Training support volunteer volunteer roles in middlesbrough, redcar and cleveland

Volunteer Fundraiser

Work Location: In Person / Remote TBC

This role is voluntary and unpaid; however, expenses can be claimed as necessary.

Adoption Matters are looking to recruit for a Volunteer Fundraiser role. This is an exciting opportunity to join and support an innovative, ‘Outstanding’ children’s charity and which is one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the UK.

About us

Adoption Matters is a registered children’s charity and one of the largest voluntary adoption agencies in the UK. We recruit, train, support individuals and families as adopters, offer them ongoing support, and training for as long as they need it. We also provide support to birth families and adopted adults. We are the ONLY adoption service in the North West rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted for the last five consecutive inspections. In 2024, the Adoption Matters family grew as we launched our not-for profit fostering agency Foster Care Matters.

About the role

Are you the right person for the role?

The Fundraising Volunteer will undertake a wide range of fundraising activities and events supporting collections throughout the year as and when mutually agreed, including:

· Fundraising support at the annual Garden Party picnic event

· Support at community events – fun runs, sponsor events

· Promotion of our charity lottery

· Possible involvement with arrangements of/attendance at large events, egg. golf days, charity dinners

· Liaising with Volunteer Co-ordinator and Fundraising and Relationship Manager about events

· Sharing ideas about fundraising activities

Are you able to demonstrate the following abilities and knowledge?

· Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.

· Good listening and communication skills

· You need to be a great people person, friendly and approachable.

· Excellent telephone manner and written communication skills.

· An ability to work as part of a team.

· Creative and forward thinking.

· Computer literacy.

· Ability to use on own initiative and as part of a small team.

· Passion and enthusiasm

This is a rewarding and enjoyable role. You will be working with the charities appointed Volunteer Coordinator, and Fundraising and Relationship Manager. This role will also provide you with the opportunity to gain experience in doing volunteering work with people of all ages and to learn new skills, as well as develop existing ones.

What we offer in return

· Introduce you to how the organisation works and your role in it and to provide appropriate training and support for your agreed role

· Provide regular meetings with a staff contact so that you can tell us how you are getting on and get feedback from us.

· Respect your skills and experience and try to match them with the right role for you wherever possible.

· Do our best to meet your individual wishes.

· Reimburse you for agreed and reasonable expenses incurred in accordance with the expenses policy.

· Make necessary arrangements to ensure your health, safety and welfare.

· Offer equal opportunities to everyone who wants to volunteer.

· Provide access to trained members of staff to support, guide and advise you.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Our values are honesty, fairness, inclusivity, flexibility, ethically based, and celebrating difference. We encourage applications from all areas of the community. We believe that our organisation should reflect and represent the full richness of human diversity in terms of background, identity, ability and circumstance. As groups of people currently under- represented as Adoption Matters volunteers, we are particularly keen to receive your application if you are Black, Asian or minority ethnic, have a disability or have personal experience of the care system and/or adoption. We will be measuring our success in redressing this.

We are open to discussion of any adjustments or any flexible arrangements you may need to achieve your full potential at any stage of the process, and if you are successful in gaining a volunteer position with us, during volunteering. We promise the only thing we assess within your application is how you have demonstrated your suitability for the job, and nothing else.

What’s next? It’s easy! Follow the weblink to apply direct on the Adoption Matters website! We can’t wait to hear from you!

Adoption Matters is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people therefore please note our recruitment procedure includes DBS checks and other relevant employment checks, including the right to work in the UK.

Please note that we only contact candidates selected for interview and we are unable to provide feedback on individual applications.

Join the pack. Lend a hand. Change lives. Join your local fundraising group as a volunteer.

Are you looking for a volunteering opportunity where you can meet new people and raise funds that will change lives?  Join a Guide Dogs group near you for fun, fundraising and four-legged friends.

Did you know it costs £102,000 to raise, train, and support a guide dog from birth to retirement.

We have a range of roles from being a group member, to taking on a lead role such as Group Coordinator, Deputy Coordinator, Treasurer, Merchandise Coordinator or Collection Box Coordinator.

Why become a fundraising volunteer:

As well as making a huge difference to people’s lives, volunteering with your local Guide Dogs fundraising group is a great way to spend some of your free time and give back.

