Volunteer roles in romford

JOIN US!

The Climate Coalition is recruiting for two new trustees to join us. We are in a strong position as an organisation both internally and in terms of the critical role we are playing in our sector but there is always more to do and we are looking for people who can support and challenge us as we think about our next five years of progress. We have an experienced Board already and are open to recruiting people who have never served on trustee boards before (as well as those that have). 

We are looking for people who have patience as well as drive and are drawn to the opportunities that come with coalition working. You will get to sit alongside some incredible people within the team and Board and bring your insight, thoughtfulness, support and challenge to help us do the best job we possibly can. 

We acknowledge that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in the climate sector and we’re committed to doing what we can to correct this. We are particularly keen to receive applications from candidates who identify as Black, Asian or minority ethnic. We do not require applicants to have previous trustee experience; instead we are looking for people who will devote the time and energy required to help us achieve our ambitious aims at a critical time for the climate sector. 

We hope that this will be a valuable opportunity for people who are looking to make change in the world, who are deeply committed to building a broad coalition of people and groups connected to action on climate change, and want to develop their own skills and experience. 

WHO WE ARE

The Climate Coalition came together over 20 years ago and has grown to become the UK’s biggest group of people dedicated to action on climate change, with a combined supporter base of more than 22 million people. We encompass over 130 organisations spanning nature, environment, international development, faith, health, community and women’s groups – from the National Trust, WWF, the Women’s Institute, to Islamic Relief as well as local climate groups. 

People are powerful when they come together: The Climate Coalition platforms and mobilises collective action for climate and nature; develops shared insights and narratives; and provides shared infrastructure to bring organisations together, to channel their collective action and create the space for sustained political change. 

This is an exciting time for the Coalition as we adapt to meet the changing needs of the climate sector. Over the past few months we have refreshed our ideas about how we make a difference in the world (see our website for more details), and are reviewing our governance and how we make decisions. 

WHAT WE NEED 

We are looking to add a number of new trustees from either within or beyond our membership organisations. We are seeking trustees who will be bold and brave; who can contribute strategically across a wide variety of issues and who will support and challenge the Board and Executive Director in its drive for change. 

We are able to provide access to support and training for first time trustees or those who feel they want to build their confidence/understanding in the role of the trustee. 

Whether you work in the climate sector or in a different sector entirely, this is a chance to play a meaningful role in the UK movement. It is not just another governance role; it’s your chance to volunteer for an organisation with an outsized role in, and responsibility for, the climate movement as a whole. 

We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience of community organising. 

WHAT WE WOULD ASK OF YOU 

As a trustee we would expect you to get to know us as an organisation and build a strong understanding of the aims of The Climate Coalition and work collectively with the Chair, the other Board trustees and the Executive Director to help ensure that the Coalition does all it can to fulfil its potential. 

Specifically, as a trustee you will be responsible for ensuring it: 

• fulfils its strategic objectives as set out in our agreed strategic framework;

• is well governed and abides by relevant laws and regulations (training is provided and you do not need to be a legal expert to do this role);

• thinks carefully about how it recruits and how it spends money so that it has the necessary resources, both material and human, to operate effectively and deliver against our mission;

• prioritises EDI in decision making. 

Your commitment will be to: 

• attend our AGM as well as 6 x 2-3 hour trustee meetings per year, of which at least ⅔ will be via zoom, and to pre-read all relevant papers; 

• support our anti-oppression agenda and take part in or contribute to our trainings; as well as our main Board, over time all trustees will also have the chance to sit on and/or lead working groups particularly where you have specialised experience/skills, and attend other meetings where necessary; 

• to review our executive reports that detail how we are doing as and be aware of, and abide by the responsibilities of a charity trustee as set out by the Charity Commission. 

Salary: The role is unremunerated though reasonable travel expenses will be paid. 

Time commitment: Approximately 1-1.5 days/month 

Location: Remote (anywhere within the UK). Occasional travel to London.

About UKCF

At UK Community Foundations (UKCF), we put inclusivity at the forefront of all we do, we put relationships first and we are ambitious for our members and the communities they serve.

Everyone should have the opportunity to have a fulfilling life and to feel they belong. This can’t be mandated by government, or done to people, only with them. Change needs to be driven by people who understand the local situation and our support makes this possible.

UKCF is a national network of community foundations based all over the UK. Community foundations connect philanthropic people with local causes that matter to them. They are charitable organisations focused on supporting a defined geographical area by leveraging funds to support community needs and local organisations making a difference.  At the national level, UKCF works with strategic partners to pilot new neighbourhood ideas and scale existing solutions across the UK, making sure resources reach people and communities where they are needed the most.

