Trust fundraising volunteer volunteer roles in manchester
Choice International is a non-profit organisation promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in the UK and overseas. It researches, develops and implements development projects for disabled people and other disadvantaged people in the UK and overseas.
We are seeking a Fundraising Volunteer to support with writing funding proposals, completing funding applications to trusts and foundations as well as contacting corporates for sponsorship for events and one-off projects. You will work form our office based in East London to support with raising funds for our events and organisation in the long term.
Your Key responsibilities will include:
- Assisting with researching and approaching corporate entities, national and international, for event sponsorships, partnerships, Charity of the Year partnerships, and donations from corporate foundations
- Assisting with writing and delivering compelling presentations and proposals for funding to trusts, foundations and other institutes
- Writing emails and speaking with potential partners over the phone about the work of Choice with the aim of securing funds for the organisation.
You will have the following skills and experience:
- A good level of written and oral communication
- Experience of writing funding proposals and working in fundraising would be an advantage
- Knowledge of corporate fundraising techniques including Charity of the Year, sponsorship, donations, marketing would be an advantage
- An ability to present and engage potential partners/sponsors in a compelling way
We are seeking a motivated and talented volunteer to support us in this role.
Working in a small team, you will be supporting Choice Directors, and will have responsibility for corporate, major donor and other fundraising. You will get involved with some of the largest grant funders in the UK, including the Big Lottery, Comic Relief, London Council and others.
The ideal candidate must have good written communication skills, with experience of writing funding proposals, as well as being motivated to develop a career in fundraising for a good cause.
Further, you should be able to work under your own initiative. We provide a wide array of training, development and guidance for our volunteers. Most importantly, you will have the opportunity to support development projects to improve the quality of life of marginalised people.If you are passionate about equality, diversity and international development and keen to gain valuable, hands-on experience, then we would like to hear from you.Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid position, with a possibility of contributing to the cost of travel from your home to our office.
Please note due to the volume of applications we receive we are unable to respond to all applicants, hence only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Talkthru is a specialist counselling charity based in Huddersfield, offering free, confidential support to individuals and families affected by pregnancy loss and other birth-related trauma.
To continue delivering and expanding our vital services, we are seeking a volunteer fundraising officer/ bid writer to help us secure funding from trusts, foundations, and other sources. Your skills will directly contribute to sustaining free or low-cosr counselling sessions for those who need them most.
Email for an application form
Providing compassionate and accessible counselling and support to anyone navigating the profound grief of baby / pregnancy loss and related issues
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About HIAS+JCORE
HIAS+JCORE is the UK Jewish response to refuge and asylum. Our vision is a UK where refugees can live in dignity, in a society free from racism. This work is driven by the belief that the Jewish community should play an active part in empowering refugees to thrive.
Our organisation came into this form through the joining of operations between two organisations: the UK-based JCORE (Jewish Council for Racial Equality) and HIAS, a global humanitarian aid and advocacy organisation. HIAS+JCORE is inspired by Jewish values and history to support those who are displaced, no matter their background.
Role purpose
The Fundraising Trustee will bring expertise, insight, and strategic guidance to help the charity strengthen and diversify its income. Working with the Board and staff/volunteers, they will ensure fundraising is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with the charity’s mission and values.
Key responsibilities
- Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
- Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is realistic and compliant with regulation.
- Act as a fundraising champion on HIAS+JCORE’s board, working with and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
- If networks for fundraising exist, use them to support the work of the charity.
- Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
- Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, including the Code of Fundraising Practice, and through HIAS+JCORE’s policies and procedures.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.
Person specification
Essential:
- Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
- Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
- Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns).
- Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice.
- Strong communication and networking skills.
Desirable:
- Experience of fundraising in a small charity context.
- Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts.
- Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing.
We work for a UK where refugees and people seeking asylum have a fair chance to thrive.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re looking for enthusiastic, motivated people who’d like to help raise awareness and vital funds for local projects that make a real difference.
