Training volunteer roles

About the Role

From 2020 to 2021 we developed and delivered a full-time course that allowed twenty students to progress from absolute beginners to industry-ready front-end software developers, and they are now all working in US/European tech teams remotely from Madagascar.

Our challenge now is to scale our organisation, bringing opportunities to hundreds, moving to thousands of students. An important part of this will be diversifying our tech stack to train both front-end and back-end developers. Your mission as our Full Stack Course Designer is to build this course, from the ground up, into a highly scalable online-style programme.

Your responsibilities include:

• Conducting preliminary research to determine which languages and technologies should be included in the course. 
• Finding existing online material and incorporating useful material into the course
• Creating engaging video lectures, learning activities and course content
• Collaborate with past Onja lecturers, incorporating their specific experience into your course design.

• Deciding on the criteria used to assess students’ performance and develop assessments.
• As we are a startup social enterprise there will likely be opportunities to wear many hats, contributing to other parts of the organisation. 

Requirements

• Twelve month commitment (this ensures sufficient time to make a truly meaningful impact) with potential to renew/extend.

• At least one year professional Fullstack experience
• Preferably three or more years of Fullstack experience however a willingness to learn and grow in the role is most important to us.
• An interest in teaching and course design. 

This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values.  We are looking for a new Chair for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation. 

Contract: Volunteer

Hours: Up to 4 hours per month

Could you befriend and support a child in care?

We are looking for volunteers for our Independent Visitors Project in Stockport!

About the Role

Independent Visitors are volunteers who befriend and spend time with a child or young person within Local Authority care. Our volunteers enjoy the challenge of building a lasting friendship and the children benefit greatly from a consistent, fun relationship with someone outside the care system.

This is a long-term, one to one commitment. Full training and on-going support will be given, and out of pocket expenses paid for mileage and activities.

About Coram

Coram is committed to improving the lives of the UK’s most vulnerable children and young people.

We support children and young people from birth to independence, creating a change that lasts a lifetime.

Coram is the UK’s oldest children’s charity founded by Thomas Coram in London helping vulnerable children and young people since 1739. Today, the Coram group helps more than one million children, young people, families and professionals every year by providing access to the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.

Coram Voice

Coram Voice is the leading specialist provider of advocacy and children’s rights services for children and young people in and on the edge of care. We support some of the most vulnerable children and young people in society, giving voice to the voiceless and reaching out to those who have missed out on the support they need. Join us as we work to transform the lives of children and young people by supporting them to uphold their rights of to actively participate in shaping their lives.

Coram Voice was established in 1975 and in 2013 joined the Coram group of charities which develops, delivers and promotes best practice in the support of children and young people. Coram’s vision is that every child has the best possible chance in life.

We have around 60 employed staff, 100 self-employed advocates and independent persons, and 70 volunteers deliver services to children and agencies throughout the country. Together they provide Coram Voice with a high degree of specialist expertise in the fields of advocacy, children’s rights, mental health, complaints, secure accommodation and experience of working with children in care, in custody, in need and those who have recently left care.

Every day we make a positive difference in the lives of children and young people in and on the edge of care across the UK. Our advocacy teams are based Nationwide and are made of up of experienced community advocates who work alongside our specialist advocates (who focus on direct work, supporting and developing good practice with young people who are homeless, 16+, or have a disability).

To immediately apply to become an Independent Visitor, please click on the ‘apply’ button below to complete the application form.

Please note this is a rolling recruitment, so please make your application now and we will arrange interviews with prospective candidates as soon as possible.

Please mark any questions as N/A if they seem irrelevant to the Independent Visitor role.

Coram Voice is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sections of the community. We actively encourage applicants from Asian, African, Caribbean and other minority ethnic backgrounds to join our teams. Whilst we have a diverse team we recognise we are a predominantly white workforce and are genuinely committed to encouraging candidates from diverse communities in order to improve the services to the children and families we help.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and where appropriate will require the successful applicant to undertake a check from the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered Charity No.312278.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

WHO WE ARE
We are a Kingston-based social enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion. Encouraging different cultures to unite enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with cultural, social and sports organisation's, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. Our findings are supported by educational opportunities designed to broaden perspectives.

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Discover our mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Your journey with purpose begins here

Join us in creating positive change!

