Training volunteer roles

Enter and View Authorised Representative

Enter and view representatives are trained to visit health and care services, to see how services are running in action. They speak with service users and their families, and staff to find out what people think of services. 

As this role involves the provision of health services, all volunteers will have to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

‍Key tasks might include: 

• Preparing for visits to health and social care services by reading background information
• Taking part in visits looking at how the service is provided and talking to staff, relatives and service users about the service
• Working with the team to produce a written report on what was valued at the visit, and where improvements could be made
• Taking part in training sessions relevant to the Enter and View programme
• Contributing to the development of the Enter and View programme

Key Skills and interests for the role: 

• Some knowledge and understanding of health and social care services. This could be through working in a particular service area or a general understanding from experience as a carer or service user
• Commitment to improving the lives of others
• Good communication skills with the ability to work within a team
• Able to talk and listen to people from all walks of life
• Understanding of confidentiality and respecting this at all times
• Good written English skills to help with report writing
• Able to commit at least one to two days every other month

‍What support will you be given?

• A full induction and training
• On-going support from Healthwatch Derbyshire 
• Regular updates from Healthwatch Derbyshire
• Regular volunteer meetings
• Opportunities to become involved in other things we may be doing

What would you gain?

• Free training and development opportunities
• Gain new skills and increase your confidence
• Use your skills and experience to contribute to the success of Healthwatch Derbyshire
• Experience of working with health and social care organisations
• Understanding of how health and social care services are planned, delivered and commissioned (paid for)
• References to add to your CV
• Support from a vibrant team of Healthwatch Derbyshire Staff and volunteers
• Meet new people 

Visit our website to complete the application form at the bottom of the page. 

Main purpose of job: To host our Parent/Carer online community support group as part of Mast Cell Actions community support services.

Key tasks include:

· Host support sessions with professionalism and enthusiasm.

· Moderate Q&A sessions, and facilitate audience interaction to keep participants engaged.

· Manage technical aspects of virtual events, to ensure smooth execution.

· Take the register and send post event emails using our bespoke event platform

· Raise safeguarding concerns using internal processes and procedures. Training will be provided

· Maintain confidentiality and follow charity policies and procedures

· Undertake relevant training

Key Objectives Include:

· The main purpose of this role is to facilitate and host our Parent/Carer Support Sessions alongside another volunteer

· Host support sessions in a manner that captivates and engages the audience, keeping them interested and actively participating throughout the event.

· Reassure and validate participants' experiences whilst encouraging story-sharing.

· Manage the technical aspects of virtual events proficiently.

· Represent Mast Cell Action professionally at all times, demonstrating strong communication skills, reliability, and adaptability in a virtual environment.

Experience/skills required:

· Proven experience as a virtual event host, moderator, or similar role is desirable but not essential as we can train you.

· Must have personal experience of being a parent or carer for a child with MCAS or suspected MCAS

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility.

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility allows you to make a difference in your local community, allowing us to help and support everyone to have a voice that counts.  The roles we have available will challenge you, developing your communication skills, allowing you to gain professional experience that can be used in your future career, learn new things about yourself and others, meet new people, and have fun.

Volunteer Positions Available

We're recruiting for the following voluntary positions:

• Relevant Persons' Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer
• Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteers

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care. 

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might: 

• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes 
• Raise concerns 
• Keep detailed notes and records 
• Make a real difference to someone’s life 

Hospital Visitor Volunteer 

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake. 

As a hospital volunteer, you might:

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

Volunteering opportunities are available Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to register your expression of interest

To find out more click on “Apply Now” and fill out our short expression of interest form.

GARAS (Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers) provides a specialist, holistic service for asylum seekers, refugees and other migrants. We advocate for people’s rights, help improve their wellbeing, and support them in building a better future.

As part of GARAS you will always be compassionate and committed volunteers. As a Triage Volunteer, you will be the first point of contact for many of our clients – helping them access the right support at the right time. You will ensure that enquiries are dealt with effectively, that clients feel welcomed and safe, and that they are directed to the appropriate service: whether at GARAS or with another provider.

This role is essential to the smooth running of our service. With increasing demand, our advisers rely on triage volunteers to help ensure no one is missed and that our support is delivered where it is most needed.