• Inspire people to support Guide Dogs and make a difference to someone with sight loss.
• Have fun finding new events and places to volunteer at.
• You’ll meet lots of special dogs – from young puppies in training to incredible guide dogs in partnership.
• You’ll empower others to get involved with Guide Dogs.
• You’ll learn new skills and we’ll provide all the training you need for your role.
• You can take on as much or as little as you want, and you can fit the role around your other commitments.

Who you are:

We appreciate our volunteers’ passion and energy, but we also value your unique skills, perspectives and personalities.

• Inspire others: Do you have lots of ideas that could motivate others? We need more inspirational volunteer leaders and fundraisers who can bring their energy and unique perspective to our local fundraising groups.

• Bring your skills: Could you help organise a calendar of events, take care of ordering merchandise, or count the funds raised by your local team? We need more volunteer treasurers, secretaries, and merchandise coordinators to support our fundraising groups.

• Help take Guide Dogs into your community: Are you well connected or do you love going to new places and meeting new people? We need more volunteer fundraisers to help at our events and spread the word about our work.

Training and pre-agreed expenses available.

Visit our webiste to see what roles are available where you live. 

Are you an Italian speaker looking for a meaningful way to give back to your community?
We invite you to become a volunteer for our Talking Bubble Project!

Many older adults and vulnerable individuals in the UK’s Italian-speaking community experience loneliness and isolation. By giving just a small amount of your time each week, you can make a big difference — offering companionship and a friendly voice in their native language.

�� What is the Talking Bubble Project?

A phone-based service that connects volunteers with individuals who may feel isolated or lonely. Through regular calls, you’ll help build friendships, brighten someone’s day, and offer emotional support — especially for those more comfortable speaking Italian.

�� Why volunteer with us?

✔ Support members of the Italian-speaking community in the UK
✔ Make a real difference in someone’s life
✔ Enjoy flexible volunteering hours
✔ Receive training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Boost your own sense of fulfilment and purpose

✅ What’s required?

✔ Completion of online Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training (funded by us)
✔ A DBS check (funded by us)
✔ A kind and compassionate approach, and a willingness to engage in friendly conversations

�� How to get involved:

Apply through the CharityJob website — no previous experience needed.
This opportunity is open to UK residents only.

Help us bring connection and kindness to the Italian-speaking community across the UK!

Join our amazing volunteer team to make a real difference to people living with sight loss. You’ll be supporting people to come together in a group setting, to benefit from each other’s company, knowledge and encouragement, leading to reduced isolation, stronger networks of support, and new friendships. You can support with either local and regional telephone groups or face-to-face groups.

What you’ll be doing:
• Meeting and greeting group members on arrival or joining virtually.
• Creating a warm and welcoming environment.
• Supporting group conversations.
• Assisting with group activities (if appropriate).

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.

• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 1 reference Criminal record check

Location

Region

• Scotland

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An interest in group or community work. • A sociable personality. • A commitment to working towards a society where people with sight loss are equal participants.

Our Community Volunteers are vital in enabling us to continue to feed the 3 million children we feed every day and to help us reach the next child. They use their talents in their communities to spread the story of Mary’s Meals.

What is the role of a Community Volunteer?

Some of the things you can do as a community volunteer:

• Help us to share our story – arrange and give Mary’s Meals talks to local community organisations, schools, churches and faith groups to raise vital awareness and funds
• Use your networks and contacts to book talks, stalls and events and help us share our story
• Organise fundraising events in your local area such as coffee mornings, quizzes, supermarket bag packs and bucket collections
• Organise film screenings in your community to show Mary’s Meals films
• Volunteer at local fundraising and awareness events such as film screenings, bucket collections or concerts
• Promote Mary’s Meals’ fundraising campaigns and events in your community and across their networks and contacts
• Distribute and display promotional materials
• Place collection tins in local community areas
• Host community engagement events about Mary’s Meals’ work
• Come together as a group with other local volunteers to support each other with this work
• Lead a group in your community to fundraise for Mary’s Meals

What support and resources will I receive?

• Support, encouragement, and guidance from your local Supporter Engagement Officer
• A comprehensive induction to Mary’s Meals
• Opportunities to join online or in person volunteer meetings and briefings
• Training and if desired, public speaking training
• Resources to fulfil your role
• A regular volunteer update e-mail

What are the benefits of volunteering for Mary's Meals?

