Support group general volunteers volunteer roles

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces?  You don’t need a military background, just the ability to listen, some basic I.T skills and good written and spoken English.  If so, this could be the role for you.

Our Branch provides lifelong support to anyone who has ever served, in the British Army, Royal Navy and Royal Air Force and their dependants. We also give support to those who has been in the Merchant Navy, Seafarers, Fishermen and their dependants, and British Airways staff past and present. Our main role is seeking welfare benevolent grants on behalf of clients who reside in the 26 counties in the Republic of Ireland. They can arrange anything from household goods, funeral costs, mobility aids or other general needs. Legal fees are not considered. We would advise clients to seek state and local benefits by signposting them to the relevant agencies.

What is a caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of help they need, this might be funds for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit.  Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

Why do we need you?

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.  Our trained volunteers listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help people navigate life in and beyond military service.  We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us achieve this.

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

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. Our volunteers are based at home with a yearly AGM invite.

What does this role involve?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time

• Meeting clients and completing a form to assess their circumstances

• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice

• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability

• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the

Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background and their dependents

• 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 will you receive?

• On-line or face to face instructor led training and e-learning modules, to prepare you for your voluntary role.

• 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.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What skills or experience do you need?

• Good listening and communication skills including written and spoken English

• Respectful and non-judgemental with clients, 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  

• Ability to make enquires on behalf of clients by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms

• If required, willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the caseworker training course)

• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice

• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability 

• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients

• Friendly and approachable with some experience of coordinating people and admin

•       Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies. 

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 references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required?  Yes, Garda Vetting, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer.

Purpose of the Role

This volunteer role is a key part of the HFEH Mind team delivering a range of services across Hammersmith and Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow. We support clients with mental health with both clinical and non-clinical interventions.

The purpose of the current role is to help promote our Adult Co-production services within the local community, to increase engagement and develop collaboration between various organisations and mental health services. Our current Co-production initiatives include the Adult Co-production Group, The Shakti Project (wellbeing service for Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic individuals) and a new Young Adult Co-Production group working with 18–25-year-olds.

Main Responsibilities

This role involves working closely with service managers and the co-production coordinator to discover new organisations and community events to reach out to establish a presence and promote our co-production services, as well as work in partnership with others to improve our services.

This would include identifying appropriate locations to distribute posters and promote the service, assisting with the creation of digital content promoting the service both digitally and in-person, identifying an in-person location that could function as a community hub to host regular meetings (Chai and Chat for the Shakti Project), setting up the community hub on a regular basis prior to meetings, helping with the planning and delivery of enrichment trips and outings, and keeping up to date with important events that can be used to promote our services and engage with the community e.g. Eid, Diwali, Black History Month, Mental Health Awareness week, Health Fairs, Career/ Volunteer Days, Freshers Fair etc.

Tasks

· Promoting the service to members of the South Asian and BAME community (Shakti Project) and 18–25-year-olds (Young Adult Co-Production Group)

· Community outreach: visiting places of worship, events, and communal areas in the tri-borough to promote our projects

· Keeping up to date with online groups and forums that can be used to promote the service

· Assisting in setting up a physical space to host regular Shakti Project group sessions, ensuring accessibility requirements of service users are upheld.

General Responsibilities

• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the level of the role.

• Embrace diversity and share in our commitment to equality of opportunity and to eliminating discrimination.

• Share our commitment to safeguarding adults and children at risk of harm. Undertaking safeguarding training.

• Use the charity’s resources efficiently and effectively to ensure that our financial resources are demonstrably used for the benefit of our service users.

• Ensure that information is obtained, used and stored in accordance with our Data Protection and Confidentiality policy.

Type of person we are looking for:

Essential

· Good listener with strong communication skills

· Highly reliable and good time management skills

· Open-minded and non-judgmental approach to having conversations around mental health

· Good knowledge of mental health difficulties and mental health awareness

· Understanding the needs and challenges of the South Asian and BAME community

Desirable

· Good knowledge of services, charities and organisations in Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow

· Ability to speak or comprehend an additional language e.g. Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati, Somali, Arabic, Urdu etc.

Time commitment and expenses:

· 6 hours per week (including a 1-hour lunch break), during our core hours of 10AM – 4 PM.

· We request a minimum commitment of 3 months of volunteering after the completion of your induction.   