Would you like to coordinate the local SSAFA service in your area? Do you enjoy working as part of a team? You don’t need a military background, just good communication and I.T. skills. If so, this could be the role for you!

What is a Divisional Secretary?

The is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for the division you will play a key part in promoting SSAFA locally, matching clients to volunteer caseworkers and supporting volunteers to get the best outcomes for their clients.

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. More people than ever before are coming to us for help, and you will be one of the people contacting new clients and getting them the support, they need.

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

This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week.

What would you be doing?

• Acting as the first point of contact for SSAFA in the local area
• Taking enquiries from potential clients and potential volunteers
• Matching new clients to available caseworkers
• Supporting caseworkers, particularly new volunteers
• Working with the local publicity officer to promote SSAFA locally.
• Providing reports to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Maintaining accurate records on our on-line case management system
• Coordinating SSAFA Visitors and Helpers (if applicable)
• Organising local meetings to keep all volunteers up to date with the latest training and information.
• 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?

• Experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support 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?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker course, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – case management and quality. The caseworker course takes 3 days and please allow a further day for the other training.
• 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
• Local induction
• Support from the branch secretary.
• Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team 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 some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel 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*

*Where volunteers are both divisional secretaries and caseworkers a disclosure check will be required.

Various locations (Cambridgeshire, Buckinghamshire, Nottinghamshire, Rutland)

SUMMARY

Prison volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work. Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.

Our prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as to provide information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills and tasks will vary slightly from prison to prison.

Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work ideally requires not only a good level of needlework skill but also some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively.

This document describes the role of prison volunteering teams as a whole. Individuals who do not have all the skills described below may find a role alongside other volunteers who do.

PURPOSE

• Developing stitchers’ skills and confidence
• Acting as FCW ambassadors in the prison
• Building effective working relationships with prison staff, stitchers, and other volunteers
• Providing information to the FCW office for administrative and evaluative purposes

ACTIVITIES

Teaching and support

• Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products using our premade kits
• Encouraging and supporting stitchers to take on responsibility as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake our accredited training courses with the Open College Network

Admin and liaison

• Ensuring a supply of kits and training materials appropriate to stitchers’ individual skill levels and learning needs
• Returning completed kits to the FCW office with invoices
• Regularly communicating with the Fine Cell Work programmes team

Monitoring and information-gathering

• Ensuring accurate record keeping of stitchers' pay, productivity and progress 
• Occasionally gathering other information requested by the office

Meetings/training

• Participating in occasional volunteer meetings
• Participating in training and workshops as requested by FCW or the prison

SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS, AND EXPERIENCE NEEDED

Essential

• Support for FCW’s ethos
• Ability to observe boundaries in personal behaviour
• Teamwork
• Experience of tapestry and/or embroidery techniques
• Reliability, patience and flexibility
• Accurate record-keeping
• Access to the internet
• Able to use email and word processors to a basic level
• Ability to travel to prison

Desirable

• Teaching experience and/or experience of working with vulnerable and socially excluded groups
• Able to use spreadsheets to a basic level
• Access to a car

You must be over 18 to carry out this role.

COMMITMENT REQUIRED

Prison volunteers generally run classes for two hours every 2 weeks.

With travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set 
 aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.

We hope that most prison-based volunteers will be able to commit themselves to working with us for at least a year or two as this allows time for group participants to complete qualifications and develop their skills to a high standard.

LOCATION

Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependant on where groups are based.

SUPERVISION AND COMMUNICATION

Each group has a lead volunteer who reports to the Volunteer & Programmes Manager at the Fine Cell Work office however we do encourage regular communication between the programmes team and all volunteers.

We also have regular reflective practice sessions for prison volunteers which take place on Zoom every other month.

BENEFITS

Fine Cell Work will cover your travel costs and out-of-pocket expenses related to posting kits to the office. We can also pay out-of-pocket expenses for purchasing materials and other items, but you must agree this in advance with the Production team at Head Office.

We provide induction training before you start volunteering in prison, and training thereafter at intervals throughout the year.

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.

Make a real difference to children in Wales with a life-shortening condition by becoming a Fundraising Volunteer today!

As a Fundraising Volunteer you’ll assist with fundraising events and collections throughout the year, as and when you can.

You’ll engage with members of the public and use your knowledge of your local area to promote the work of Ty Hafan.

