASONED LEADER, with experience at C-level or board level, able to work to effectively govern the work of GCI – a startup in the non-profit sector, but one that builds on the strong foundations, intelligence and networks of its parent charity.
• You will be MISSION DRIVEN with a strong commitment to tackling the climate and nature crisis, including via market action and reform.
• You will be well NETWORKED with links to relevant people in relevant sectors and disciplines, with an emphasis on finance sector sustainability and data.
• You will be AGILE and ENTREPRENEURIAL in your approach.
• You will bring EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE to how you approach leadership and teamwork, valuing the importance not just of what we do at work, but how we do it too.

How to Apply: 

To apply for the position, please follow the links below and submit an up-to date CV and covering letter.

The covering letter should explain your motivation for the role, and how your skills and experience fit the person specification. (Please no more than 1 side of A4). 

All candidates are asked to complete an anonymous diversity monitoring form when they apply.

The closing date for applications is 29 September 2025 at 9am BST. Early application is encouraged; we may close applications early if suitable candidates are identified. Screening calls are provisionally planned for w/c 6 October, and will be conducted remotely via a video call.

At Global Canopy, we value diversity and inclusion. You can read our diversity statement on our website. We encourage applications from all backgrounds and are committed to having a team with a diverse set of skills, experiences and abilities.

Global Canopy works on issues of global deforestation. We are particularly interested in strengthening our team to include those with a background from forest regions such as Latin America and South East Asia. We would welcome applications from people from these regions.

We are looking for new Trustees at Jessie May who share our passion and values, and who can bring expertise, insight and challenge to support our future.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Jessie May achieves its core purpose. They provide leadership, overseeing management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Jessie May has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the organisation to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission of, 'Providing the very best care and support possible, at home, for children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions and their whole families – for the whole journey in life, at the end of life, and in bereavement.'

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

DUTIES

• Support and provide advice on Jessie May’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

• Approve operational strategies and policies, monitor and evaluate their implementation.

• Oversee Jessie May’s financial plans and budget, monitor and evaluate progress.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

 • Ensure that key risks are continually identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

 • Review and approve Jessie May’s financial statements.

 • Provide support and challenge to Jessie May’s CEO and the senior leadership team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

 • Keep abreast of changes in Jessie May’s operating environment.

 • Contribute to regular reviews of Jessie May’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

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

• Contribute to the broader promotion of Jessie May’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

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

A basic level DBS check is required for this post, in addition to two references. Jessie May is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.  We are particularly interested in hearing from people who have lived experience related to the services we provide to families.

Ref: V258 | Support Group Volunteer | Leicester

We’re looking for one Support Group Volunteer over the age of 18 years old, based at Fosse Rider Pavillion, 241 Glenfield Road, LE3 6DL.

You’ll be volunteering every third Thursday of the month between 10:30am and 12:30pm.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group.  The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

• A people person, with good listening skills
• A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people
• Good at putting people at ease
• Reliable and organised
• Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke
• IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A DBS check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.

If you are interested in this role, please register your interest by completing the web form at the bottom of this advert. If you have any queries, or problems completing the form, please contact Velma Hamilton, Engagement Officer, on 07342 0499 70.

About Us

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Volunteers to join our new drop in group in Yeovil, Somerset that take place on 12.30 - 2.30 pm on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month starting 18th Sept. This role is ideal for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable experience.

The Say Aphasia charity provides support groups across the UK for people with aphasia; a language and communication disability caused by a brain injury like a stroke. Aphasia affects over 350,000 people in the UK but is little understood or known about by the public. It is the only aphasia charity set up by people with aphasia for people with aphasia; helping them to adapt to their new way of life and regain their independence and confidence.

Aphasia occurs due to injury to the brain such as a stroke. It affects access to language, resulting in difficulties following conversations, speaking, reading and writing.

Volunteers will support the running of the group with communicating, and will have the opportunity to utilise their communication skills and IT knowledge to take a register of attendance.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship and support to individuals, particularly those living with asphasia.
• Assist in organising activities that promote social interaction and engagement.
• Communicate effectively with participants, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Collaborate with other volunteers to enhance the group.

Qualifications

• An understanding or knowledge in aphasia is desirable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in IT, including familiarity with common software applications.
• A compassionate and patient attitude towards individuals in need of support.

This volunteer position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the lives of others while developing personal skills and experiences.

We are looking for a Trustee to act as the board’s lead on people and workforce matters, ensuring effective policies, systems, and culture to support staff and volunteers.

