Support group volunteer volunteer roles

Hospice care for local people

Rowans Hospice is dedicated to improving the lives of people with a life-limiting illness.  We are a registered Charity, operated as a company limited by guarantee. The Board of Directors of the company are also Trustees of the Charity.

Established since 1994, our purpose is to enable support for those people in Portsmouth and Southeast Hampshire who need palliative and end of life care, irrespective of their diagnosis, ethnicity, religion, or age. Our services are provided free of charge, but each year it costs more than £7 million to continue our vital work.

Would you like to join us?

To help us in our endeavours, we need experienced members of the public to join our Board. We have a strong and committed group of Trustees, comprised of people with varied professional expertise and backgrounds. Working closely with the Hospice Senior Leadership Team, our Trustees have collective responsibility for the governance of the Charity and our strategic direction.

As a member of our Board, you will support and shape our work, as well as help us to achieve our key ambitions.  We want to further increase the diversity of thinking and range of skills and experience amongst our Trustees.  No previous experience as a Trustee is necessary, as we will give you all the support you need.  We are looking for people who have the capacity to contribute at Board level; who can think creatively and strategically; who share our commitment to providing high quality, compassionate care to those who need us; and who are able to devote the necessary time, effort and enthusiasm to the role.  

Currently, we are seeking to appoint up to three new Trustees and are particularly interested to hear from individuals who have senior-level Clinical; Legal; Marketing and Sales; or Finance experience.

The Board of Trustees meets at the Hospice six times a year.  Additionally, Executive and Trustee members of the Board’s sub-committees meet regularly to cover topics spanning Clinical Services; Governance; Human Resources; Income Generation; Retail; Estates and Facilities; and Finance and Audit.

Trustee roles are voluntary and unremunerated, but legitimate costs such as travel expenses can be paid.

Carers UK is the national membership charity for the millions of people in the UK who are unpaid carers. As an organisation we provide expert advice and information for carers, campaign for greater recognition and support for carers, and use our experience and expertise to help other organisations do more for carers. Our Board of Trustees plays a vital leadership role in the work we do while ensuring the charity is equipped and governed effectively, establishing and monitoring strategy and ensuring we are true to our values and keep carers at the heart of everything we do.

We are now seeking to appoint up to four people to join our Board of Trustees, to steer us towards our vision of a world where carers are recognised, valued and supported.

It’s an exciting time to be part of Carers UK, as we launch our new strategic review in 2026. Our Board is instrumental in ensuring we make the future really impactful for carers through our vision and strategy while fulfilling all our obligations as a charity.

We are also seeking to appoint a Nations Trustee for Scotland. In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, the Nations Trustee will be expected to ensure that the Carers UK Board is informed on key issues affecting carers in their Nation. 

To find out more about this opportunity and apply, please download the Trustee recruitment pack from our website

Carers UK is committed to representing the diverse society in which we work and actively encourages applications from people with current or recent experience of caring from all backgrounds and experiences.

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units, by supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 11/11/2025

Closing date for these opportunities is: 30/01/2026

This Group meet on a Tuesday.

South Cumbria MAT are seeking committed volunteers from a range of backgrounds to join as Trustees on their Board of Trustees.  Trustees are critical to the success of the Trust. Although they are volunteers, they provide challenge and monitoring. They ask questions and probe the information and data they have been provided with. Trustees are often seen as the ‘critical friend’ to ensure leaders are responding to the challenges and key priorities. Being a Trustee is supportive within a group of other volunteers who work together as a collective voice.  You do not need experience of being a trustee. South Cumbria MAT will support all new Trustees to develop in their role as well as additional training where needed.

Trustees come from many backgrounds. We are seeking individuals who may be able to offer expertise in the following areas:

• Education outcomes

• Special education needs

• Governance and compliance including experience of chairing boards

• School improvement

• Health and safety and facilities

• Finance, estates, and/or resources

South Cumbria MAT is a multi-academy trust and therefore registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee with charitable status. Due to this company status Trustees are registered with Companies House.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We'd like to open a new Cadet and Badger Group on a Monday evening, to allow even more young people to learn first-aid skills. If you'd be interested in helping set these Groups up, please state so in your application or at interview stage!

