Volunteer roles in dakar

Who are we?

Switchboard LGBTQIA+ exists to provide members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as their friends, family and those supporting them, with a listening service that they can contact via phone, instant message and email between the hours of 10am to 10pm every day.

We are happy to talk to service users about any topic they wish. Topics we often talk to service users about include: sexual health, safer sex, relationships, coming-out, gender identity, transitioning, mental health, experiences of hate crimes, support for meeting other LGBTQIA+ people and making friends, and much more.

However, we want to also be upfront and transparent about the fact that not all of our conversations are positive or constructive. Our volunteers can also be exposed to abuse from the public, manipulative callers, sexual fantasies and safeguarding concerns.

Training for POC volunteers

At Switchboard we are working to ensure that our volunteer membership reflects everyone within the LGBTQIA+ community. We want service users to be able to speak with volunteers who can empathise with their experiences and volunteers to connect with folks from a wide range of different backgrounds, cultures and identities.

To help enable us to do this even more, we have created brand new dedicated training groups for different identities within the LGBTQIA+ community. 

This group training group is specifically set up for people of colour. By joining this group, you'll undertake our Core Acceptance Training programme which equips you with the skills needed to support those contacting us via phone and instant message. Our hope is that this safe space enables you to freely ask questions, put our listening toolkit into practice and discuss approaches to different scenarios in an engaging, enjoyable way.

Who are we looking for?

To ensure we can provide a high quality service to those who contact us, we are looking for volunteers who:

• Simply put, like communicating and chatting with other people (you’re most likely a people-person who feels energised by this type of communication)

• Feel comfortable taking calls and speaking over the phone to people you do not already know

• Are familiar with different instant messaging platforms (such as WhatsApp and other chat tools) and the types of communication they might receive

• Are able to read between the lines to decipher messages

• Are good listeners who let others lead conversations and instead create the space they need

• Are able to ask broad, open questions to keep conversations flowing

• Understand the importance of using the right tone when communicating in writing, and are able to flex their writing style to suit different people

• Have a strong attention to detail, with a particular focus on spelling and grammar

• Are able to evaluate sources of information and identify those that can be trusted, from those that cannot

• Know when to challenge and when to step back

• Have essential digital literacy skills (such as using email tools such as gmail and outlook, search the web for information and copy and paste website URLs)

• Understand and support our mission

• Have an awareness of the challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community

• Are empathetic in nature

• Agree to uphold our values of being non-directive and non-judgemental

RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.

We are looking for an experienced marketing or fundraising professional to help raise our charity’s profile and enhance the impact and innovation of our fundraising campaigns. Ideally operating at executive director level or equivalent. If you have a track record of delivering successful marketing or fundraising initiatives, we would like to hear from you.

You will play a key role in supporting our team to diversify and grow our funding streams; particularly unrestricted income. We would welcome applications from across both commercial and charity sectors.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic guidance on the planning and execution of marketing and fundraising campaigns, with a focus on channel strategy and donor engagement across digital, social and traditional media.
• Advise on market and competitive analysis to inform campaign development and positioning.
• Bring expertise in successful campaign delivery and marketing best practice reflecting appropriate legal and ethical considerations.

Your insight will help strengthen our financial sustainability, ensuring we can continue supporting high-impact services for patients.

Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.

What’s in it for the volunteer?

You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.

Time commitment

• Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
• Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
• The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.

How to apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.

RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.

We are seeking a qualified and practicing legal professional to join our Board and provide legal insight, ideally with a minimum 10 years post qualification experience. You don’t necessarily need to be a specialist in healthcare, but an understanding of legal risk, charity law, commercial, governance, or regulatory frameworks would be valuable.

You will help ensure that we fulfil our legal duties as a charity, protect our interests, and make well-informed decisions—particularly when reviewing policies, commercial agreements, or collaborations with our NHS partners and other bodies. Crucially you will advise the CEO and Board of Trustees when seeking external professional legal advice.

Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.

What’s in it for the volunteer?

You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.

Time commitment

• Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
• Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
• The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.

How to apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.

RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Identify and apply for grants and funding opportunities that align with our goals.

 •  Cultivate relationships with individual donors, corporate partners, and foundations.

 •  Maintain accurate records of donations, track progress toward goals, and prepare reports for leadership.

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Proven experience in fundraising, sales, marketing, or nonprofit development.

 •  Strong written and verbal communication skills; able to inspire and engage diverse audiences.

 •  Ability to work independently, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines.