· We request a minimum commitment of 6 months of volunteering before reference request.

· We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role. 

HFEH Mind value equal opportunities; and are proud to foster a workforce of volunteers and employees that reflects the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons from all backgrounds.

HFEH Mind are committed to creating and fostering a culture that promotes safeguarding and the welfare of all children and adults at risk. Our safer recruitment practices support this by ensuring that there is a consistent and thorough process of obtaining, collating, analysing and evaluating information from and about candidates to ensure that all persons appointed are suitable to work with children and vulnerable adults.

Post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.

We are looking for kitchen assistants to help us prepare a warm meal for the children that attend our sessions after school or during the school holidays. 

Kitchen assistants prepare the meal depending on the ingredients donated to us and based on their confidence level. We want to make sure volunteers feel confident in what they are cooking. Often dishes are: jacket potatoes, pasta bakes, currys, stir fryes. 

During term time we tend to have 1-2 volunteers in the kitchen and holidays 3-4, as more children attend the sessions during the holidays.

Expect to feel the community energy when you enter the space, with children attending regualrly and their parients having attended when they were younger. Team feel, with the other volunteers working togther to make the meal. 

The Vench is a specail place and you will feel that and hopefully enjoy volunteering here. 

Could you support SSAFA volunteers in your area with the I.T they need to support our clients? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T skills, patience, and the ability to get on with a wide range of people. If you have training experience, that would be great but not essential. Get in touch to find out more.

What is an I.T Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Each one has an I.T Coordinator to support all volunteers to make the most of the internet-based systems we use in our work with clients. This is a key role involving supporting people of all ages sharing skills.

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.

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.

We use internet-based systems to offer the best possible service to our clients and SSAFA volunteers. Some of our volunteers already have I.T skills while some do not. Could you be a friendly face to help volunteers with their computing questions?

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

A key aspect to this role will be supporting volunteers by running workshops, drop-ins or supporting individual volunteers by phone or at their homes.

The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular commitment to the branch, but days and times could vary to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Supporting volunteers to use computers and software relevant to their SSAFA role.
• Helping to resolve I.T issues, seeking assistance from Central Office where necessary.
• Assisting in the role out of new I.T initiatives including the testing of software
• Becoming the branch expert on the SSAFA Finance Management System and Client Management system
• Supporting all volunteers to act in accordance with the data protection policy, reporting any breaches to the branch secretary and seeking advice from Central Office as needed.
• Working with Regional Trainer, branch volunteers and the Learning and Development team to identify local training needs and arrange for the required courses to be delivered.
• Supporting and encouraging any volunteers facing barriers to completing their training
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

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?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to clients as well as providing development opportunities for our volunteers.
• Support and friendship 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?

• 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 of e-learning courses
• Support from your local branch secretary.
• Support from the relevant teams at 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
• Competence in the general use of laptops and tablets and experience of using Microsoft Office 365
• Good written and spoken English.
• Experience of running small workshops/training sessions etc.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to use the I.T systems relevant to their role.
• Reliable attitude, contacts volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to meetings, events etc.

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

Make a Meaningful Impact - Join the BES Personnel Committee 

Role: Personnel Committee Member 
Organisation: British Ecological Society 
Term: 3 years 
Closing Date: 16 November 2025, 09:00 GMT 
Interview: TBC 

Are you passionate about people, strategy, and shaping the future of a thriving organisation? The British Ecological Society (BES) is inviting expressions of interest for voluntary positions on our Personnel Committee, a dynamic group that plays a vital role in guiding our people strategy and supporting the delivery of our ambitious organisational goals. 

As a registered charity and non-profit organisation, BES is dedicated to advancing ecological science and promoting the importance of ecology in addressing global challenges. We support a vibrant, inclusive community of researchers, practitioners, and enthusiasts through funding, events, publications, and policy engagement. While our mission is rooted in ecology, you don’t need a background in the field to contribute, what matters most is the unique skills, perspectives, and experience you bring.

This is a unique opportunity to influence how we nurture, support, and empower our staff, ensuring our internal culture reflects the values and vision of BES. The Committee typically meets 3 times a year, with occasional additional input via email. 

Why Join? 

As a Personnel Committee member, you’ll: 

• Help shape the strategic direction of our staff resource. 

