Social welfare volunteer roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
West Cheshire Foodbank was established in 2012 to provide emergency food to people in crisis. We are part of the Trussell network of foodbanks and last financial year we provided food to 14,500 people in the 12 months to March 2025. We can only do this with the commitment of our volunteers, our small, dedicated staff team and the much-valued support of local businesses, organisations and individuals.
We are now looking for two new trustees, with relevant experience, who share our vision for a future without the need for foodbanks. You do not need previous experience as a trustee to apply for these roles.
We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and experience, particularly those who have lived experience of financial hardship and/or food insecurity. The successful candidates will be provided with an induction, training and support to help establish themselves in their roles.
Our Purpose is
- to provide relief to individuals and families in crisis in West Cheshire, through the provision of emergency food supplies.
- to provide practical, mental and spiritual support either directly or by referral to approved partner agencies to enable individuals and families avoid future crises.
- to raise awareness of the causes of food poverty and to encourage both policy-makers and local people to take action.
Participation Trustee specific responsibilities
- Ensuring WCFB practice and strategic direction is informed by the voices of people with lived experience of food insecurity and financial hardship.
- Support the WCFB strategic lead to develop and implement the Participation Framework, including periodic reviews to assess progress, learning and impact.
- Support all trustees and members of the staff team to take a participatory approach where appropriate and enact the principles of participation.
- Model a participatory way of working to ensure voices of lived experience are amplified and help inform and influence key decisions at Board level.
- Ensure trustees are informed of the impact of national and local policy changes for people using WCFB with implications for service delivery and lobbying.
- Willingness to share your experience of food insecurity and/or financial hardship, whilst recognising that your experience cannot represent a whole community.
General responsibilities of all WCFB Trustees
- Work alongside the Treasurer and the trustee board to ensure WCFB’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined (on income over £25k) and made publicly available as necessary.
- Ensure WCFB is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and charity law reporting requirements.
- Ensure that all charitable activities undertaken by WCFB are compliant with its charitable objectives as set out in its governing document.
- Ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as looking after contractual agreements with external partners that award money for core costs and additional projects.
- Understand and commit to WCFB’s strategic direction and mission
- Contribute to the development and review of WCFB’s strategic plan, ensuring it aligns with the needs of people struggling to afford the essentials.
- Help promote the organisation to a wider audience of potential funders, partners and people experiencing financial hardship and food insecurity.
- Ensure WCFB has appropriate procedures in place to comply with current legislation and good practice including: employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding & GDPR compliance/data protection etc.
- Act with reasonable care and skill, giving time, thought and energy to fulfil your role.
- To serve as an additional promoter of the food bank in the community.
- Attend trustee meetings and produce feedback and reports as necessary.
- Ensure decisions are informed by people experiencing financial hardship by working in a participatory and inclusive way at board level.
- Demonstrate empathy and a non-judgemental attitude.
What are we looking for?
West Cheshire Foodbank are looking for new trustees, with relevant experience, who share our vision for a future without the need for foodbanks. You do not need previous experience as a trustee to apply for these roles.
We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and experience, particularly those who have lived experience of financial hardship and/or food insecurity. The successful candidates will be provided with an induction, training and support to help establish themselves in their roles.
We are looking to recruit a Participation Trustee who:
- Can fulfil the role as lead trustee for their specific area of responsibility, demonstrate leadership skills and confidence to work as part of the Trustee team
- Has experience of using a foodbank or of financial hardship
- Has volunteering experience in a community setting
- Has knowledge of the wider social issues associated with food insecurity and financial hardship
- Has knowledge of charitable law and funding or is willing to develop this
- Is friendly and approachable, able to communicate with people from a wide range of backgrounds
- Is willing to listen to other perspectives and give others the space to share their knowledge and experience
- Has a knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of WCFB
- Is willing to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board
- Will act in the best interest of the charity
- Demonstrates sound, independent, judgement and the ability to think creatively
- Works effectively as a team member and demonstrates a willingness to learn and develop
Benefits of volunteering
- Being able to use your existing skills to make a difference
- Meet new people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community
- Make a real difference to the running of the foodbank as part of a team providing holistic support in the local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or in contact with WCFB
- Induction and training to support you in your role as a trustee
What difference will you make?
By leading on the food bank's participatory approach and ways of working, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with West Cheshire Foodbank.
Please apply through CharityJobs, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at West Cheshire Foodbank.
You must be 18 or over to apply for this role, and you must not be disqualified from acting as a trustee and declare any conflict of interest whilst carrying out the duties of a trustee.