As a Fundraising Volunteer, you’ll support our fundraising activities, from community events and local partnerships to online campaigns. You’ll help inspire support for our programmes that empower people, promote wellbeing and build stronger communities.
This is a flexible, rewarding opportunity for anyone who enjoys connecting with people, being creative and helping a good cause grow.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting the organisation and delivery of fundraising events and activities
- Helping prepare materials such as posters, donation forms and thank-you messages
- Promoting campaigns and community events online or in person
- Engaging with local businesses, schools or groups about partnerships or sponsorships
- Assisting with donation recording and simple reporting tasks
- Helping share stories that highlight how donations make a difference
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Confidence speaking with the public and representing the charity positively
- Creativity and enthusiasm for community fundraising
- Teamwork and reliability
- Basic digital skills (social media or online tools)
- Attention to detail when handling information or donations
What You’ll Gain
- Experience supporting fundraising and community engagement activities
- Opportunities to build confidence and communication skills
- Insight into how charities raise funds and engage supporters
- The satisfaction of helping local projects continue and grow
About Us
We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.
Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.
Safeguarding and Inclusion
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.
Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.
We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.
A catalyst for overcoming poverty at its root by empowering marginalised people and developing sustainable communities.



We are currently looking for a new Digital Fundraising Trustee who can use their skills to support our growing charity. We need someone with relevant fundraising experience who thrives as part of a dynamic group of Trustees, who is willing to champion the charity and who values seeing the impact that our work can make
The Digital Fundraising Trustee will participate in all areas of the charity’s governance with a special interest in the fundraising implications of the strategy, governance and support with the Board’s understanding and interpretation.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we implement our new 5-year strategy for 2025-2030.
The Link to apply is listed in the attached Recruitment Pack or can be accessed via the Redirect to recruiter button.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Can you help us to bring in the funds we need to make the food bank a success?
We are looking for a volunteer Fundraising Lead to play a significant role in shaping a fundraising strategy, help raise awareness of Bounds Green Food Bank (BGFB) and generate income through events, projects and fundraising activities.
We currently raise money through grants, individual donations and community projects. We would like to broaden our fundraising initiatives and are looking for someone to raise funds, meet fundraising targets, raise our profile with key funding partners, and inspire relevant groups to support us.
About Bounds Green Food Bank:
Open since June 2020, we serve over 1,500 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items and helping alleviate household food insecurity. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people and families in crisis situations and needing assistance.
The role:
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Work with the Board of Trustees to agree a fundraising strategy, including setting annual fundraising targets
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Help to develop a fundraising team
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Identify income-generating opportunities and develop projects
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Build, develop and maintain relationships to secure funding
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Provide guidance to other teams that support fundraising initiatives e.g. the Grants Writing Team, Events Team and the Communication Team
Person specification:
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Passionate about food insecurity and reducing social isolation
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Experience working in a fundraising role, including grants, trusts and foundations
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Ability and willingness to work to financial targets
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Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, and attention to detail
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Able to work flexibly and under pressure
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Ability to be creative and entrepreneurial in order to find new ways to raise funds
Benefits:
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Gain access to free workshops for volunteers and upskill on a range of topics (conflict resolution, mental health first aid, arts and crafts, and more)
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Join free social events for volunteers (such as picnics, walks, creative workshops and celebration events)
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Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!
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Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers
PLEASE ensure your phone number and email address are on your CV!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Support our mission to bring light and joy to seriously ill children.
Volunteer: Trusts & Foundations Research & Applications
We are looking for a motivated volunteer to support our Trusts & Foundations team with research and grant writing. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience in the charitable sector, contribute to meaningful projects, and develop fundraising skills.
