Administrator and communications volunteer volunteer roles

Volunteering Opportunity

Administration Assistant

What You’ll Do

Support the Age UK Enfield team with general admin tasks that help our services run smoothly. You’ll help with email communication, data entry, and other simple office duties.

You will:

· Help respond to and send emails from shared inboxes (with support and supervision)

· Input volunteer, client, or service data into our CRM system (training provided)

· Update spreadsheets, mailing lists or booking systems

· Support with printing, scanning or filing where needed

· Maintain confidentiality and accuracy when handling information

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Basic IT and email skills (Outlook, Microsoft Office)

· Attention to detail and a methodical approach

· Ability to follow instructions and work as part of a team

· Good written communication

Time Commitment

Flexible – ideally one regular half-day or full day per week
Monday to Friday, between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm

Location: Age UK Enfield office or remote
Reports to: Relevant team lead or manager, depending on the area of support

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us (email address included in application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Volunteer Role: Community Group Volunteer

Location: Across Wales

Frequency: A few hours once a month

Reporting to: Adoption Community Manager

Safeguarding: Enhanced DBS

Community groups are facilitated face to face or virtual meetings/events run by community group coordinators who are volunteers. The groups are run to offer local networking, support, information, advice, guidance and a sense of community for adoption UK members.

The role of a community group coordinator is to plan, organise, facilitate and network meeting and events both face to face and virtually for local adoption UK members. 

The groups are open to prospective adopters/ adopters awaiting a match and adopters with children. Meet ups are often held monthly although the frequency is dependent on the availability of the community group coordinator. 

What you will be doing   

·Plan dates for the community group meetings.

·Inform the Community officer and manager so the admin and booking link can be created for the group.

·Attend the group meetings, welcome the attendees, remind everyone at the start of the meeting about safeguarding and confidentiality, chair the meeting and provide a listening ear and potential signposting to the attendees.

·Ensure Adoption UK’s safeguarding policies and procedures are followed.

·After the meeting, send an attendance list to staff at Adoption UK.

The Skills and Experience you need  

·Personal experience, and understanding of the issues facing adoptive parents 

·Caring 

·Understanding 

·Good listening and communication skills 

·Good understanding of the importance of confidentiality

·Ability to respect other people’s differences and choices  

·Some IT and administration skills   

·Confidence to work independently and the ability to recognise when to ask for support or raise concerns if required 

What’s in it for you

·Meet new people and be part of helping adopted young people to thrive  

·Access to the online family members area and the opportunity to attend relevant training and development opportunities  

·Use and develop your communication, organisational and people skills  

·Receive an induction, relevant training, the support you need to carry out the role and agreed out-of-pocket expenses  

Safeguarding role requirements: All applicants will be subject to an Enhanced DBS

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.

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.

 Volunteering Opportunity 

Dementia Activity Coordinator

What You’ll Do

Bring joy and stimulation to people living with dementia by planning and running creative, engaging activities at our day care centre, that encourage connection, laughter and participation. You’ll us your skills and imagination to lead sessions centred around an activity area of your choice such as music, movement, theatre, storytelling, arts, cooking or gardening.

You will:

· Plan and deliver fun and inclusive activity sessions for day centre members living with dementia

· Adapt activities to suit individual needs and abilities

· Encourage participation and build confidence among members

· Work alongside staff to ensure sessions run safely and smoothly

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

· Creativity and the ability to engage people

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· Patience, empathy, and understanding of dementia

· Organisation and planning skills

· Confidence leading small group activities

Time Commitment

Flexible- ideally a regular session each week between 10:30 am and 3:00 pm (Weekdays)

Location: The Mabel Churn Centre, 55b Sunny Road, Enfield, EN3 5EF

Reports to: Day Centre Manager

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Would you like to join our Board of  Trustees of Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust?

This year we are looking for three people to join our Board of Trustees at our AGM in October 26.

Trustees of the Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust (SRWT) are volunteers who together lead the organisation in the planning, resourcing and delivery of its activities, so that it can achieve its charitable objectives.  An enthusiastic, committed and active Board of Trustees, with a good range of knowledge, skills, experience and personal qualities is vital to the healthy and effective running of the organisation.

The Board of Trustees:

• lead the strategic development and planning of the Trust

• develop and adopt appropriate policies

• aim to ensure that the Trust is legally compliant and works to best practice wherever possible

• supports, guides and advises the Trust’s staff and volunteers, especially the CEO and the Executive Team

This year, we are especially keen to hear from people who:

Have expertise, knowledge and experience in one or more of the of the following areas:

• Marketing

• Commercial management, business acumen, profit for purpose experience (with reference to our consultancy)

• Green finance.