Applicants must be primarily resident in the UK when applying for this post. This is to enable successful applicants to fulfil the duties of this post and have access to any systems or programs required for the role in line with the charity’s data protection policies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Pets As Therapy is a national charity with a simple but powerful mission: to share the joy of pets with people who need it most. We support more than 4,500 volunteer teams across the UK. Together, they bring comfort, connection and companionship to tens of thousands of people every year.
We are looking for three new trustees to help guide our strategy, strengthen our governance and ensure that we remain true to our purpose of spreading joy, comfort and companionship through the magic of pets.
What will you be doing?
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that PAT achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that PAT 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.
Time commitment
- Attend all full Board meetings. The Board meets formally at least four times a year for between a half day and a day, depending on business. Two meetings are in-person and are held in central London. Two are virtual.
- Preparation for meetings – read papers, understand numbers, assimilate arguments.
- All trustees are asked to serve on one or more Board sub committees and working groups. This adds 3-4 shorter meetings a year.
- Trustees may be asked to chair sub committees on a rotating basis.
- At least two visits per year accompanying a PAT volunteer in a different sector and or attending/supporting an event with PAT volunteers.
What are we looking for?
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 hearing from individuals with the following skills and experience:
Animal Care and Behaviour - The wellbeing of the companion animals is of upmost importance to us. Someone with experience in veterinary care will help us develop best practice in our own operation and set an example to the sector.
Education - Our volunteers visit over 1,600 schools. Someone with education experience will help us to ensure we deliver the best possible service to children and young people.
Volunteer Management - A key part of our current strategy is improving our volunteer engagement and our volunteer experience. Therefore we’d welcome applications from people with a background in volunteer management and volunteer led organisations.
What difference will you make?
You will bring your own skills and perspectives to help us shape PAT’s next phase of growth. In return, you’ll have the opportunity to be part of a truly unique charity, one that harnesses the bond between people and their pets to transform lives every day.
Before you apply
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Pets as Therapy with their Trustee recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. To apply please submit your CV/LinkedIn Profile, along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join PAT, the skills and experience you will bring to the Board and what you would hope to get out of the role. If you’d like to have an informal conversation before applying, we’d be happy to speak with you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
It Gets Better UK envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals. We strive to tell the stories of LGBTQ+ people and to provide positive and reassuring messages to LGBTQ+ youth.
The It Gets Better Project was founded in 2010 in America. Since then, affiliated charities have been formed in over 20 different countries. We are now at the exciting stage of continue to grow and develop the UK affiliate having formally launched in October 2018.
Join our network of Regional Ambassadors to help promote It Gets Better UK, to inspire and engage with members of their local LGBTQ+ communities to get involved, and to help fundraise.
We're looking for volunteers UK-wide, particularly across Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and parts of England (North East, North West, and South West). If you are not based in these areas but are interested in the role, you are still welcome to apply as the local role exists across the country.
What will I be doing?
We ask Regional Ambassadors to deliver four self-led regional actions per year, and to expect to be asked to be involved in more ad-hoc centrally-led actions and activities as these arise. Key activities include:
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Raise awareness of It Gets Better UK and our work through talking to members of the LGBTQ+ community in your area, and on social media
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Look after our information and fundraising stands at local events – most importantly, hosting an It Gets Better UK Pride stall in your local area. Members of the It Gets Better team will support you with sign-up admin and capacity on the day. So far, we're planning to attend Edinburgh Pride!
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Support other members of the It Gets Better UK volunteer team to deliver events in their area by adding capacity where possible, and within a distance that suits you – for example, helping out at a Pride stall run by another Ambassador nearby.
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Deliver talks to local LGBTQ+ groups, community groups, schools etc about the work of It Gets Better UK and how they could help us achieve our goals
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Inspire members of the LGBTQ+ community to add their own It Gets Better story to our work
What skills/experience do I need?
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Confident public speaker with excellent communication skills
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Confident in crowds and talking to new people
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Excellent organisational skills
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Reliable and professional demeanour
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A personal and friendly manner
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Flexibility to be called upon when needed
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An honest and trustworthy nature
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A good knowledge of the local LGBTQ+ community
What is the time commitment?
This is a flexible role and the times will vary. Taking into account four self-led regional actions per year and ad-hoc centrally-led actions and activities, we recommend expecting to spend at least two hours a week on your role. We ask Regional Ambassadors to try to be available for Pride events over the summer: this means some half/full day activities over the summer period, usually on Saturdays. You’ll be able to sign up for days which suit you. Regional Ambassadors are appointed for up to two years. Regional Ambassadors will have a monthly online meeting with their It Gets Better UK point of contact.
How will I be trained and supported?
