Volunteer Independent Supporter Volunteer Roles
We are currently experiencing the most significant threats to refugee protection in the UK since the UN Convention was signed in 1951.
Against this backdrop, The Asylum Reform Initiative (ARI) is an alliance of leading groups working in collaboration to secure deep-rooted change in the refugee and asylum system. It includes the British Red Cross, Citizens UK, Freedom from Torture, NACCOM, One Strong Voice, Rainbow Migration, Refugee Action, Refugee Council and Scottish Refugee Council.
The ARI incubated, launched and supports the public-facing Together With Refugees coalition, which now has over 600 national and local member organisations taking collective action to project widespread support for a positive alternative approach into public and political debate.
The Asylum Reform Initiative is now seeking to appoint its first independent Chair.
This is a unique opportunity for an inclusive, collaborative leader to work with a highly talented and committed team to develop and drive the ARI forward with passion and humility. The Chair will play an integral role in providing inclusive governance leadership, enabling each member to fulfil their duties and responsibilities and to maximise impact.
We are seeking someone with significant experience of leadership and governance, who is deeply committed to reshaping the UK’s approach to refugees and people seeking asylum. A strategic thinker who is willing to engage with relevant policy issues around refugee and asylum.
Furthermore, the ARI’s Chair will be committed to anti-racism and equity, diversity and inclusion, and in particular lived experience inclusion. They will display the highest personal standards regarding integrity and transparency, and be a positive, collaborative, and inclusive leader.
Recruitment Timetable
Deadline for applications: 12th May 2024
Interviews with Prospectus: w/c 20th May 2024
Interviews with the Asylum Reform Initiative: From 3rd June
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community? We are looking for a new trustee to join our board of trustees, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of volunteering and community projects in Kensington and Chelsea, one of London’s most diverse boroughs.
Established in 1969, we are the oldest Volunteer Centre in the country and are deeply rooted in the local community, empowering individuals to contribute positively through volunteering. Our programs support diverse groups, including those living with disabilities and mental health challenges, ex-offenders, as well as marginalised residents seeking employment opportunities.
As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in guiding the Volunteer Centre towards its mission of fostering positive change in Kensington & Chelsea. Responsibilities include:
- Attend and actively participate in board meetings, promoting constructive dialogue and decision-making.
- Uphold the best interests of VCKC, maintaining positive public representation and adhering to confidentiality standards.
- Possess enthusiasm for volunteering, willingness to commit time and effort, and desirable knowledge of Kensington & Chelsea and the voluntary sector.
- Demonstrate strong communication, analytical, and collaborative skills.
Join us in shaping the future of volunteering in Kensington & Chelsea. Become a trustee and make a meaningful impact today. If you are ready to make a difference, apply now and be part of something meaningful.
Do you want to make a difference to a child or young person's life? Do you have 2 - 6 hours per month to spare? Are you 18+?
We require volunteers to mentor/befriend a child or young person in care.
Have fun, take a young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest. Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person's life and help build self-esteem and confidence.
We provide training and on going support and pay expenses to a set limit.
Please contact for more details
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting opportunity to join Solace’s Counselling Team.
About the role
The successful candidate will provide a wrap around, weekly one to one therapeutic support, which can be accessed online, over the phone and in person. You will work within a modal that consists of trauma focused, multi-modal interventions with an objective of optimising resilience, facilitating sustainable recovery and support survivors in their journey in post-traumatic recovery.
Who are we looking for?
The ideal candidate will be a fully qualified dynamic counsellor who has 150 clinical hours, ideally with prior experience in providing direct and dedicated therapeutic support to women (and all genders for LBI counselling) who have experienced domestic abuse, and other forms of VAWG.
What can you gain from this opportunity?
As part of this role, you will have the opportunity to:
- Enable service users to access valuable support that assists in their journey towards safe, independent lives, free from abuse.
- Contribute and support a busy and diverse team.
- Play a pivotal role in delivering services.
