Adult services manager volunteer roles

As a maintenance (handyman) volunteer at SeeAbility, you will support the facility in maintaining a safe, functional, and pleasant environment for people we support and our teams.

This position requires a reliable, skilled, and proactive individual who can carry out general maintenance tasks and assist with small repairs around the property. Your efforts will directly contribute to the well-being of the people we support and ensure that the home remains a comfortable and secure place for all.

Skills Required 

• Perform general maintenance and minor repairs to the building and facilities, including but not limited to:  carpentry, painting, decorating and repairing

• Assist with the installation of furniture, fixtures, or equipment, ensuring they meet safety standards.

• Ensure that all tools and materials are properly maintained and stored safely.

• Help identify potential maintenance issues before they become problems.

• Report more complex repairs or safety concerns to the Facility Manager or Maintenance Supervisor.

• Support the care home during renovation or redecoration projects.

• Work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff to ensure the upkeep of the home.

• Would not be asked to carry out and electrical or plumping works

• Adhere to health and safety guidelines, ensuring all tasks are completed with care and in compliance with regulations

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

• Safeguarding

• H&S

• Manual Handling

• How to be Eye Care Aware

• Fire Safety

• Infection Control

• Data Security and Confidentiality

• First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours

Benefits

Being a maintenance (handyman) volunteer provides a key service by helping to keep our homes in good condition. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a direct impact upon the lives of others.

SeeAbility provides training and this can help you to develop new skills.

Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us 

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

DofE Program Leader

Challenge Adventure Group (“CAG” for short and the operating name of CAG Trust) is a voluntary youth organisation for Knowle, Dorridge and beyond aimed at boys aged 10 and above.

As our name suggests, we provide challenging, adventurous and fun activities and the D of E Award for young people in their leisure time. Taking part in fun experiential activities enables members to develop their physical and mental skills and capacities and reach their full potential of becoming positive, active and happy citizens.

Summary

CAG was formed in 2009 and became a charity, CAG Trust, in 2019. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) is a UK charity that makes a difference to young people’s lives and prepares them for life and work. Young people from every possible background take part in the DofE programme each year to broaden their horizons, develop their leadership skills, learn to work with others, volunteer in their local communities, increase their employability, and prove to themselves they can succeed at a serious challenge. 

The DofE Leaders perform a vital role on behalf of the DofE and CAG. They are the adult leaders responsible for the management and training of a DofE group which could be at Bronze, Silver or Gold level. They lead, guide, train and support young people, agree their program choices, sign off their completed sections and approve their eDofE evidence.

Description

We are looking for someone to lead and train our DofE groups to a successful conclusion and take home an award to be proud of.

To get the most out of this role, you’ll probably have worked with young people before and have a love of the great outdoors and maybe into paddling, cycling, mountain biking or walking. You’ll be comfortable with the skills needed to complete expeditions (e.g. navigation, route planning, map reading, using a compass, campcraft) and be able to cope with changing and challenging situations. 

Formal qualifications in outdoor leadership (e.g. BEL or ML awards) or other skills (e.g.canoeing) are welcomed but not essential. CAG can provide training opportunities to the right person.

Key Tasks

Young people

• Ensure the delivery of high quality programmes to young people in the DofE group.

• Manage the provision of a safe and enjoyable DofE programme for participants in the DofE group.

• Support participants to decide on their program choices and set their timescales and goals.

• Regularly encourage and review participation in chosen activities by participants.

• Train teams to undertake expeditions.

• Support expedition team(s) with their expedition planning.

• Coordinate with other CAG team members for the successful planning and completion of expeditions.

• Encourage the use of eDofE by participants, regularly approve uploaded evidence and agree the completion of sections.

• Celebrate achievements as often as possible.

CAG - the Licensed Organisation

• Keep in regular contact with the DofE Manager / Coordinator  and CAG Trips Coordinator.

• Respond to requests from CAG in a timely manner.

General

• Regularly communicate with parents about DofE group plans / meetings etc.

• Use eDofE to measure the performance of the DofE group and to keep abreast of participation.