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You will receive a full induction into It Gets Better UK and to your role
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You will have a named contact who will support you and answer any questions
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You will join our international and UK networks of volunteers where you can share ideas, ask questions, and support one another
What can I gain from volunteering with you?
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The satisfaction that you are helping to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ youth
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Being part of an international movement
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The opportunity to use your existing skills as well as develop and learn new ones
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It Gets Better UK will act as a referee for you after successful completion of your role
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Reimbursement of any expenses incurred (with prior agreement)
Where will I be based?
This role is based within your local area, with some travel at your discretion and with expense reimbursement as pre-agreed.
How do I apply? Please complete our Regional Ambassador form on the website. We’ll then meet online for an introductory conversation, seek 2 references, and conduct a DBS check. Once these steps are completed satisfactorily, we’ll share our resources for you to read.
It Gets Better UK envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Organisation: Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau
Location: Glasgow (hybrid with some in-person commitments)
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month
Charity Recruit is proud to be partnering with Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau (GNWCAB) to appoint a new Chair to lead its experienced and committed Board.
GNWCAB is an independent charity providing free, impartial and confidential advice to people across the North West of Glasgow. The Bureau supports thousands of people each year on matters ranging from debt and welfare rights to housing, employment and immigration. Their impact is local, but their reach connects directly with the wider Citizens Advice Scotland network and its national campaigns.
Following a period of growth and strategic development, GNWCAB is now preparing for a major premises change and the next chapter of its delivery. The incoming Chair will provide thoughtful and engaged leadership during this transition, ensuring robust governance and helping to shape the future of this essential frontline service.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about social justice and empowering communities. You’ll bring a strong track record of organisational leadership, an understanding of charity governance and a collaborative, inclusive approach to working with fellow Trustees and the senior leadership team.
Experience chairing Boards or Committees is welcome, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to listen, lead with clarity, and provide strategic oversight through a period of change.
GNWCAB is proud of the diversity of its community and welcomes applications from individuals from all backgrounds. Local insight or lived experience of the issues GNWCAB tackles would be especially valued.
To support a smooth transition, a full induction period is planned where the incoming Chair will serve as a Trustee and shadow the current Chair until autumn 2025.
To apply
Please click the Apply button to be redirected to Charity Recruit where you’ll find details of how to express your interest. If you’d prefer an informal conversation first, we’d love to hear from you.
About Charity Recruit
We specialise in leadership recruitment for the charity and not-for-profit sector. Whether you’re looking for your next meaningful role or hiring a values-driven leader, we understand the challenges and opportunities unique to this space. Our approach is thoughtful, tailored and rooted in a genuine commitment to the sector’s impact.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
RSPCA South London Branch
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 need volunteers who have expertise in Retail, Partnerships Corporate Fundraising, and Grants to help us maximise the revenue generated from our operations. You will gain new skills and experience as a Branch Trustee whilst enabling us to help more animals.
Overview of the Branch Trustee
We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, with a background in retail, partnerships, corporate fundraising, and grants, who could devote their time to volunteer as a trustee for our Branch.
Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.
As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.
About the RSPCA
Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering. Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!
The RSPCA South London Branch
The South London Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.
Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee
- Assist the Branch Manager in maximising the profitability of the Branch’s three charity shops.
- Work with the Branch Manager to explore any potential for expanding the retail operation by researching the potential for further charity shops.
- Support the Branch Manager in establishing the Branch’s e-commerce operation via online sales platforms such as eBay.
- Work with other trustees, the Branch health and safety provider and the Branch Manager to ensure the charity shops meet health and safety standards.
- Explore other ways to generate income for the Branch and work closely with the Branch Manager to put these ideas into action.
- Organising and managing fundraising events, such as corporate challenges, sponsorship opportunities, and employee engagement activities.
- Ensuring excellent supporter care and stewardship of corporate partners, acknowledging donations and providing regular updates on the impact of their contributions. This will also involve volunteer management for events and working with team members to ensure all volunteers have a positive experience with us.
- Attending networking events to build relationships and identify new corporate fundraising opportunities.
- Working alongside team members to raise awareness of the charity's work through various channels, including corporate communications, newsletters, and social media.
What we are looking for in a volunteer:
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.
Specifically, we are looking for individuals with expertise in:
- Retail operations
- Partnerships
- Corporate fundraising and grants
Preferably, applicants will have familiarity with our geographic area and both the ability and willingness to participate in local community projects and/or small branch fundraising events from time to time. However, we are open to applicants from all backgrounds that will add expertise to our Board team. You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.
Personal skills and qualities:
- Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
- 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.
What difference will you make?