- Gain hands on experience in a dynamic charity working in the Violence against Women and Girls (VAWG) Sector.
- Work as part of a feminist organisation.
We offer great volunteer induction training, where you will be fully supported to understand, and carry put every aspect of the role. Training includes CPD accredited courses, and the opportunity to apply to complete the level 2 Understanding Domestic Abuse Award (DAPA), which is recognized by the Home Office. A volunteering role often leads to some opportunity of applying for a paid employment role within Solace.
Interviews will be arranged on a rolling basis.
Solace Women’s Aid values diversity promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applicants from black minority and ethnic communities.
This service is run by women for women and is therefore restricted to female applicants under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, and Part 1. Section 7(2) e of the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 apply. The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act.
As part of safer recruitment, we require all successful candidates will be required to complete a satisfactory DBS (Disclosure Barring Service) disclosure.
Solace exists to end the harm done through gender-based violence. Our aim is to work to prevent violence and abuse.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the role
Becoming a Bus Driver Volunteer is a wonderful way to have fun and meet new people whilst supporting the Charity in raising vital funds and awareness of the charity within the local communities across the county.
What you will be doing
• Driving our ‘Hearing Hopper’ outreach vehicle through the local communities within East Sussex
• Undertake vehicle and health & safety checks as required
• Act as an Ambassador for East Sussex Hearing whilst out and about
• Support the public to access the vehicle and/or services
• Assist other Volunteers and ESH staff to provide general hearing loss information and advice, including signposting to other services
• Deal with any issues or incidents as they arise – following East Sussex Hearing policy & procedures
• Help to keep the ‘Hearing hopper’ clean, tidy and safe
If you are seeking a hands-on role that lets you support East Sussex Hearing whilst having fun - Joining us as a Bus Driver Volunteer is the perfect opportunity! Let's make a difference together, as we’re ‘Here to Help You Hear.’
It is essential that you have a clean C1 driving licence with a minimum of two years' driving experience. The bus is similar in size to an NHS ambulance. Also, essential is the ability to travel to a rural location in Upper Dicker.
What will you gain from volunteering with us
• A chance to meet new people, make new friends and dedicate yourself to a rewarding role
• The time to develop new skills, take on new challenges and enjoy new experiences
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to East Sussex Hearing and support the deaf and hard of hearing community
• Travel expenses can be claimed
• FREE admission to our BSL Sign Language classes
• FREE admission to our Lipreading classes
• Access to exclusive discounts, cashback & vouchers for charity workers & volunteers
Training & Support
East Sussex Hearing will provide all relevant training at our Eastbourne centre, and locally where possible.
What we are looking for
• You're friendly, welcoming and enjoy being part of events
• You enjoy engaging with people and being part of a team
• You’re flexible and willing to take on a variety of tasks
• You’re over the age of 30 due to insurance purposes.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
KEECH HOSPICE CARE….YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Our Volunteers are at the heart of the day to day running of our shops. We thank you for your time given to the charity. The shops provide much needed income to provide nursing care for our patients. Our purpose is to care for our patients and to support their families and friends. Whilst aiming to provide the most efficient and provide appropriate care, both physically and emotionally in their home or at the Hospice.
TASKS
To welcome, assist and serve our customers in a warm and friendly way providing a good standard of customer service.
To ensure Gift Aid is explained clearly and promoted to all our donors, and thanking them for their valuable contribution.
To promote public understanding of our work and the importance of raising funds, including promoting Hospice events and activities to the public.
Helping sort, steam, hang and display our donated stock and rotate the stock following the Manager’s guidelines.
Dealing with customer purchases, confidently process the cash handling and the accurate operation of the till.
SKILLS & QUALITIES
Honest, trustworthy and respectful.
Enthusiastic with a positive attitude.
Good communication and numeracy skills.
Presenting and maintaining shop displays in an attractive way to help create sales.
Reliable, committed, dependable and flexible.