• Influence policies that support a healthy, inclusive, and high-performing workplace. 

• Collaborate with passionate professionals committed to organisational excellence. 

• Gain valuable experience in governance and strategic HR. 

• Make a real difference in how BES supports its people. 

Who We’re Looking For 

We’re seeking individuals with experience or insight in one or more of the following areas: 

• Organisational leadership, management, and strategy 

• Staff policy development 

• Organisational change or conflict management 

• Staff appraisals and performance development 

• Learning and development 

• Health & Safety in relation to HR 

• Embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion in HR practices 

We especially welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups within the ecological community and those with experience across diverse workplaces. We’re committed to forming a committee that reflects the range of experiences and backgrounds within our membership.

Ready to Get Involved? 

To learn more about the Personnel Committee, what the role involves, and how you can contribute, please explore the attached resource.

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

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.

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.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

· Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.

· Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.

· Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face

· Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting

· Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.

· Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed

· Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment

· Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

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.

· Give back to the Armed Forces community.

· Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.

· 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 I receive?

· 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 induction and support, from other branch volunteers

· Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.

· Support from regional volunteering and operations employees

· Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.

· 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 written and verbal communication skills.

· Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.

· Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.

· Respectful and non-judgemental approach.

· Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.

· This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

· 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 takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are 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

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

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.

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.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

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.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• 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 I receive?

• 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 induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• 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 written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

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 takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are 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 

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

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.

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.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

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.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• 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 I receive?

• 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 induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• 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 written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

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 takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are 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 

The Events Assistant will support the planning, coordination, and delivery of Hidayah’s events and activities. Working closely with the Events Officer and wider team, this role ensures that all events run smoothly, are well-promoted, inclusive, and aligned with Hidayah’s mission. The ideal candidate is organised, proactive, and passionate about creating meaningful community experiences.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

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

1. Event Planning & Delivery 

· Support the Events Officer in planning, organising, and delivering a range of events, both online and in person

· Liaise with venues and caterers to confirm logistics, costs, and facilities, ensuring value for money and guest satisfaction

· Manage event listings and guest registrations through OutSavvy, ensuring all attendees have active Hidayah memberships

· Assist with event setup, registration, and on-the-day coordination, providing a welcoming and inclusive environment

· Support with risk assessments, accessibility considerations, and general event compliance

2. Marketing & Communications 

· Collaborate with the Social Media team to schedule and promote events across Hidayah’s social channels

· Create or support the design of promotional materials and graphics using Canva

· Draft event descriptions, newsletter content, and updates for review by the Events Officer

· Coordinate the monthly newsletter, liaising with the Social Media team to finalise and distribute

· Engage partner charities, community groups, and networks to share event information via email and social media

3. Stakeholder & Community Engagement 

· Build and maintain relationships with organisations, partners, and individuals aligned with Hidayah’s mission

· Send thank-you messages to venues, partners, and attendees following events

· Distribute and collect feedback forms, compiling responses to support continuous improvement

· Represent Hidayah at community events and networking opportunities where appropriate

4. Administrative Support 

· Maintain and update the contact database and event records

· Manage the Events Team inbox, responding to or triaging queries promptly

· Attend regular Events Team meetings, contributing updates and ideas

· Track and report on event expenses and participation data as required

What do we expect from the Events Assistant? 

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

Essential: 

· Excellent organisation, communication, and time management skills. - Ability to work independently with minimal support but also as part of a team. - Proactive attitude with strong attention to detail. 

· Confident using (or willing to learn) tools such as OutSavvy, Google Suite (Docs, Calendar, Meet), HootSuite, and Discord

· Familiarity with social media platforms and an understanding of their role in event promotion

· Commitment to Hidayah’s values of inclusion, respect, and community empowerment

Desirable: 

· Experience with Canva or other design tools

· Basic data management or CRM experience 

· Understanding of accessibility and safeguarding in events

· Ability to track budgets or handle basic event finance administration

· Analytical skills to interpret feedback and produce summary reports

Personal Attributes 

· - Warm, approachable, and confident engaging with diverse communities

· Flexible and adaptable, able to respond calmly to challenges during live events

· Creative thinker who enjoys finding new ways to engage the audience

· Passionate about creating inclusive, welcoming spaces for all attendees

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 3-5 hours per week (flexible depending on needs and availability). 