• Feeling part of the global Mary’s Meals movement to end world hunger
• Learning new skills and gaining experience as part of a growing and vibrant organisation
• Meeting new like-minded people
• Increasing confidence and team-working skills.
• Developing communication skills (verbal and written)
• Feeling empowered to have your voice heard, knowing that you are playing an active role in changing the lives of those who need it the most.

Are you passionate about the world of gaming? STAMMA’s Minecraft club is a project which aims to bring young people aged 7-14 who stammer together through the exciting world of Minecraft! Our club plays in a private virtual realm where we can build exciting creations and collaborate on imaginative group projects. And you can be part of it too!

We know that the world can feel like a lonely place for young people who stammer. We want to help people connect and show them how great being part of the stammering community can be.

We’re looking for people to join us to be Minecraft session leaders. We’ll support you to lead short 1-hour ‘play together’ sessions in our virtual world 2x a month on a Tuesday or Thursday evening 6-7pm.

Please note that this volunteer role is only open to people who are resident in the UK.

Basic information

Hours: 3 hours a month plus one quarterly catch-up session on Zoom (amounts to 2 sessions a month of 1.5 hours)

Day and time: A regular slot on either Monday/Thursdays 5.45-7.15pm (session runs 6-7pm)

Commitment: We hope that you will enjoy this role and commit at least 12 months to the position

Location: Home-based

Supported by: Catherine Woolley (Children and Families Lead)

What does the role involve?

As a Minecraft Session leader, we’re hoping you’ll feel comfortable to:

•  Run a ‘play together’ session for young people who stammer either on your own or with another session leader. Sessions are usually run by two volunteers working in partnership.
• Help to keep our Minecraft realm a friendly space for everyone.
•  Support new players, such as showing them around the world, introducing them to other players and answering any questions they have.
• Helping families to set up Minecraft on their device and access the session for the first time.

What support would you get?

We'll help you through a training programme, which will include online training modules and some shadowing. This training is likely to take around 5-6 hours in total and can be completed in bite-sized amounts to suit your schedule. We will also provide ongoing support through our quarterly catch up sessions for Minecraft session volunteers to share experiences and explore any concerns or challenges.

What would you need?

• A quiet place where you can work in privacy and not be overheard during calls
• A console/computer with Minecraft installed
• A second device where you can take part in a Zoom call
• Stable internet connection which supports gaming

Who might enjoy this volunteer role?

You’re likely to enjoy volunteering with our Minecraft groups if you:

• Are experienced at playing Minecraft.
• Enjoy listening and talking to young people.
• Have a genuine curiosity about people and their experiences.
• Are passionate about making the world a better place for people who stammer.

It’s not essential to stammer if you are interested in volunteering with us, but you may particularly enjoy this role if you do. Your personal experience of stammering can be very useful!

Other Information

As a volunteer you can, of course, step back from the role at any time. However, both you and the Minecraft club are likely to get most out of the opportunity if you’re able to volunteer with us for at least 12 months. By gradually learning and developing your confidence in the role, you can have the biggest impact.

This is a volunteer role and is unpaid. As this is a role where you will be working with children and young people, we will need you to complete a DBS check with us before you can lead any sessions on your own.

Contact & apply

To express an interest in volunteering on the STAMMA's Minecraft Club, or if you have any questions, please complete the volunteer form on our website.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just some spare time occasionally, and an ability to get on with people from diverse backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Helper?

SSAFA Helpers provide support to local SSAFA branches, so that the service to veterans and their families can run smoothly. Perhaps you could help out at an event, take care of some office admin, or give a talk about SSAFA?

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 have peak times throughout the year when we need extra volunteers. Whether you enjoy organising behind the scenes or being out meeting the public, we need people who can offer some time on a flexible basis.

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

This role will suit you if you are looking to volunteer on a flexible basis as and when you are available, and we need extra help. You may be based in an office, at home, or out and about at events.

What would you be doing?

· Helping at public events by staffing stalls, stewarding etc

· Helping to distribute Christmas hampers to clients.

· Giving talks about SSAFA to schools and local groups

· Helping with office tasks like stuffing envelopes, ordering marketing materials

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

· Support people in your community with a military background

· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

· Experience 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.

· Local induction

· 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 a cheerful attitude

· Good spoken English

· Ability to represent SSAFA and its values to potential clients, their families, other agencies, potential volunteers and potential funders.

· Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to safeguarding, giving advice etc.

· Reliable attitude, keep appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.