The RSPCA is broken up into regional branch areas. Each branch is responsible for all the local animal welfare.
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that RSPCA South London achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that we have 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 us to grow and thrive, helping us to assist as many animals in need as possible.
Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.
Your efforts will have a very real impact on the welfare of animals in our branch area.
How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee
For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee, and to ensure it is the right decision for you, we recommend visiting: charity-trustee-whats-involved.
There is some information on the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees, and we have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.
Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As branch chair you and your branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
· Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising activities so that potential beneficiaries, volunteers and supporters are aware of SSAFA as first in mind for support.
· Building relationships with the regional and national SSAFA team, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA serving community teams, local military establishments, etc.
· Attending events as a key SSAFA representative.
· Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
· Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
· Working with other volunteers, regional and national team members to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
· Work closely with the community engagement co-ordinator to recruit, welcome, induct, support, and manage volunteers in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
The skills you need
· Motivating leadership with an ability lead a team of volunteers.
· Friendly and approachable
· Great written and verbal communication skills
· Basic IT skills
What's in it for you
· Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area.
· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
· Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Would you like to help end food poverty and tackle climate change and CO2 emissions in Greater Manchester, whilst at the same time gaining valuable CV-enhancing experience and skills?
What we offer you
Induction, training and support from the staff of FareShare and its parent charity, EMERGE 3Rs.
Practical experience and transferable skills in warehousing and food redistribution.
A reference after 2 months with us.
An understanding of warehousing and logistics, and the importance of food surplus and recycling initiatives.
Expenses:
We reimburse travel expenses up to £6 for car drivers, and up to £5 for public transport costs.
Up to £3 is given towards the cost of lunch if a volunteer has special dietary requirements. (We provide lunch for our volunteers, so will contribute towards the cost of a volunteer's meal, should they bring their own, if what we are offering in the canteen isn't considered suitable; for example, a diet that's restricted for reasons of health, religion, or ethics).
As a sustainability charity, we take surplus food that's donated to us and redistribute it to people in need. The front line initiatives we support include food banks, schools, community groups and charities who, in turn, help people who are disadvantaged by poverty.
Our vital work supports people experiencing extreme hardship and prevents perfectly good food going to landfill, where it would otherwise contribute to climate warming.
We need helping hands in our busy warehouse to receive and catalogue supplies, to load and unload vans, and to prepare orders for delivery. In return we offer training and support to help you obtain skills and experience to boost your CV if you are seeking work. If you're not looking for employment, volunteering with us is rewarding in many other ways; offering an opportunity to make friends, keep physically active and support your community.
This role is vital to the work of FareShare, ensuring that the food in our warehouse is correctly sorted, labelled and organised into orders placed by our charities and community groups.
It is perfect for someone who is:
a) Looking for a practical activity.
b) Looking for experience and skills to gain employment in the food industry, warehousing and customer service.
c) Wanting to help their community and/or help tackle global warming.
d) Wanting to make new friends.
e) Wanting to keep busy and/or physically fit.
Our volunteer opportunities are available Monday to Friday, for a whole or half day, with shifts between 8:30-am - 12:30pm and 12:30 - 4:30pm. Volunteers are typically involved for one day a week.
What will I be doing?
Receiving, sorting, cataloguing and storing chilled and ambient surplus food in a warehouse, and preparing orders for delivery. You may also be assisting customers when they pick up their orders.
Ensuring food quality and safety by checking ‘use by’ and ‘best before’ dates.
Sorting and unpacking deliveries, categorising and recording food.
Assembling food orders placed by charities and community groups.
Assisting our Community Food Members with their food order collections.
Maintaining health and safety and food hygiene standards.
Helping with cleaning and other tasks identified by warehouse staff.
Person Specification:
Must be reasonably physically fit to carry out tasks, including lifting and loading.
Have a good command of English in order to understand and follow instructions and health and safety rules.
Have basic literacy and numeracy skills to record quantities and types of food donated.
Able to work in a manner that respects Health and Safety standards.
Be happy to complete tasks independently according to instruction.
Be positive, friendly and enthusiastic about tackling food waste and food poverty.
Must be reliable and able to commit to an agreed session/day.
We are located in our brand new depot at Maynard House, New Smithfield Market, Openshaw, Manchester M11 2WJ.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us.
This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles.
We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.
Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)
As a leading food charity to tackle hunger, our aim is to help tackle the food poverty issue in Greater Manchester.




The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As branch treasure you will be key part of your local branch creating a range of
activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To
ensure that that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to
help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
· Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions and authorised payments.
· Providing and present reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s central office.
· Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system.
· Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review.
