4 Researcher volunteer roles in London, Greater London

Reporting: Head of Governance and Legal

Location: Remote, UK-based

Commitment: We estimate this role requires 3–5 hours per week, with flexibility to manage your own time. All meetings are remote and scheduled in advance.

Compensation: Voluntary role (non-paid)

About Youth Advantage UK

Youth Advantage UK is a volunteer-led, research-based organisation championing the rights and wellbeing of young people aged 11 to 25 across the UK. We influence national policy, deliver grassroots projects, and elevate youth voice in key debates; from education to mental health, climate action to justice reform.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Legal Researcher to join our Governance and Legal team and help strengthen the legal and regulatory foundations that support our work.

About the role

As a Legal Researcher, you will support the Head of Governance and Legal by researching questions of charity law, safeguarding, data protection, and regulatory compliance. Your research will directly inform organisational policies, board decisions, and our approach to risk. This is a hands-on role where your work will have a visible impact on how a national youth organisation operates. This is an ideal opportunity for a law student, recent graduate, or aspiring legal professional looking to build practical experience in charity law and governance while supporting a values-driven youth organisation.

What you'll gain

• Practical legal research experience within a national charity
• Exposure to charity law, safeguarding, data protection, and compliance in practiceMentoring and oversight from an experienced governance and legal lead
• A portfolio of research work with real organisational impact
• A flexible and supportive remote-first culture
• Testimonials, references, and public acknowledgment upon completion

What you'll do

• Research questions of UK charity law, regulation, and best practice as assigned
• Summarise legal and regulatory developments relevant to the organisation
• Support the drafting and review of organisational policies and procedures
• Assist with research on safeguarding, GDPR, and data protection compliance
• Help maintain accurate records of legal research and reference materials
• Support the Governance and Legal team with ad hoc research requests
• Present findings in clear, concise written summaries for non-legal audiences

Who we're looking for

We welcome applications from a broad range of backgrounds.

You might be:

• A law student or LPC/SQE candidate seeking practical experience
• A recent law graduate awaiting a training contract or pupillage
• A paralegal or legal professional looking to broaden your experience
• A researcher from another discipline with strong analytical skills and an interest in law
• Returning to work or semi-retired and keen to use your legal skills for good

Essential

• Strong research and analytical skills
• Ability to communicate complex information clearly in writing
• Attention to detail and a methodical approach
• Reliable self-management in a remote working environment
• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and ethical standards

Desirable

• Legal education or experience (law degree, GDL, LPC, SQE, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with UK charity law, safeguarding, or data protection frameworks

To Apply

If you're interested, just send us your CV and a few lines about why the role appeals to you

— this can be a short paragraph in your email or a separate note. If you'd prefer an informal chat before applying, we'd love to hear from you. Just drop us a message and we'll arrange a time.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Although this is a volunteer role, we're committed to recognising your contribution. Upon successful completion of your commitment, you can request:

• A LinkedIn testimonial or written reference
• A public thank-you post on our social media
• Permission to list your role with Youth Advantage UK on your CV and Linked