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

You can find out more about being a trustee at Paradise Cooperative in our Trustee Recruitment Pack.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Professional experience in HR or organisational development.

·Understanding of employment law.

·Strategic and practical HR skills.

Desirable

·Experience in the charity or co-operative sectors.

·CIPD qualification.

Responsibilities specific to the People and HR Trustee role

·Oversee and approve HR policies covering recruitment, induction, training, appraisal, wellbeing, and grievance handling.

·Support the Executive Director on HR-related issues and act as a sounding board for people matters.

·Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop objective-setting and performance management frameworks.

·Provide oversight of the charity’s volunteer engagement strategy, ensuring it aligns with the charity’s objectives, promotes diversity, and fosters a positive volunteer culture.

·Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in all people-related policies and practices.

·Ensure compliance with employment law and relevant charity regulations.

Wider responsibilities of the role shared with the other trustees on the board

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

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

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

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

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

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

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

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

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

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

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

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

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

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

Use your skills to help shape brighter futures for children, young people, and families across Kirklees

Fresh Futures is a Kirklees-based charity aiming to improve lives and inspire change for vulnerable and  disadvantaged children, young people, adults, and families.

Our vision is for everyone to have opportunities for a better life, now and in the future.

To achieve this, Fresh Futures focuses on four interwoven strands: Education, Health & Wellbeing, Employability & Skills, and Relationships.

What will you be doing?

Our trustees play an important role in making sure that the charity is run in the interests of the children, young people and families we support. They strategically oversee the management and administration of the organisation.

Trustees also ensure the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the charity to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Trustees are asked to attend 6 meetings per year, of which four run virtually via Teams. In person meetings run twice a year and are face-to-face for a full day – these are always run at one of our sites in the Kirklees area. Trustees also have the opportunity to join one of our committees, for example, our finance committee.

What are we looking for?

We are looking to fill vacancies on our Trustee board and on our Finance and Governors sub committees.

Members of these committees do not necessarily have to also be Trustees. We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

We are particularly interested in recruiting new Trustees/members who have experience in any of the following:

· Health and safety

· Charity finance

· Marketing & PR

· Charity fundraising

· The commercial sector

· Knowledge of Kirklees

· Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults

· Independent education

We strive to be more representative of the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from first time Trustees/Governors are welcome, you do not have to have previous experience of being on a board. Training and induction are provided.

What difference will you make?

By joining Fresh Futures as a Governor, you’ll help guide our strategy, strengthen governance, and ensure we continue improving lives across Kirklees. Your skills and perspective will support vital services in education, employability, health and wellbeing, and relationships - helping thousands of children, young people, and families thrive.

Amazing, giving, and inspiring – just a few of the words we use to describe our volunteers.

At Rethink Mental Illness, volunteers play an essential role in supporting the people we work with, and the services we provide. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can truly make a difference while gaining valuable experience, we’d love you to join us.

About the role

 Do you enjoy chatting with people, making them feel welcome, and offering a supportive ear? We’re looking for friendly volunteers to give around 2 hours a week to help us run our carers’ groups and activities in Bristol.

As a Carer Support Volunteer, you’ll:

· Co-facilitate monthly drop-in sessions and activity groups

· Welcome carers and help create a safe, supportive space

· Assist with events (e.g., setting up, registering attendees, making refreshments)

· Share information about upcoming groups and activities

Full training and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role.

About the service

 The Bristol Carers Service supports adult family members, partners, and friends of adults living with mental health conditions. We provide one-to-one and group support through phone calls, online sessions, and in-person activities. These include monthly support groups, education sessions, social events, and walks.

The service is delivered by a Service Coordinator and a Hospital Liaison Worker, as part of the wider Rethink Bristol Community team.

What will make you a great fit for this role?

 · Being empathetic and non-judgmental

· Understanding the importance of confidentiality

· Being flexible, punctual and reliable

Who are we?

 We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”    

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.    

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion  

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.  

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation  

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.  

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

Welcome and thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee of The Hardman Trust

• Are you keen to help people leaving prison and support them to work towards their goals?
• Do you believe that with the right support people can rebuild their lives, contribute to their communities, and break free from the cycle of reoffending?
• Do you share our conviction that no one should be defined solely by their past, and that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive?

If so, you could be one of the people we are looking for to help The Hardman Trust move into the next
exciting chapter of our work.