The skills you need
· Some experience of financial administration
· Great written and verbal communication skills
What's in it for you
· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
· Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
· Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those
involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We welcome candidates with experience in the building/maintenance and HR sectors to join our board of trustees who support the charity as well as bringing decades of experience working in many different sectors.
What will you be doing?
Who is Open Road?
We are a UK healthcare charity, now in our 34th year. We provide a myriad of services in Essex and Medway; drug and alcohol support, homelessness services, domestic abuse support, criminal justice services, employment support, welfare and community initiatives to promote community safety and combat anti-social behaviour. We help vulnerable people, young and old, throughout Essex and Medway, and work in the heart of local communities. We are not a large national faceless charity; we are very much a grassroots organisation. We fully embrace and utilise our local knowledge and expertise, working with likeminded partners to support as many people as possible to have healthier, happier lives in the heart of their families and communities.
What Is Our Mission?
Our mission is to empower a diverse range of individuals, families and communities to lead healthy and more meaningful lives, free from addiction, offending behaviour and disadvantage, to ensure healthier, happier lifestyles.
How Do Open Road’s Trustees Support The Charity?
The role of the Trustee is to assist in advancing the purpose of the organisation; developing its aims and goals, keeping within its charitable objectives and acting in its best interests. The board members ensure that the charity is run in accordance with its governing document, charity law, and any other laws and regulations which affect its activities.
Our Trustee Board are responsible for developing strategy, providing governance, and directing the charity towards achieving its mission. We are looking to appoint two new trustees – the first being from the building and maintenance sector – with the experience and knowledge to support the health and safety responsibilities of a growing charity, and the second being a HR professional who will chair our Personnel Sub Committee with special responsibility for oversight of the organisation’s HR function and strategy, ideally you will be a Chartered Member or Fellow of the CIPD with substantial experience at a Senior/Director HR professional level with a thorough understanding of operational HR policy and practice.
An understanding of the role of charity boards and their responsibilities and operation, gained through previous experience would be helpful, and above all else you will be intrinsically values-driven and committed to enabling more individuals we support to live their lives to the full.
What are we looking for?
SKILLS AND ABILITIES – Charity Trustee
- Effective communication and interpersonal style; a collaborative team player.
- Willing to speak out on issues and to accept personal accountability.
- Demonstrates strategic acumen and sees the bigger picture.
- Undisputed personal integrity.
- Personally flexible and agile working approach.
- Deep commitment to the mission and values of Open Road.
TERMS OF APPOINTMENT – Charity Trustee
REMUNERATION:
- This role is unremunerated and offered on a voluntary basis.
- Trustees are encouraged to visit services that are local to them.
- Travel and accommodation expenses are reimbursed for meetings & visits.
TIME COMMITMENT:
- The time commitment is at least one day a month.
- There are six board meetings a year and this includes an annual strategy setting day.
- Board meetings are held in person in Central London.
- All trustees are expected to participate on at least one committee and there are four committee meetings a year.
- Committee meetings are held in person/virtually.
Key responsibilities:
- To take part in formulating and regularly reviewing the strategic aims of the
- organisation.
- Working with other trustees to ensure that the policy and practices of the organisation
- are in keeping with its aims.
- Working with other trustees to ensure that the organisation functions within the legal and financial requirements of a charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
What difference will you make?
A trustee at Open Road will have a profound and lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals and communities across Essex and Medway. By joining the Board, a trustee contributes to the strategic direction and governance of a grassroots charity that delivers vital services — from addiction recovery and homelessness support to domestic abuse intervention and community safety.
Specifically, a trustee will:
- Strengthen Governance and Strategy: By bringing sector-specific expertise (in HR or building/maintenance), trustees will help shape policies and decisions that ensure Open Road remains safe, compliant, and forward-thinking.
- Enhance Operational Excellence: Trustees provide oversight and guidance that directly influence the quality and sustainability of services, ensuring the charity continues to meet the complex needs of its clients.
- Champion the Mission: Trustees act as ambassadors for Open Road’s values, helping to build partnerships, raise awareness, and advocate for those the charity supports.
- Support Leadership and Staff: Through committee work and strategic planning, trustees offer critical support to the executive team, helping to foster a positive, values-driven culture within the organisation.
Ultimately, the impact of a trustee is measured not just in governance, but in the healthier, safer, and more hopeful lives of the people Open Road serves.
Before you apply
If this role sounds ideal, do please contact us for more information, and apply via Reach.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Position Overview
We are excited to offer an excellent opportunity for an entry level development professional who is interested in gaining skills in operations and administration areas, to join SEED Madagascar (SEED) as our Operations and Administration Officer.