 •  Familiarity with fundraising platforms, CRM systems, and social media marketing is a plus.

Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.

We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills. 

Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons.  Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.

We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.

Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.

We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills. 

Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.

We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons.  Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.

We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.

Do you believe in a future where no animal suffers for science? 

Do you have spare time you can volunteer to make a difference to the lives of animals and humans? 

If so, we would love you to consider being one of our new trustees.

At Replacing Animal Research, we’ve been working for over half a century to replace the use of animals in research. We have significantly contributed to the development, and uptake, of non-animal methods by:

• Empowering scientists with our educational opportunities.
• Funding exciting research aimed at replacing animals and improving human healthcare.
• Collaborating with policymakers to ensure more rigorous policy on the use of animals in science. 

Our mission is to ensure scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing. It’s a better future for animals and humans. For us to achieve this, we need to ensure that Replacing Animal Research is a resilient organisation with sufficient skills, support, and income to continue its work in the long term. Our trustees are critical to the future of the organisation. 

We are currently seeking more trustees to strengthen our board by providing strategic and governance support. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with an interest or experience in scientific and medical research and testing and the development of non-animal methods. We’d also be interested in hearing from anyone passionate about eliminating animal use in research. We encourage applications from all people regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief or race. We are looking for trustees who can demonstrate:

A commitment to our purpose and aims and the strategic vision to support the Replacing Animal Research's future development.

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity. (Please see below for more details on the time commitment).
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Sound, independent judgement and the ability to challenge constructively.
• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team and make decisions for the good of the charity.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

A full induction is provided for new trustees as well as ongoing CPD opportunities and support. The role of trustee requires an annual time commitment of around 8 working days which works out around 5 hours per month. This includes:

• Preparation for and attendance at 6 general board meetings, which are held remotely.
• Preparation for and attendance at sub-committee meetings as appropriate.
• Between meetings, trustees may be asked to contribute to discussions via email or ad hoc telephone conferences on specific issues.
• Trustees may be asked to sit on or contribute to other project groups or activities from time to time.
• Attendance at 1 or 2 in-person board away days.

For more detailed information on being a trustee for Replacing Animal Research please take a look at our Trustee Role Description.

To apply for this opportunity please do so via Charity Job and submit your CV and a supporting cover letter. Please detail why you are interested in the role and how you can fulfil the role requirements and be an ambassador for Replacing Animal Research. Please ensure you read our Trustee Role Description and refer to this in your application.

Thank you for your interest in working with Replacing Animal Research and we look forward to hearing from you.

Benefits

The role of trustee is voluntary but travel and subsistence expenses are covered as required.

Notes

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview in the week of 23/06/2025 and successful candidates will be invited to attend the next Replacing Animal Research board meeting as an observer on 17/07/2025. Full details will be given to candidates nearer the time.

Calling All Book Lovers!

Love books? Want to make a difference in your community? Acorns Children’s Hospice is thrilled to be looking for book assistant volunteers. 

As part of our network of shops across the West Midlands, the Pershore Superstore helps us generate vital funds to support children and their families. By volunteering in our new store, you’ll play a key role in this mission while sharing your passion for books.

Step into a dynamic and exciting environment where no two days are the same!

As a shop volunteer you will.

• Organise and Catalogue books, journals, and other materials to keep our collection well-ordered and accessible.
• Assist Visitors in finding the right books and resources, ensuring they have a great experience.
• Engage with Customers by offering friendly service, answering queries, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
• Curate and Sort Donations by arranging shelves, selecting featured titles, and helping process new book donations.

Why Volunteer at Acorns?

• Make a difference in your local community by supporting a charity that cares for children and families.
• Meet like-minded book lovers and make new friends.
• Boost your CV by learning new skills and gaining experience.
• Enjoy retail discounts, access free online courses, and take advantage of exciting opportunities to progress into other roles.
• Be part of a supportive team, attend social events, and enjoy rewards through our volunteer recognition schemes.

How Much Time Will It Take?

Our shop is open Monday to Saturday, 9am–6pm, and Sundays, 10am–4pm. You can choose the hours that suit you, but we’d love for you to volunteer at least 3 hours a week.

Full Training Provided
No prior experience is required—just enthusiasm and a love for books! While previous experience is a plus, it's not essential. We’ll provide all the training and support you need to succeed

Join Us Today!
Help us make the new book shop a success and continue to provide vital care for children and their families.

Interested? Pop into our Harborne Superstore or contact us to find out more. We can’t wait to welcome you to the team!

