Training volunteer roles

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.Campaigning is vital to a healthy society. We help campaigners to thrive. In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.

The Chair will hold the Board and staff team to account for SMK’s mission and vision, provide inclusive leadership to the Board and ensure that Board members fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of SMK. The Chair will line manage and support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the Chief Executive and staff team to achieve agreed objectives. They may also be asked to act as an ambassador and a public face of SMK in partnership with the Chief Executive and the Board.

For further information, see our website and the recruitment pack. 

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

What is an Administration Coordinator?

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

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

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

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

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

What would you be doing?

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

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

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

Do you have a flair for communication and a desire to help us reach more people?

As a Marketing & Communications Assistant, you will work closely with the Project Leader to spread the word about our amazing Akioke Karaoke Confidence Club. You'll help us promote the club to potential members, volunteers, and the wider community, ensuring its success and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Content Creation: Assist the Project Leader draft engaging text for promotional materials (flyers, social media posts, website content).
• Social Media Support: Help schedule and post content on relevant social media platforms (e.g., Facebook groups, local community pages).
• Community Outreach: Identify local community groups, centres, schools, and organisations that could benefit from our club, and assist with distributing promotional materials.
• Information Gathering: Research relevant online forums, notice boards, and events where we can promote the club.
• Feedback Collection: Assist in gathering testimonials or feedback from members (with appropriate consent) to use in promotional efforts.
• Administrative Support: Help organise and maintain marketing materials and contact lists.

We're Looking For Someone Who Is:

• Creative and has a good eye for engaging content.
• Organised and attentive to detail.
• Familiar with social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram).
• Able to communicate clearly and concisely in writing.
• Proactive and able to take initiative with guidance.
• Reliable and able to commit to agreed-upon tasks.
• Passionate about the club's mission and helping us reach new audiences.
• Previous experience in marketing, communications, or social media is a bonus but not essential – a willingness to learn is most important!

Time Commitment: Flexible, approximately 2-4 hours per week, with tasks that can often be completed remotely or during mutually agreed-upon times, in collaboration with the Project Leader.

Do you enjoy walking, meeting others and having a good chat? If so, we have the perfect volunteering role for you?

Facilitating a weekly walking group, you will contribute to a timetable to support people to reduce isolation, improve their physical activity, self-care and create a community for them to come together to build connections and friendships.

Join our team and inspire others to exercise through a weekly walk. You will create an opportunity for people to support each other, provide that additional boost to exercise and go for a walk even when they may not be feeling the motivation. 

What you will be doing

• Coordinate and facilitate weekly walks in local parks to the service alongside other volunteers
• Meet with the walking group weekly
• Hold conversations with people attending the group, checking in on their wellbeing and providing a listening ear/friendly face
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback, and report any concerns to the staff team
• Ability to provide a supportive, and inclusive atmosphere that encourages participation

The skills you need

• Inspire and motivate people to attend the walking group
• Ability to identify, manage any possible risks that may arise during the walking group. Training will be provided
• Willing and able to go on a weekly walk lasting approximately 60-90 minutes
• Good communication skills
• Calm and patient approach

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun

Could you be a star baker, master chef or perhaps you simply enjoy baking or cooking! We are recruiting for a volunteer to join our team supporting individuals to learn new recipes together as a group.

Baking and cooking helps to relax, get creative and indulge in our senses. Often, it can spark nostalgia and helps us to recreate positive experiences or memories. Inspire and motivate people in our services to do something that brings joy, an opportunity to learn new skills whilst connecting with others over sharing baked goods and delicious meals.

What you will be doing

• Research and plan new recipes for cooking/baking sessions in collaboration with the group each week
• Encourage individuals to participate in the sessions and delegate cooking tasks
• Support individuals to shop for ingredients needed for the session
• Support individuals each week in setting up for the sessions and tidying away afterwards
• Encourage individuals to participate in all aspects of the planning and attendance
• Keep a record of attendees, provide feedback and report any concerns to the staff team

The skills you need

• Food Safety Certificate/knowledge or willingness to complete relevant training
• Passion and knowledge of healthy eating and cooking
• Ability to engage, encourage and motivate individuals to participate in sessions
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Our Cat welfare team leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers. They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed. This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Volunteering alongside colleagues including the branch coordinator/team leader, Cat Welfare team, branch development manager and Vet team to ensure that cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied
• Support fosterers to follow cat welfare policies and procedures
• Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
• Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified systems
• Attending relevant volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
• With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers
• Represent the branch at relevant meetings
• Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
• Collaborating with the cat adoption team leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with our policies and procedures

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

What is an Administration Coordinator?