By becoming a fundraising volunteer, you'll help us raise essential funds for children with life-shortening conditions and their families. 

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16 (If under 18 you will be required to provide parental permission)

Location: Throughout South/West Wales

Commitment: Flexible

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees. A DBS check may be required for roles with more responsibility.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments. Please let us know if you require any adjustments during the informal chat for this role.

Activities include:

• Take part in our bucket collections throughout the year in town/city centres, supermarkets, shopping centres and other venues. You'll be added to our mailing list and receive occasional emails throughout the year with information about upcoming volunteering opportunities. You can then register your interest when you see something that appeals to you

• Use your knowledge of your local area to place collection tins in your community, visiting the premises on a regular basis and count and bank the money on our behalf

• You will promote Ty Hafan fundraising events and campaigns in your community (for example Tea for Ty Hafan) and encourage others to register to hold their own tea party

•You will encourage local community groups and organisations to support and fundraise for Ty Hafan, using your existing networks and knowledge of your community

• You will work closely with the Regional Fundraiser to maximise all opportunities within your area

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not a legally binding one or an employment contract.

Providing care and support is something we are only able to do because of the kindness and commitment of our wonderful staff, supporters and volunteers.

No one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it. St John Ambulance teaches people first aid so they can be the difference between life and death, and you can help us do this.

As Unit Manager you will be responsible for the overall management of your St John Ambulance Youth unit. You will do this by leading weekly meetings, organising other youth development activities and actively participating in the recruitment, training and retention of the young people and volunteers in your unit. You will ensure that they have a positive and rewarding experience in St John Ambulance, by equipping them with the necessary skills to fulfil our vision; ‘Everyone who needs it should receive first aid from those around them. No one should suffer for the lack of trained first aiders.’

This role is ideal for someone who has some management experience and wants to enhance their skills while doing invaluable work. This role is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitations Offenders Act.

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

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 15/04/2025

Thursday Cadet meeting night 1800-2100hrs (This includes set up and packing away time). The successful candidate will assume line management responsibilities over the Young People and adult volunteers within the Unit. Candidate will also have additional responsibilities for the planning and running of the Unit, which will require additional commitment of Unit meeting nights.

Closing date for these opportunities is: Monday 23rd June 2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

We are appealing for a Volunteer to help at our Lyde Green Stroke Support Group weekly. 

Every year 950 people in Bristol and South Glos will experience a stroke: people of all ages…and from all backgrounds. Bristol After Stroke is the local charity that helps those people get their lives back on track – though our groups, activities, mentoring, counselling and so much more.

Our volunteers do a variety of things each week from helping with the room set up, serving hot drinks and supporting the activities that are planned eg music, poetry or seated exercise sessions like Yoga or Zumba. The most important part of the role of the volunteer though is to talk to group members, encourage them to get involved and generally help to promote a supportive, happy atmosphere that contributes to a sense of wellbeing.

Why we need your help:

- Our Volunteers provide help and support to our Group Leaders and group members at our weekly stroke support groups.

- Our groups provide an opportunity for anyone who has been affected by stroke to meet others affected by stroke and make new friends, take part in stimulating and enjoyable activities which will support rehabilitation.

Role Summary:

• Provide support for group activities, exercises, and games.

• Support the Group Leader with the planning of Group Activities.

• Provide general support to Group Leader and Group Members when needed.

• Make and serve refreshments.

• Give added enthusiasm and encouragement to our members in taking part in any physical activities or exercises that may be offered during the session.

• Talk to group members, encourage them to get involved and generally help to promote a supportive, happy atmosphere that contributes to a sense of wellbeing.

• Help at the group for its full duration each week including setting up and clearing away of the room.

Skills and Experience:

• Be patient, understanding and have a responsible attitude.

• Know about or be willing to learn about undertaking risk assessments.

• Be comfortable working as part of a team.

• Know about or be willing to learn about stroke and its impact on people.

• Recognise the importance of confidentiality and show this in practice

• Be emotionally resilient

What we can offer you:

• An induction and support and supervision in the role.

• You will be supported in your role by the Group Leader and other appropriate members of staff as needed.

• Bristol After Stroke Newsletters; keeping you up to date on charity news and other volunteer opportunities.

• You will have the opportunity to meet with other Bristol After Stroke volunteers. 