In addition DofE Leaders must undertake the e-induction and Introduction to the DofE courses.

Further training may be undertaken by completing the DofE Leadership Programme.

Ideally you should have / be:

• An ability to communicate with adults and young people, both verbally and in writing.

• An ability to organise and plan effectively.

• Office software literate.

• Able to provide inspirational leadership and motivate young people.

• Experience of working with young people.

• Build, maintain and facilitate effective working relationships with a wide range of people.

• Plan, manage and monitor your own tasks and time.

In addition you will need:

• Integrity.

• Committed to ensuring high standards.

• Commitment to DofE’s guiding principles & CAG ethos.

• Flexible approach.

• Self-motivated.

• A car driver or have ability to travel to attend events and meetings

• The post holder must be able to provide a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check, either a current or new application that can be made through CAG.

Making a difference - what impact will the opportunity have?

Your input is key to the running of CAG as well as securing its future.  This role puts you in a real position to support young people in developing their skills in expedition activities. You will play an invaluable part of the quality checking process of the expeditions. If you’re thinking of a career in teaching, youth work or outdoor education, or wish  to further your experience as an expedition expert, this role will give you invaluable experience.

What's in it for the volunteer? 

You would become part of our small, friendly team and you have the opportunity to use your time, skills and experience to make a real difference to CAG and the community in which we operate.   You will also have some fun, support a good  cause, gain skills and experience, and support the DofE. 

About the location

Where will the volunteer be working?

The volunteer can do some of the work remotely, for instance, access eDofE from home and contact participants via online messaging services.  However, most of your time will be spent working in close contact with the DofE participants at our unit in Bickenhill on Tuesday meeting nights or on some weekends away on training and practice expeditions.

Travel Limit

• Some remote work but mainly on Tuesday nights at our meeting place in Bickenhill, Solihull.

When will the volunteer be working?

Volunteer availability

• Mostly Tuesday evenings (CAG’s meeting night 7pm - 9pm during term time).

• Expeditions happen several times a year, in locations locally and further afield so you will need to be available for some weekends away for expedition training and practice - for instance in the Derbyshire Peak District, Shropshire etc.

Estimate of time commitment

• 0 - 4 hours / week and some weekends - the candidate will be able to offer further time as they wish.

Details

The volunteering could be long term. 

Application details

Successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS and two references.

Tandem Pilot Love cycling? Want to share the ride?

As a Tandem Pilot, you’ll team up with a blind or partially sighted person to enjoy the freedom of cycling together. You don’t need tandem experience — just confidence on a bike, clear communication, and a sense of adventure!

BucksVision provides the tandem bikes, and you’ll provide the power, guidance, and friendship that make every ride possible.

Where & when?

Milton Keynes — Monday, Friday, or Saturday mornings.

What you will be doing:

• Cycling as the front rider (pilot) on a tandem with a blind or partially sighted person

• Communicating clearly and working together as a team

• Supporting members to stay active, social, and confident

• Helping create a fun, safe, and welcoming environment

What skills and experience are needed?

• Confident and competent cyclist

• Friendly, outgoing, and reliable

• Good communicator and team player

• Enthusiastic about outdoor activities

• Flexible and committed What will you gain from the role?

• The joy of sharing your love of cycling with others

• Improved physical and mental wellbeing

• New friendships and connections

• Experience of working with people with sight loss

• A real sense of achievement and adventure

What support will be given?

• Induction and training (including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding)

• Tandem practice sessions provided

• Ongoing support and development opportunities

• Out-of-pocket expenses covered

• Support from your Volunteer Manager and Tandem Group Volunteers

Criminal Record Check Information (DBS): This role may require an Enhanced DBS check if combined with driving duties (working with adults at risk).

Love walking? Want to share the joy of the outdoors?

Walking Guide (and/or Group Leader)

Love walking? Want to share the joy of the outdoors?

As a Walking Guide or Group Leader, you’ll help blind and partially sighted people stay active, enjoy nature, and build friendships through our BucksVision walking groups. Whether it’s describing the scenery, guiding someone safely along the route, or just enjoying good conversation, you’ll make every walk welcoming and fun.

