Safeguarding trustee volunteer roles in bristol

Join MINDSET Charity – Be Part of a Brotherhood of Change

Who We Are

MINDSET Charity is a new, volunteer-run organisation dedicated to transforming men’s lives across England. We exist to support men on their personal journeys of mental wellbeing and self-improvement. Through accessible workshops, tailored programmes, and creative activities — from role play and storytelling to arts, crafts, and woodwork — we provide spaces where men can open up, connect, and grow without fear of judgment.

We are building a movement of resilience, dignity, and brotherhood. And we need visionary Trustees to help guide us.

The Role of Trustee

As a Trustee, you will:

• Shape the strategic direction of MINDSET Charity.

• Safeguard our values of brotherhood, empowerment, integrity, and growth.

• Ensure our programmes remain impactful, inclusive, and sustainable.

• Champion our mission to foster resilience and community across England.

This is a volunteer role, but the impact is priceless: you will be part of a founding team creating a legacy of hope and transformation.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who share our passion for men’s mental wellbeing. You don’t need prior Trustee experience — what matters most is your commitment, integrity, and belief in our mission.

Skills in governance, finance, fundraising, communications, or programme delivery are especially valuable, but above all we seek individuals who want to build something meaningful together.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a pioneering charity at its foundation stage.

• Help create safe, creative spaces for men to express themselves and grow.

• Contribute to a national movement of resilience and brotherhood.

• Work alongside passionate volunteers united by purpose and vision.

How to Apply

If you are ready to stand with us and help shape MINDSET Charity’s future, we’d love to hear from you.

This is more than a Trustee role. It’s a chance to help men across England rediscover strength, dignity, and hope. Join us, and let’s build MINDSET together.

Letter from our Chair - Lucy Thomas

We are seeking a passionate and strategic individual to join our Board of Trustees, someone who brings strong commercial insight, business acumen, and ideally experience in fundraising and income generation.  This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a respected national charity that continues to grow its reach and impact.

As a Trustee, you will also sit on our Commercial Advisory Group (CAG) a dynamic sub-group that advises on the Trust's commercial strategy, innovation, and sustainability.  You'll help us strengthen our commercial performance, explore new opportunities for growth and diversification, and ensure we remain on strong financial footing to deliver our vital mission.

We welcome applicants from all sectors and backgrounds.  Experience in marketing, partnerships, or charity leadership would be an advantage, but what matters most is your ability to bring fresh thinking, sound judgement, and a commitment to using your commercial experience for social good.

Background

Suzy Lamplugh Trust was founded by Diana and Paul Lamplugh following the disappearance of their daughter Suzy, a young estate agent, in 1986. Since then, the Trust has pioneered personal safety as a life skill and a public policy priority.

Our vision is to eliminate abuse, aggression and violence, creating a society where people are safer and feel safer.

Our mission is to reduce the risk and prevalence of abuse, aggression and violence with a specific focus on stalking and harassment through education, campaigning, and support.

What we do

• Campaigning - working in partnership with other charities, private and statutory organisations; raising awareness; influencing policy makers
• Education - advice; training; guidance; workplace support; free resources, information; consultancy
• Support - National stalking helpline and advocacy service; supporting people at increased risk of violence and aggression; community projects

The Deputy Chair of Hidayah provides essential support to the Chair, helps ensure the effective governance of the organisation, and stands ready to act in the Chair’s absence. This role helps maintain the smooth functioning of the Board and the organisation overall.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

· Support the Chair in providing strategic leadership and overseeing Trustee meetings, stepping in as Chair when needed

· Contribute to the development, implementation, and review of Hidayah’s Strategic Plan, Annual Report, and key governance policies

· Help manage volunteers and support fellow Trustees to ensure shared responsibility, accountability, and active engagement across the Board

· Assist in planning and delivering core governance activities, such as the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Trustee votes

· Act as a signatory on financial matters, supporting the smooth running of Hidayah’s operations.

· Lead or support outreach activities, including identifying and engaging new partners, drafting proposals, and maintaining outreach records

· Help plan and promote events and campaigns, and contribute to the development of inclusive outreach strategies

· Represent Hidayah at external events, building relationships with individuals and organisations aligned with our mission

What do we expect from the Deputy Chair?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Essential:

· A strong commitment to Hidayah’s mission and values, particularly around LGBTQ+ Muslim inclusion

· Reliable, organised, and able to manage tasks independently

· Good written and verbal communication skills

· Basic digital literacy – including use of email, Google Drive, and Microsoft Office tools

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with integrity

· Respectful, inclusive, and collaborative working style

· Willingness to take initiative, contribute ideas, and stay engaged with wider organisational activity

Desirable:

· Experience in community outreach, project support, or partnership building – particularly in a grassroots, voluntary, or equalities-focused setting

· Familiarity with governance, quality assurance, or safeguarding in the charity or community sector

· Experience facilitating or supporting meetings and group discussions

· Ability to resolve conflict or challenges with empathy and professionalism

· Knowledge or lived experience of LGBTQ+ Muslim identities or the intersection of faith, gender, and sexuality

· Awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion best practices

How much commitment is required?