This is such an exciting time to join Sutton Network as a Youth Helper or Youth Leader. We’re hoping to open a new Cadet Group in our Sutton HQ, alongside a new Badger Sett, to teach even more young people vital first-aid skills and give them knowledge for life. Ideally this would be on a Monday or Thursday night, so please let us know your availability at interview.

We’d also like to open a new Group for the Cantonese speaking community in the future, so keep your eyes peeled for another vacancy for this Group!

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

About Bliss

With an impact in all corners of the UK, Bliss is the leading national neonatal charity, championing and developing the services for the 90,000 sick and premature babies born each year, supporting both them and their families. At Bliss, we are committed to improving care, giving voice to babies, and supporting parents to be partners in care. 

This is a really exciting time to join our board. We’ve just launched our new four-year strategy, which puts equity at the heart of everything we do. With NHS reforms underway, a new 10-Year Plan on the horizon, and growing attention on maternity and neonatal care, there’s a real opportunity to raise Bliss’s profile and make a lasting difference for premature and sick babies across the UK.

Chair opportunity

Our new Chair will be an experienced Trustee or Board member with proven ability to manage meetings effectively and foster productive, inclusive discussions. They will bring energy and drive, ensuring robust governance and alignment between strategy and operations. They will enjoy leading inclusive and thoughtful discussions, and share our passion for giving every baby the best possible start in life.

You can find more information about Bliss and the Chair role in our recruitment pack.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining Bliss!

Ready to apply?

Eastside People is supporting Bliss in the recruitment of these roles. Please by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why is Bliss’ work important to you and how can you contribute to the charity as our Chair?
• How do you ensure board meetings are focused, inclusive, and lead to clear decisions?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Bliss’ Chair, CEO and Trustees will be hosting a 30-minute drop-in session on Mon 8th December at 12pm via Teams. This is an opportunity to learn more about Bliss and what’s involved in joining our Board. You can register to attend here.

The closing date for applications is Mon 5th Jan. 

Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place mid-January, with shortlisted candidates invited to panel interviews with Bliss during the week commencing 2 February.

Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to take part in open sessions with staff and Board members, with final interviews scheduled for the week commencing 23 February.

Bliss is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Are you an enthusiastic volunteer looking for a new role where you'll be able to use your skills to really make a difference? Are you passionate about helping others? Could you use your literacy knowledge to support volunteers and readers?

Read Easy Sheffield is a successful local charity that provides free, confidential, one to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, affiliated to national charity Read Easy UK. We are currently looking to expand our work and for this we need some more volunteers to join our friendly management team, and we excited to be seeking a new Literacy Specialist.

The Literacy Specialist is a vital and interesting role within the Read Easy Sheffield Management Team to make sure that all readers get the support they need during their reading journey. You’ll provide literacy support to the volunteer coaches and give advice on specific challenges they may be facing. This voluntary position would be fantastic for someone who has experience with literacy and education, and can be patient and flexible. You will receive training and support from Read Easy UK to develop your skills, and get to work alongside an enthusiastic Management Team. You will play an instrumental part in making sure our group continues to thrive!

What will you be doing?

• Providing literacy support to the Coordinators and Reading Coaches.
• Visiting reading pairs to advise on specific situations and challenges that Readers and Coaches may be facing.
• Contributing to the content, delivery and organisation of coach meetings.
• Finding or creating useful activities and resources that Coaches can use to support and extend their Readers’ learning.
• Attending monthly Management Team meetings.

The role is flexible so you can choose your own hours – you might expect to spend 2 to 3 hours a week on this. To get the most from the role, we expect all Management Team members to support Read Easy Sheffield for at least one year.

What's in it for you?

• A rewarding role that has a positive impact on people's lives

• Opportunity to meet and work collaboratively with new people

• Training and support to develop your skills

• As part of the Management Team, you will help shape the direction of the organisation

The skills you will need:

• A background in teaching reading/literacy (preferably, but not necessarily, with adults).

• An understanding of the difference between the needs of adults and children in the learning process.