Retail & Furniture Assembly Volunteers  - A New Volunteer Opportunity in Acorns Children's Hospice Superstore in Pershore 

Acorns have a network of shops across the West Midlands that generate a substantial level of income to enable us to care for children and their families. 

To help us to continue to provide the care that we do, we are looking for fun and enthusiastic volunteers to join us in our Pershore Superstore. Our shops are exciting and dynamic, with no two days being the same. From our walk-in customers, to receiving donations, and everything in between. The store is open - Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm and Sunday 10am to 4pm. 

What does volunteering involve?

Shop Volunteer

• Engaging with customers
• Accepting and sorting donated stock
• Pricing donations for sale
• Working on the till

Furniture Assembly Volunteer

• Building and dismantling flat pack furniture
• Working within timeframes for customer assembly requests
• Flagging defects or spare parts needed when constructing furniture
• Carrying out minor repairs on donated goods

How much time will it take? 

The shop will be open Monday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. You can volunteer the hours that suit you, but ideally we’d like you to volunteer for at least 3 hours per week.

Why volunteer at Acorns? 

• To help a local charity and make a difference in your local community
• Connect with likeminded people and make new friends
• Enhance your CV by learning new skills and gaining experience
• Opportunities to progress to other roles
• Access to free online courses
• Retail discounts
• Invites to social events and participation in our volunteer recognition schemes and rewards

Full training will be provided

Retail & Furniture Assembly Volunteers  - A New Volunteer Opportunity in Acorns Children's Hospice Superstore in Tewkesbury  

Acorns have a network of shops across the West Midlands that generate a substantial level of income to enable us to care for children and their families. 

To help us to continue to provide the care that we do, we are looking for fun and enthusiastic volunteers to join us in our Tewkesbury Superstore. Our shops are exciting and dynamic, with no two days being the same. From our walk-in customers, to receiving donations, and everything in between. the store is open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm
Sunday 10am to 4pm

What does volunteering involve?

Shop Volunteer

• Engaging with customers
• Accepting and sorting donated stock
• Pricing donations for sale
• Working on the till

Furniture Assembly Volunteer

• Building and dismantling flat pack furniture
• Working within timeframes for customer assembly requests
• Flagging defects or spare parts needed when constructing furniture
• Carrying out minor repairs on donated goods

How much time will it take? 

The shop will be open Monday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm. You can volunteer the hours that suit you, but ideally we’d like you to volunteer for at least 3 hours per week.

Why volunteer at Acorns? 

• To help a local charity and make a difference in your local community
• Connect with likeminded people and make new friends
• Enhance your CV by learning new skills and gaining experience
• Opportunities to progress to other roles
• Access to free online courses
• Retail discounts
• Invites to social events and participation in our volunteer recognition schemes and rewards

Full training will be provided

We currently have two vacancies on the Board and are looking for people, based in any location, who are passionate about the arts, share our ambition to broaden our audience, complement the skills and talents of existing board members, will work collaboratively, and can make a significant contribution to the future of the Wordsworth Trust. Even if you have no previous experience on the Board of a cultural organisation, we’d like to hear from you.

At the Wordsworth Trust, we recognise that to achieve our aims we need a range of skills, experience, backgrounds and viewpoints. We value diversity in our Board as this ensures that we have the best people doing the job, because they bring with them a rich tapestry of experience and creativity.  We are keen to welcome people from backgrounds currently underrepresented on our Board, particularly people who have been minoritised due to their race and/or ethnicity, people from the LGBTQ+ community, disabled people, and people below the age of 45. 

If you have some of the skills or experience detailed below in the person specification, and are ambitious about helping to shape a progressive future for the Wordsworth Trust, please contact us for a chat. We will help you as much as we can if you want to apply.

All successful applicants will be given a full induction and training prior to their first Board meeting.

We are interested in hearing from people from all sectors of the community, both those who are new to boards and those with a track record. Specifically, we are seeking applications from people with knowledge and experience of the following:    
 

• Digital, particularly in relation to content creation and ecommerce and merchandising  

• Primary and / or secondary education  

• Commercial, particularly in relation to innovation and entrepreneurship, property management, marketing & PR, particularly in relation to the visitor economy  

• Local government / third sector, particularly in Cumbria  

What else are we looking for? 