What we ask of you:
 

• To obtain 2 references from people who are not related to you.

• To keep to all the charity’s policies, values and guidelines.

• To complete an induction and any necessary training for the role.

The Community Support/Reach Out volunteer will be volunteering remotely, providing online support and guidance to visitors of The Forward Trust Website communicating in real time using web chat.

The Reach Out Service sits within our Recovery Support Department and is aimed at offering friendly and confidential listening support and assistance. The role involves utilising your communication skills to establish rapport with individuals seeking drug and alcohol help and or to talk about their mental health or other varied life challenges. You will be supporting people who are seeking help for drugs and alcohol help for themselves or from family members concerned for their loved one.
Training is provided to all volunteers to support them with their volunteering role and enable them to further their skills and experience with our client group.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Time Commitment: We recommend that volunteers can commit to an average of 3 hours online per week for a minimum period of six months.

Service Delivery

- Be available for the duration of the shift to answer web-chat/calls as they happen.
- Engage with individuals in a friendly and empathetic manner.
- Gain an understanding of the individual needs and sign post to appropriate organisations for further support or explore specialist services as required.
- Link individuals into Forward Trusts community drug and alcohol services when required and link individuals into drug and alcohol help in other geographical areas where Forward Trust does not have a service.
- Report any Safeguarding concerns to shift supervisor and follow safeguarding procedures as appropriate.
- Respond to offline messages at the beginning of each shift.
- Debrief with and ask for support and guidance from Reach Out Coordinator regarding any concerns arising from web chat conversations.
- Provide handover to supervisor and/or next volunteers covering the shift prior to logging off
- To book shifts in a timely fashion and inform the Reach Out Coordinator of any need to cancel a shift at the earliest opportunity.
- Engage with support and supervision offered by placement supervisor.

CHECKS REQUIRED FOR THE ROLE

- 2 References (this may be from a keyworker, volunteer supervisor, tutor or sponsor if you are not able to provide a work reference)
- Enhanced DBS Check

 Perks and Benefits
TRAINING & INDUCTION

Induction training will be provided to the volunteer and will include the following E-Learning (Data Protection/GDPR/PECR, Safeguarding – Knowledge and Health & Safety – Knowledge).

A full induction to your team including placement specific policies and procedures. Additional volunteer training will be discussed and offered according to the need of the volunteer in placement.

 Skills You'll Need
Below is a list of the qualities that we are looking for from volunteers:

- If in recovery, to be 12 months abstinence from all mood altering substances.
- Must be over 18 years of age.
- Ability to use computers and IT equipment.
- To have good verbal and written communication skills.
- To have a clear understanding and maintain a high degree of confidentiality.
- To have a clear understanding of how to set and maintain boundaries.
- To have the ability to reflect and receive feedback.
- To be reliable, flexible and committed.
- To treat individuals with respect and dignity.
- To have the ability to follow instructions.
- To be committed to own learning and development.

Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity enables families who have a child with a life threatening  or terminal illness to make the most of time together, providing expert, practical and emotional support, where they need it for as long as it is needed.

As a Volunteer Driver, you will help to give additional support to the families we work with by  providing safe, comfortable and reliable transport, enabling them to travel safely to healthcare appointments, school and to other activities.

Your role may include:

• Providing transport for families to and from home or hospital appointments, according to their specific needs
• Providing transport to enable families to attend Rainbow Trust support groups
• Transporting siblings to and from trips or activities at school orwith other providers, as and when required

What we’re looking for:

• A confident, calm and patient driver
• Experience of interacting with people from a wide variety of backgrounds
• Experience of interacting with children and young people
• An ability to empathise with families in stressful circumstances
• Non-judgemental, warm, friendly and with a sense of humour
• A commitment to following our policies regarding safeguarding, professional boundaries and confidentiality
• A full driving licence held for a minimum of 2 years, and use of your own vehicle is required for this role
• All ages from 21 onwards are welcome

Your commitment:

• We ask that you are available to volunteer regularly. Most of our drivers support us flexibly on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on family need
• Times can vary between 8am - 6pm, Monday – Friday, depending on appointment times, but there is flexibility depending on the needs of the family and your availability
• To enable you to get the most out of your volunteer role, we are looking for volunteers who are available for the next 12 months

Training and Support

• A dedicated member of Rainbow Trust staff will guide and support you in your work 
• You will receive a full induction to the charity and a programme of training relevant to your role, to help you get the most from your time with us
• Training will cover areas such as safeguarding, active listening skills, bereavement, health and safety, confidentiality and GDPR
• Further modules will be available for you if you would like to develop your knowledge
• All care volunteers will receive regular one to one support and more formal supervision sessions

Why choose Rainbow Trust?