Who are we?
The Hardman Trust was established in 1994, with the aim of helping people leaving prison after long
sentences. Our founder, Guy Armstrong, was a prison Chaplain. He saw the challenges facing this
group: homelessness, a lack of workplace skills, stigma, isolation, low confidence, and poverty. A fund
was set up to provide financial assistance to purchase tools and equipment, offering a helping hand
into employment. We now know from experience that this practical approach works. The people the
Hardman Trust has supported over three decades have used this financial support to gain
qualifications, start their own businesses, find employment and a new direction in life. We are now
extending our reach so more people can benefit from our support and sharing our evidence and
insights to help shape a more effective, humane criminal justice system. Achieving this means securing
the right funding, building strong partnerships, and ensuring our resources are used with maximum
efficiency and impact.
We are looking for several new Trustees to join the Hardman Trust Board. If you want to support our
mission, and you feel that you have the commitment and the life or professional experience for the
role, we would love to hear from you. In return, you will have the chance to make a meaningful
difference to those serving long sentences; and you will be part of a passionate and committed team
of staff, trustees and volunteers. We offer support to all new Trustees and if you haven’t been one
before, don’t worry - we will make sure you have access to any training and development you feel you
need.
It is a privilege to be part of the Hardman Trust’s work. It is an incredible organisation making real
change in the criminal justice sector. It is an exciting time to join the charity – we have recently
appointed a new CEO, Annette So and we are looking forward to developing our direction for the
future and fulfilling our vision where everyone can achieve their potential within and beyond prison.

The Trustee role
The Trustees work collectively as a Board. They have ultimate responsibility for governing the
Hardman Trust charity, directing its management, and ensuring it is well-run and operates according to
its purposes. They are legally responsible for the charity's finances, reputation, and compliance with
the law. Each Trustee brings their own lived experience and/or professional skills to support the charity
achieve its aims. Most Trustees also learn new skills during their time on the Board.
We want our Board to look like the world we serve and to have different voices within it. We know
that diverse groups of people make better decisions. We are keen to hear from people who can bring
perspectives or experiences often underrepresented in charity governance and how can help us
progress our vision.
Trustees are not usually involved in the day-to-day running of the charity. However, they work closely
with the Hardman Trust’s dedicated staff team, who are supported by a wider group of volunteers. The
Trustee role as in the majority of charities, is unpaid although legitimate expenses – travel costs for
example – can be claimed.

The Trustees’ key responsibilities

• Setting The Hardman Trust’s strategy and priorities.
• Representing the community, we serve and ensuring our decisions reflect the needs and experiences of those leaving prison.
• Supporting and constructively challenging our staff team to ensure the charity’s work, resources, and partnerships are well-managed and deliver maximum impact.
• Approving operational strategies and policies and monitoring their implementation.
• Approving The Hardman Trust’s financial plans and budgets and monitoring progress.
• Ensuring that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Promoting and safeguarding our values by acting with integrity, fairness, and commitment at all times.
• Applying their skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts to promote the charity’s work.

What we are looking for
No single Trustee will have everything the Hardman Trust needs. We want our Board to have the
collective experience needed to support and guide the charity. What matters most is your
commitment to our mission, your willingness to share your perspective and knowledge, and your
readiness to contribute to our Board’s decision-making. You do not have to have been a Trustee
before.
To complement the experience of our current Trustees, we are keen to hear from people with one or
more of the following:

• Lived experience of the criminal justice system, whether your own or that of a partner, family member, or close friend.
• Knowledge of Black, Asian, or minority ethnic communities, especially in relation to challenges faced after leaving prison.
• Professional experience in, or connected to, the criminal justice system.
• Expertise in HR, banking, and employment law to help us strengthen our policies and practices.
• Fundraising expertise to help grow the charity’s income and help us establish a Fundraising
• Advisory Board.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and to improving outcomes for people serving long prison sentences.

Please review the document The Hardman Trust Trustee Pack for more information about this position.

Enjoy dancing? Interested in supporting young Disabled people in an inclusive setting? Volunteering with us is a great way to build teamwork and communication skills in a warm and welcoming community.

No dance experience needed, just an interest or passion for supporting young people.

Stopgap Dance Company are a global leader of disability access in dance and continuously examine best practice. We actively advocate for the industry and the wider world to become more inclusive.

Our mission is to create an inclusive world where diversity is not just accepted but pursued, a world where no one is limited by prejudice against Deaf, Disabled or neurodivergent people.

Alongside our professional productions we run multiple dance companies during the week and we are looking for motivated volunteers to support with our Wednesday evening group.

Below is an idea of the things you could support with:

• Welcoming members at the start of the session
• Helping with setting up and tidying the space
• Encouraging our members to engage in activities
• Supporting with the creative tasks
• Performing at our annual community platform
• Dancing and having fun!