About the role

As a member of the Board of Trustees at UKCF, you share responsibility in ensuring that we have an effective, accountable governing body which provides leadership for the organisation's activities and performance. You have a legal responsibility to ensure that we carry out our activities for public benefit and we comply with our governing document and the law and act in the charity’s best interest. 

You will be committed to our values, want to actively participate in our activities and decision-making and be able to work effectively as part of a team.

Person specification

We value diversity in all its forms and believe that a diverse Board provides stronger governance. We encourage applicants from a range of backgrounds, including those who may bring lived experience of the challenges community foundations strive to address. We also encourage individuals that may never have served as a trustee before to apply. We offer a comprehensive trustee induction, ongoing trustee training and a mentor for all first-time trustees.

We are specifically looking for individuals that can contribute experience of:

• Digital Transformation

• Commercial Legal (contracts)

• Philanthropy / Fundraising

• Community Resilience / Crisis Response

• HR

• Investment Management

Shared duties of the Board Trustees

• Strategy 

• Review the vision, mission and aims of the organisation annually to ensure that our strategy aligns with our purpose

• Scrutiny 

• Set and approve policies, plans and budgets in accordance with the approved strategy, and monitor performance against key performance indicators
• Ensure the financial strength and sustainability of UKCF

• Governance 

• Ensure UKCF complies with its charitable deed and all relevant laws and regulation 
• Oversee the identification and management of risk 
• Agree or ratify all policies and decisions on matters which might create significant risk to the organisation, financial or otherwise 
• Set and maintain a framework of delegation and internal control 
• Act reasonably and prudently ensuring the organisation takes expert advice when needed 

• Supporting 

• Be an ambassador for UKCF at a local and national level
• Support our strategic positioning with key stakeholders
• Introduce new contacts to UK Community Foundations that can help inform or further our work 
• Provide advice and support to the Chief Executive and senior management team 
• Participate as appropriate with our members, in order to build your understanding of community foundations in a wider context 

• Selection 

• Appoint and determine the remuneration of the Chief Executive
• Appoint the Chair of trustees, Vice Chairs and Treasurer from amongst the Board members 
• Agree the appointment of the auditors 

Commitment

We ask all trustees to commit to the following:

• Consider the organisation in all decisions, and have a clear understanding of UKCF’s purpose and mission 

• Act in the best interests of UKCF at all times and manage conflicts of interest 

• Reflect the organisation's vision and values, strategy and major policies at all times 

• Contribute specific skills, interests, contacts and support to the organisation in its activities 

• Prepare for and regularly attend meetings of the trustees, including quarterly trustee meetings, committee meetings (if applicable) and the AGM 

• Maintain good relations with, and provide encouragement to, senior managers and other staff 

• Take part in training sessions provided for the benefit of the trustees 

• Help to promote the organisation to a wider audience 

All trustees are expected to attend quarterly Board meetings and a trustee away day once a year. These are held during the working day, online or in person and involve approximately 2 hours in the meeting as well as preparation time. 

In return we offer the chance to help shape and contribute to the governance and future direction of our work across the UK. With a new leadership team in place and a renewed focus on building our strategic positioning, profile and partnerships, this is an exciting time to be joining UKCF.

The role offers an opportunity to be part of a national network of people and organisations driven by the desire to make a positive difference to the communities they serve. You will have the chance to represent UKCF at national events and are encouraged to meet and engage with local community foundation members across the network.

This position also provides personal professional development opportunities, including:

- Experience for non-executive director positions

- Leadership, governance and strategy in the charity sector

- Coaching and mentoring opportunities for the executive team

- Risk management, influencing, financial literacy, communications and other professional skills development

You will be supplied with an induction pack, containing key resources and Charity Commission guidance. We will arrange induction meetings with fellow Trustees, the Chief Executive and an opportunity to meet the wider team through departmental “meet and greet” sessions. If you are a first-time trustee, we will offer you a mentor to work alongside you as you settle into the role. On an ongoing basis, we provide trustee training on relevant governance topics.

We are committed to making adjustments or supporting any additional needs Trustees might have to be able to undertake the role fully.

Terms 

Appointments are for an initial 3-year term, and trustees can serve for a maximum of 2 terms.

This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses can be claimed. 

How to apply

Please submit a copy of your CV or biography, along with a supporting statement outlining your interest in the role and how your experience aligns with UKCF’s vision for a diverse and dynamic Board. Closing date for applications is 1st September.