• Enterprise development

• Income generation

• Legal experience

• Health, Safety and safeguarding policy and compliance

• Have a good knowledge of communities and/or natural environment in Rotherham

• Can represent more of our diverse community in Sheffield & Rotherham

We are also recruiting for a Trustee to be our Treasurer who will have:

• Professional accounting qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, AAT)

• Ability to analyse proposals and understand financial consequences

• Understanding of financial risk

Skills & Experience

Trustees should demonstrate some or all of the following:

• Passion for nature

• Interest in and enthusiasm for the work of the Wildlife Trust

• Experience of working as part of a decision-making group, board or committee either in a business or voluntary environment

• Experience or knowledge of the legal requirements of a charity

• Local knowledge of the places in which the Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust operates

• Experience of financial management and budgeting in a business or voluntary environment 

The following areas of expertise are always welcome on the Board:

• Environmental Law/ Protected species

• Land Management and Conservation 

• Community Outreach and Development

• Education & Training, Working with Children and Young People

• Advocacy & Campaigning

• Research: relevant to the work of the Trust

• Fundraising

We’d love you to be part of our Information & Advice Service. As an Information Volunteer Assistant, you could be :

• Welcoming and providing information to visitors

• Ordering leaflets from various sources

• Updating external contacts

• Undertaking general administration

• possibly dealing with straightforward signposting and information.

You’ll enjoy working within a team of volunteers and meeting new people, have great communication skills, are polite and emphatic, understand basic IT systems and updating manual records, and are able or willing to learn to use the internet and Microsoft Office 365.

We are currently looking for someone to volunteer for 3 hours, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays either am or pm.

We will reimburse your out-of-pocket volunteer expenses.

It’s really easy to start the volunteering process with us. If you’re over 18 years old, just click on ‘Apply’ and get filling in your details!

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group reaches out to people affected by MS.  The role is varied, and will enable you  to further develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills. 

What you’ll be doing: 

Co-ordinating your group   

• Leading other Coordinating Team volunteers to organise activities 
• Working with the Finance Volunteer and the Coordinating Team to agree, approve and monitor the group’s budget 
• Creating strong links with local MS Services andother MS Society groups, as well as local voluntary and community sector partners 
• Working with staff and volunteers to develop and monitor services or activities that meet the needs of the MS community 
• Ensuring group compliance with MS Society policies and practices 
• Leading the group to welcome all of the MS community Recruiting and supporting volunteers 
• Identifying group recruitment needs and advertising vacancies
• Shortlisting and interviewing applicants 
• Welcoming new volunteers and introducing them to the group. 
• Coordinating the ongoing support of group volunteers 
• Responding to any concerns with volunteers at the earliest opportunity and liaising with staff 
 

What you get in return:

• You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network 
• You’ll develop new skills, which can improve your CV and employability 
• You'll be making a real difference to people's lives 
• You’ll get a say in influencing our work 
• You’ll have an induction to your role and support from your Volunteer Manager 
• You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities 
• You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role 

When you join us as a volunteer, you’ll be part of a community of passionate people coming together to improve people’s lives and work towards our vision for a world free from the effects of MS. 

Join us as a Volunteer Coordinator and help create a welcoming, supportive experience for volunteers across our community programmes.

About us

Cede Foundation is a community-led charity dedicated to reducing poverty by empowering individuals and fostering sustainable communities.

We provide practical, personalised support to people who may be facing barriers to inclusion, independence and participation. Our work includes programmes and activities across employability and skills, health and wellbeing, social inclusion, active citizenship, environmental sustainability, youth engagement, and arts and culture.

Volunteers play a vital role in extending our reach and delivering meaningful support to the communities we serve.

We are seeking a friendly, organised, and reliable volunteer coordinator to recruit, support, and retain volunteers across our programmes.

About the role

As Volunteer Coordinator, you will help ensure volunteers feel informed, valued and supported in their roles.

You will be the main point of contact for volunteers, matching them with suitable opportunities and ensuring a positive, inclusive experience.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with people, is well organised, and is committed to creating a positive volunteering experience.

What you will be doing

You will coordinate daily volunteer activities, including:

• Promoting volunteer opportunities.
• Responding to volunteer enquiries.
• Supporting recruitment, onboarding and induction.
• Matching volunteers to suitable roles.
• Coordinating rotas, schedules, and activities.
• Maintaining up-to-date volunteer records.
• Promoting inclusive volunteering practices.
• Recognising and celebrating volunteers’ contributions.
• Supporting monitoring and feedback processes for volunteers.

What we are looking for

This role is suitable for someone who is:

• Friendly, approachable and reliable.
• Organised and able to follow through on tasks.
• A good listener and confident communicator.
• Comfortable using basic digital tools and systems.
• Able to work as part of a team.
• Committed to equality, inclusion, and treating everyone with dignity.
• Interested in community work, volunteering or the charity sector.