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Join our dynamic team as a Volunteer HR Recruiter and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our non-profit Organisation. As a key member of our Human Resources team, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring the acquisition of talented individuals passionate about our mission. Your expertise will contribute to building a dedicated and skilled workforce, enabling us to impact the community positively. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilise your HR recruitment skills for a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector.

Collaborate with hiring managers to identify hiring needs and implement effective sourcing strategies,
Interview and Selection
Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline.
Conduct initial screening interviews to effectively evaluate the candidates’ skill set and cultural fit while providing an engaging experience.
Foster positive relationships with candidates, keeping them informed about the status of their applications.
Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date candidate records and recruitment metrics.

 REQUIRED SKILLS:

Proven experience as an HR Recruiter or in a similar role
Familiarity with job boards and professional social platforms
Strong understanding of recruitment processes and employment laws
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Office based skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Strong marketing and negotiation skills
Outstanding teamwork skills and ability to create relationships at all levels, showing respect to different types of people.
Professionalism and Confidentiality

WHAT WE OFFER:

Opportunity for professional growth and development in Recruitment and other HR departments depending on your knowledge and learning aptitude.
A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.
Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Contract length: 16 weeks

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime

Work Location: Remote

We’re looking for a volunteer researcher to help us collect and analyse data, submit Freedom of Information (FOI) requests, and use open-source tools to find new information. As a key member of our editorial team, you will have the chance to contribute to our investigations and feature articles.

Key information

Contract: Voluntary

Hours: Two to seven hours per week (part-time, flexible)

Location: Remote, with the option to work from our office: Two Queens, 2 Queen Street, Leicester LE1 1QW

Applications closing date: Thursday 29 May, 4pm

Any questions? If you have any questions please email info (at) leicester.news

We particularly encourage applications from women, people of colour, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and people from working-class backgrounds.

Role responsibilities

• Work with the editorial team to identify and prioritise investigative topics.
• Conduct thorough background research and gather relevant data to support investigations and features.
• Participate in weekly editorial meetings to discuss research progress, share findings, and contribute to brainstorming sessions for future articles and special projects.
• Engage with external experts, sources, and community members to gather diverse perspectives and enrich the Gazette's coverage.
• Stay updated on industry trends, journalistic standards, and best practices to continuously improve the quality and relevance of the Gazette's content.
• Support the editorial team in the fact-checking process by verifying information and providing constructive feedback on submitted articles.
• Contribute to the general strategic development of the Leicester Gazette as a worker member.

About you

Essential

• Proven ability to conduct thorough research, fact-checking, and data analysis.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex information clearly.

Desirable

• Experience in a newsroom or journalistic environment.
• Experience in or enthusiasm for democratic and inclusive ways of working.

What we offer

Although you'll join us as a volunteer, there are many benefits to being part of our team:

• Remote working
• Office space
• Mentorship
• Training opportunities
• Free resources and tools
• Team socials
• Worker membership

… and more!

About the Leicester Gazette

The Leicester Gazette is a local, independent newspaper, free to access for all online and soon in print.

We are a member-funded, community-owned news outlet about Leicestershire. We're building on a movement of co-operative media pioneered by West Highlands Free Press, the Bristol Cable, Norwich Radical, Manchester Meteor, the Ferret, and Exeter Observer.

Our mission is to hold those in power accountable, push for change, and amplify the voices of marginalised communities while finding real solutions to the challenges we face.

We publish investigations, news features and human interest stories that go beyond the headlines. Our journalism is fact-based and rigorous, and we prize good writing over clickbait and sensationalism.

Local journalism has been devastated in recent years, with thousands of reporters laid off and newsrooms being stripped of their worth, leaving communities plagued by a jungle of ads and stories that have nothing to do with local issues. The Leicester Gazette is our revolution against a broken industry.

Anti-oppression and liberation

We are committed to creating a progressive, supportive workplace and community. We’d like the way we work to actively challenge the power structures that reproduce inequality and injustice, and consciously choose to work in ways that are liberatory, or anti-oppressive.

We embrace and value the lived experiences of women, people of colour, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and people from working-class backgrounds.