Key responsibilities:
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Research potential funders and funding opportunities
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Assist with writing and preparing grant applications
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Support reporting and administration for submitted applications
Time commitment:
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Ideally one day per week (flexible to suit your schedule)
Who we’re looking for:
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Strong research and writing skills, good attention to detail
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Organised, proactive, and able to work independently
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Discretion and professionalism when handling sensitive information
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Ideally some understanding or interest in T&F, fundraising, or the charity sector
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Previous research experience (academic or professional) is helpful but not essential
What You’ll Gain:
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Experience working in a high-impact fundraising team
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Training and support from a passionate, collaborative team
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A chance to make a tangible difference in the lives of seriously ill children and their families
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A reference upon successful completion of your volunteering
Join us and help make a real difference!
We brighten the lives of seriously ill children across the UK by granting wishes and providing ongoing support in hospitals and within the community
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Fundraising advisors wanted to support East London Waterworks Park in developing and implementing our fundraising strategy.
East London Waterworks Park is a volunteer-led charity that has won a 2024 New London Architecture award and raised £2m towards buying land from the Department for Education to transform the 14-acre Thames Water Depot on Lea Bridge Road on the border of Waltham Forest and Hackney, into a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces.
If you are a professional fundraiser and would like to help but are short on time, we would love to hear from you even if you are unable to get deeply involved. We would appreciate one-off or ongoing advice on the phone, online or in person. We would welcome feedback on our fundraising strategy and past applications, any advice about trust and grant fundraising, and any other advice you can give.
The Fundraising Circle currently meets fortnightly on a Thursday evening on Google Meet and spends voluntary time outside of the meeting completing agreed tasks remotely. We understand that people may not have a lot of time to give, so we want to find volunteers who could give us one-off or ongoing strategic advice and support.
If you have experience in funding strategy, writing grants for funding applications, corporate fundraising, philanthropy, or any other aspect of fundraising, it would be great to hear from you.
East London Waterworks Park is an exciting and ambitious project that offers many rewarding opportunities for our volunteers. You will have a significant impact on the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds and forest schools.
By leading fundraising projects that explore how diverse professionals (architects, ecologists, web developers, community researchers etc.) collaborate to shape community infrastructure, volunteers will directly contribute to the development of a park that truly reflects the needs and desires of the local community.
Without funding we won’t be able to make it happen. Your input will help us craft experiences that inspire, educate, and engage our service users, stakeholders, funders, and the general public, ultimately driving support for the park's mission and ensuring its long-term sustainability. So you will be directly contributing to the creation of a new biodiverse community-owned park with free access natural swimming ponds.
East London Waterworks Park is a charity campaigning to create a new biodiverse park with natural swimming ponds, forest schools and community spaces



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Project Manager (Fundraising) - Help Us Paint London Yellow! (VOLUNTEER ROLE)
Location: Remote (UK)
Commitment: Flexible Volunteer Hours (Results-Driven)
Do You Have a Heart of Gold? Join Our Mission to Bring 'SUNSHINE' into People's Lives.
Imagine a city where loneliness is overcome by connection, and every person feels valued. This is the vision of SUNSHINE, a brand new, inspiring charity created to tackle the loneliness problem in London head-on.
We are looking for a passionate and entrepreneurial volunteer to take on a pivotal, high-impact role: Project Manager (Fundraising). This is a unique opportunity to build a crucial function from the ground up and help secure the future of a charity dedicated to spreading joy across the capital.
About SUNSHINE
We are a startup with a simple, powerful mission: to bring people together, spread joy and community spirit, and deliver services and support to those living with loneliness in London.
We will do this by:
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1). Fostering Connections: We will create safe and welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat, and form genuine friendships.
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2). Enhancing Wellbeing: Our activities are designed to be fun and engaging, lifting spirits and promoting a positive outlook.
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3). Transforming Lives: Every interaction, no matter how small, has the power to make a huge difference in someone's day, and ultimately, their life.
Our Vision:
A London where everyone feels connected, valued, and a part of a vibrant, compassionate community.
The Role: Project Manager (Fundraising)
We are seeking an empowering leader who is ready to roll up their sleeves and truly help us paint London yellow by establishing a sustainable fundraising strategy.