This is a voluntary role with flexible hours, and can be carried out around your existing commitments. The role will take approximately 2 - 4 hours per week (flexible depending on needs and availability). You are also required to attend monthly board meetings. There is also an expectation of willingness to commit to the role for at least 3 months.

Build on Belief is a charity dedicated to helping people who have, or have had issues with drugs and alcohol use, working to improve and sustain their health and wellbeing in order they can recover to lead fulfilling lives. Bring your accountancy and financial experience and skills to become a voluntary trustee and Honorary Treasurer for a growing and innovative organisation and help make a difference across diverse communities in London and SE England.  If you’ve experience in accountancy and finance and perhaps even your own lived experience, then you could help us take the organisation forward.

What we do

BoB helps build the “social capital’ of people who are on a journey of recovery from histories of alcohol, illicit or prescribed drugs. Many of our service users and volunteers across our fourteen London and South-East projects have associated mental and physical health problems, along with histories of homelessness and unemployment.

We largely operate a structure where we recruit volunteers from our service users, and our managers from our volunteer pool, once trained. Our CEO, most managers and some members of the Board have lived experience, and many have been through the drug and alcohol treatment system. This ‘unique’ structure, we believe, gives a high level of peer led understanding of needs and responses

What you will be doing

Purpose of the Trustee Role & Hon Treasurer

The role of a trustee is to ensure that the organisation fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries and delivers on its vision, mission and values. The board of trustees are both jointly and individually responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation's aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

The Hon. Treasurer plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the financial integrity and sustainability of the organisation. Their primary responsibility is to maintain strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial affairs, ensuring that it remains viable, compliant, and well-positioned to achieve its charitable objectives. This includes ensuring that robust financial systems, accurate records, and effective procedures are in place and consistently followed.

The Treasurer works closely with, and is, actively supported by the CEO and Head of Finance & Central Operations, collaborating on both strategic and operational financial matters to ensure sound governance and effective delivery.

Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend bi-monthly board meetings (Tuesday evening) at Earls Court and participate in ad-hoc task groups and occasional on-line meetings.

BoB Trustees are Required To:

Uphold the charity’s mission and ensure its effective governance, strategic direction, and legal compliance. Their responsibilities include:

Strategic Leadership

· Ensure the charity pursues its stated charitable objects as defined in the Memorandum & Articles of Association.

· Establish and maintain a clear vision, values, and strategy, ensuring shared understanding among trustees, staff, volunteers, stakeholders, and associated personnel.

· Ensure operational plans and budgets align with and support the strategic vision.

· Define organisational goals and evaluate performance against agreed targets.

· Advise on and support fundraising efforts and project engagement.

Stakeholder Engagement

· Regularly seek and consider the views of external stakeholders and service users, staff, and volunteers.

· Uphold the good name and values of the organisation in all interactions.

Governance and Compliance

· Ensure compliance with the Mem & Articles of Association, charity law, company law, employment law, and other relevant regulations.

· Ensure resources are used exclusively to further the charity’s objects.

· Maintain appropriate governance structures that reflect the charity’s size, complexity, and diversity.

· Review the governance structure and board performance regularly.

· Ensure trustees adhere to an agreed code of conduct, with mechanisms for addressing non-compliance.

Risk and Oversight

·  Identify and regularly review major risks to the organisation, ensuring systems are in place to mitigate or manage them.

· Monitor changes in the external environment (political, financial, demographic, competitive) that may impact the charity.

· Hold staff accountable for the management and administration of the charity.

· Consider external professional advice on matters presenting material risk or potential breach of trustee duties.

Staff and Operational Oversight

· Follow formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal, and remuneration of staff.

· Ensure the organisation exercises a duty of care to its employees.

· Support continuous professional development across the organisation.

Engagement and Representation

· Visit local services and attend key events to support the charity’s work.

· Actively engage with the charity’s activities and initiatives.

· Act as ambassadors for the charity.

The Hon. Treasurers Role

Strategic

· Assist and advise in the formation of the charity’s financial strategy, ensuring adequate resources to deliver services and that funds are spent on furthering charitable purposes.

· Advise on the financial implications of strategic and operational plans.

· Advise on the funding strategy and ensure alignment with the charity’s aims.

· Ensure the Board receives regular and appropriate financial information.

· Review and present the annual financial statements to the Board.

· Recommend appropriate accounting procedures, controls, and policies consistent with financial and regulatory legislation.