Are you a spreadsheet whizz? Do you have a good understanding of financial procedures and accounting practices? If so, please apply to be our next trustee. It’s an exciting time to join us. We registered as a charity in 2023 and are now really focussing on building our fundraising profile and developing our next 3-year strategy.

Overall:

Be committed to the organisation and its work, to act with integrity and selflessness, and to be open, honest and accountable at all times. To understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. Be willing to devote the necessary time and efforts to duties as a trustee and as a member of the organisation.

Duties & Tasks:

• To ensure that the organisation complies with and functions within the legal and financial requirements of its constitution, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and any other relevant legislation and regulations.
• To ensure that the organisation pursues objects as defined by its constitution and within aims, policies and procedures agreed by the Board of Trustees.
• With the other trustees to formulate and review the strategic aims and direction of the organisation.
• To promote the organisation and act always in its best interests. To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation and always strive to achieve best practice and the highest standards.

Formulating strategic aims

• Consider the organisation as a whole and its members, in the context of both national and local policies, priorities and political influences.
• Reflect the organisation’s vision and principles, strategy and policies at all times and particularly when developing the strategic and annual plan.
• Contribute specific strategic skills, interests and/or contacts
• Contribute to plans to positively promote the organisation to individuals, organisations and a wider audience e.g. potential members. 
• Support the organisation in all its activities in conjunction with the Chief Executive.

Ensuring policies and practices are in keeping with aims and objectives.

• Ensure that the organisation applies its resources in furtherance of its objects and manages its funds properly.
• Follow the organisations policies and procedures at all times, particularly when exercising the functions of the Board of Trustees.
• Contribute actively to and regularly attend meetings of the Board.

Ensuring best practice and highest standards.

• Be an active member of the Board of Trustees in exercising its responsibilities and functions.
• Support and maintain good relations with all staff; members, volunteers and other Board of Trustees.
• Take part in training sessions provided for the benefit of the Board Trustees.
• Fulfil such other duties and assignments as may be required from time to time by the Board of Trustees.
• Use your best judgment, knowledge, skills and experience to help the organisation and Board of Trustees to make sound decisions and be effective.
• To maintain a strategic view of the organisation and role as a trustee to support the Chief Executive in delivering the business plan and strategy.
• Should the trustee also take on an additional volunteer role for the organisation, to be clear on how the two roles are separate.
• To direct enquiries regarding advice, support or advocacy required into the staff team who can ensure that the person is directed to or referred into the appropriate service. 
• To not raise complaints on behalf of the Coalition without the express agreement of both the Co-Chair’s and the Chief Executive. 

In addition to the trustee requirements, the treasurer usually takes the lead at board level on:

• making sure the charity keeps proper accounts
• reviewing the charity’s financial performance
• drawing up or reviewing policies for finance and investment
• ensuring that the charity has robust and effective financial controls in place
• liaising with finance staff and with the charity’s independent examiner or auditor
• reporting on financial matters to the members

Job description

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

Quilombo UK is looking for Legal Assistant, who would love to join a growing organization. Quilombo UK works with the objective to promote different arts, sports and cultures to encourage an intercultural understanding between different communities and societies; To promote cultural awareness in the community and educate, regardless of nationality or origin, about race diversity and mutual respect; To promote good health and wellbeing; and run a community organisation with a strong focus on individuals, the community and society as a whole.

Quilombo UK is looking to recruit a Legal Assistant who helps organization in various legal matters.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'. The role provides you flexibility and autonomy at work. This will further help you to develop your professional development programme (PDP). Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• We are looking for an experienced lawyer to assist the organisation in overlooking projects, ensuring they are compliant with relevant and up to date legislation and regulations.
• The legal assistant will be responsible for making sure all contracts, legislations and documents are treated within correct legal standards. They are to make sure that all activities are being performed in line with contracts and the law.
• The Legal Assistant will work closely with the HR department in overlooking the volunteer forms, legislations and documents. They should also assist the different departments within the organisation(Marketing, Funding, HR, Finance) in upholding the legal requirements needed to run the tasks that they do.
• Provide written reports as and when required. To undertake additional duties as required for the role.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• Well-organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Excellent researching skills
• Reading and report writing skills
• You will need to be an experienced lawyer or have a good legal understanding.
• You will be respectful of the confidentiality of the organisation.
• You will need to help deliver work that adheres to the key objectives of the organisation.
• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
• Good time-management & communication skills.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.
• Can work without much supervision

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday to Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Type: Volunteer

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Legal Secretary: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

This is an exciting opportunity to delve into the world of social media, using social media platforms to enhance the online presence of Shelter Birmingham. You’ll be providing information, promoting our services, and increasing engagement with local and national campaigns. This role gives you the chance to volunteer across diverse and friendly teams, gain valuable experience in online communications, and put your own creative stamp onto projects. 