You will be responsible for the initial set up and project management of fundraising at SUNSHINE. This is not a task-filler role—it's a chance to build the engine that powers our mission.
Key Responsibilities:
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Develop a comprehensive fundraising strategy (e.g., trust, corporate, community, digital).
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Source, research, and project manage grant applications and funding opportunities.
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Establish necessary systems, policies, and processes for ethical and effective fundraising.
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Lead on the creation of inspiring and professional fundraising materials.
What We Offer
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Impact: This is a chance to see your work directly fuel a mission that transforms lives in London.
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Flexibility: This is a remote role with flexible volunteer hours. We trust you to manage your time and deliver results—we are focused on achieving results rather than counting the hours.
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Empowerment: You will have autonomy to lead, innovate, and shape the future of a vital new charity.
Are You Ready to Shine?
If you have a professional fundraising background, exceptional project management skills, and a genuine, burning desire to combat loneliness, we want to hear from you.
SUNSHINE
Loneliness Charity in London
SUNSHINE is London based dedicated to bringing people together, fostering connections, enhancing wellbeing and transforming lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Role: Trusts and Foundations
We were set up to transform the former Edward Hain hospital, in St Ives, Cornwall, into a community centre for health and wellbeing. The hospital was founded in 1920, with funds from the Cornish Hain Steamship Company. When it closed n 2021, our community, led by the hospital’s League of Friends, came together to save the building for the town. Now it brings together much needed health and wellbeing services, along with social, community and welfare support, all under one roof.
About the role
We are looking for volunteers to help us raise funds from Trusts and Foundations. Grants, such the one we secured from National Lottery, already help keep us open all year. Although previous experience in grant writing would be welcomed, it is absolutely not required. More important are your enthusiasm and desire to help local people. ideally, you will be able to volunteer at least one or two days a month on a regular basis and preferably have access to a computer.
What’s involved?
· Drafting and submitting funding applications with help and support from our team.
· Working with other volunteers and staff to identify new funding opportunities.
· Researching grant-making bodies, trusts, and foundations that can fund the Centre.
The role will suit you if you
· Are comfortable with a computer.
· Have good written communication skills.
· Want to help local residents thrive.
· Can pay attention to detail and follow funder guidelines.
We will support you with
· An induction to volunteering for Edward Hain
· Training and briefings on how trusts and foundations fundraising.
· Coaching on how to draft and submit applications, supported with tools and templates.
- Occasional meetings at the Centre with other volunteers and staff.
We are looking for up to five regular volunteers. There is also an opportunity for significant coaching and development for those interested in pursuing jobs in this field in the longer term and wanting to use this role to develop the necessary skills. For more information contact:
Claire Jefferies Community Hub Officer
Our mission is to provide affordable and accessible health, well-being and community services for St. Ives and surrounding areas, across all ages.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Lucas Helps Dogs
Lucas Helps Dogs is a volunteer run charity working in Sri Lanka to reduce the suffering of street and community dogs and cats. We run spay and neuter clinics, provide rabies vaccinations, emergency treatment, and daily meals to street dogs and cats. We also deliver educational programmes in schools to teach kindness to animals and responsible pet care.
We’re currently looking for a Volunteer Grant Writer to help us secure vital funding so we can continue and expand our work for animals in need.
About the Role
As our Grant Writer, you’ll help identify suitable grant opportunities and prepare well-researched funding applications to support our animal welfare projects. You’ll work closely with our founder to understand the charity’s goals, gather information, and develop strong proposals that demonstrate our impact and vision.
This role is perfect for someone who enjoys writing and research, wants to gain experience in fundraising, or is passionate about improving the lives of animals.