· Oversee the appointment and regular review of auditors.

· Work in close partnership with the CEO and Head of Finance & Central Operations to support strategic goals.

· Ensure appropriate investment and reserves policies are in place.

· Monitor the performance of investments.

· Ensure all assets are adequately maintained and accounted for.

Governance

· Maintain effective governance of the organisation’s financial affairs, ensuring viability and proper processes for financial records, decisions, and delegations.

· Ensure the Board is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and complies with all relevant legislations (e.g. Companies and Charity Law)

· Lead on the assessment and management of financial risk

· Ensure financial policies and procedures are regularly reviewed and updated

· Ensure compliance with charity accounting practices and statutory requirements

· Ensure recommendations from auditors are implemented

· Ensure accounts meet conditions of contractual agreements with funders and statutory bodies.

Experience, Skills & Behaviours required to fulfil the role of Hon. Treasurer effectively:

• Experience of charity accounting.
• Experience of financial control, budgeting, and risk management.
• Good communications and interpersonal skills.
• A willingness to be contacted on an ad-hoc basis.
• Ability to ensure financial decisions taken are followed up in a timely manner.

What we are looking for

Our Trustee Board comprises people who have good skills and experience in, corporate strategic marketing and communications, health care, HR, information technology, research and legal matters. 

Our current Honorary Treasurer is standing down after seven years, and we are looking to replace him. The role of Honorary Treasurer is an important one, being the key person colleague trustees look to for professional advice about all things financial.  We have a Head of Finance & Central Operations who manages the day-to-day financial management and reporting systems.

This year we have introduced two systems to underpin our growth to a nearly £2m business. These are Xero and PLEO, with PEOPLE HR for our associated HR functions.

If you’ve experience of senior financial management and leadership, then you could make a significant contribution to our development.

Essential experience & qualifications sought

We are open to a variety of professional financial backgrounds and qualifications with, ideally but not necessarily only, charities and including current registration as a member of the:

o Institute of Chartered Accountants.

o Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

o Chartered Institute of Management Accountants

o CIPFA

We are very open to bringing on board people who can support us becoming a more inclusive organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, women and other underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities and from LGBTQI communities. We are also very open to recruiting someone who may have their own lived experience of addictions and adversity to draw upon. What counts will be your enthusiasm, commitment, competence and interest in taking on a trustee and governance role.

 A few more details on application process

Our deadline for applications is Monday 15 December 2025

· Please submit a CV and a covering letter (no more than 2 pages) which must address three questions (see below).

· We aim to be flexible with interview dates, to include early evenings but aim to hold them during January or early February.

· If you need any particular support if you are invited to an interview, then please make this clear in your supporting statement (see below).

· We plan to have an induction and familiarisation/onboarding process before final confirmation as a trustee. Once appointed, Trustees are expected to serve a minimum three-year term of office. This is a voluntary and non-paid position.

Please send your CV with covering Supportive Statement to our Chair, Roger Howard:

· Your Supportive Statement or covering letter should address three questions:

i. Why are you interested in becoming a trustee and treasurer of BoB?

ii. What insights and experiences can you bring to our charity Board?

iii. Is there anything in your background that we should be aware of that might be relevant to you becoming a trustee/company director?

Personal data statement:  In line with GDPR, we ask that you do NOT send us any informtion that can identify children or any of your Sensitive Personal Data in your CV and application documentation, apart from matters relating to your own experiences of addictions and matters which may arise during a subsequent DBS enhanced scrutiny.

Following this notice, any inclusion of your Sensitive Personal Data in your CV/ application documentation will be understood by us as your express consent to process this information going forward.

Emmaus UK is currently undertaking feasibility work to consider the incorporation of an SPV which can become a Registered Provider of Social Housing on behalf of the Emmaus federation in the UK. This is an exciting prospect and would unlock significant potential to achieve our strategic objective to help more people.

To ensure that we are best positioned to pursue this opportunity we are looking to build the expertise of the Emmaus UK Board in:

· Housing Association/Housing Expertise or relevant regulatory expertise - providing strategic input as we develop the subsidiary and proceed with becoming a Registered Provider

· Legal expertise - ideally in a relevant field e.g. charity or corporate governance, housing, property, regulation etc

· Property Acquisition and Development - to support us with providing high quality services and managing sustainable growth

Joining the EUK Board at such a significant moment will enable you to play a key role in the future of Emmaus. You will be an integral part of developing the movement and central to making strategic decisions within EUK as the national body.

Further details:

Location: Home based online meetings.  Two annual face-to-face meetings

Reporting to: EUK Chair and board of trustees

Remuneration: This role is voluntary.  Any travel expenses will be reimbursed.

The attached applicant pack contains further details including the role description and more about Emmaus UK.