This is a great opportunity for someone looking to develop skills and experience within social media and who has an interest in social welfare. This may include personal experience of bad housing or homelessness which will enrich your knowledge, empathy, and authenticity within the role. 

Suggested time commitment:        

Location: This a flexible role, that can be undertaken from home or the office at times to suit you. During planned events, we may need a visible presence, but this will be arranged in advance. 

Supervised by: Volunteer coordinator

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

A home is a fundamental human right, as vital as education or healthcare. But in Britain today, that right is denied to millions of people whose lives are blighted by homelessness, unsuitable housing conditions, soaring rents, discrimination and the threat of eviction. The time for change is now. Together with individuals, in communities and across society, we will lead the way for a safe home for all. But we need your help to do it. 

Main Tasks can include: 

• Establishing and/or maintaining active social media accounts.

• Researching and creating creative content for different social media channels, starting with Twitter and Instagram, with view to expansion (you will have the opportunity to shape the role as you develop). 

• Helping to develop social media communication plans for sharing information that can help and support the local community.

• Liaising with the team in the Birmingham hub including to plan and promote national and local Shelter campaigns. 

• Identifying current news and issues affecting people locally around housing and benefits 

• Identifying target audiences and being up to date with current trends. 

• Attending events organised by Shelter Birmingham to provide updates on social media and making reels for Instagram going live on our Instagram account during live events. 

Skills and Experiences Required: 

• Confident in using technology. 

• Be familiar with some of the social media platforms and if needed learn how to use others use of various social media platforms including Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, Tik Tok and Instagram. 

• Good communication skills. 

• A flexible and organised approach. 

• Creative. 

• Ability to write about relevant issues in an informed and non-bias manner. 

• Willingness to follow Shelter’s policies, including Volunteering, Safeguarding, Data Protection and Health & Safety. 

Induction, Learning and Development: 

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

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

• Provide learning on topics including Safeguarding, Health and Safety and Data Protection. 

• Provide an induction to the role and other relevant training. 

• Reimburse "out of pocket" expenses in line with Shelter's volunteer expenses policy. 

Benefits of Volunteering with Shelter 

• Being part of Shelter’s Fight for Home. 

• Gaining valuable skills and experience and confidence that may be beneficial for future volunteering or employment opportunities. 

• Learning more about social media by volunteering alongside the social media team, including how to support a campaign using social media platforms. 

• Being part of a great team. 

• Learning about housing and homelessness issues 

We are looking for a Program Coordinator for our Adult Education Program based in Ioannina, for a minimum commitment of 6 months.

In this role, you’ll be coordinating the implementation of language classes and associated tasks at two refugee camps: Katsikas and Agia Eleni.

The majority of the students are from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The sites have two to four English classes each day, which are differentiated by English ability from A0 to A2. 

Role description

You will…

• Coordinate and manage daily operations of the adult education program
• Develop the program in coordination with the Programs Manager
• Assess impact and effectiveness against program objectives
• Ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary knowledge to complete their administrative tasks to a high standard and in a timely fashion
• Conduct regular class observations, providing teachers with quality feedback on their teaching
• Provide new teachers with key insights into language teaching in the refugee context
• Ensure inductions to and exits from the education team are smooth and effective, including successful handover of classes between teachers
• Liaise and collaborate with relevant local and national authorities and stakeholders and represent Second Tree in relevant external meetings
• Capture and compile monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) reports in line with program deadlines
• Ensure overall management of the program, guaranteeing quality and relevance

Skills 

You have…

• University Degree in Education/Teaching
• Certificate in English language teaching (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA or equivalent)
• Experience in developing and delivering teacher training