Key Responsibilities
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Research potential grants, trusts, and foundations that align with our mission
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Write clear, compelling funding proposals and supporting documents
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Maintain a calendar of grant deadlines and track submissions
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Help develop a case for support and collect information for applications
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Review feedback from funders to improve future submissions
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Collaborate remotely with our small, friendly team
What We’re Looking For
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Strong writing, research, and communication skills
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Attention to detail and good organisational skills
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Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
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Interest in animal welfare and compassion for dogs
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Experience in grant writing or charity fundraising
What We Offer
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The chance to make a direct impact for animals in need
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Experience in grant writing and charity fundraising
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A flexible, supportive, and friendly volunteer team
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A reference after 3 months of volunteering
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The opportunity to use your skills for meaningful change
Time Commitment: 2–5 hours per week, flexible schedule
Location: Remote – you can volunteer from anywhere
Commitment: Ideally 3 months or more
How to Apply
If you’d like to use your writing skills to make a real difference for dogs and cats in Sri Lanka, we’d love to hear from you!
Please send a short email outlining your interest and any relevant experience
The Income Generation Officer will play a pivotal role in enhancing the financial sustainability and growth of Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW), supporting 47 active mountain rescue teams across the region. This voluntary position is responsible for devising and implementing a robust income generation strategy to ensure the long-term funding and stability of the organisation.
Resource is required to develop and implement a comprehensive strategy to support long-term funding and organisation growth, financial stability and the achievement of income goals. This will include building relations with major donors, corporate partnerships, legacies and individual giving. In addition, there is scope to drive income through MR membership and via grants from trusts, foundations and government.
Reporting to the CEO, the person will need to contribute to the MREW’s overall future strategy. There will be a need to understand the MR structure and to have the ability to work as part of the MREW Senior Management Team, and alongside trustees, liaison team, regional structure and local teams.
Using the MREW Income Generation Strategy, they will review all existing income generation streams to understand their viability and scalability, along with all potential new income streams to develop sustainable income for MREW.
Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW) is a voluntary organisation that provides mountain rescue services 24/7, 365 days a year, and offers support to communities during other crises. It consists of 47 independent volunteer search and rescue teams that operate across eight geographical areas. The organisation serves as the national body to represent the whole organisation, acting as an advisory body, linking with partner organisations and helping to standardise training and share information.
Objectives
The overarching activities for this role are:
- Develop an income generation plan, aligning with the financial planning cycle, with a periodic review and reporting cycle. Deliver against the plan.
- Central to the role will be the following essential tasks:
- Grant Writing: Researching and writing grant proposals to secure funding from various trusts, foundations, and government agencies.
- Corporate Partnerships: Building and maintaining relationships with businesses to secure corporate sponsorships, donations, and in-kind contributions.
- Donor Engagement: Cultivating and managing relationships with individual donors and supporters to ensure their engagement and long-term support.
- Create an opportunity to develop long-term wills and legacy income.
- Develop compelling cases for support grounded in impact and aligned with MREW values and mission.
- Build and steward high-value relationships with funders, donors and strategic partners.
- Oversee income targets whilst ensuring compliance with fundraising regulations and ethical standards.
- Research and develop grant opportunities from national and local bodies, in conjunction with regional and local teams.
- Lead on income generation for MREW, working with member teams and all other stakeholders. Support regional and local team fundraising opportunities. Foster collaboration, empowerment and accountability.
- Agree on short-term and long-term fundraising targets and opportunities alongside the MREW Senior Management Team.
- Represent MREW at relevant external meetings.
Skills
- Experience generating income, with a demonstrable track record of developing and leading fundraising strategies.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to inspire and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
- Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to foster trust and accurately represent MREW’s mission and goals.
- Ability to work alongside colleagues and manage competing priorities.
- Financial literacy, including budget creation and management.
- Creativity, imagination and intuition.
We are looking for a motivated, self-starter with a proactive attitude, drive and enthusiasm to carry out projects to conclusion. You will need to demonstrate a commitment to the charity's mission and cause.
Qualifications
- Financial or project management qualifications are desirable.
Additional notes
- To work with the Finance Director to plan for future year budgets and to ensure that an accurate record of all financial transactions are produced and maintained for the MREW Finance Director, including the fundraising pipeline.