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

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

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

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

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

What would you be doing?

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

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

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

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

About Roots Academy. 

Roots Academy’s Vision.

A generation of young Muslims who embody and promote a God-centred way of life.

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries. Our Mission is to deliver a structured and transformative education in the Essentials of Islam in a way that lowers barriers to access, develops a deep certainty, and inspires action.

Why Does Roots Academy Exist?

Crisis of Faith: 1 in 4 young Muslims are leaving the religion due to various factors, primarily the pervasive anti-religious content and temptations they encounter online and offline. 

Roots Academy exists to bridge this gap by providing a structured and transformative Islamic education that speaks directly to the needs and challenges of young Muslims today, delivered in an engaging and accessible form that removes barriers to access and provokes thought and action.

Role Summary.

We are seeking a dedicated Technical Support Specialist to serve as the first point of contact for our application users, including students, instructors, and administrators. This role involves resolving technical issues, supporting user onboarding, and developing helpful resources and documentation. You will collaborate with our digital and product teams to ensure a seamless and stable user experience.

Key tasks

• Serve as the primary point of contact for application users, addressing technical issues and inquiries across various channels including email, chat, and support ticketing systems.

• Diagnose and resolve user interface (UI) issues specifically related to the student application.

• Develop and maintain comprehensive documentation of frequently asked questions and common technical issues to enhance self-service options and improve overall support efficiency.

• Effectively escalate complex or unresolved technical problems to the digital team.

• Provide support for new users onboarding onto instructor and administrator portals, including user training sessions and the creation of helpful support materials like how-to guides and instructional videos.

• Collaborate closely with the product development team to thoroughly test new features and updates prior to their public release, ensuring stability and user-friendliness.

What we’re looking for

• Demonstrated commitment to Roots Academy’s mission and eagerness to contribute.

• Proven experience in a technical support, help desk, or similar client-facing role, preferably within a software or education technology environment.

• Strong problem-solving abilities with a methodical approach to diagnosing and resolving technical issues, particularly related to user interfaces.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain technical concepts clearly and empathetically to non-technical users.

• Familiarity with support ticketing systems and knowledge base management.

• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.

• A proactive attitude towards identifying areas for improvement in support processes and user experience.

• Experience in creating user-friendly documentation, training materials, or video tutorials is desirable.

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers across the UK, Ireland, Canada, US, UAE and Australia.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Professional development and practical experience in design and digital marketing.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah (personal & spiritual development) sessions to develop your deen.

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy. 

SANE is a UK-wide mental health charity working to improve the quality of life of anyone affected by mental illness. It aims to raise awareness and understanding of all mental health conditions; fight to improve frontline mental health services for individuals and carers; provide support, information and guidance through its helpline, email and text support and Online Forum; and promote and host research into causes, treatments and therapies.

About the role:

We are now looking for people interested in providing compassionate support to those affected by mental health problems, particularly people with severe mental illness, and carers, families and friends. As a volunteer, you will provide support on-site, in our Islington offices, by telephone. You will also form a close team with our other skilled volunteers and shift leads.

Volunteering can help improve mental well-being, increase physical activity, enhance social bonds and bring meaning to people's lives. It is an excellent way of putting a structure on your free time and keeping your brain active. When you volunteer, you feel useful to and valued by your community.

SANEline Volunteers provide support to callers with a wide range of mental health problems via our confidential crisis line, which is open from 4-10pm, 365 days a year.

Working on SANEline requires empathy and resilience, and we take pride in providing a nurturing environment and unwavering support to our team.

About you:

- You are empathetic, highly compassionate and genuinely interested in supporting people from all walks of life

- You are a good listener and a warm and confident communicator

- You have a few hours to spare each week and want to use that time to make a difference to help vulnerable people

- You can commit to one 4-hour shift per week, including one weekend shift per month

- You are looking for a way to continue using skills built up over your working life or a route to learn and explore new avenues previously blocked by the demands of your career or job.

- You can work collaboratively with our team and volunteers to ensure delivery of a high-quality service on SANEline

- No previous helpline or mental health experience is required, just a sincere desire to help others

Altogether, we are looking for warm, compassionate, understanding and committed people who are good communicators to join our services team as a volunteer.
You don't need to be a mental health expert: empathy and commitment matter more than academic qualifications or experience, and we’re keen to hear from people of all ages and walks of life.

We particularly encourage applications from retirees, empty nesters, or people changing careers and wanting to develop new skills. 

This summer, we will run two drop-in sessions for you to find out more about SANE and ask any questions you may have about volunteering with us. 

What can you expect?