You are able to…

• Oversee the daily activities of the adult education team
• Ensure that teachers’ needs are met and that they in turn meet the requirements of their roles
• Be accountable and efficient, making sure that tasks that you take up are completed in the agreed timeframe
• Be honest and transparent, being able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way
• Have a strong sense of humor, being able to make fun of yourself is key
• Care for people, the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern
• Instil the values above in the people that work with you
• Communicate in English at a C2 level, both written and orally
• Manage individuals effectively to create a positive team environment in which shared problem solving is encouraged
• Prioritise and delegate tasks effectively, ensuring all deadlines are met
• Manage a wide-ranging workload

Knowledge 

You understand and possess knowledge of…

• Education in emergencies concepts
• The refugee crisis and its impact and trajectory
• The needs of refugee students and can adapt content, programming and best practices to meet these needs
• The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and how to develop syllabi in line with it
• Assessment and evaluation procedures, and how to prepare students for language proficiency test
• Adult refugee projects and opportunities for further learning and employment
• Research on adult learning strategies and pedagogies, especially for illiterate or semi-literate adults
• ESL/EFL lesson planning procedures
• ESL/EFL methodologies, theories and techniques
• Your own personal leadership skills/profile and how to effectively manage a team

We offer

• Accommodation in a shared house.
• Transportation to/from work.
• After completion of a three month trial, if you commit long-term, small monthly expenses refund.

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the volunteer houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the volunteer houses are full, this would allow us to offer a volunteering opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

NOTE: If you require a visa to stay in Greece for the minimum ten-week commitment, please know that as a Greek NGO, we are unable to sponsor your visa.

How to apply:

Please send the following to Giovanni Fontana at: volunteers @ secondtree . org

1. Your CV

2. Your cover letter

3. Copy of your qualifications (If applicable)

In your mail, please:

1. Put “Adult Education Coordinator” as the subject line

2. Specify the dates you would be available to volunteer (starting date and length)

3. At the end of the email, copy-paste the link of the ad you are responding to

If the application includes all of these we will get back to you in a maximum of 48hs.

Volunteering for Sense

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.  Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health and safety measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind
• Access to Sense discount scheme, including cashback and discounts on high street brands, as well as 10% off at Sense charity shops.

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 223 (Halesowen) Squadron, 27 King Street, Halesowen, West Midlands, B63 3SU 
• 347 (Dudley) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, 5 Vicar Street, King Street, Dudley, West Midlands, DY2 8RH 
• 451 (Stourbridge) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, Old Swinford Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 2LQ 
• 2488 (Kingswinford) Squadron, Rear of Kingswinford Health Centre car park, off Standhills Road, Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 8DN 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

Sense College Loughborough is a specialist Further Education (FE) college, supporting students between 16-25, who have a wide range of disabilities. We aim to prepare young people to be as independent as possible and help them to achieve their long term goals. We offer different pathways and work with Loughborough College, to help students gain the skills, experience, knowledge and confidence to achieve these goals. 

Candidates interested in the role of Lay Governor at college must be able to demonstrate commitment to Safeguarding, Strategic leadership and a passion to Further Education particularly Specialist Education. A understanding of issues facing the post 16 specialist education sector would be desirable. If you feel you have the ability to make a positive contribution to meetings and provide constructive challenge to support senior managers at the college we would love to hear from you. We anticipate that the successful candidates will need to commit a minimum of 4 half days per term to the role in relation to meetings and preparation. The ability to attend other ad-hoc college events and visits would also be very welcomed.

The role of members of the Governing Body is to provide strategic leadership, support and constructive challenge to the college senior management team to ensure that Sense College provides an excellent education experience for all students. The Governors will work with the college senior management to ensure the college offers a broad based curriculum to maximise the teaching and learning experiences of all its students, with demonstrable outcomes. Sense College Loughborough Lay Governors will attend 3 full committee meetings a year, plus 3 extra meetings for their chosen sub-committee. Meetings last from 90 minutes for sub-committees and 2 hours 30 minutes for the full committee, Lay Governors will come prepared and engaged, having done the reading the prior and ready to ask any questions they may have. Governors of Sense College have a varied role encompassing a range of duties. Much of this is undertaken through participation in the full Governing Body meetings and Sense College sub-committees according to a governor`s experience and skillset, and through college visits.