- To ensure all committee members are treated fairly through MREW Equal Opportunities Policy.
- To work with the national media team to release press statements/support campaigns as required.
- This is a voluntary role within MREW, elected annually; it is expected that the applicant will serve a term of 5 years, with a possible extension of a further 5 years if desired.
- Travel during the working day may be required, with occasional absence from home overnight, as meetings with funders and other stakeholders may cover a large geographical area. Out-of-pocket expenses can be reclaimed in line with the MREW Expenses Policy.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Finding funding for an organisation dedicated to women’s empowerment, development, human rights and tourism is hard to come by. If you are up to the challenge, then we’d love to have you come and support our search for funds for our innovative and exciting projects.
Equality in Tourism is a very small charity focused on gender, tourism and development. We are looking for someone with experience, particularly with institutional and/or trust funding, or with corporate, individual or event fundraising experience, and who is able to give us a few hours a week. We would like you to take a lead on researching possible opportunities and writing one or more funding applications for us, both for our innovative projects and our core work.
We are seeking a reliable, proactive and dedicated person, who is interested in gender and development and who will be able to work with us to enable us to achieve our goals. We offer you flexibility to work around your own time constraints.
So if you think you can help us raise some much needed funds that can go towards meeting our targets, we would love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We're building tech to predict employee burnout. We're bootstrapping painfully. Need someone who knows UK grants and has fundraising contacts to help us actually fund this.
The Situation
We're building a platform that predicts employee burnout 2-4 weeks before it happens. We have psychologists, tech people, and a working plan. What we don't have is money.
We're bootstrapping. Every penny is coming from the founders. We need someone who can help us find UK grants, foundations, and funding sources so we can:
- Hire developers properly (not Upwork disasters)
- Pay for proper infrastructure
- Move faster than our current painful pace
- Actually pay people who deserve to be paid
What We Need You To Do
Find money. Simple as that.
Specifically:
- Research UK grants for mental health tech, employee wellbeing, innovation, social enterprise
- Write grant applications that don't sound like AI wrote them
- Identify foundations that fund this kind of thing
- Use your network to open doors we can't open ourselves
- Advise on fundraising strategy - what's realistic for a pre-revenue startup
Current State:
- MVP launching December 2025 (yes, this year)
- Pre-revenue but have pilot companies interested
- Strong team (psychologists, AI/ML, CTO, UX)
- Evidence-based approach (not wellness fluff)
- Desperate for £20-100K+ to do this properly
Your Tasks
Weeks 1-2: Research & Strategy
- Map UK funding landscape for our sector
- Identify 15-20 realistic grant opportunities
- Prioritize by fit, timing, amount
- Create application timeline
Weeks 3-6: Write & Submit
- Draft grant applications (we'll help with technical content)
- Tailor each one (no copy-paste jobs)
- Submit before deadlines
- Follow up where needed
Weeks 7-12: Network & Cultivate
- Connect us with foundation contacts
- Attend relevant funding events (if any)
- Build relationships for future rounds
- Advise on corporate partnerships
Time commitment: 3 hrs/day first month (heavy research/writing), then 2 hrs/day ongoing
Why This Role Matters
Right now we're:
- Trying to find developers we can afford
- Using AI coding tools because we can't hire proper devs
- Moving slower than we should
- Stressing about infrastructure costs
With proper funding we could:
- Hire a full-stack developer (£40-60K would change everything)
- Pay for proper hosting and tools
- Run a real pilot with multiple companies
- Pay our psychologists for their time
- Move from "painful bootstrap" to "actual startup"
Your work could literally determine whether this launches properly or limps along.