Guardian Light Foundation (Social Enterprise)
Remote / Hybrid / In-person (depending on location)
Flexible hours – approximately 20 hours per month
This is a voluntary position (unpaid)

About Guardian Light Foundation

Guardian Light Foundation is a social enterprise dedicated to helping children, teenagers, and single-parent families affected by homelessness, abuse, and financial hardship.
Our mission is to create safe spaces and brighter futures through education, emotional support, skill-building, and empowerment programs.

We are building a compassionate team of professionals and volunteers who believe every child and family deserves stability, dignity, and hope.

About the Role

We are seeking a Volunteer Counsellor to provide compassionate, confidential, and professional emotional support to children, teenagers, and parents in need.

This role is ideal for a qualified counsellor, trainee therapist, or psychology professional seeking to make a real difference while gaining valuable experience in the charity and community support sector.

You’ll work alongside our multidisciplinary team to provide one-to-one and group sessions that help service users build resilience, self-esteem, and emotional well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide confidential emotional support and active listening to clients affected by trauma, abuse, or family hardship.

• Conduct initial assessments to understand client needs and determine appropriate support pathways.

• Deliver one-to-one or group counselling sessions (online or in-person).

• Maintain accurate and confidential client records, in line with GDPR and safeguarding policies.

• Work collaboratively with the wider Guardian Light Foundation team (including social workers, program coordinators, and legal advisors).

• Identify and escalate safeguarding concerns following the organisation’s procedures.

• Participate in regular supervision meetings and ongoing professional development.

• Support awareness campaigns, community outreach, and mental health education initiatives when possible.

Essential Requirements

• Recognised qualification or training in Counselling, Psychology, or a related field (students and trainees are also welcome).

• Empathetic, non-judgmental, and trustworthy.

• Strong understanding of confidentiality, safeguarding, and professional boundaries.

• Excellent communication and active listening skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a supportive team.

• A genuine passion for helping children, teenagers, and families facing hardship.

Desirable Skills

• Experience supporting survivors of abuse, neglect, or trauma.

• Knowledge of family dynamics, youth issues, or homelessness.

• Familiarity with online counselling tools and data confidentiality best practices.

• Membership or trainee membership of BACP, UKCP, or equivalent (preferred but not required).

What We Offer

Although this is a voluntary position, Guardian Light Foundation offers meaningful benefits, including:

• The opportunity to make a real, lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable individuals.

• Free training and ongoing supervision.

• Experience and professional references to support future employment or career advancement.

• Flexible hours – we work around your schedule.

• The chance to join a caring, inclusive, and inspiring community of professionals and volunteers.

Commitment

• Minimum of 6 months commitment preferred.

• Approximately 5–10 hours per week (flexible scheduling).

• Must attend an online induction and safeguarding briefing before starting.

How to Apply

If you have a heart for helping others and a passion for emotional wellbeing, we would love to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining:

• Why you want to volunteer with Guardian Light Foundation

• Your relevant skills or experience

• Your availability

 Important Notice:

This is a voluntary (unpaid) position. There is no financial compensation for this role. Travel or approved expenses may be reimbursed where applicable.

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

The treasurer is a vital role to the ongoing success of IBP as a not-for-profit community interest company as we push forward to fulfil our goals.

We need someone with the following qualities and skills to join our voluntary management board:

• Financial Literacy: Ability to understand and manage accounts, budgets, and basic financial reporting relevant to IBP’s main operations.
• Attention to Detail: Careful and accurate handling of records, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements for community interest companies.
• Organisational Skills: Efficient time management and record-keeping abilities, especially important when working voluntarily alongside other commitments.
• Communication: Clear, concise communication to report financial information to the management board, stakeholders, supporters, funders or regulatory bodies.
• Integrity and Trustworthiness: Strong ethical standards, as the role involves handling funds and maintaining the confidence of IBP’s stakeholders and the wider community.

Does this sound like you, or someone you know? Please apply today.

Time commitment: 1-2 days per month

Remuneration: Expenses only

Deadline for applications: 31 October 2025

What will you be doing?

This role involves leading on fundraising and grant applications at board level, ensuring that the Trustee Board is aware of and kept up to date with any fundraising/grant developments.