To apply, please email your CV and cover letter to the EUK Governance Manager the Email address can be found in the application pack.

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 31 December 2025.

Those shortlisted will be informed on Tuesday 06 January 2026 and invited to an interview conducted via Microsoft Teams on either Monday 12 January 2026 or Wednesday 14 January 2026. All applicants will be informed of the interview outcome by Friday 16 January 2026.

Coempowered is a small but rapidly developing non-profit working to empower indiviuals and help build community capacity among for young people, women, and marginalised communities in the UK and internationally through workshops, classes, semiar, projects and research. 

We currently have two trustees and are seeking a third trustee who can bring valuable expertise in fundraising, chairing, or education to help guide our next phase of development.

About the Opportunity
This is a formative moment for Coempowered. As a small and growing organisation, we are establishing the structures, policies, and long-term strategies necessary for sustainable impact. Our trustees play a crucial role in this process, working closely with the directors to oversee governance, support planning, and position the organisation to apply for grants and build partnerships.

We are looking for a committed individual who is passionate about our mission and willing to contribute actively to shaping Coempowered’s direction. Trustees are expected to bring strategic insight, uphold strong governance, and collaborate constructively with the board.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to governance and strategic oversight as we prepare for charity registration.

• Support planning for organisational growth, including funding pathways and programme development.

• Provide leadership or guidance in one or more key areas:

  • Fundraising: helping to develop a sustainable funding strategy and support early grant applications.

  • Chairing and governance: contributing to board leadership, decision-making, and policy development.

  • Education: advising on programme design, partnerships, quality assurance, or public engagement.

• Participate in quarterly board meetings and occasional working groups.

• Act as an ambassador for Coempowered, upholding our values of inclusion, critical inquiry, and empowerment.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in fundraising, charity governance, board leadership, or the education sector.

• A strategic and reflective mindset, with confidence in contributing to decision-making.

• Reliability, professionalism, and a genuine interest in developing a growing non-profit.

• Willingness to commit long-term and help build the organisation collaboratively with the existing trustees and directors.

Time Commitment
Approximately 6-8 hours per month, remote, with quarterly board meetings.

If you are inspired by educational and social impact and would like to help shape the future of a developing organisation, we would welcome your application.

We’re looking for trustees​

I’m Tom, Chair of the Board of Trustees for We The Curious. ​

We are looking for individuals with specific skills to join our trustee board who are passionate about creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future through science and creative experiences. ​

Following a prolonged closure due to Covid and then a fire in our venue, We The Curious reopened to the public in July of 2024. One year later we have newfound opportunities and challenges ahead and we need people with fresh perspectives and particular skills to help us continue to grow. ​

Finance – we are looking someone who is a chartered accountant and who has financial experience and expertise that they can bring to our board, as well as our Finance & Risk Assurance Committee​

Legal – we are looking for a qualified lawyer to bring strategic legal and compliance expertise to our board and our Finance and Risk Assurance Committee. ​

Fundraising – we are looking for someone with fundraising and development experience to join our board, and either our Purpose or Finance and Risk Assurance Committee.​

Education – we are looking for someone with experience in primary or secondary education​

If you feel energised by our charity, this opportunity and have expertise in any of these areas then we’d love to hear from you!​

Tom Betts, Chair of Board of Trustees, We The Curious​

What is a trustee?​

Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as:​ Directors, board members, governors, committee members​

Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who work with our experienced leadership team to provide support, encouragement, challenge when needed and help to decide how the charity is run. Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives. As part of the board of trustees at We the Curious you will be making a difference to the community in Bristol and the surrounding area and helping us to connect and empower people through science. Trustees use their skills and experience to support their charities, helping them achieve their aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the board.​

-Charity Commission, find out more here​
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About We The Curious​

We The Curious is an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading science centres. ​

We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas around science, technology, natural history and the environment. ​

We work with partners, locally and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing.​

We are progressive, inquisitive, collaborative, playful and creative.​

Vision​

What if everyone is included, curious, inspired by science to build a better world together?​

Mission​

Our aim is to connect and empower people through sharing creative experiences which celebrate unknowns in science.​

Our work as a charity is driven by five key pledges:​

_Cultivate Curiosity​

_Include Everyone​

_Open Up Science​

_Sustainable Futures​

_Build Resilience​

You can find out more about these in our Manifesto.​

​What will you do in this role?​

As a trustee you will provide advice, knowledge and support to the leadership team at We The Curious. ​

With the steer of the Chair, the board of trustees ensures we pursue our purpose responsibly, are compliant with our governing documents, charity law and other relevant legislation. The board will review and advise on best practice and appropriate policies and procedures and uphold excellent governance. ​

Below are some of the key areas of work generally as a trustee.​

As a trustee you will:​

_Contribute individual skills and knowledge in support of the vision and strategic delivery​