To work within SANE's framework, including regular check-ins and debriefs to support you and help refine your newly acquired skills.

To receive the full SANEline training and further online training opportunities within specific areas.

To become part of an established and diverse team.

To gain exposure to a wide range of mental health problems.

To gain valuable practical experience in providing emotional support to vulnerable people.

A culture where team members support and learn from each other.

A warm, supportive and encouraging environment.

To apply: Please click on "Apply via Website" and fill in the form to register your interest. We will then get in touch and let you know about the following steps. 

As an Administrative Support Volunteer, you will play an essential role in the team, complimenting the work of the Manchester Hub and allowing Shelter clients to receive the support that they need. The opportunity will allow you to make a difference in your local community as well as gaining hands-on experience in one of the UK's leading housing charities. 

Suggested Involvement: e.g. A suggested minimum commitment of one day per week for six months

Availability: e.g. This volunteering opportunity will take place within our working hours, Monday-Friday, 9:00-17:00 

Location: Manchester Hub, Unit 3, Great North Tower, 5 Watson St, Manchester M3 4EE 

Supervised by: Hub Administrator 

Why get involved with Shelter? 

Shelter helps millions of people every year struggling with bad housing or homelessness through our advice, support and legal services. And we campaign to make sure that, one day, no one will have to turn to us for help. We're here so no one has to fight bad housing or homelessness on their own.

Shelter volunteers are involved in our head office, services, shops, campaigns, events and our legal teams, and they all contribute their valuable time, skills and experience. We simply couldn’t achieve our goals without them. 

Main tasks 

• General administrative tasks (photocopying, scanning, and minute taking) 

• Covering reception and meeting and greeting people who are dropping into the office on an ad hoc basis 

• Updating local resource documents, such as local authority information sheets

• Inputting information on to our case management system 

• Supporting the team with resources for delivery of training 

Skills and experience required 

• Previous administrative experience or an interest in gaining administrative skills 

• An interest in social welfare e.g. housing, welfare benefits, debt. 

• Ability to manage your own time and task load 

• Confident and professional telephone manner 

• Good communication skills (this may be through experience of working with the public). 

• Confident IT skills including Microsoft Office programmes. 

• The ability to work as part of a team and value others 

• Willingness to follow Shelter’s policies including Volunteering, Health & Safety, Equality & Diversity, Confidentiality and Data Protection 

Induction, learning and development 

To enable you to take part in this opportunity, Shelter will: 

• Provide you with a Volunteer Handbook and all Policies & Procedures 

• Provide e-learning including Equality & Diversity, Health & Safety, Data Protection, Environmental Awareness and Safeguarding 

• Provide access to other appropriate Shelter training 

• Provide a local induction relevant to your role 

• Pay ‘out of pocket’ expenses in line with Shelter’s Volunteer Expenses Policy 

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter 

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness 

• Gain valuable work experience 

• Be part of a great team 

• Build your confidence and develop transferrable skills 

• Enhances your CV 

Next steps 

Please complete an online application for this role. After you have applied, we will invite successful candidates to an informal interview to discuss the role further. 

Please note, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us. It may limit the different ways that you can get involved, but please contact us if you require more information. 

This is a voluntary position that supports the work of our services and is not replacing the work of a paid member of staff. This role profile does not form part of any contract of employment.  

About Crisis

Crisis is the national charity for people experiencing homelessness. We believe everyone should have somewhere safe and warm to call home and are committed to ending homelessness. Every year we work side by side with thousands of people from all sections of our communities to help them rebuild their lives and leave homelessness behind for good.

You will contribute to ending homelessness by...

Helping us better respond to the needs of the people accessing our services. You know your community better than we do - by identifying and creating connections with a network of Eritrean organisations and community groups, such as churches and support groups, we’ll be better able to support Eritrean people who are experiencing homelessness or who are at imminent risk of becoming homeless.

Timings

Flexible, but approx. 7 hours per week – this may include evenings and/or weekends depending on the availability of community groups/organisations.

Location

Skylight London, 50 Commercial St, London E1 6LT and remote/community-based .

Responsible to

Eritrean Community Connection Volunteer Supervisor.