The Nominations and Governance Committee will consider all applications and then invite shortlisted candidates to interview w/c 15th September.

If you are interested in the post of trustee but have questions or would like an informal chat, please do not hesitate to contact the CEO, Emma de Closset, by using the contact details on our website.

Data Protection 

The information given on in your application will be used to create a shortlist for interviews. Any data about you will be held securely with access restricted to those involved in dealing with your application in the recruitment process. Your application will be kept on file for a maximum of six months and then destroyed. Submission of your application indicates your consent to the data being used in this manner. 

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Support Volunteer for the Croydon Group. As our local group Support Volunteer you’ll help people affected by MS find information about local and national services. That could be helping someone access local information about the care or benefits they need or giving them a hand with a grant application. See a video about one of our Support Volunteers here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your listening and communication skills, as well as your knowledge of local services. Most importantly you’ll help people affected by MS to access the help they need.

Time commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the local area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Support Volunteer for the Camden Group. As our local group Support Volunteer you’ll help people affected by MS find information about local and national services. That could be helping someone access local information about the care or benefits they need or giving them a hand with a grant application. See a video about one of our Support Volunteers here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your listening and communication skills, as well as your knowledge of local services. Most importantly you’ll help people affected by MS to access the help they need. 

Time commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the local area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Support Volunteer for the Wandworth Group. As our local group Support Volunteer you’ll help people affected by MS find information about local and national services. That could be helping someone access local information about the care or benefits they need or giving them a hand with a grant application. See a video about one of our Support Volunteers here.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your listening and communication skills, as well as your knowledge of local services. Most importantly you’ll help people affected by MS to access the help they need.

Time commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the local area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.support

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the Lambeth and Southwark Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

RSBC are looking for volunteers to help deliver our range of activities, visits and services to children and young people with visual impairments. 

The majority of activities are held at our Life Without Limits Centre by London Bridge. 

Role: Activities Volunteer

Commitment: Currently, sessions are run both during the week (mostly in the afternoon) and at weekends (usually on a Saturday). Activity volunteering is a flexible commitment, and you will be able to sign up for the session you like and when you have time. It really is up to you and your availability. 

Location: Life Without Limits Centre - 10 Lower Thames Street, London, EC3R 6EN 

Availability: RSBC Events · Events Calendar - https://lu.ma/rsbc

Age:  18+ 

Our Mission Statement: 

RSBC believes that every blind young person should have the chance to live life without limits. 

By giving young people the essential skills and confidence to take control of their life, they can unleash their true potential.

Our success depends on our values 

Underpinning all RSBC’s work are values embedded in trust and excellence: 

TRUST: Respect and accountability 

ENERGY: Straight talking and constantly learning 

AMBITION: Confronting reality and driving results 

MOTIVATION: Vision impaired children and young people are our number one priority, and we look for solutions, not problems 

What will I be doing?

Our amazing Activity Volunteers play a key role in supporting blind children and young people to take part in a variety of activities. These range from sports, creative (singing, performing, art), audiobook club and day trips. Our activities are designed for blind young people to meet new friends, gain confidence, learn new skills/sports, and become more independent. The skills you have developed in your career and personal life will be invaluable to our young people. 

Key Tasks and Main Duties 

Face-to-face activities 

• 1:1 sighted guiding from and to public transport locations 

• practical support onsite 

• supporting the sessions 

• facilitate social interaction between the participants 

Who are you?

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow RSBC’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for RSBC. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of sight problems. 

What’s in it for me?

RSBC offers the opportunity to gain insight and experience into helping others with sight issues. As part of your volunteering, you will have access to Sighted Guide training, a training session designed to help you understand the issues and complexities of sight problems and give you the ability to help others navigate the world.

RSBC also provides paid expenses for your volunteering experience, you can claim up to £10 per day.

RSBC can also provide references and impact reports from your volunteering if required. 

You will be fully supported in your role by our team of expert and compassionate service delivery team.

Develop or utilise your skills – As a volunteer, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to develop new skills or use those you already have, which can help to build your CV, boost your employability and give you a sense of satisfaction. 

What's in it for the Community? 

Make a difference to people’s lives

Help in your community

Help deliver creative services to help people with sighted issues feel included in the world around them.

Make a direct and tangible difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted children and young people. 

Safeguarding:

Due to the nature of the role, before you can begin volunteering with RSBC there are some required safeguarding checks which will need to be completed.

All RSBC volunteers undergo an Enhanced DBS check (paid for by RSBC) and must provide two references.