Some examples of governor duties are below, noting that these are not exclusive:

• Reviewing, approving and monitoring the implementation of the Sense College 2022-2025 Strategic Plan
• Approving the final Sense College Annual Self-Assessment Report (SAR)
• Reviewing and monitoring progress and outcomes from the Sense College Quality Improvement Plan (QuIP)
• Reviewing students’ progress and achievements through a range of products i.e. case studies, reports and visits to Sense College
• Reviewing college data against Key Performance Indicators and dashboards.
• Participating in Ofsted inspection meetings on governance to support Sense College and the college senior management team
• Monitoring implementation of safeguarding (SfG) procedures, keeping updated with current SfG legislation and governors Prevent responsibilities
• Monitoring college budget performance with the emphasis on new students  referrals funded through the Education and Skills Funding Agency
• Attending and participating in governor training events, student celebrations and college visits 

About us 

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

Sense values 

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Join a dynamic board supporting primary schools in diverse, deprived areas. Use your strategic finance skills to shape the trust’s future, ensure sustainability, and help every child thrive through smart, impactful use of resources.

What will you be doing?

We are seeking a Lead Finance Trustee to join our committed and dynamic board of trustees, working to support primary schools in some of the most socially diverse and economically deprived areas. This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced and strategically-minded finance professional to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.

As Lead Finance Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the trust’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability and effective resource allocation. You will use your knowledge of strategic financial management to help oversee budgets, support informed decision-making, and provide robust challenge and assurance to the executive team.

Your expertise will help ensure that public funds are used wisely and transparently, so that every pound spent has a direct, positive impact on pupils. Working closely with other trustees and leaders, you’ll help ensure the trust’s priorities align with its mission to support children in overcoming barriers, reaching their full potential, and thriving at school.

This is an opportunity to apply your skills and values where they truly matter—supporting equity in education and contributing to brighter futures for the next generation.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a finance professional with the vision, integrity and commitment to contribute meaningfully to the strategic leadership of our trust. As Lead Finance Trustee, you will provide expert guidance and challenge on the trust’s financial sustainability and ensure that public funding is used effectively to support the best possible outcomes for children.

You should bring:

• Proven experience in strategic financial leadership, ideally at board or senior management level, within a public, private or charitable sector organisation
• A strong understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, risk management, and long-term financial planning
• The ability to interpret complex financial information and communicate it clearly to non-financial colleagues
• A track record of constructive challenge and oversight, with sound judgement and a strategic mindset

While experience in education is not essential, an understanding of public sector funding, academy trust structures, or governance in a regulated environment would be advantageous.

You will also bring the following personal qualities:

• A commitment to educational equality and improving life chances for children in disadvantaged communities
• Independence of thought, professional curiosity, and a willingness to challenge assumptions in the best interests of pupils
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and values-driven board
• Integrity, discretion, and a deep sense of accountability for public resources

This voluntary role is ideal for someone who wants to apply their financial expertise to a cause that matters. You’ll play a key part in helping us deliver sustainable, high-impact education for children who need it most.

What difference will you make?

As Lead Finance Trustee, your influence will reach far beyond balance sheets.

You will ensure that financial decisions directly translate into better outcomes for children, particularly those facing disadvantage. By applying your expertise, you’ll help the trust allocate resources effectively—supporting high-quality teaching, inclusive learning environments, and targeted interventions where they’re needed most.

Your strategic oversight will:

• Strengthen the trust’s financial resilience, enabling it to adapt and grow sustainably
• Guarantee that public funds are used transparently and in the best interests of children
• Help shape long-term goals that reflect the needs of diverse, underserved communities
• Provide assurance to stakeholders, parents, and regulators that the trust’s finances are robust and ethically managed

Ultimately, your role will empower the trust to deliver on its mission: to raise aspirations and improve life chances for every child.

Before you apply

A simple CV or application plus an informal interview to assess suitability

This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values.  We are looking to recruit 2 new trustees.  We are looking to diversify the experience and expertise of our Board, and we believe that there are people out there who have knowledge, skills and passion in different areas that will help SWWB. Areas for organisational development include:

· Embedding lived experience expertise into the design, delivery and evaluation of our work

· Developing our campaigning and strategic work

· Building up our social media and comms presence

· Stepping up our fundraising game

If you think you can help with any of these things (or something else), and you are interested in being a trustee, please get in touch, we would love to hear from you!