_Uphold the values of We The Curious​

_Safeguard and advocate for the work and vision of We The Curious​

_Act as ambassadors locally, nationally and internationally​

_Assist with the evaluation and review of the policies, goals and targets of the organisation​

_Encourage investment and growth​

_Drive innovation and change​

_Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and long-term financial stability​

_Contribute to working groups for specific focus on projects​

All Trustees should use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach informed decisions in the best interest of We The Curious. ​

This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussion and providing guidance as requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of our work in which the trustee has expertise. ​

​Finance - as a trustee with strategic financial experience you will:​

_Help to provide financial oversight for the charity, ensuring resources are used, invested and spent in line with legal requirements​

_Ensure the charity complies with charity law and financial governance requirements​

_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external financial advice for complex matters​

_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and regularly monitor the management accounts and financial reporting with a view to becoming chair of the committee​

We are looking for qualified accountants with practical up-to-date knowledge of management accounting principles, financial reporting and charity finances, analytical skills and strategic thinking. ​

Legal -  as a trustee with legal expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board on the legal implications of our plans and initiatives​

_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external legal advice for complex matters​

_Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law and other relevant legislation ​

_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and work to manage any legal risks, ensuring policies and procedures align with best legal practices​

We are looking for qualified lawyers with strong knowledge of company and charity law, analytical skills and strategic thinking.​

Fundraising -  as a trustee with fundraising and development expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board around fundraising and development strategy​

_Advise the board and leadership team on potential funding streams ​

_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee​

We are looking for people with strong background in fundraising and strategic thinking. ​

Education -  as a trustee with primary or secondary education expertise you will:​

_Contribute strategic advice to the board around education of school aged children (key stages 1 to 4)​

_Advise the board and leadership team on issues around education – which could include curriculum and traditional education, alternative education, CME or SEND provision ​

_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee​

We are looking for people who are passionate and knowledgeable around the education of young people and share our commitment to equitable education for all.​

​Time commitment ​

_We hold quarterly board meetings, typically from 4pm to 7pm. Trustees are expected to attend and contribute to all meetings either in person or by joining virtually. ​

_Papers for the board meetings are sent one week prior and from time-to-time will include specific asks or requests for information and input from trustees.​

 _ You will also be asked to take part in one of our quarterly committee meetings which take place virtually two weeks prior to the board meeting, typically from 4pm to 6pm.​

_We hold one annual board away day,  typically from 10am to 5pm which takes place in person.​

_ Board Meetings are located at the We The Curious offices within the science centre in central Bristol, and our away days take place at an alternate venue in Bristol once a year. ​

_ You may also be called upon for advice or assistance by the leadership team, for example to give input on areas related to your specialism, attend additional meetings or to be present at We The Curious events. ​

Remuneration ​

This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered. Refreshments are provided at Board meetings and lunch is provided at the annual strategy away day. ​

 You will have:​

_Free entry to our venue during opening hours​

_12 tickets per calendar year to give away​

_20% off in the We The Curious shop at our venue and online​

_Free parking at Millennium Square car park for meetings​

_Secure cycle storage​

Terms of appointment​

_Trustees are appointed to an initial three-year term of service (including a 12-month probationary period).​

_Trustees can serve a maximum of six years with a reappointment after the first term of three years unless the trustee holds an office, such as Chair or Deputy Chair, in which case they would be eligible for a further three-year term. The maximum term of office is nine years. ​

Probationary period​

This post is subject to a 12-month probationary period.​

What we're looking for from you​

We have ambitious plans for We The Curious and are looking for people that embody our values and have some of these skills/knowledge to help achieve our plans.​

Values​

_Embody our values. Collaborative, Creative, Inquisitive, Playful and Progressive ​

_Be committed to our vision and key manifesto pledges of Cultivating Curiosity, Including Everyone, Open Up Science,  Strive for Sustainable Futures and Build Resilience ​

_Have a positively questioning mind to help We The Curious fulfil its  vision​

_Act with integrity and in the best interests of We The Curious at all times​

_Work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of We The Curious​

Skills/Knowledge ​

We want to ensure that our board bring a variety of skills and knowledge to We The Curious. At this time we are looking for people to join us who have skills in finance, law, fundraising and education. ​

Including everyone​

We want our people to reflect our city and build a place where everyone feels like they can belong. But we know that our organisation doesn’t yet represent the rich experiences and cultures of Bristol. We think when our board reflects our city it will lead to innovative , well informed and better decision making. We’ll be more resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to fulfil our vision and mission. ​

We especially want to hear from you if:​

_You identify as and/or have lived experiences with either:  African and African Caribbean heritage, Carers, d/Deaf, Disabled, East Asian heritage, Global majority, LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary, Neurodivergent, South Asian heritage, under 40, Visually impaired, Woman, Working Class​