Where?

Aylesbury

…with a new Wycombe group coming soon!

What you will be doing:

·Acting as a sighted guide for visually impaired members

·Describing the scenery and sharing conversation along the way

·Supporting the walk leader to ensure the group is safe, friendly, and inclusive

·Promoting the group and encouraging others to join

What skills and experience are needed?

·Friendly, reliable, and outgoing

·Confident communicator and good listener

·Enjoy walking and the outdoors

·Enthusiastic, flexible, and a team player

What will you gain from the role?

·The joy of sharing your love of walking with others

·New friendships and connections in your community

·Improved physical and mental wellbeing

·Experience working with people with sight loss

·A real sense of achievement and purpose

What support will be given?

·Full induction and training (including sighted guiding)

·Ongoing training and development opportunities

·Out-of-pocket expenses covered

·Support from your Volunteer Supervisor and Volunteer Manager

Criminal Record Check Information (DBS):

This role may require an Enhanced DBS check if combined with driving duties (working with adults at risk).

MHFA England are seeking a Non-Executive Director with expertise in digital transformation, AI and emerging tech to assist in agreeing and supporting MHFA England’s strategy, ensuring the delivery of our overall purpose and mission as a social enterprise.

The Non-Executive Director will ensure the human and financial resources are available to achieve MHFA England’s objectives by providing expertise and guidance.

Reasonable travel expenses are covered.

Principal duties

1. Overseeing the delivery of MHFA England’s strategy and performance
2. Protecting the long-term sustainability of MHFA England
3. Safeguarding the reputation of MHFA England
4. Representing MHFA England at collaboration and network events, and contributing to the development of organisational relationships

Person specification

• Board-level experience in one or more of the following:
  • Leading organisations through digital transformation and organisational change.
  • Understanding how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping learning, training, skills development and customer expectations.
  • Providing strategic challenge on the effective use of data, CRM, digital platforms and customer insight to improve engagement, retention and organisational performance.
  • Experience overseeing the implementation and optimisation of digital platforms, including websites, CRM systems and learning technologies.
• An awareness of economic and political changes that may impact MHFA England
• Sound judgement around corporate governance, financial strategy risk, and opportunity
• A commitment to social enterprise and MHFA England’s values and culture
• Highly developed communication, interpersonal, and teamworking skills
• Collaborative, solutions-focused and able to provide healthy and supportive challenge
• Curious and embraces innovation
• A strong personal commitment to workplace equity

Application details

Please submit

• A comprehensive CV including details of your achievements in each role
• A supporting statement. This should clearly set out how you meet each of the criteria set out in the person specification. You should provide evidence in your statement; and not simply a broad claim to have done it - give us examples and dimensions; tell us what this achieved and how it helped meet your organisations' goals
• Please ensure that you indicate in your application any dates when you will not be available, or where we might have difficulty in contacting you
• Please let us know of any accessibility accommodations you may require.

Read Easy provides free, confidential, one to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, through a network of volunteer groups. Read Easy groups are changing the lives of individual adults across the country by providing them with the support they need to learn to read, and in turn opening doors for them to all sorts of new opportunities in life. You can read about the difference Read Easy makes here on our website.

Outline of the Coordinator role

The Coordinator is the first point of contact for those who want to learn to read. Using a simple assessment, the Coordinator will explain to a potential new ‘Reader’ how Read Easy may be able to help them. The Coordinator pairs up new Coaches with those who want to learn to read and provides ongoing support to these reading pairs. They visit reading sessions occasionally and maintain support through regular calls with both Reader and Coach to check all is going well, calling on the group’s Literacy Specialist to respond to any literacy related difficulties a pair may be having. Being a Read Easy Coordinator is very flexible. You decide how much time you have to offer, and this will determine the number of reading pairs you look after. The role provides lots of variety, is home-based and can work well around other commitments.

How we will support you

You will be provided with the Coordinator Handbook, training, induction, policies, resources and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser. In addition, the Coordinator Supporter will meet with you regularly to provide support and find out how your Reading Pairs are getting on. You will be invited to Read Easy UK’s volunteer forums and National Conference which gives volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.