All volunteers will also be booked onto safeguarding training.

RSBC risk assesses all its services and activities.

Next Steps: 

If this sounds like you, please fill out an expression of interest, and one of our volunteer team members will get back to you!

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit an Activities Volunteer for the Croydon Group. As our local group Activities Volunteer you’ll help us to set up activities in the area. Whether you’re serving refreshments, talking to people, registering attendees or collecting payments, you’ll be making sure everyone feel welcome.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills. Most importantly you’ll be supporting your local group to run activities that bring friendship and fun to your local MS Community.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need up to two hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the West Central London Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

About UK Reads

UK Reads is the UK-based charity of the global non-profit World Literacy Foundation, which works to eradicate illiteracy and promote equitable access to education worldwide. In the UK, we focus on closing the literacy gap for children from underserved communities, ensuring that every child has access to the literacy support they need to thrive academically and personally.

We deliver high-impact literacy programmes, distribute free books, and partner with schools, libraries, and community organisations to foster a lifelong love of reading. 

About the Pen Pal Project

The Pen Pal Project empowers children aged 7–16 to become confident communicators by engaging them in creative, meaningful letter writing. UK pupils are matched with peers in Nigeria and other Sub-Saharan African countries to exchange letters over six structured sessions throughout the academic year.

The project supports pupils in:

• Developing core literacy skills (reading, writing, sentence structure, vocabulary)

• Strengthening confidence, empathy, and communication through storytelling

• Learning about different cultures, family structures, traditions, and daily life in another part of the world

• Practising both written and spoken English in an encouraging, low-pressure environment

Each school cohort follows a themed session plan exploring topics such as identity, youth culture, food, heritage, health, and hobbies.

Sessions are delivered by trained volunteers, with support from teachers and UK Reads staff.

Role Overview

As a Writing Session Coordinator, you’ll play a key role in supporting literacy, creativity, and inclusion in schools. You’ll work directly with students to help them explore personal expression, read incoming pen pal letters, and craft thoughtful responses.

This role is ideal for someone passionate about education, communication, cultural exchange, and making a difference at a grassroots level.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate six themed writing sessions at a primary or secondary school in London (sessions take place during school hours)

• Create an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere where all students feel safe to write and express themselves

• Support pupils with varied literacy levels, including those with special educational needs (SEND), English as an additional language (EAL), or lower confidence in reading/writing

• Guide pupils in reading and responding to letters received from international pen pals

• Encourage vocabulary development, sentence structure, and narrative skills using the provided facilitator resources

• Use creativity and cultural awareness to promote engagement and curiosity

• Complete light administrative tasks (~1 hour per session), including:

  • Reviewing students’ letters for safeguarding

  • Submitting short post-session reflections or feedback forms

• Attend a short online training session and stay in communication with the UK Reads team

Time Commitment

• Approx. 6-8 hours/month over the academic year

• Each session includes:

  • ~1 hour in-school delivery time

  • ~1 hour admin/reflection time

• Plus training, planning, and communication time as needed

• Sessions are typically spaced two per academic term (six total)

Volunteers are matched with one school and are expected to complete the full six-session cycle to ensure continuity and build rapport with pupils.

Who We're Looking For

We welcome volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds. You don’t need formal teaching experience — just commitment, empathy, and a passion for helping young people thrive.

Essential:

• Strong spoken and written English

• Comfortable working with children and young people in a school setting

• Reliable, organised, and able to follow session plans

• Open-minded, culturally sensitive, and adaptable to different learning styles

• Able to commit to a minimum of 6 sessions over the academic year (during school hours)

• Based in London or able to travel to schools across the city

• Willing to complete a DBS check and safeguarding training

Desirable (but not required):

• Experience in education, youth work, creative writing, literacy support, or mentoring

What You’ll Gain

• A highly rewarding volunteer experience with visible impact on young learners

• Full training and a ready-to-use facilitation guide

• Support from a dedicated project coordinator throughout your placement

• Reimbursement of reasonable travel costs

• A reference upon successful completion

• The opportunity to be part of a meaningful international exchange project

• Connection to a network of volunteers and educators working toward literacy equity

Safeguarding & Inclusion

We are committed to child protection, safeguarding, and inclusive learning environments. All letters are reviewed by facilitators before being exchanged. Volunteers must complete a DBS check and basic safeguarding training before beginning their placement.

We value lived experience and encourage applications from those who reflect the communities we serve, including volunteers from Black, African, Caribbean, and diaspora backgrounds.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the Croydon Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills.Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.