· Access to transport if needed for your role.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to 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

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers in the Horsham and district area
• Planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• Keeping financial records from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

• This is a flexible role. The amount of time you offer can work to your availability and convenience.
• There may be opportunities for your activities to be fully remote and/or admin based if you'd prefer.
• You will need your own transport if you wish to attend events, ideally a car or van since items, stock and equipment will usually be needed.
• We ask that you complete training to support you in your role. This can be completed online if you have access to the internet and the necessary device (computer/laptop/tablet etc). Support can be offered or paper versions of much of the training if needed.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others
• Excellent organisational skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

We are looking for brilliant HR professionals who want to help Pregnant Then Screwed tackle the Motherhood Penalty by becoming a Volunteer HR Advisor. 

Our Volunteer Advisors give around 1-2 hours a week of their time to the Advice Line. They use their HR knowledge to offer a kind, empathetic support and advice to help people to identify and challenge pregnancy and maternity discrimination in the workplace.

About the role

Role Title: Volunteer HR Advisor 
Location: Home-based (UK)
Reporting To: Head of Support Services

Time Commitment

The Advice Line is open Monday-Friday, 9am-3pm, with various available shifts during those times. We ask volunteers to give 1-2 hours per week on the Advice Line for a minimum of three months. 

Alternative time commitments can be considered and discussed as part of your application, so please do include any information that might be useful in your application form.

Main Role Purpose

The Advice Line HR Advisors play a vital role in providing support and guidance to working parents facing unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace via our advice line. Volunteers will offer advice, listen empathetically, and provide information about employee rights and available resources. This role is critical in empowering parents to make informed decisions and navigate workplace challenges effectively.

Essential requirements

• Minimum CIPD level 5 Diploma in People Management with one professional reference.
• Knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and policies related to pregnancy, maternity leave, and discrimination.
• Access to a mobile phone/laptop/tablet to receive calls. You will not be charged for calls and your number will not be shared.
• Access to a reliable and secure WIFI connection. Public WIFI is not suitable for this role.
• Excellent active and empathetic listening skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to convey information clearly and concisely.
• A kind and welcoming telephone manner.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Comfortable using online communication tools.

Key Responsibilities

• Answer incoming phone calls to the PTS Advice Line from individuals seeking support and advice.
• Listen actively, empathise, and provide HR advice and guidance to support callers with their enquiries.
• Signpost to further information and other support organisations if necessary.
• Make referrals to our legal partner if required.
• Record all details of the call on our CRM system.
• Maintain professionalism in all interactions, adhering to all Pregnant Then Screwed guidelines and policies.

What you can expect from PTS

• The opportunity to use your skill set to tackle the Motherhood Penalty and make a meaningful impact.
• An onboarding and induction period which can be completed at your own pace.
• Support from the PTS staff team and volunteer network.
• Access to our Volunteer Training Hub.
• Opportunities to help us further develop and shape our Support Services.

What happens when you apply

We are currently accepting applications on a rolling basis so there is no deadline to apply, however we may have to close the application window temporarily if we receive a large number of applications. 

Application stages:

1. Apply online using the link on this page.
2. Application review. The PTS staff team will review your application. If suitable, you will be invited to join us for an introduction call. If we can not proceed with your application we will let you know why. Please allow up to four weeks for us to respond to your application.
3. Introduction call. This will be a 15-30 minute call online (via Google Meet) with a Support Services staff member. We’ll ask you a few questions about your application to find out more about you, as well as answering any questions you have. We’ll also get your consent to contact your referee.
4. Online training and reference check. The team will get you set up on our Volunteer Training Hub so that you can complete your online induction training. This can be done at your own pace, and we’ll check in with you after a month if it’s still not completed. We’ll also request a reference from your referee.
5. Group Induction. Once you’ve completed your online training and we’ve received a satisfactory reference, you’ll be invited to join a group induction. Inductions are hosted online at least once a month and give you a chance to meet other volunteers (new and long-standing) and ask questions.
6. Ready to roll! You’ll now be ready to volunteer, so we’ll set you up on our calling system and book in your first shift.
7. One month check in. The team will always be available, but after your first month we’ll check in to make sure everything is going ok and that you’re happy in your new volunteer role. 

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Role Summary

Education Outreach Volunteers support the Reptile Centre by assisting with community education sessions, school visits, events, and public engagement activities. Volunteers help promote reptile welfare, conservation awareness, and responsible pet ownership. This role is ideal for people who enjoy working with the public, have an interest in animals, and want to make a positive impact in the community.