SEED Madagascar is a UK charity dedicated to creating long-term, sustainable change in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high-quality community health, WASH, education, rural livelihoods and conservation programmes, while contributing to international best practices through research and publications.
This role is an office-based role within a team of national and international staff with occasional support in the field to our Conservation Research Team. This post is at the heart of our mission, and the diversity of activities undertaken will provide wide-ranging experience for an early career development professional who can effectively and efficiently deal with a comprehensive range of tasks related to the complex world of overseas development.
This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about providing a wide range of support to SEED’s team including providing high quality administrative support across the policies and procedures, managing the recruitment of international staff, leading on onboarding for incoming staff and our marketing and support of our short-term conservation programme volunteers.
Title: Operational Support Intern - change of title and responsibilities to Operational Support Junior Officer subject to passing 3-month probationary review.
Location: Fort Dauphin, Madagascar
Commitment: 12 months; Monday to Friday (35 hours a week)
Salary: Voluntary for 12 months, with stipend of 800,000 MGA per month towards accommodation and a contribution of £650 towards insurance
Duties and Responsibilities:
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Provide pre-departure logistical support and advice with visas, hotels, flights, accommodation, medication etc to new international staff and short-term conservation volunteers
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Lead on supporting international staff during their initial time with SEED including arrival, orientation, social inclusion, cultural understanding, housing and integration into the SEED team
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Provide pastoral care, working with line managers to ensure that new and existing international staff and volunteers’ wellbeing is supported
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Support the Conservation team in Sainte Luce on providing orientations and pastoral care of volunteers when required
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Support the Communications team with advertising the volunteer programme and helping volunteers to increase their fundraising efforts
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Support on creating, editing and writing website content and resources to ensure organisational and project information is up-to-date
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Support on the recruitment of international staff, including the advertisement of vacancies
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Assist in the preparation of reports for internal and external audiences including Annual Reports and Malagasy Ministry reports
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Work with the Director of Operations and Programmes, and the International Operations Manager in developing, updating and implementing organisational databases, systems, policies and procedures across the NGO
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Oversee the training schedule for international staff and work alongside national and international staff to increase their skills and capacity, providing mentoring or training where appropriate
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Work alongside the IT Officer to provide basic IT and equipment management support
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Support with the writing of minutes and note taking across the organisation
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Support project teams where required to develop systems to manage donor compliance, or support with financial or administrative reporting requirements
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Ensure all of SEED’s policies and procedures are evident throughout the work of the department, including those for safeguarding, whistleblowing and anti-corruption, and undertake continual training to ensure these are always promoted
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Assist with administration tasks and any other tasks required by the International Operations Manager or Director of Programmes and Operations in line with the tasks of the post
Required Skills & Experience/Person Specification
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Hold an undergraduate degree in or relating to Business or Development or be able to demonstrate a passion for this area
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Be able to work independently and be proactively
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Have good all round computing skills and experience in Microsoft Office
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Have previous experience working to deadlines and have ability to successfully manage their time
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Communicate clearly and engagingly in written English across a range of media forms
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Communicate verbally to encompass the range of cultures you will be working with
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To have a good level of written English and be able to proofread documents to a high standard
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To have a curious mind and a patient, problem solving attitude
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Ideally have previous experience living, working or travelling in a developing country, though is not essential
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Be fluent in English. A working knowledge of French is desirable but not essential
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Be capable and comfortable adapting to life in a least developed country with sometimes basic living conditions
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Be comfortable with campsite conditions whilst supporting the team in the field for days at a time
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Be able to work and socialise within a small group of people and to be respectful and take personal responsibility for maintaining a good reputation for the NGO in the community
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Be able to adjust to life in another culture and a foreign language and be able to always work with cultural sensitivity
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Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other members of the team in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED to protect both their safety and the reputation of the NGO.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you raise SSAFA’s profile in your local area? You just need patience and the ability to get on with a wide range of people and age groups, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be he role for you, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Publicity Coordinator?
Publicity Coordinators work with other branch volunteers to develop a Publicity Plan to raise awareness of SSAFA that reaches potential beneficiaries, volunteers, and funders.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all walks of life and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us. We need to recruit volunteers that reflect our local communities and raise money to fund our work. Could you spare a few hours a week to help us raise awareness?
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who 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 building awareness so beneficiaries know who we are and how they can benefit from and access support, promoting volunteer opportunities and encourage people to raise finds and celebrate success. This means that on occasions, you might need to be present at events. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can conduct the administration part of this role form home.
What would you be doing?
- Working with other branch volunteers to develop a publicity plan.