Fundraising & Grants Lead Responsibilities:

• To work alongside the Treasurer, Chief Executive Officer and the rest of the Board to plan what level of funds are required to be generated to ensure the effective running of the charity
• To work alongside the Trustee Board to ensure that all grants are sought and written with the purpose of meeting the charities vision and objectives
• To lead, in partnership with the Chief Executive Officer and Fundraiser, on the organisation of local fundraising opportunities to support the running of the charity, including incorporating national Trussell fundraising campaigns/events throughout the year
• To oversee, with operational management support, the writing of high-quality grant applications that are in line with the charity's vision and objectives
• To regularly communicate to the rest of the Trustee Board via meetings or any other communication of any relevant information and/or developments regarding fund raising or grant applications

Other responsibilities, along with the Board of Trustees, include:

• To ensure the Trustee Board develops a long-term strategy for the food bank with clear objectives which can be monitored and adapted
• To work alongside the Treasurer and the Trustee Board to ensure the organisation’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined (on income over £25k) and made publicly available when necessary
• Ensure your charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law
• To 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
• To help promote the organisation to a wider audience of potential funders and beneficiaries
• To ensure the food bank has appropriate procedures 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 your time, thought and energy to your role
• To serve as an additional promoter of the food bank in the community

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate: 

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Leeds North & West foodbank
• a knowledge, ability and passion for fundraising and grant application writing
• experience of working in a fundraising role, including knowledge of fundraising strategy and best practice
• an ability to lead on any fundraising and grants matters in a supportive and confident manner
• confidence to actively participate in discussions concerning the needs of the charity, always acting in its best interests
• experience of working effectively with others
• sound, independent judgement and the ability to think creatively

Whatever your background, we want to make sure you are supported and empowered and enjoy your time volunteering with us. We know that having volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds, with varying experiences, can help to make what we do as effective as possible. As such, we welcome all applicants regardless of age, religion or beliefs, disability, ethnic background, gender reassignment, sex, or sexual orientation. 

Candidates would ideally live or work within the city of Leeds or its surrounding area. Candidates living and working more broadly within Yorkshire will also be considered.

What difference will you make?

Alongside wider trustee responsibilities for the overall governance of the food bank, you will actively support the board and the food bank team to focus on the strategic activity that will help reduce the need for our services locally. 

By leading on fundraising (including grants) for the food bank, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in the community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who encounters Leeds North & West Foodbank.

Trustee role description  

About IMIX 

Immigration is one of the key debates within UK politics and the media. IMIX is working to ensure that debate includes the voices of migrants and those who support them.

Our vision is for a society that welcomes people who move to the UK and understands the different journeys—through migration or displacement—that bring them here. A society that recognises how overlapping injustices shape those journeys, and where everyone can belong, be treated fairly, and live well together. 

Our mission is to use our media and communications expertise to ensure the voices and stories of migrants and refugees help shape how migration is understood and discussed in the UK. 

We do this by working with people who have lived experience of the immigration system, the organisations that support them, and the journalists who shape public opinion—always recognising the inequalities and barriers that affect whose voices are heard. 

We have a new strategy to 2030, which sets out the role that we play in the migration sector, and our ambitions for the years ahead. These are to:

1. ensure that more people with lived experience of migration have the skills and confidence to communicate effectively in the media. 

1. ensure that more organisations working to support migrants and refugees develop their media communication skills and capacity to tell the human story of migration.

1. work with journalists and media teams to significantly increase the level of positive migrant and refugee stories reported in the UK media, designed to increase empathy and understanding of the issues experienced by migrants and refugees. 

To strengthen our governance for this new strategic period, we’re recruiting four new Trustees.

Here’s what our current Trustees say about being part of IMIX: 

“It has been a privilege to support IMiX as part of the board. I have enjoyed seeing the organisation progress. A small but hugely passionate and effective team doing work that is more important than ever. IMiX has proved itself invaluable to the sector and whoever joins the board next will have important work to do to continue to strengthen IMiX at this crucial time for the debate on immigrants and refugees. This role offers the opportunity to help spread a reasoned narrative on a hot topic political issue that badly needs balance.”  Shazia Ejaz 

“It’s truly been a privilege to serve on the Board and to be part of such an inspiring organisation. I’ve learned so much from this experience.” Zain Hafeez 

“To an increasingly challenging public conversation about migration, IMiX brings calm expertise and evidence, positive messages and life-changing stories that change people's minds. It's a really important role to play, and the Board of Trustees make this possible by steering the strategy of the organisation and ensuring the staff and volunteers can deliver their work in a safe and supportive environment.  Our Trustees are a strong and committed group of people and it's a pleasure and privilege to work with them.”  Geraldine Blake (Chair) 

The Duties of 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, keeping the organisation on track and running effectively.