Enjoy interacting with the customers and working as part of team, as well as under your own initiative.
TRAINING AVAILABLE
Ongoing support, training and development opportunities.
Specific relevant courses – Health & Safety, Fire Safety and Equality and Diversity.
BENEFITS
On site training.
Develop new skills, and meet new people.
DRESS CODE
Well presented smart/casual appearance and appropriate comfortable shoes to be worn.
Volunteer badge to be worn.
AVAILABILILTY
Time, commitment and availability can be discussed and agreed by the Shop Manager.
Where possible to be able and committed to work four hours a week i.e. 9-1pm, 1-5pm
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role: Referral volunteer (laptops)
Team: Casework
Supervised by: Adult caseworker
Location: Tooting office on a Thursday afternoon (2-5pm) for period of training/induction. Remote or in person once induction is complete.
Time commitment: 3 hours a week, we ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 6 months
About CARAS :
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do
About the Role:
CARAS offers advocacy casework integrated into all of its projects, ensuring that people who attend our groups can access support to address issues in a friendly and timely manner. A key part of the casework service is to help connect people to resources and activities that they need.
A key areas of need is digital access, either by smart phone or laptop.
People living in asylum accommodation receive £9/week making saving for items impossible.
Whilst many activities have returned to face-to-face delivery many have stayed online, not having a laptop impedes people’s ability to join English classes and social activities. People attending college face difficulties in completing college work without access to computers in the evenings, access to a laptop means people are able to take greater control over their independent learning. Smart phones make a huge difference in people’s ability to have contact with family and community across the world.
To meet this need we have built a partnership with a grant giving organisation, Acts435, to support people to get personal laptops.
We are able to refer 5 people at a time for grants to buy new laptops/phones. Once the grant money is received we purchase the devices for community members to collect.
We are looking for a volunteer to do these referrals each month and support people to purchase and receive their laptops and phones. This is an extremely rewarding role, interacting with lots of the CARAS community members and making a very tangible positive impact on people’s lives.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
- contacting community members who are on our waiting lists by phone to explain the scheme to them
- complete grant applications with community members
- monitoring the grant platform to see when grants have been made
- purchasing laptops online and liaising with community members to arrange collection
- completing monitoring forms with community members once grants are recieved and uploading to grant platform
- recording all referrals and work done on our case management system (lamplight)
Person specification:
Essential
· Confidence in using IT (online forms, online shopping, google maps, email, DocuSign)
· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;
· A commitment to confidentiality and data protection
· Thorough with good attention to detail
· Reliable
· A high level of spoken and written English
· Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;
· Ability to gather information from people in a sensitive way
· A calm, friendly, kind and patient approach
· Enjoyment in speaking to new people
· A commitment to working in an empowering way
· Able to maintain boundaries
· Able to work autonomously
· Currently resident in the UK
Desirable
· Experience working with refugees and asylum seekers
· Fluent in one or more of: Pashtu, Farsi, Tigrinya, Somali, Arabic or Dari, Russian, Ukrainian, Albanian, Amharic, Kurdish Sorani, Spanish, French
· Experience of working with interpreters
Benefits to Volunteering:
Through volunteering with us you will:
· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;
· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;
· Develop your skills and competencies;
· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
All volunteers must complete a DBS check and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role.
To Apply:
To Apply To apply for this opportunity, download and complete the CARAS volunteer application form, using this volunteer role description to inform your answers.
Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with the Adult caseworker, and one with community members, to assess compatibility to the role. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have a passion for fashion? Are you a book lover? Do you enjoy meeting people and want to support a much loved local charity? Apply today to join our fantastic team of volunteers at the charity shops in Woodley and Heald Green to help raise vital funds for Beechwood Cancer Care in Stockport
No experience is necessary - just a commitment to spare a few hours each week along with
- An eager and welcoming personality
- A great team spirit
- An interest in charity retail
- Readiness to learn
As a retail volunteer you will become part of our Retail Team. Broadly, the role will encompass the following:
- Customer service
- General housekeeping
- Merchandising and display
- Sorting stock
- Handling cash
- Pricing stock
- Researching goods
- Tagging clothes
- Steaming clothes
- Manual handling of donations and stock
- Teamwork with the other retail volunteers
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About StreetVet
StreetVet is a growing national charity, committed to providing free vet care to the pets of people experiencing homelessness and to keep pets and owners together to maintain their unbreakable bond. StreetVet relies on its team of over 500 vet and nurse volunteers in twenty three locations around the UK to deliver free medical treatment, funded by grants, partnerships, corporate and individual donors. Since its inception in 2016 the charity has treated more than 2400 pets, and has won numerous awards.
Role Description
StreetVet are looking for a volunteer Finance Assistant to work with the CEO, Operations Manager and Head of Fundraising to help monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the CEO at regular intervals on its state of financial health, in line with best practice, and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements.
You will single handedly help support StreetVet’s patients and their owners by strengthening StreetVet’s finance and governance.
What can you expect to be doing?
· Preparing budgets.
· Keeping accurate financial records.
· Reporting financial records via Xero accounting software.
· Review and approve payments (including payroll).
· Being part of a team which ensures there are sufficient funds to meet expenditure.
· Updating and advising others on income received, expenditure and available funds.
· Managing and monitoring donations made to the group.
· Following financial procedures e.g. Gift Aid returns and VAT claims.
Responsibilities and duties:
· Overseeing and supporting the CEO with budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements for the Board of Trustees, and making sure that they understand what the accounts are saying.
· Leading StreetVet to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
· Supporting the CEO with the production of StreetVet’s Annual Report and Accounts.
· Oversee the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.
· Lead on the Charities duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
· Liaising with the CEO and Operations Manager on the day-to-day financial activities of the charity.
· Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity.
· Monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the CEO on its state of financial health, in line with best practice, and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements.
· Overseeing the implementation of and monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.
· Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, and supporting the CEO with presenting an annual budget to the Board.
· Set up the StreetVet Finance committee, ensuring effective and inclusive meetings, facilitating discussions to which everyone can contribute and ensuring well founded, considered decision making.
· Oversee and scrutinise budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements and provide advice on these and the financial implications of the charity’s strategy and plans to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team.
· In partnership with the CEO ensure sound financial management of StreetVet - that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly invested and economically spent; and that we have sound reserves and other finance and fundraising policies.
· Overseeing the charity’s financial risk‐management process.
· Liaise with the external auditors or independent examiner on specific issues such as the auditor’s or examiner’s management letter and the related board representations.
Skills/qualifications required
· Experience or knowledge of accounting, book keeping and/or good numeracy skills.
· The ability to collect and present information clearly and logically.
· A professional accountancy qualification (ICAEW or equivalent).
· Some understanding of charity finance and the fundraising landscape.
· Sound independent judgement, an ability to analyse information and communicate this in clear accessible ways to those without financial backgrounds.
· Good communication and leadership skills.
· A willingness to speak their mind and engage in open debate while working effectively as part of a team.
· To be honest and objective in their scrutiny of the organisation, seeking to ensure that the quality of service to clients remains paramount at all times.
· Commitment to the vision, mission and values of StreetVet.
· Willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to meet the responsibilities of the post.
· Preferably experience of using Xero software.
Desirable
· Experience in charity finance.
Time Commitment
Streetvet employs a CEO and Operations Manager who are responsible for day to day financial management of the charity. The Finance Assistant’s involvement will play a key support role overseeing the financial affairs of the organisation, supported by the CEO and Operations Manager. This strengthens the Charity’s efficiency and strengthens their ability to create lasting impact on the communities we support. We love you to be able to give us 2-4 hours a week. More hours may be required at certain times, such as towards the end of the financial year.