Core tasks

• With the Volunteer Supervisor, hold focus groups with Crisis members to identify potential contacts within Eritrean community groups and increase our knowledge and cultural awareness of the Eritrean community
• Proactively source and arrange meetings with different Eritrean community groups to:

1. Help link these organisations with Crisis so that information can be shared about the realities of homelessness in London and the work of Crisis Skylight
2. Gain valuable knowledge about cultural sensitivities so that we can improve staff awareness and better support people from the Eritrean community

Who we are looking for

To be successful in this role we’re looking for someone who:

• Is fluent in English and Tigrinya and/or Amharic and can translate and interpret between them
• Is knowledgeable about the culture and practices in the countries where Tigrinya/ Amharic are spoken
• Has the confidence and motivation to source opportunities to link with Eritrean organisations and community groups and represent Crisis independently
• Has excellent communication skills and is confident networking and talking to new people
• Has good IT skills with the ability to use email and the internet proficiently
• Is organised and reliable, non-judgemental, patient and friendly
• Is passionate about ending and preventing homelessness for people from the Eritrean community
• Understands the importance of adhering to policies and processes, including confidentiality, safeguarding, data protection and professional boundaries
• Is able to commit to the role for 6 months

What you will gain

Engaging your community with a cause you are passionate about is an incredibly rewarding experience. It is a good way to affect change at a local level, improve services and inspire others to consider how they too can take action to end homelessness.

• This is a new volunteering role, which you have the unique opportunity to help develop
• Opportunities to learn about the causes and effects of homelessness and how to engage others in the conversation
• Networking experience for a national organisation including public speaking and relationship management
• The opportunity to share your existing or develop new skills in a friendly and supportive environment
• Regular meetings to discuss how your volunteering is going and what other opportunities and training may be available to you
• Being part of a wide network of staff, volunteers and supporters all working together to end homelessness
• A reference for volunteering at a national organisation

Additional information

• Following a successful interview and references, completion of essential e-learning and training is required before starting the role
• A Crisis IT account will be issued for the role and must be used for all communications and record keeping connected with the role
• Out of pocket travel expenses and meal allowance will be reimbursed in line with our expenses policy
• We encourage people from all backgrounds to apply and particularly welcome Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic, LGBTQ+, disabled and male applicants as well as those with lived experience of homelessness as these are currently under-represented groups in our volunteer pool

Join the Board of MEAM as a Trustee and help drive systemic change for people facing multiple disadvantge.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Wednesday 6th August 2025.

Location: National/Virtual

Time commitment: c.6 days per year

About MEAM

Making Every Adult Matter (MEAM) is the national charity dedicated to transforming services and systems for people facing multiple disadvantage, including homelessness, mental ill health, substance use, and contact with the criminal justice system. We work with local areas, policymakers, and people with lived experience to drive meaningful, lasting change.

Established in 2009 as a coalition of Clinks, Collective Voice, Homeless Link, and Mind, MEAM collaborates with over 50 local areas across England to improve responses and change lives for people experiencing multiple disadvantage.

We offer hands-on support, consultancy, and training to local cross-sector partnerships, helping them design and deliver better-coordinated services. Central to MEAM’s work is the MEAM Approach, a framework that guides local areas in creating sustainable, systemic change through principles such as partnership, co-production, and flexible service responses. By working alongside practitioners, policymakers, and people with lived experience, MEAM strives to address the root causes of multiple disadvantage and promotes equitable access to support services.

In January 2025, MEAM transitioned from its coalition structure to operate as an independent charity, with our founding partners continuing to serve on the board, reinforcing our collective commitment to collaborative and intersectional approaches in tackling complex social challenges.

About the roles

As a Trustee on the board of MEAM, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the charity through the next phase of growth and development.

Working closely with the Chair and the rest of the board, you will provide strategic leadership, ensuring MEAM continues to drive systemic change for people facing multiple disadvantage.

This is an exciting opportunity to shape the direction of a national organisation dedicated to improving services, systems and policies at both local and national levels.

As a Trustee, you will be instrumental in strengthening MEAM’s long-term sustainability and expanding our reach. Your leadership will help our team drive systemic change, influence national policy, and create more equitable, trauma-informed systems.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking individuals who can complement the current board by bringing a range of skills and experience. In particular, we are keen to hear from individuals whose skills and experience relate to one or more of the following areas:

• Lived experience of multiple disadvantage (with an interest in using this expertise alongside other skills to support and inform change)
• Public sector and commissioning expertise (for example, experience in local or national government, housing, homelessness, health, public health, mental health, substance misuse, domestic violence or criminal justice)
• Commercial expertise in a social context (for example, experience in social or public sector consultancy and training, social enterprise or mission-driven business)

All candidates should have a knowledge of one or more sectors related to our work, share our passion of working for, and with, people experiencing multiple disadvantage, and have knowledge of our systemic and intersectional approach.

MEAM values and prioritises different perspectives and all lived experiences, and as such we welcome applications from all under-represented groups, people with experience of multiple disadvantage and people with convictions.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Wednesday 6th August 2025.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.