Experience in administration, volunteering, recruitment, HR, community work, or events is helpful but not required. Full guidance and support will be provided.

Time commitment

We are looking for someone who can commit to 4–6 hours per week.

Volunteering times will be agreed based on your availability and organisational needs.

Location

This role is primarily in-person in Manchester, with some agreed tasks completed remotely where appropriate.

What you will gain

This is an opportunity to contribute to community-focused work while developing your skills and experience.

You will:

• Gain experience in volunteer coordination and charity operations.
• Build skills in communication, organisation, recruitment and people engagement. 
• Meet new people and be part of a friendly team.

Support and expenses

You’ll receive an induction and ongoing support so you feel confident in the role.

Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel costs, will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Safeguarding and checks

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we work with. Depending on the nature of the role, references and a DBS check may be required. We will discuss this with you during the application process.

Equality and inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and accessible environment, and we will make reasonable adjustments where possible.

How to apply

To apply, please click 'Apply' below and submit a brief expression of interest.

Please tell us why you are interested in the role, any relevant skills or experience you would like to share, and your general availability.

If you feel this role is a good fit, we would love to hear from you.

Fundraising Volunteer – Hampshire Hub

Thank you for your interest to become a Fundraising Volunteer at Cats Protection!

Our brand-new Community Fundraising Hub is here to support you in this role, so there's never been a better time to get involved!

This role covers the Hampshire area.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people  

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising volunteers use their passion for cats and people to raise the vital funds needed to help more cats and kittens in need. As a fundraising volunteer we want to support you to fundraise in whatever way suits you best, whether that’s organising a fundraising event, fundraising online, promoting fundraising activities on social media, completing administration or supporting the development of new fundraising ideas! Whatever your skill set, this could be the role for you! 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role, you can choose what you’d like to get involved with, for example: 

• face-to-face fundraising. Organising or helping with fundraising events, running supermarket collections and fundraising stands, monitoring collection tins 

• online fundraising. Setting up online appeals and writing impactful cat case studies that maximise donations

• marketing. Spreading the word about our fundraising activities, for example on social media and with the local press  

• completing administration. Processing donations, sorting and recording donated goods, completing Gift Aid paperwork

● championing our work. Getting involved with developing new fundraising ideas and increasing community engagement

Time expectation

This is a flexible role that can fit around your other commitments to suit you. You’ll be part of a team raising vital funds while having fun in the process!

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

 We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Why we want you

Our vision is a society in which Armed Forces, veterans and their families can thrive. When anyone in the Armed Forces community finds themselves in need, SSAFA is the charity they can turn to – no one’s service is ever forgotten. More and more people need help, so we are growing our network of dedicated caseworkers.

Come and join our team! You will be making a real difference to the lives of those who need financial, practical, and emotional support. We value all our volunteers and the unique skills and experience they bring.

What you will be doing

• Arranging to talk with potential beneficiaries (on the phone or face to face) at a mutually convenient time
• Understanding peoples’ support needs and gathering information to assess their circumstances
• Typing written case reports to apply for financial assistance
• Sign-posting to services providing specialist support, such as mental health or housing support
• Keeping beneficiaries and the SSAFA regional office up to date with progress

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Non-judgemental
• Reliable
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
• Be part of a friendly and supportive SSAFA team
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Access a range of training and learning opportunities

 Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment. This role qualifies for a criminal record check, which will be carried out at no cost to you. If you have a criminal record, it won't necessarily stop you from becoming a volunteer. Please read our Volunteer Vetting Guidance for more information.

Branch Coordinator 
Across the UK, our 65 local branches help disabled people live more independently. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

As our local Branch Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local branch works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct, and support other branch volunteers to make sure your branch’s activities meet the needs of your local disabled community.

You’ll bring your leadership, management, communication, organisation, and motivation skills to this role.
Most importantly, you’ll help disabled people to live more independent lives.

What the role involves
This role may vary depending on local needs but is likely to include:
• Coordinating the activities of our local branch to undertake and meet the needs of referrals in your area
• Coordinating and chairing the branch meetings
• Leading the branch’s shared responsibility for planning and completing referrals
• Coordinating the recruitment, induction, and ongoing support of new local branch volunteers
• Approving income and expenditure with the other branch bank account signatories and ensuring with the Treasurer that our financial requirements and policies relating to branches are followed
• Ensuring the branch’s activities comply with policies to keep people safe
• Regularly communicate and act as a key contact between staff and volunteers

What you need for this role 

Essential
• Confident in leading and chairing a meeting
• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email
• Willingness to attend local events to promote the charity’s work
• Ability to understand and follow external and internal policies and procedures