Key Responsibilities

Support Educational Sessions

• Assist staff during school visits, workshops, and community outreach events.

• Help set up and pack away educational materials, displays, and activity stations.

• Support the delivery of interactive demonstrations (with or without live animals, depending on training).

• Engage with visitors, answer basic questions, and help create a welcoming learning environment.

Animal Handling (Optional Based on Training)

• Handle reptiles safely during sessions once trained and approved by senior staff.

• Support welfare checks and ensure animals are comfortable during events.

• Help maintain safe handling practices with the public.

Community Engagement

• Represent the Reptile Centre positively at fairs, open days, fundraising events, and exhibitions.

• Share information about the centre’s conservation work, rescue stories, and how people can get involved.

• Encourage visitors to support fundraising campaigns and ongoing community initiatives.

Event Support

• Assist with coordinating groups during onsite and offsite sessions.

• Help manage queues, guide groups, and provide general visitor support.

• Prepare craft materials, activity sheets, or demonstration equipment.

Practical Support

• Help maintain the cleanliness and organisation of education and outreach equipment.

• Support the preparation of educational resources and displays.

• Assist with basic administrative tasks such as feedback collection or session records.

Skills & Qualities Needed

Essential

• Friendly, reliable, and comfortable speaking with the public.

• Enthusiastic about reptiles, wildlife, conservation, or animal education.

• Willingness to learn and follow safety and welfare guidelines.

• Good teamwork skills and a positive, helpful attitude.

Desirable

• Experience working with animals, children, or in an educational setting.

• Confidence handling reptiles (training will be provided).

• Knowledge of reptile care, conservation, or science communication.

What We Provide

• Full training in reptile handling, welfare, and safe educational practice.

• Safeguarding and health & safety guidance.

• Support from staff and fellow volunteers.

• Opportunities to develop skills in public speaking, education, and animal care.

• Experience that can support future employment or studies in animal care, conservation, or education.

Time Commitment

• Flexible volunteer shifts available (weekdays, weekends, or event-based).

• Volunteers can offer as much or as little time as they are comfortably able to.

• Outreach events may require occasional travel with staff.

Additional Requirements

• Minimum age (centre-specific, often 16+ or 18+).

• Willingness to undergo basic training and follow centre policies.

• Some roles may require a DBS check (depending on involvement with children).

Benefits of Volunteering

• Make a meaningful contribution to reptile welfare and conservation education.

• Gain confidence and skills in presenting and public engagement.

• Work closely with a variety of reptiles and learn from experienced handlers.

• Join a supportive team and become part of the centre’s community.

• Opportunities to assist in fundraising that supports vital veterinary and rescue work.

Support our mission to bring light and joy to seriously ill children.

Volunteer: Trusts & Foundations Research & Applications

We are looking for a motivated volunteer to support our Trusts & Foundations team with research and grant writing. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in the charitable sector, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop fundraising skills.

Key responsibilities:

• Research potential funders and funding opportunities

• Assist with writing and preparing grant applications

• Support reporting and administration for submitted applications

Time commitment:

• Ideally one day per week (flexible to suit your schedule)

Who we’re looking for:

• Strong research and writing skills, good attention to detail

• Organised, proactive, and able to work independently

• Discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive information

• Ideally some understanding or interest in T&F, fundraising, or the charity sector

• Previous research experience (academic or professional) is helpful but not essential

What You’ll Gain:

• Experience working in a high-impact fundraising team

• Training and support from a passionate, collaborative team

• A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families

• A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering

Join us and help make a real difference!

About the Role

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. and our mission is to increase inclusion and representation for disabled families across society. We offer a variety of services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails, and more.

We are looking for volunteers to help us apply for and secure funding to support our valuable work. This role can be done remotely, with no fixed rota, and the amount of time you give is flexible.

Who Are We Looking For?

• Interested in fundraising or securing funding

• May have experience in the community or charity sector

• Legal or corporate background, or studying law or similar subjects

• Willingness to learn, motivated, and proactive

• Organised and detail-oriented

• Positive attitude and collaborative

What Do We Expect?

• Willingness to undertake our virtual training programme at a time convenient to you

• Have a basic DBS check (preferably on the update system) or be willing to complete one with us

• Sign our volunteer contract (we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments if needed)

• A positive and inclusive attitude toward disability and illness

What Can You Expect?