The IMIX Board meets four times a year to discuss with the Chief Executive and the team a wide range of issues. Our shared duties are to:

Strategy  

• Support the implementation of IMIX’s vision, mission, values and strategy.

• Approve activities that deliver the strategic goals, along with operational policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

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

Finance and Resources 

• Ensure the strategy is resourced by overseeing IMIX’s financial plans and budgets.

• Support and participate in fundraising and income generation activities

• Review and approve IMIX’s annual financial statements. 

IMIX Team  

• Provide support and challenge to IMIX’s Chief Executive

• Ensure that structures are in place that safeguard the well-being of IMIX’s team including volunteers and ambassadors.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation. 

External 

• Act as a champion of IMIX, promoting IMIX’s aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts whilst also ensuring that IMIX plays an appropriate role in the wider migration sector.

• Act as an ambassador for IMIX, attending events and relevant meetings.

• Bring intelligence to the Board on changes in IMIX’s operating environment.

General 

• Contribute to regular reviews of IMIX’s own governance.

• Attend Board meetings, coming prepared to contribute to discussions. 

Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on the services and support that IMIX delivers and making a difference to the debate on migration.

What we’re looking for 

We are looking for people to join our Board who have either or both of the following:

Lived experience of migration or asylum  

More than half of our Board of Trustees have lived experience of migration, ranging from arriving as a refugee, growing up in the UK without settled status, moving to the UK from Europe, or being British but born outside of the UK.

It is important to us that people with lived experience are leading the governance of the organisation, as well as being involved across our projects, through Advisory Groups and Ambassador programmes. We recognise that diverse perspectives strengthen governance and decision-making, and we seek to continue broadening the range of backgrounds and experiences represented on our board.

Professional skills  

We’re particularly looking for experience in one or more of the following areas: 

• Media and Journalism 

• Digital

• Fundraising and/or income generation  

• Legal and financial oversight for charities

• Public sector/local authority experience, in particular regional links beyond London

Personal attributes 

All our Trustees need to have:

• A commitment to IMIX and its values

• The ability to analyse information and understand the implications and opportunities 

• Sound, independent judgement, and a willingness to speak your mind 

• A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort 

• An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• An ability to work collectively and effectively on a Board

What’s the commitment?  

The Trustee term is three years, with an option to renew for a second term.

We have quarterly board meetings which take place online, with at one in person away day each year in London.  We also have two sub-committees, one on People and HR, and the other on Finances and Funding, which meet in the month before a Board meeting.

How will we support you?  

We’ll provide a full induction to the work of IMIX, and opportunities for you to understand what we do and how.

The Chair and Chief Executive will support you to settle in, and there is an annual one-to-one with the Chair for you to reflect on your learning and your experience of being on the Board.

We can also provide training and opportunities for you to develop your governance skills and particularly welcome people who may be new to governance roles. 

What difference will you make? 

IMIX is at the heart of the UK’s migration debate.  By 2030, we want to see a shift—not just in media coverage, but in the national conversation. Migration will no longer be framed as a problem to be managed, but as part of who we are as a society. Public understanding will be more empathetic, informed and connected to lived experience. People who move will be seen as neighbours, colleagues, carers and community members—not strangers. 

We believe this future is possible. It will be built through shared values, solidarity across communities, and powerful storytelling that reflects the full complexity of people’s lives. At its heart will be the principle that migration is not a threat but a vital part of a healthy, connected society.

At a time when the rise of the far right is fuelling hostility and fear around migration, our work has never been more urgent. IMIX stands with partners across the migration sector to counter divisive narratives and strengthen solidarity. As a Trustee, you will help us ensure that truth, empathy and shared humanity remain at the centre of the national conversation. 

IMIX will continue to play its role—supporting the sector, amplifying migrant voices, and changing the story. As a Trustee of IMIX, you will help us to deliver this future.