Desirable
• Self-aware of own management style and ability to lead a team, taking a supporting and coaching approach with other volunteers
• Able to communicate to different audiences, including decision-makers and volunteers
• Able to delegate and motivate the activities of others
• Enthusiastic about raising awareness of the charity’s work in the local area
• Willingness to develop skills and experience

To volunteer in this role, you will need to:
• Complete references 
• Complete induction including online and virtual training- as directed by central staff
• Undertake a DBS/PVG check if it is necessary for the role 

Additional information about our Volunteering programme:
When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. To undertake this specific role, you do not need to be an engineer/skilled craftsperson.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Fundraising and Partnerships Volunteer

The Goal: Help us build the relationships that fuel our work. You’ll be part of the team that finds the resources we need to grow.

We’d love help with:

• Researching Opportunities: Finding new grants, trusts, or local businesses who might want to partner with us.

• Drafting Bids: Helping us write compelling stories and applications for funding.

• Relationship Building: Supporting our communications with current donors to keep them updated on our success.

What you bring:

• A gift for storytelling and clear, persuasive writing.

• A friendly, professional manner and a love for networking.

• Persistence and a "hunter" mindset for finding new opportunities.

About Thames21

Thames21 is an environmental charity that works with communities to restore and look after rivers, water and nature across London and the Thames Basin.  We believe that every river should be healthy, thriving and valued by the community it serves.

What We Do:

Empower communities to care for rivers

• We support thousands of volunteers and community groups each year to improve their local waterways and green spaces.

Restore rivers and nature

• We deliver practical river restoration projects that improve habitats, water quality and biodiversity.

Build climate resilience

• We create nature-based solutions that help communities and ecosystems adapt to climate change and reduce flood risk.

The role

We have an exciting opportunity to appoint a voluntary Company Secretary to support our Board of Trustees and help ensure our governance is as strong as the environmental impact we deliver.  Your professional skills will support an ambitious and growing charity making a real difference to rivers, wildlife and people.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups currently under-represented in charity governance roles.

The Role

The Company Secretary plays an important role in supporting the effective operation of Thames21's governance.

Working closely with the Chair of Trustees, Chief Executive and Board, you will help ensure that meetings are well organised, decisions are properly recorded and the charity meets its statutory obligations as both a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.

You will be expected to attend four Board meetings and approximately two sub-committee meetings each year, together with occasional planning discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.  The role is voluntary, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

What You Will Be Doing

• Supporting the smooth operation of the Board of Trustees and its committees.
• Working with the Chair and Chief Executive to plan Board and committee meetings.
• Preparing and distributing agendas and meeting papers.
• Attending meetings and ensuring accurate minutes and action logs are maintained.
• Maintaining key governance records and statutory registers.
• Supporting the filing of statutory returns and governance documents with Companies House and the Charity Commission.
• Advising trustees on governance processes and good practice.
• Assisting with trustee induction and governance documentation.
• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and relevant legal requirements.
• Supporting governance reviews and improvement initiatives as appropriate.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who has:

• Experience as a Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee, board administrator or in a similar governance role.
• An understanding of company and/or charity governance.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to produce concise and accurate minutes.
• Good judgement and discretion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The confidence to provide procedural advice and guidance when needed.
• An interest in environmental issues, community engagement and the mission of Thames21.

Desirable but not essential:

• Experience working with charities, membership organisations, companies limited by guarantee or not-for-profit organisations.
• Knowledge of charity law and Charity Commission requirements.
• An interest in charity governance and governance improvement.

Why Join Thames21?

This role may appeal to an experienced Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee or board administrator looking to use their skills in support of a meaningful environmental cause.  It could suit someone seeking a voluntary role alongside their career or as part of a portfolio of charitable commitments.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Join a friendly, passionate and professional organisation committed to creating lasting environmental and social impact.
• See the tangible results of your contribution through projects that improve rivers, wildlife habitats and local communities.
• Use your professional skills to support a respected and ambitious environmental charity.
• Work closely with an experienced Board of Trustees and leadership team.
• Gain insight into charity leadership, strategy and governance.
• Build relationships with professionals from across the environmental, water, local government and charity sectors.
• Support practical action on river restoration, biodiversity recovery and climate resilience.

Most importantly, you will help ensure that Thames21 has the strong governance foundations needed to deliver lasting environmental impact.

Time Commitment

Approximately 6–10 days per year, including:

• Four Board meetings annually.
• Approximately two subcommittee meetings annually.
• Preparation time for meetings and governance administration.
• Occasional discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter with the reference CS0726 via the Charity Job Website explaining:

• Why you are interested in becoming Thames21's Company Secretary; and
• How your experience and skills would support the role.