• A knowledge of the range of teaching resources that are available for adults, or a willingness to research them.

• Reasonable confidence in using IT.

• The ability to use initiative and work independently.

• A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.

• An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.

• A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.

Please be aware that the reading coaching takes place in venues across the city, mainly in libraries and community centres. Bearing in mind that the role will involve occasional visits to pairs to offer support with their sessions when needed, you will need to be Sheffield-based and ideally able to drive or travel around the city.

We are recruiting Youth Helpers to assist at our various Cadet and Badger groups in the East Midlands.

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units by supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role
If you are successful, you will need to undertake induction & training for the role on these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - to be discussed with the candidate.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 05/10/2026.

To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:

Location: Remote / Hybrid (UK-based applicants only)
Commitment: Approx. 8–12 hours per month (flexible)
 

About Guardian Light Foundation

At Guardian Light Foundation (GLF), we believe that every child and single parent deserves a chance to rebuild, thrive, and shine again.

We are a growing social enterprise dedicated to helping homeless and abused children/teenagers and struggling single-parent families find hope, healing, and a pathway to a brighter future.

Our mission is to provide safe housing, life-changing mentorship, legal and emotional support, and employment pathways that empower individuals to live with dignity and independence.

As we build our Future Skills & Employment Hub, we’re looking for a compassionate, empowering, and dedicated Life Skills & Confidence Mentor to join our early-stage team and help us shape lives from the ground up.

About the Role

This is more than a freelance position — it’s a calling for someone who truly wants to make a difference.

As a Life Skills & Confidence Mentor, you will guide young people and single parents through the essential tools of everyday living — communication, self-esteem, decision-making, emotional resilience, and personal growth.

You’ll be part of a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment where your voice and expertise directly influence the future direction of our foundation and the lives we transform.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver interactive life skills and confidence-building workshops (online and in-person)

• Mentor participants on self-awareness, resilience, problem-solving, and positive communication

• Create a safe and inspiring space where participants feel heard and valued

• Develop session plans, resources, and engaging group activities

• Identify individuals needing emotional or practical support and refer them to our in-house wellbeing or counselling team

• Participate in team meetings via Microsoft Teams and share ideas for program improvement

• Act as an ambassador for Guardian Light Foundation at events or networking opportunities

What We’re Looking For

• Deep passion for helping children, teenagers, and single parents rebuild their lives

• Empathetic, patient, and inspiring communicator

• Experience in mentoring, youth work, coaching, or personal development training

• Understanding of trauma-informed approaches or working with vulnerable individuals

• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills

• DBS Certificate (or willingness to complete a Volunteer Enhanced DBS Check – £12.50)

• Commitment to 8–12 hours per month (flexible scheduling)

What You’ll Gain

Joining at this stage means you grow with us — and your contributions truly matter.

✨ Benefits include:

• Opportunity to become part of our Board of Directors or Advisory Board as the organisation grows

• Being a founding mentor in a groundbreaking, purpose-driven UK charity

• Direct impact on the lives of young people and families who need your guidance most

• Recognition on our website and social media for your incredible contribution

• Invitations to GLF’s future events, training, and community networking sessions

• Professional reference and certificate of contribution

• Flexible hours and remote working options

• Belonging to a warm, passionate, and supportive team dedicated to real change

We are seeking a Director and Chair of Trustees Designate to help shape the future direction of our organisation. We are looking for an individual with proven senior leadership experience - ideally, though not necessarily, within the third sector - who can bring strong strategic thinking, sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership style.

Youth Helpers work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units, by supporting our Youth Leaders to deliver a sessions across our range of programmes. In this role, you'll support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Helpers also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 30/01/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 30/01/2026

This Group meet on a Friday evening.

Lead with Legacy: Become a Multi-Cadet Unit Manager (Deputy Area Officer)

Ranger Cadets is calling visionary leaders to step forward.

We are seeking Multi-Cadet Unit Managers (Deputy Area Officers) to guide and inspire cadet units across an area of England local to where you live.