• Commitment to the Trust 

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort 

• Good, independent judgment 

• Ability to think creatively 

• Acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team 

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 

• Selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership (the Seven Principles of Public Life, also known as the Nolan Principles) 

Other 

• Good networks and the ability to act as a champion for the Trust 

• A preparedness to offer your skills and experience to support the work of the Trust’s team when required 

Time Commitment

Appointments are made for a term of three years. Board members may serve a maximum of three terms (i.e. 9 years in total). 

Being a Trustee of the Wordsworth Trust is a voluntary position, but we will cover travel and other expenses. For those living further afield we appreciate that Grasmere is in a rural location and will arrange overnight accommodation and transport to and from the nearest railway station.

The Trustees hold four board meetings a year with two taking place at Wordsworth Grasmere and two being held online. The Grasmere meetings usually take place at weekends. It is possible to join in-person meetings online, although we hope that trustees can attend in person at least once a year.

Trustees are also encouraged to contribute to committee work and to fundraising activities.  In addition to the above, Trustees will need to give time to study papers in advance of meetings.

Trustees are encouraged to attend Wordsworth Trust events in Grasmere and elsewhere but we recognise that our location may not make this possible on a regular basis. 

How to Apply

If you are interested in applying, please send a CV and covering letter, addressed to Tim Robertson, Chair of the Nominations Committee, explaining how you believe your skills and experience match the requirements of the role.  Alternatively, if you prefer you can submit a video application. Applications should be emailed to Caitlin Armstrong. The deadline for applications is 5:00pm on Monday 9 June 2025. 

If you would like to discuss the opportunity in advance of sending an application, we’d be happy to talk to you. Please email Caitlin and she will arrange a call with Tim.   

If you’re shortlisted for interview, we’ll ask you to supply details of two referees. Interviews will take place in person in Grasmere on 3 and 4 July 2025. If you cannot make this date, you are still welcome to apply and we may be able to make other arrangements. 

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

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

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

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available in Sunderland

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

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

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support

· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes

· Raise concerns

· Keep detailed notes and records

· Make a real difference to someone’s life

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

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

ED&I Statement

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

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

To find out more click “Apply Now”. 

About Trans Celebration

Trans Celebration is a trans-led grassroots organisation based in the UK, dedicated to uplifting trans and gender-diverse communities through celebration, advocacy, and education. Our monthly campaigns use creative media like fashion, beauty, and the arts to highlight gender diversity and improve visibility, inclusion, and access to resources.

We’re looking for a detail-oriented and strategic SEO Specialist Volunteer to help optimise our online presence and ensure our campaigns and content reach the communities that need them most.

Job Summary

The SEO Specialist Volunteer will play a key role in enhancing the visibility and searchability of Trans Celebration’s website and digital content. This volunteer will work alongside the marketing team to implement SEO best practices, conduct keyword research, improve site structure, and analyse web performance—all to ensure our content reaches a broader audience and amplifies trans voices online.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct keyword research to inform website content and campaign strategies.

• Optimise existing content for improved search engine ranking (meta tags, headers, alt text, etc.).

• Monitor and analyse SEO performance using tools such as Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and SEMrush.

• Identify technical SEO issues and collaborate with web/content teams to resolve them.

• Assist in developing backlink strategies and improving domain authority.

• Support the content team in creating SEO-optimised blogs and pages.

• Provide monthly reports on SEO performance and suggest improvements.

• Stay up to date with SEO trends, Google algorithm updates, and emerging best practices.

What We’re Looking For

Skills & Competencies:

• Understanding of SEO principles and search engine algorithms.

• Experience using SEO tools such as Google Search Console, Google Analytics, Moz, Ahrefs, or SEMrush.

• Ability to perform keyword research and competitor analysis.

• Familiarity with HTML, CSS, and content management systems (especially WordPress).

• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.

• Solid written communication and reporting skills.

Bonus Experience (Not Required):

• Previous experience in digital marketing, content strategy, or technical SEO.

• Familiarity with accessibility best practices and inclusive web design.

• Experience working with or volunteering for LGBTQIA+ organisations.

Personal Attributes:

• Passion for creating inclusive and accessible digital spaces.

• Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to work independently.

• Enthusiastic about supporting trans rights and visibility.

• Willing to learn, adapt, and collaborate with a supportive team.

Work Environment

• On-site with flexable hours .

• Occasional virtual team check-ins and collaborative sessions.

• Supportive, creative, and inclusive team environment.

Language Requirements

• Fluency in English (spoken and written) is essential.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit:

• A cover letter explaining your interest in the role and your experience with SEO.

• A current CV or resume.

• (Optional) Links to websites or content you’ve helped optimise.