Who We're Looking For
Someone who:
- Knows UK funding - grants, foundations, social enterprise funding
- Can write - applications that get approved, not rejected
- Has contacts - someone at a foundation might actually take your call
- Gets startups - understands we're scrappy and pre-revenue
- Cares about mental health - this isn't just a box-ticking exercise
Experience we actually need:
- 3+ years in grant writing or fundraising (charity or social enterprise)
- Track record of successful applications (tell us what you've won)
- Understanding of UK funding landscape
- Can write persuasively without corporate waffle
- Comfortable with tech/innovation projects (or willing to learn)
Bonus points:
- Experience with Innovate UK, UKRI, Wellcome Trust, mental health funders
- Network in impact investing or social finance
- Previous startup fundraising experience
- Understanding of NHS/health sector funding
What You Get
Be honest about what we can offer:
- Equity: If you help us raise significant funds (£50K+), we'll discuss equity
- Commission: Could arrange success-based payment (e.g., 5-10% of funds raised)
- Experience: Real fundraising experience you can put on your CV
- References: If you're good, we'll recommend you everywhere
- Network: Connect with our team and pilot companies
- Impact: Help us actually fund mental health prevention (not just talk about it)
This could be paid eventually. Right now we need someone who believes in the mission enough to help us get the resources to make it happen.
The Team
You'd work with:
- Founder (that's me (Don Diffang)- doing everything, need help with funding)
- Chief Behavioral Psychologist (evidence base for grants)
- Occupational Psychologist (workplace wellbeing expertise)
- CTO (technical bits for applications)
- Business Development person (partnerships)
Small team. No bureaucracy. Everyone's hands-on.
Timeline
November-December: Heavy research and first wave of applications January-February: Ongoing applications and relationship building March onwards: Either you've helped us raise money or we're still bootstrapping
Flexible hours. Most work is solo (research/writing) with weekly check-ins.
Success Looks Like
Minimum viable success:
- 10-15 applications submitted to relevant funders
- Clear funding pipeline for next 6-12 months
- Connections made with 3-5 foundations/funders
- At least 2-3 applications that have a real shot
Actual success:
- £20-50K raised in next 3-6 months
- £50-100K+ raised in next year
- Sustainable funding strategy in place
- Relationships built for future rounds
Dream scenario:
- Major grant or investment secured
- You becoming our part-time paid fundraising lead
- Proper funding to launch and scale
Why Not Paid?
Because we don't have money. That's literally why we need you.
If we had £50K lying around, we wouldn't be posting volunteer roles - we'd be hiring developers.
But: if you help us raise funds, we'll pay you from those funds (success fee or salary). And equity is definitely on the table for someone who helps us break out of bootstrap mode.
What We Promise
We won't:
- Waste your time on applications that have no chance
- Give you fluffy "brand guidelines" instead of real content
- Micromanage your writing
- Disappear when you need information
We will:
- Be realistic about our chances
- Provide all technical/impact content you need
- Respond fast to questions
- Give you credit when grants succeed
- Discuss equity/payment when funding comes in
Current Funding Landscape (What We Know)
We've identified a few areas but need expert help:
- Innovate UK: Smart Grants for innovation (maybe?)
- UKRI: Mental health research angle
- Wellcome Trust: Mental health innovation
- Big Lottery/National Lottery: Community wellbeing
- Health Foundation: Workplace health
- Mental Health Foundation: Prevention focus
- Social investment: If we structure right
- Corporate foundations: Companies with wellbeing focus
But we don't know:
- Which ones we're actually eligible for
- How to position ourselves (charity? social enterprise? tech startup?)
- What our chances realistically are
- Who to talk to
- How to write applications that work
That's where you come in.
To Apply
Tell us:
- Your track record (be specific)
- What grants have you won?
- How much money have you raised?
- What sectors/causes?
- Your knowledge of UK funding
- Which funders would you target first for us?
- Why?
- Your network
- Any contacts at foundations/funding bodies?
- Any that might be relevant to mental health/wellbeing tech?
- Your availability
- Can you commit 2-3 hrs/day for 8-12 weeks starting now?
- Would you want equity vs. success fee vs. future salary?
- One question for us
Attach your CV with fundraising successes highlighted.
P.S. If you've raised money before and you're between roles or have spare time, this could be perfect. Help us get off the ground properly and we'll remember it (with equity and paid work when we can).