• A supportive, kind, and nurturing team that values its volunteers

• Flexibility – contribute at times that suit you

• Supportive approach to accessibility and accommodations

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C.

• Make a tangible difference in your community

• Develop skills in fundraising, research, and grant applications

• Enhance your CV and demonstrate reliability to future employers

• Explore new areas of interest and take on additional tasks if desired

• Build confidence while contributing to meaningful work

Could you speak up for hungry children?

What is the role of a Speaker Volunteer?

Help us share the story of Mary’s Meals and our life-changing work feeding hungry children at school in some of the world’s poorest communities by giving Mary’s Meals talks to local community organisations, schools, churches and faith groups to raise vital awareness and funds.

What difference will i make?

• You will enable us to reach more people with the story of Mary’s Meals
• You will support our staff in their work to feed the next hungry child
• You will promote Mary’s Meals’ in your community 
• You will ensure our records are up-to-date and accurate
• You will help us provide a good service to supporters

What support and resources will i receive?

• Support, encouragement, and guidance from your local Supporter Engagement Officer
• Resources to fulfil your role, including presentation slides, notes and talk scripts
• A comprehensive induction to Mary’s Meals
• Public speaking training
• A regular volunteer update e-mail
• Opportunities to join online or in person volunteer meetings and briefings

What are the benefits of volunteering for Mary's Meals?

• Feeling part of the global Mary’s Meals movement to end world hunger
• Learning new skills and gaining experience as part of a growing and vibrant organisation
• Meeting new like-minded people
• Increasing confidence and team-working skills
• Developing communication skills (verbal and written)
• Feeling empowered to have your voice heard, knowing that you are playing an active role in changing the lives of those who need it the most.

We’re dedicated to ensuring that autistic survivors of sexual violence and related abuse are believed and supported throughout their recovery journey. We achieve our mission by collaborating directly with survivors to voice, explore, and share ideas on effective recovery pathways.

Our work extends to initiating and responding to training opportunities that address the intersection of autism, sexual violence, and related abuse. We actively engage with diverse societal groups to establish collaborative projects and raise awareness, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environments for all.

By providing training to the public, Lotus Collaborations UK enhances recovery pathways for autistic survivors, equipping communities with the knowledge and tools needed to offer meaningful support. As a trusted partner in advocacy and education, we are committed to creating pathways to recovery that are accessible, empathetic, and informed by lived experience.

Diversity and Inclusion Statement

Whilst we welcome applications from all interested parties, and to promote diversity within the organisation, in line with section 3.2 of the Equality Act 2010, preference will be given to applicants who are autistic, or autistic with another neurominority, and who may also have other protected characteristic(s), provided they meet the essential criteria for the role.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and oversight of the organisation’s financial strategy, ensuring alignment with its mission and objectives.
• Ensure full compliance with Community Interest Company (CIC) regulations and all relevant financial legislation.
• Oversee all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and the preparation of annual accounts.
• Advise the Board of Directors on financial planning, risk management, and investment opportunities.
• Manage the organisation’s financial obligations, including reporting to Companies House and HMRC.
• Oversee the management and monitoring of acquired funding, ensuring all funder and HMRC requirements are met.
• Act as a key signatory for bank accounts and investments, ensuring proper processes are followed.
• Develop and implement internal audit procedures and maintain robust financial controls.
• Establish and maintain policies and systems for effective financial management and reporting.
• Collaborate with the Board to develop and uphold the organisation’s reserves policy.
• Monitor and evaluate contracts and supplier relationships to ensure best value and compliance.
• Prepare financial projections and reports for funding applications, strategic planning, and Board meetings.
• Liaise with the organisation’s accountant and external auditors as required.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Proven experience in financial management, accounting, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of business strategy and financial legislation
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues
• Excellent analytical, organisational, and reporting skills
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving abilities
• Effective interpersonal and teamwork skills
• Ability to manage and prioritise workload
• Commitment to confidentiality

Desirable

• Understanding of the nature and impact of sexual violence/abuse (support available)
• Experience working in the voluntary or community sector
• Experience supporting or working with autistic people or neurominorities

Accessibility, and Inclusion

We are committed to making the recruitment process accessible and supportive for everyone. Assessment methods will be adapted to suit individual communication styles. Please let us know if you have specific requirements.