- Publicising SSAFA events.
- Work with Marketing/PR staff at central office to develop case studies of clients and volunteers and ensure that SSAFA branding and messaging are consistent.
- Develop and maintain networks with local press, TV and radio outlets through providing press releases, interviews, case studies etc.
- Working with the Digital Team at Central Office to develop and maintain a local on-line presence for the branch via a website and social media channels.
- Keeping a stock of SSAFA publicity materials and distributing them
- Liaising with PR staff at central office or on-call in the event of a PR/press situation.
- Supporting local and national campaigns to recruit new volunteers.
- Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA including all sections of the community in awareness raising
- Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
- 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 - communication and marketing workshops.
- 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.
- Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
- Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
- Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team as well as Marketing and Communication Teams based at our central office.
- 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 with good communication skills
- Good written and spoken English.
- Confident to deal with the public, potential clients, volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues – face-to-face, by phone, email or via social media
- Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
- Reliable attitude
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely in line with SSADA policies.
- Access to public transport or a car to get to meetings and events.
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
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you raise SSAFA’s profile in your local area? You just need patience and the ability to get on with a wide range of people and age groups, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be he role for you, we’d love to hear from you.
What is a Publicity Coordinator?
Publicity Coordinators work with other branch volunteers to develop a Publicity Plan to raise awareness of SSAFA that reaches potential beneficiaries, volunteers, and funders.
Why do we need you?
We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all walks of life and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us. We need to recruit volunteers that reflect our local communities and raise money to fund our work. Could you spare a few hours a week to help us raise awareness?
There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who 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 building awareness so beneficiaries know who we are and how they can benefit from and access support, promoting volunteer opportunities and encourage people to raise finds and celebrate success. This means that on occasions, you might need to be present at events. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can conduct the administration part of this role form home.
What would you be doing?
- Working with other branch volunteers to develop a publicity plan.
- Publicising SSAFA events.
- Work with Marketing/PR staff at central office to develop case studies of clients and volunteers and ensure that SSAFA branding and messaging are consistent.
- Develop and maintain networks with local press, TV and radio outlets through providing press releases, interviews, case studies etc.
- Working with the Digital Team at Central Office to develop and maintain a local on-line presence for the branch via a website and social media channels.
- Keeping a stock of SSAFA publicity materials and distributing them
- Liaising with PR staff at central office or on-call in the event of a PR/press situation.
- Supporting local and national campaigns to recruit new volunteers.
- Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA including all sections of the community in awareness raising
- Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.
The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
- 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 - communication and marketing workshops.
- 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.
- Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
- Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
- Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team as well as Marketing and Communication Teams based at our central office.
- 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 with good communication skills
- Good written and spoken English.
- Confident to deal with the public, potential clients, volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues – face-to-face, by phone, email or via social media
- Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
- Reliable attitude
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely in line with SSADA policies.
- Access to public transport or a car to get to meetings and events.
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
Our vision A society in which the Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteers offer people a place to keep warm, charge phones and enjoy a hot drink or meal. Could you be a friendly face in the community this winter? Training and support is provided. The Break Room is a welcoming, free space at T&T2 in Surrey Quays Shopping Centre.
Volunteering with Time & Talents provides fantastic opportunities to connect with your community, build your skills, and even make new friends! We provide induction, training and continuous support, alongside opportunities to meet other volunteers.
In the first instance, please get in touch here and we will send you our online application form!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Family Lives was formed over forty years ago by volunteers with the aim of ensuring that all parents had somewhere to turn before they reach crisis point.
Remote Family Support Volunteer – Live Chat
We know that the right support at the right time makes all the difference. Family Lives provides targeted early intervention and crisis support to families who are struggling.
Organisational values:
Mission: We build better family lives together.
Vision: Families should have access to active support and understanding.
Values: Trustworthy, Compassionate and Collaborative
Purpose of the role: To be part of a flexible team providing empathic, caring and informed support to families, carers and others who use our services.
Live chat: is a free confidential service that is accessed via our website. Service users are offered emotional support, information and advice and guidance on a broad range of family issues.
Supervised by: The Shift Supervisor
Activities: The volunteer will be fully supervised, supported and trained to provide the following activities:
·Provide emotional support to family members via our live chat service
·Use the Family Lives support model and tools to provide an empathic responses
·Ensure that all service users receive a high quality experience
·Sign post users to other agencies for information and additional support
·Complete conversation data records
·Alert the shift supervisor to any difficult situations
General: Volunteers should be willing to:
·Attend the relevant volunteer training
·Maintain confidentiality and adhere to the other policies and procedures of the organisation
·Participate in regular support, supervision meetings and learning sessions as agreed
For home based volunteers only:
·Volunteers will need a Laptop/PC, plug in headset with microphone, fast broadband and a private place to work from home
·Volunteers need to be IT/PC literate and confident troubleshooting should they have technical difficulties
Time: We would be looking for volunteers to commit to one four-hour shift per week, plus attending training and supervision.