StreetVet is a national charity, committed to providing free vet care to the pets of people experiencing homelessness & to keep pets & owners together
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have experience of using assistive and accessible technology? We'd love you to volunteer regularly in Brighton to help local people with sight loss become independent technology users and enjoy the benefits of being online. You'll work closely with individuals, supporting them to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to get the most out of technology.
*Good communication skills
*Patient approach to training
*Natural tech user
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have experience of using assistive and accessible technology? We'd love you to volunteer regularly at Yate Library, near Chipping Sodbury, Gloucs. Help local people with sight loss become independent technology users and enjoy the benefits of being online. You'll work closely with individuals, supporting them to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to get the most out of technology.
*This role requires an enhanced criminal record check
*This roles requires 1 reference
*Good communication skills
*Patient approach to training
*Natural tech user
Yate: Yate Library, 44 West Walk, Yate, South Gloucestershire, BS37 4AX
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
You will oversee fundraising efforts for Students4Students, which includes grant writing, running campaings and overseeing our team of Branch Fundraising Officers.
Students4Students (S4S) is a national charity, that works to ensure all children can achieve their potential, which is seeking to grow. We need to increase our fundraising to support our growth ambitions.
S4S has c.100 volunteers split across 4 branches. Each branch is semi-independent and run by student committees. These students are supported via our committee programme. At each of these committees, we have a student Fundraising Officer.
We are therefore looking for someone who can:
1) Lead our central fundraising efforts through research and applying for grants, and co-ordinating fundraising for the charity as a whole.
2) Train and support our local branch fundraising officers in their fundraising activities, including showing them how to apply for grants, how to fundraise effectively and how to co-ordinate key events.
Responsibilities and duties
The post-holder will be responsible for:
• Owning and managing fundraising activities for S4S.
• Managing a team of Fundraising Officers, including providing training, coaching & support for them.
• Researching and applying for appropriate grants for Students4Students.
Time commitment
• Throughout the year – We expect the post holder to commit to an average of 2 hours per week.
Key requirements
i. Experience in fundraising.
ii. Experience in grant-writing.
iii. Experience managing a team.
Optional requirements
i. Experience working with student volunteers.
ii. Experience working in a non-profit setting.
iii. Experience working in an educational setting.
Please submit your CV & a covering letter outlining your interest in the role and any relevant experience you have.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have experience of using assistive and accessible technology? We'd love you to volunteer at our monthly drop in sessions for customers at Gateshead Central Library. Help local people with sight loss become independent technology users and enjoy the benefits of being online. You'll work closely with individuals, supporting them to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to get the most out of technology.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have experience of using assistive and accessible technology? We'd love you to volunteer regularly in Brighton to help local people with sight loss become independent technology users and enjoy the benefits of being online. You'll work closely with individuals, supporting them to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to get the most out of technology.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We are currently seeking a Chair to join our dynamic charity board as our current chair is coming towards the end of their term.
We are a highly engaged board who is passionate about ensuring our charity makes a big difference to Lewisham residents, especially to the most vulnerable people. We work in a collegiate way, respecting the diverse viewpoints board members bring to the table and hold ourselves to high professional standards.
The Chair will work closely with the CEO, staff, volunteers and other Trustees to support Citizens Advice Lewisham in making a difference in the lives of people who live and work in the Borough.
General Trustee duties and responsibilities
Each individual member of the Trustee Board has a responsibility to contribute to the discharging of the board’s duties. They do this by:
● Governing the charity in the best interest of the clients and in line with the governing documents.
● Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance and ensuring effective oversight of the charity’s activities. This includes visiting Citizens Advice Lewisham to get to know the team and being aware of the service in action.
● Taking responsibility for their own learning and development.
● Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met.
● Supporting the development of Citizens Advice Lewisham through agreed projects and managing risk.
● Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information received.
Chair specific responsibilities
Plan the board meetings including the dates and the agenda, supported by the CEO.