I’ve never been a trustee before, should I apply?  ​

Yes! If you feel you connect with these values or have the skills/knowledge we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you. ​

You just need to be at least 18 years old.  You don’t need formal qualifications, or previous trustee experience or a science background. We’ll give you training on good governance and opportunities for mentorship. ​

If you are an aspiring trustee or want to know more about trustees, you may find the charity commission guidance useful.  ​

Supporting you​

Training​

If you join the board, you will have an induction and onboarding experience to support you with your role and get you connected with the rest of the organisation.​

If you are a first-time trustee or want a refresher, we will provide you with training on good governance and other topics related to your role. We will also provide you with mentorship from other members of the board. 
​
Support during the process​

We The Curious is a Disability Confident Employer and we welcome applications from candidates who self-assess themselves as having a disability. We will guarantee an interview to applicants who advise that they have a disability and who meet the minimum criteria for a job vacancy. To help you, under the Equality Act 2010 a person is defined as having a disability if a) they have a physical or mental impairment, and b) the impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.​

We want to work with you to ensure the recruitment process is accessible for you.​

If you are disabled,  neurodivergent, or if you have a long-term health condition, we’ll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to our processes for you.​

You’ll have the opportunity to let us know about any adjustments you may need throughout the application and selection process. We’ll continue this conversation if you join us as a staff member, and we’ll work with you to make sure you have the adjustments you need to succeed in your role.​

Examples of adjustments could include:​

_providing alternative formats at every stage​

_options to apply ​

_extra time for tasks​

_providing some extra information about what to expect​

_office orientation before an in-person interview.

Application process​

Deadline for applications:11.59pm Sunday 11 January 2026​

Interview dates and location:26 January – 4 February 2026 at We The Curious​

Start date: 16 February 2026, induction process will take place during February and March. First committee meetings will take place in April. ​

Application process:​

If you would like to apply, please upload a copy of your CV and complete the application questions. The questions are designed to assess your experience and suitability for the role. ​ You have the option to answer these questions in a written format or by submitting your responses by video or audio. Please see the application form for more details. ​
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We appreciate interviews can be stressful, so we try to make them more of a conversation and a chance for you to tell us about how your qualifications, skills and experience make you the right person for the role.​​
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If you have any particular needs or requirements, please do let us know so we are able to make the required adjustments.​​

Volunteer: The PR Officer of Hidayah plays a vital role in raising the profile of the organisation. The PR Officer will take the lead in managing relationships with external media, agencies, and partners to help Hidayah achieve its strategic aims. The PR officer will work closely with the Chair and two digital trustees, and focus on increasing visibility, strengthening our public image, and supporting advocacy through effective communication.
 

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

• Act as the main point of contact for external media outlets, journalists, and PR agencies on behalf of Hidayah.

• Work with the Chair to help implement their media strategy and PR aims.

• Draft, review and issue press releases, statements, and media content as needed.

• Identify media opportunities that can help platform Hidayah’s work, voices, and campaigns.

• Cultivate and manage relationships with media partners, influencers, and relevant organisations.

• Provide PR advice and guidance to the Chair and help ensure consistent messaging.

• Contribute to the development of key messaging and ensure alignment with organisational policies and values.

• Help monitor media coverage and report back to the Chair on PR impact and reach.

What do we expect from the PR Officer of Hidayah?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Knowledge:

• Experience in PR, communications, journalism, or media relations, ideally in the voluntary, charity or advocacy sector.

• Understanding of media landscapes, both mainstream and community-based, with an awareness of LGBTQ+ and/or faith-sensitive contexts.

• Knowledge of reputation management and crisis communications.

Personality:

• Confident communicator with strong interpersonal skills.

• Ability to represent Hidayah with professionalism, sensitivity, and integrity.

• Friendly, enthusiastic, dedicated, and committed to Hidayah’s mission and values.

• Creative thinker who can identify innovative ways to promote Hidayah’s work.

Personal Skills:

• Strong writing and editing skills for creating press releases and media content.

• Ability to develop and maintain positive relationships with external partners.

• Understanding of confidentiality, safeguarding, equality and diversity in communications.

• Ability to respond to media challenges and opportunities with diplomacy and care.

Administration Skills:

• Organised and methodical in managing media contacts and communications records.

• Competence in using email, social media platforms, and shared systems such as Google Drive.

• Ability to draft reports on PR activity for Board meetings.

• Familiarity with digital tools to track media coverage and public engagement.

How much commitment is required?

We are flexible around your own schedule. One average the role will require 2-4 hours per week. The following commitments are in place for all Hidayah volunteers:

• To be available for media requests or to coordinate timely responses as needed.

• To support Hidayah events through PR activity and promotion. 