Skills you’ll gain from joining us:

• Invaluable teamwork and communication skills
• A chance to support your local community
• A fulfilling and rewarding experience that builds your confidence within an inclusive setting
• A deeper understanding on how to teach and support an inclusive group
• Build great relationships with the group members and other volunteers.

Availability: Wednesday evening, during term time only.
Consistency is key for the young people we work with, so we are looking for someone who would be able to commit to most weeks.

Venue: Guildford, GU1 1NS

DBS check: Anyone who becomes a regular part of our team will need a DBS. If you do not already have one, we will ask you to complete an online form before starting, as well as reading our Safeguarding and code of conduct policies.

We are delighted to have secured funding to deliver a 24-month befriending programme. This exciting opportunity will support the delivery of our ambitious five-year strategy by: 

• Promoting Independence - ensuring more older people can stay independent for longer 

• Providing Connection - enabling friendship and social connection for olderPeople 

The befriending service will be provided through 2 different strands which aim to support older people in different ways based on the needs identified via an assessment. 

Clients will enter the strand that is most appropriate to their needs.

• Strand A: We will offer a local face-to-face service of up to 1 hour for 26 weeks. Strand A provision would be appropriate for older people who have experienced a recent life event, such as a hospital admission, bereavement or home move and who need time limited support and guidance to connect with suitable services and activities.

• Strands B: We will offer ongoing support either face-to- face of up to 1hour or by telephone between 30 minutes and 1 hour. Strand B provision is for older people leaving Strand A that require long term support or for those who are identified as needing ongoing face-to-face or local telephone befriending support on entry to theprogramme. 

Purpose of Role 

• Arrange and carry out assessment for new service users within the befriending service using the Guided Conversation approach, in order to gather appropriate information about the older person, their needs, and what a befriender will be expected (and not expected) to do. 

• Ensure that the person wants a befriender, has given consent, confidentiality has been discussed, and the person is able and willing to join the service. 

• Ensure that volunteers and service users are well-matched and that the service runs safely, effectively, and in line with organisational standards. 

Key Tasks 

• Carry out a needs assessment for new service users referred to the befriending service. It could be a telephone-based discussion or review of a referral form or a home visit. 

• Gather key information such as visit preferences, activity interests, potential risks, and any unmet needs. 

• Complete assessment forms and input information into the online database 

• Refer service users to other services where appropriate 

• Match service users with suitable volunteer befrienders 

• Introduce befriender and service user, and carry out a 6-week review with both parties 

• Maintain accurate records and liaise with staff throughout the process 

Skills and attributes Required 

• Good communication skills with a friendly approachable manner. 

• Confident using IT 

• Empathy and understanding of older people. 

• Understanding loneliness and social isolation. 

• Consistency and reliability.

• Understanding of Confidentiality. 

• Understanding of and empathy with the needs of older people. 

• Patience and Sensitivity. 

• Confidence to deal with emergencies. 

• Record keeping.

• Ideal for students studying Health & Social Care, though open to all. 

Support Provided 

• You will be inducted in cohorts with other volunteers. 

• Training for the role is provided including Safeguarding, Making Every Contact Count, Sexual Harassment and Building a positive volunteering experience and other more. 

• Ongoing support including regular supervision by the Volunteer Manager. 

• Goup supervision with other volunteers. Groups supervision is a safe place where you can share experiences, challenges, and successes, process emotion and learn from each other. 

• Reimbursement of agreed expenses.

• Access to an AGE UK Discount portal provided by Aon.  

• Monthly volunteer newsletter. 

• We hold an annual Volunteer Award event where we celebrate and recognise the contribution of our Volunteers! 

• Access to in-house training opportunities 

• You will receive supervision and support throughout your course placement from your named supervisor 

Benefits 

• Make a Real Difference: Have a direct impact on the lives of Making a Difference: Volunteering allows you to have a tangible impact on someone's life, particularly those in vulnerable situations. Helping older people can provide a strong sense of accomplishment and purpose. 

• Emotional Rewards 

• Intergenerational Connections 

• Learning and Skill Development 

• Enhancing Career Prospects 

• Building Empathy and Compassion 

• Giving Back to the Community 

• Social and celebration events 

• Placement Support: Ideal for Health & Social Care students—gain placement hours with supervision and guidance from a named supervisor 

• Insight into Care Needs. 

Commitment 

• We expect a minimum of 6 months commitment but would ideally prefer more of a longer-term commitment.

• Weekly commitment 2 to 3 hours.