Location: working remotely from home
You need to be a UK resident.
Supervision and Support:
·Supervision during shifts
·Debrief after every shift
·1 to 1 supervision every 6 months
·Staff available outside of shift within office hours
·Annual review
The Benefits of Volunteering:
·Satisfaction in making a real and lasting difference to families who are struggling
·An opportunity to develop experience for CV and references. Family Lives is committed to helping volunteers develop their own learning and development, gaining new skills, knowledge or work experience
·Being part of a team of Family Lives volunteers and staff
·Personal development
·Opportunities to meet and interact with a wide range of people
·Out of pocket expenses reimbursed to a maximum of £10 per session if working from a centre
·Flexible hours
Volunteer Person Specification. We are looking for individuals who:
·Have experience of parenting/being in a parenting role or demonstrable experience of working with parents or children e.g. in their work, previous volunteering or a previous role
·Have an ability to respond empathically to emotional content
·Good written and verbal communication
·Have good keyboard skills and IT skills, with a minimum of 45 wpm
·Can demonstrate a willingness to question their own attitudes e.g. toward different forms of parenting
·Have a fluent, descriptive and expressive use of English
·Can remain open minded and non-judgemental
·Willing to commit to work within Family Lives’ policies, in particular our Confidentiality Policy and Risk of Harm Procedures
·Willing to commit to attending regular supervision and support sessions
·Willing to work as part of a team
·Willing to commit to a mutually agreed period or ideally a 12 months commitment to the organisation.
Typing Task Prior to Application for Live Chat
Prior to you submitting your application for a Live Chat Volunteer, we will require you to do a speed test, we ask for a minimum speed of 45 words per minute.
Please take a screen shot and send it across with your application
You can have up to 3 attempts and decide which result you would like to forward as part of your application
Typing task
Go to the website typingtest
You are required to take the one minute typing test recording all of the results (speed, number of errors and adjusted speed).
We have remote voluntary call taker training groups the dates are below are you would need to be able to attend all 5 Modules from the training group.
Our next training groups are:
Tues 16th Sept = Please note different day
Wed 24th Sept
Weds 1st Oct
Weds 8th Oct
Wed 15th Oct
10am - 2pm
Please note that all roles offered are subject to a satisfactory DBS being obtained, you will receive details of documentation required prior to your training and this must all be in no later than the second session of your training.
Typing Task Prior to Application for Live Chat
Prior to you submitting your application for a Live Chat Volunteer, we will require you to do a speed test, we ask for a minimum speed of 45 words per minute.
Please take a screen shot and send it across with your application
You can have up to 3 attempts and decide which result you would like to forward as part of your application
Typing task
Go to the website typingtest
You are required to take the one minute typing test recording all of the results (speed, number of errors and adjusted speed).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Cat Fosterers Needed
Do you have a safe, calm, and caring home where a cat in need could stay while we help them find their fur-ever home? The RSPCA is looking for new volunteer fosterers to join our team and provide temporary care for cats — from strays and abandoned pets to even feral cats who need patient, understanding fosterers.
What you’ll be doing:
-
Offering cats a safe, warm, and loving temporary home.
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Helping cats build confidence, whether they are friendly pets or more nervous ferals.
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Attending vet appointments when required.
-
Working with us to give updates on your foster cat’s progress.
What we’re looking for:
-
Volunteers aged 18 or over who are confident and comfortable around cats — including strays and ferals.
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No previous fostering experience needed — just patience, commitment, and a genuine love of cats.
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Applicants must be available to foster for the RSPCA and not currently volunteering with other animal charities.
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You don’t need to live alone, but all family members (and pets) must be cat friendly.
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Located in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, and surrounding areas.
What’s in it for you?
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Make a real difference to the lives of cats in need.
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Gain new skills, training, and experience in animal care.
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Join a supportive community of fellow volunteers.
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Enhance your CV with valuable volunteering experience.
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All food, bedding, and equipment provided.
Practical Considerations:
-
You may need to complete a simple online Health & Safety course before fostering begins.
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Ideally, you’ll have a spare room or calm space where foster cats can settle safely.
Our voluntary roles are subject to: -
An informal interview and trial period.
-
Two referees – which may be sourced from an educational institution or as personal references
-
Completion of relevant training and assessments.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.