About Ranger Cadets:

Ranger Cadets is a new uniformed youth work organisation dedicated to equipping young people with essential life skills, tools, and opportunities to become active citizens who make a positive contribution to society. Through training, service, and ceremonial identity, cadets grow in confidence, resilience, and pride—building a legacy of community impact.

Your Mission:

• Command with dignity: Manage at least two cadet units, ensuring weekly training and ceremonial excellence.

• Mentor with purpose: Support the training and shadowing of new volunteers, guiding them into the Ranger Cadets tradition. Especially Officers In Charge of Cadet Units (Cadet Unit Managers), giving your advice and experience.

• Inspire with vision: Shape the future of young people through leadership, service, and community engagement.

Your Path to Advancement:

After 12 months of service, you’ll have the opportunity to rise in rank to Area Manager (Area Officer). In this role, you will:

• Lead a group of cadet units.

• Support, guide, and empower Cadet Unit Managers (Officers in Charge).

• Carry forward the ceremonial identity and community mission of Ranger Cadets.

Why Volunteer as a Multi-Cadet Unit Manager?

• Step into a senior leadership role within a growing national movement.

• Gain mentorship and management experience while shaping new volunteers.

• Make a lasting difference in the lives of young people and your community.

• Be part of a tradition that values honour, service, and legacy.

Call to Action:

If you’re ready to lead multiple units, mentor new volunteers, and rise through the ranks, the Ranger Cadets need you. Become a Deputy Area Officer—your journey to Area Manager begins here.

RANGER CADETS 

#PreparedForLife

We are looking for an enthusiastic events assistant to join the team in our exciting new community space! Plateful Cafe is a recently established charity that seeks to help refugees in the surrounding area into employment within the food and hospitality sector. 

We have opened a community cafe selling delicious Middle Eastern food! Our cafe is staffed by people with refugee status and experiences of forced migration who are being trained to work the food industry, as well as dedicated volunteers like you. We will be running regular community events and fundraisers for which we need a team of events assistants to help plan and run. 

If you are passionate about being part of a community that celebrates a diversity of cultures and delicious food, this is your opportunity to make a difference and join us on our exciting journey with Plateful Cafe.

The role:

- Help organise monthly community dinners featuring three course meals from around the globe to enable the charity to engage with and attract donors.

- Help with running the dinner on the daywith tasks including welcoming the guests, serving food and drinks, take payments, setting up and clearing, etc.

- In a team plan and organise other events and fundraisers throughout the year, for example refugee week.

- Work with the marketing volunteers, providing details of upcoming events for promotion; take pictures and quotes at the event.

Skills & Requirements:

• Prior experience of events planning and organisation
• A passion and keenness to engage in community-based work to support refugees and serve the local community
• Good organisation skills including: effective time management, punctuality and delegation of tasks.
• A flexible and proactive attitude to working
• Good responsiveness to emails/ text/ whatsapp
• Practical skills to help prepare and set-up the café for events
• Able to work well in a team and communicate effectively with the rest of the staff and visitors of the cafe
•  A willingness to learn new skills

Desirable but not required:

• Prior experience working with refugees, people seeking asylum or other vulnerable groups
• Prior experience of involvement in charity fundraising events

Monthly community dinner times: 10-1pm (cooking); Afternoon: 1-5pm (preparing the hall); Evening: 6-10pm (running the dinner).

Travel costs reimbursed & free dinner.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?  ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy. Join us!

What will you be doing?

In addition to the responsibilities of all board members, the Treasurer will: 

1. Support the Board to review and monitor ECU’s financial performance and sustainability
2. Ensure the Board receives timely, accessible and accurate financial information
3. Support the team to develop and maintain robust and proportionate financial policies, processes and risk management systems

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to ECU’s mission and values
• Commitment to the legal duties and responsibilities
• Financial management experience, policies, risk
• Qualifications
• Able to interpret, interrogate and communicate financial information
• Work as part of a diverse team, and devote the time 

Desirable - treasurer experience

What difference will you make?

We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue.

Before you apply

• Your interest in this role and what you could bring to it
• What would you want to learn and gain?

Interview 25 Feb in London (expenses paid)