• To help with fundraising efforts by securing media coverage for campaigns and initiatives.

• To check and respond to PR-related emails promptly.

• To maintain clear records of media engagement and press materials in the organisation’s shared systems (Google Drive).

The Africa Health Organisation (AHO) seeks to engage in bidding and tendering to deliver health and social care services effectively.  Our goal is to ensure sustainability and positively impact the lives of more people.  We want assistance in developing an ambitious strategy.

What will you be doing?

We are excited to announce an incredible opportunity for a talented Bid Manager to join our passionate team at the Africa Health Organisation (AHO)!  Since 1999, we've been dedicated to delivering health and social care to millions across Africa and the Diaspora, and now we're ready to further elevate our impact.

This year, we're embarking on a mission to broaden our funding strategy by incorporating bid and tender opportunities.  Our goal is to engage with governments in Africa and the UK, the public sector, and the public, providing essential, practical, and emotional support to those facing chronic conditions.  We need a visionary like you to help us achieve our goals.

We're seeking a dynamic, experienced Bid Manager to develop and execute a winning strategy to secure the necessary financial backing.  There are numerous exciting possibilities ahead, including central government tenders, local and statutory opportunities.  We're eager to explore them all.

In this pivotal role, you'll plan and execute our bids and tender writing efforts, ensuring that our bid proposals not only shine but also come to life in meaningful ways.  If you're a bid writer who thrives on creativity and collaboration, we want to hear from you!  Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and mentor volunteers within our bid and tender team, making a positive impact together.  Join us on this exciting journey!

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Role Description:

Bid Management: Lead and manage the entire bid and tender process, ensuring submissions meet deadlines and align with client requirements across the UK & Ireland.

Proposal Development: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop tailored, high-quality, and persuasive proposals that align with our value proposition.

Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with sales, operations, legal, and clinical teams to gather critical input and ensure accurate, compliant, and compelling submissions.

Market Analysis: Stay informed on market trends, tender opportunities, and competitor activity to identify and secure strategic opportunities.

Compliance: Ensure all submissions adhere to company standards, client specifications, and relevant regulatory requirements.

Process Improvement: Continuously refine bid processes, content libraries, templates, and tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Post-Submission Activities: Manage debrief processes and gather feedback to inform future submissions.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead AHO bids: Manage the whole bid process with a hands-on approach.
• Create strong responses: Tailor solutions that clearly show our value.
• Support growth: Work with Business Development and Marketing to boost propositions.
• Drive best practice: Lead bid qualification, governance, and reviews.
• User-focused: Understand needs and clearly present our solutions.
• Know the landscape: Medical, research industries, and opportunities.
• Know our strengths: Stay sharp on our services and competitors.
• Seal the deal: Coordinate smooth contract closures.
• Stay tidy: Keep the bid library updated and accessible.
• Keep comms clear: Align stakeholders throughout the process.
• Stay compliant: Follow governance and secure approvals.
• Push for quality: Lead reviews to ensure high-standard submissions.
• Maintain the opportunity pipeline: utilising CRM and creating reports for management.
• Taking the lead on other business development activities, such as award submissions, whitepapers, and sales collateral.
• Supporting every stage of the sales funnel: by working closely with marketing, sales, implementation, and operations teams.

What are we looking for?

Person Specification: What You'll Bring:

• At least two years of proven experience in bid and tender management, preferably within the healthcare (NHS & private), medical, or technology sectors.
• End-to-end bid management experience: A minimum of 4 years' experience leading the whole bid process.
• Preferred qualifications include a degree in Business, Communication, Marketing, Creative Writing, English or equivalent.
• APMP Certification is also desirable.
• Sector versatility: Experience with both public- and private-sector bids in the medical, biotech, biomed, health, and social sectors is preferred.
• Industry knowledge: Understanding of contact centres and/or customer experience is essential.
• Commercial acumen: Strong business sense, negotiation skills, and a hands-on approach.
• Resilience under pressure: Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Detail orientation: High attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Growth mindset: Self-motivated, proactive, and focused on continuous improvement.
• Strong communicator: Confident and articulate, with the ability to build trusted relationships across stakeholders.
• Time management: Skilled at prioritising tasks and managing competing deadlines.

What difference will you make?

In this exciting role, you will lead the strategic process for winning new business through competitive bids, tenders, and proposals, ultimately elevating AHO's success. Your specialised knowledge will enhance our win rates and maximise revenue by bringing clarity, quality, and coordination to what can be a complex and high-stakes journey. impact

Your primary mission is to boost AHO's tender win rates and strengthen our strategic advantage.  By diligently overseeing each step of the bidding process—from initial evaluation to final submission—you will significantly improve the quality and persuasion of our proposals, directly increasing our chances of securing valuable contracts.