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Wild Welfare is an international animal welfare charity dedicated to ending the suffering of captive wild animals. We work with zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries around the world to improve animal welfare standards through training, capacity-building, and long-term collaboration.
Our Vision is to create a world where every captive wild animal is able to thrive and live a good life.
Becoming a trustee of Wild Welfare is a chance to make a real difference to hundreds of thousands of animals’ lives around the world. You’ll help guide the charity’s future, support progressive animal welfare reform, and work with an expert team.
We are seeking Trustees to join our Board of Trustees and support our mission by helping us grow sustainable income and strengthen our organisational resilience.
This is an exciting opportunity to bring your professional expertise in fundraising, legalisation, HR and Business Management, to a passionate and committed charity that is making a tangible difference to wild animals worldwide.
What you’ll do
- Contribute to the Board’s strategic oversight of Wild Welfare, providing leadership over the charity’s governance and financial sustainability.
- Provide expert guidance on income generation, fundraising strategy, charity management, and development.
- Support the charity in identifying and developing new fundraising opportunities (corporate partnerships, grants, major donors, and innovative income streams).
- Act as an ambassador for Wild Welfare, representing the charity and helping to expand our networks.
- Work collaboratively with fellow trustees and the senior leadership team to ensure the charity achieves its mission and long-term objectives.
What we’re looking for
We welcome applications from individuals with experience in any of the following areas:
- Fundraising (trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, or major donors).
- Charity and/or business development and strategic growth.
- Commercial or financial acumen, ideally with an understanding of not-for-profit income generation.
- Knowledge of the legal aspects of charity management and compliance.
- Strong networks and relationship-building skills.
- Commitment to Wild Welfare’s values and passion for improving the lives of captive wild animals.
Previous trustee experience or animal welfare experience is not essential – we welcome applications from people new to charity governance. Full induction and support will be provided.
Why join us?
- Play a vital role in shaping the future of an international charity.
- Contribute your skills to a cause which transforms lives for wild animals across the globe.
- Join a collaborative and supportive Board of Trustees with diverse expertise.
- Gain valuable governance and leadership experience.
Role Specification: Trustee
Main Responsibilities
- Provide leadership and oversight on matters relating to fundraising and income generation.
- Help shape and monitor the charity’s fundraising strategy, ensuring it is realistic, ethical, and aligned with organisational goals.
- Advise on diversifying income streams, with a focus on long-term sustainability.
- Open doors to new partnerships, networks, and opportunities that may benefit the charity.
- Support the Director and senior management team by offering constructive advice, feedback, and expertise.
- Overseeing the charity’s compliance with fundraising regulations and best practice standards.
- Uphold the Board’s collective responsibility for effective governance, safeguarding, and financial management.
Person Specification
- Essential
- Experience in fundraising, charity/business development, or income generation.
- Strategic thinker with the ability to analyse opportunities and risks.
- Willingness to use personal networks and expertise to further the charity’s fundraising potential and reach.
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
- Commitment to Wild Welfare’s mission, values, and long-term sustainability.
- Desirable
- Knowledge of international development, or the animal welfare sector.
- Understanding of charity governance and the role of a trustee.
- Experience in developing sustainable income models.
Terms of Appointment
- This is a voluntary position; reasonable expenses will be reimbursed if required to travel for meetings.
- Trustees are expected to attend virtual Board meetings twice a year (usually June and December) and participate in occasional sub-committees or events (virtual or in-person). Online meetings are limited to 1.5-hours.
- The initial term is three years, with the option of renewal for a further three years.
- It is a criminal offence for an individual to serve as a Trustee if disqualified from doing so. Appropriate checks will be carried out to ensure that individuals who have been selected to become a Trustee are eligible. These checks will include references and Charity Commission/Companies House verification.
- There will be an initial probationary period of 1-year.
- Trustees are subject to our governing documents.
- Wild Welfare is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