• We are a Sunday Times Top 100 Not-for-Profit organisation and a leading charity for children and young people
• Professional training and opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge
• The enjoyment of becoming part of our friendly and welcoming team, knowing you are making a valuable contribution to the lives of the families we support
• A calendar of social events for volunteers, including Christmas events and celebrations for Volunteers’ Week
• We will reimburse your out-of-pocket travel expenses

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.

We are BrightPIP, and we’re looking for our next Trustee.

Do you share our view that every baby deserves to grow up feeling safe, healthy, and loved? Do you understand how charities work? Are you good at leading small teams? 

We are now looking for an additional trustee to help drive the charity forward so it can help more babies and families. 

We would be interested to hear from people who have skills in the following areas to support our organisational growth and development: fundraising, marketing and communications or clinical delivery.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Offer expertise in your specialist area of fundraising, marketing and communications or clinical delivery.
• Support trustees to get involved in the areas where they can best contribute; and help recruit new trustees to fill skills gaps. 
• Help us to adopt best practice governance for a charity of our size and ambition.
• Act as a sounding board and critical friend for the Clinical Director.
• Represent the charity at occasional external meetings and events.
• Ensure timely decision making in between meetings where needed.

Skills and experience

We are looking for someone with experience of being a charity trustee who knows the charity sector.

You could enjoy this role and make a big difference to our charity if you have:

• Experience of supporting a small organisation in your area of expertise
• Good communication and leadership skills
• Analytical and evaluation skills, demonstrating good judgement
• Competent use of IT skills
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An interest in taking a small organisation to the next stage 
• A belief that all children deserve the best possible start in life

By joining our board, you will have the chance to:

· Make a positive difference to the life chances of local children.

· Take a small, effective charity to the next stage of its development.

· Expand your networks, meet new people and be part of a positive, committed team. 

There are plenty of training and development opportunities you may wish to take advantage of through Community Works, the Association of Charity Chairs, ACEVO and local professional firms.

Uttlesford Foodbank are seeking someone with fundraising and grant applications experience at board level, ensuring that the Board of Trustees are aware of and kept up to date with any fundraising or grant developments and build a sound fundraising strategy as we move forward. This role involves leading on fundraising affairs for the food bank and ensuring that they are conducted within good practice frameworks.

Responsibilities

As a trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of the food bank and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, is compliant with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable. It is also the responsibility of the treasurer to work in partnership with the chairperson and other trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the organisation.

Key tasks

Trustee (Fund Raising & Grants Lead) Responsibilities:

• to work alongside the director, treasurer 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 charity’s vision and objectives
• To lead on the organisation of local fund-raising opportunities to support the running of the charity, including incorporating national Trussell fund raising 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 trustee meetings or any other communication, any relevant information and/or developments regarding fund raising or grant applications.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support, and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk, and not over-commit the charity
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate to ensure that key risks are identified, monitored, and controlled appropriately
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, and progress is evaluated
• to review and approve financial statements
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

About you

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Uttlesford Foodbank
• a knowledge, ability and passion for fundraising and grant application writing
• an ability to lead on any fundraising and grants matters in a supportive and confident manner
• A knowledge and passion for your local community
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board
• Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity
• Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively
• Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop

Benefits of volunteering

• feeling you are making a difference whilst volunteering with us
• meeting new people and being part of a motivated team who share a passion to eradicate poverty in our community
• building a movement of change with our volunteers, staff, and the people who use our food bank
• bringing our staff, volunteers, and trustees together to achieve our vision
• gaining a greater insight and understanding of local agencies and partnerships

Impact of your role

By leading on fund raising and grants matters for the food bank, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Uttlesford Foodbank.

Support

A full trustee induction is in place to support the prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary action trustee training.

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

What is a Branch Chair?

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

Why do we need you?

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

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

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

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

What would you be doing?

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

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

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

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

What training and support would you receive?

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

What are we looking for?

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

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No