You'll provide key insights to help AHO target the most promising opportunities by implementing a thoughtful "bid/no-bid" process.  This approach will ensure we focus only on lucrative and winnable contracts that closely align with our strategic goals, ultimately saving time and resources and allowing us to prioritise high-potential projects.

In this role, you will orchestrate a well-coordinated process that drives operational efficiency.  As the central point of contact, you will gather input from diverse internal teams—sales, finance, legal, and technical—ensuring everyone collaborates smoothly to meet critical deadlines.

As a leader, you'll elevate the quality of our bid content.  By overseeing the creation of compelling, polished materials, you'll ensure our final submissions are professional, cohesive, and error-free. You will utilise a centralised content library containing valuable resources, such as case studies and CVs, to streamline efforts and enhance our proposals.

You will keep projects on track by developing detailed project plans and timelines, ensuring all tasks are completed on time—especially critical in the fast-paced environment of tender submissions.  Your effective management will ease colleagues' workloads, allowing the entire team to shine.

To foster long-term business growth, you'll create a wealth of knowledge around our tenders and bids. By conducting insightful post-submission debriefs and analysing feedback, you will capture invaluable lessons from both successes and setbacks.  This ongoing improvement process will enhance our bidding capabilities for future opportunities.

You also have the opportunity to enhance AHO's brand reputation by submitting well-organised, accurate, and compliant bids.  By doing so, you'll showcase our professionalism and reliability to clients, building trust and solidifying our credible standing in the market.

Strategic alignment is vital for sustaining consistent, stable business growth.  Together, we can make a remarkable impact on development.

Volunteer Opportunity: Chief Executive Officer (Non-Uniform Role)

Organisation: Ranger Cadets

Location: REMOTE Flexible / National

Commitment: Volunteer Leadership Role

About Us

Ranger Cadets is a new, independent, non-profit uniformed youth organisation with a bold mission: to engage young people in their communities, equip them with essential life skills, and unlock their full potential. We are non-political, non-religious, and proudly inclusive – open to all, regardless of background.

We believe every young person deserves the chance to shine, to belong, and to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

The Role

We are seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to lead Ranger Cadets in a non-uniform position. This is a pivotal volunteer role for someone who can bring strategic clarity, operational leadership, and inspirational energy to a growing national movement.

As CEO, you will:

• Provide overall leadership and direction for Ranger Cadets.

• Build and sustain partnerships with communities, schools, and youth organisations.

• Oversee governance, safeguarding, and operational excellence.

• Inspire and support volunteers, trustees, and staff to deliver our mission.

• Champion our values of inclusivity, dignity, and opportunity for all.

Who We’re Looking For

• A proven leader with experience in charity, youth work, education, or community development.

• Strong organisational and strategic planning skills.

• Excellent communication and relationship-building abilities.

• Passion for youth empowerment, social mobility, and community impact.

• Commitment to our values: non-political, non-religious, inclusive, and open to all.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to shape and grow a national youth organisation from its earliest stages.

• The opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for young people across the UK.

• A role that blends vision, leadership, and community impact.

How to Apply

If you are ready to lead with purpose and help unlock the potential of young people, we would love to hear from you.

RANGER CADETS

#PreparedForLife

Volunteer Opportunity: Chief Operating Officer (Non-Uniform Role)

Organisation: Ranger Cadets

Location: Remote Flexible / National

Commitment: Volunteer Leadership Role

About Us

Ranger Cadets is a new, independent, non-profit uniformed youth organisation with a bold mission: to engage young people in their communities, equip them with essential life skills, and unlock their full potential. We are non-political, non-religious, and proudly inclusive – open to all, regardless of background.

We believe every young person deserves the chance to shine, to belong, and to grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

The Role

We are seeking a dedicated Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead the operational heart of Ranger Cadets in a non-uniform position. This is a vital volunteer role for someone who can translate vision into action, ensuring our programmes, systems, and people run smoothly and effectively.

As COO, you will:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of Ranger Cadets nationally.

• Develop and implement systems for governance, safeguarding, and compliance.

• Support programme delivery, volunteer management, and organisational growth.

• Work closely with the CEO, trustees, and senior volunteers to ensure strategic goals are achieved.

• Champion efficiency, clarity, and inclusivity across all operational areas.

Who We’re Looking For

• A proven organiser with experience in charity operations, youth work, or community development.

• Strong skills in planning, systems design, and operational management.

• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.

• Passion for youth empowerment, social mobility, and community impact.

• Commitment to our values: non-political, non-religious, inclusive, and open to all.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to shape the operational backbone of a national youth organisation.

• The opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for young people across the UK.

• A role that blends structure, impact, and community service.

How to Apply

If you are ready to bring clarity, structure, and operational excellence to Ranger Cadets, we would love to hear from you.

RANGER CADETS

#PreparedForLife

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No