● Facilitate the trustee board meetings by leading the meeting, ensuring that agenda items are discussed, enabling all members to contribute their views and take part and seeking clarification where necessary.
● Ensure that decisions and actions taken at board meetings are carried out.
● Ensure that the board decisions are made within the remit of the Citizens Advice membership agreement, governing documents and policies.
● Monitor attendance and commitment of all trustees.
● Provide or arrange for training or support for trustees if needed.
● With other trustees and the CEO, recruit a trustee board with a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge with an aim to promote trusteeship to underrepresented groups that represent the local community.
● Ensure that all trustees receive an induction and the training needed for them to fulfil their role.
● Be proactive in recruiting successors to key positions such as Chair, Treasurer etc.
● Arrange or provide support and supervision for the CEO including an annual appraisal.
● Together with the Treasurer, ensure proper management and control of local Citizens Advice finances.
● Together with the CEO, represent the local Citizens Advice in relationships with funders or potential funders, local events and in the community.
● Work together with all trustees and ensure that the board is able to:
● Set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice.
● Monitor the financial position of the local Citizens Advice ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management.
● Monitor whether the Citizens Advice service complies with its governing document and meets the required standards.
● Seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community.
● Ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers.
● Review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement.
● Work on specific projects to further the strategic objectives of the local Citizens Advice.
General Trustee skills and qualities
● Ability to meet time commitment.
● Commitment to clients and ensuring the impact of Citizens Advice Lewisham in the local community.
● Ability to fulfil governance role, specifically to manage risks, ensure oversight and strategic development of the charity.
● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
● Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources.
● Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Lewisham CAB service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence, and research and campaigns.
● Ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and employers.
● Willingness and ability to learn and to develop.
● Ability to think creatively and strategically, and exercise good, independent judgement.
● Ability to build productive respectful relationships with other Trustees, staff and volunteers.
● Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the charity’s beneficiaries, staff and the Trustee board.
● Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity.
● Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively.
● Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop.
Chair specific skills and qualities
● Preferable experience in trustee board governance.
● Excellent interpersonal skills.
● Good leadership skills.
● Ability to facilitate and lead meetings.
● An understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities as trustees.
● Ability to be non-judgmental and respecting views, values and cultures that are different to your own.
● Good numeracy skills to understand financial accounts with the support of the treasurer.
● An understanding of the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice.
Time Commitment and availability to attend required meetings
a) As Chair
● Quarterly governance committee meetings (each 11⁄2 hours plus prep).
● On average half a day per week working with the organisation on chair matters.
b) As Trustee
● Quarterly evening Trustee Board meetings (each 21⁄2 hours plus prep).
● One annual Trustee Board awayday (weekend – 5 hours plus prep).
● Liaison with CEO and colleague Trustees by phone, e-mail or Skype (occasional).
● Day-time visits to our offices to understand our work and engage with staff/volunteers (occasional).
● Two annual stakeholder events (one evening event, one mid-week all-day event).
● Liaising with other trustees and CEO via email and phone in between meetings.
● Where required, leading independently on key projects.
● Any further day time visits and meetings that may arise during the year.
What’s in it for you?
● You will contribute to making a positive impact for people in Lewisham.
● You will meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers.
● You will build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills.
Remuneration
This is an unpaid voluntary role and reasonable expenses will be covered by advance agreement.
Diversity
We seek candidate Trustees from all backgrounds so that our board represents the diversity of our community. We welcome applications from all candidates regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
As services are delivered in a small geographic area applicants should ideally live, work or study in, or near, Lewisham or have some local knowledge of the area.
How to apply
Application: Please send us a CV highlighting relevant skills and experience you will bring to the role along with a completed Application Form
Closing date: 31 May 2024
Interviews: 17 June 2024
Contact: If you would like to have a conversation with someone about this role, please get in touch with the Head of Business & Development who can set up a chat with the Chair or CEO.
Disclosure: Applicants must complete the Disclosure and EDI Form as part of their application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.