What you will be doing:

● Help interview new Coaches when recruited and shortlisted by the Volunteer Recruiter.

● Enrol and assess new Readers, using the simple resources provided.

● Match Readers with Coaches, make introductions, and help them organise their reading sessions (which will take place in an approved venue or online).

● Visit your reading pairs to provide encouragement, presenting certificates on occasion.

● Work collaboratively with any other Coordinators in the group.

● Contribute to Coach meetings where volunteers discuss their experiences and receive further support. (Run by the Management Team typically every 8 weeks.)

● Attend Management Team meetings when invited, typically every 6-8 weeks either in person or remotely.

● Record progress of your reading pairs using resources provided, sharing these with the Management Team to keep them fully informed and submit expenses for payment egularly.

The skills you will need:

● A passion for supporting others achieve either their reading or coaching goals;

● A willingness to become familiar with the methods of the phonics based Turning Pages coaching manuals, so that you can confidently guide others;

● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Strong organisational, time management and record keeping skills;

● Self-awareness, personal responsibility and a professional approach;

● Reasonable confidence in using IT(accessing documents, completing electronic forms and records, email, Teams/Zoom meetings);

● The ability to use initiative and willingness to work independently and as part of a team;

● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures;

● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for support from the Management Team;

● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included;

● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of 2-3 hours a week to commit to the role.

What's in it for you? You will:

● receive outstanding Reading Coach Training;

● meet and work collaboratively with new people, and

● be active and engaged, adding value to your local community.

“It’s been a life-changing experience. Last week I read a book to my grandson. I never read to my children because I couldn’t.” Peter, from Read Easy Poole Witnessing these transformations are one of your greatest rewards as Coordinator.

Interested?

If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, often described as ‘the best role in Read Easy’ because it is so rewarding, please contact the person who sent you this role description.

Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references. This role also requires an Enhanced without barring DBS Check (in line with DBS Code of Practice)

Do you enjoy meeting new people and lending a helping hand?

Social & Activity Support Volunteer

Do you enjoy meeting new people and lending a helping hand?

As a Social & Activity Support Volunteer, you’ll play a key role in making our groups welcoming and fun for blind and partially sighted people. Whether it’s joining in a quiz, helping with crafts, pouring the tea, or simply having a friendly chat — your support helps turn every session into something special.

When & where?

Aylesbury (groups meet regularly — details provided on application).

What you will be doing:

·Assisting members during social activities such as quizzes, crafts, outings, or conversation

·Offering sighted guiding support when needed

·Helping serve refreshments and create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere

·Being a listening ear and helping members feel welcome and included

What skills and experience are needed?

·Friendly, approachable, and understanding

·Confident communicator and good listener

·Reliable and respectful attitude

·A sense of fun and willingness to join in

What will you gain from the role?

·The joy of making a positive difference in someone’s day

·Experience working with people with sight loss

·New friendships and community connections

·Improved confidence, wellbeing, and new skills

What support will be given?

·Induction and training (including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding)

·Ongoing training and development opportunities

·Out-of-pocket expenses covered

·Support from your Volunteer Manager and local divisional volunteers

Criminal Record Check Information (DBS):

This role may require an Enhanced DBS check if combined with driving duties (working with adults at risk).

Do you want to help raising vital funds for Scope, the disability equality charity?

Do you thrive in an exciting and inclusive working environment?

Do you have a few hours a week to support our ecommerce operation?

You might like our warehouse volunteer role!
 

About this role

You will be vital to the work of our ecommerce hub helping to sort, quality check and monitor donated products from our corporate partners.

• Your role may include:
• sorting donated pallets of stock ready for sale
• quality checking products to sort the good from the bad
• scanning products to trade in, such as books and CDs
• helping to pack orders to go our shops
• helping keep our warehouse tidy and our stock system accurate
• When and where
• You will be in our Scope Ecommerce Hub. The hub is based at 19 to 20 Guide Street, Salford M50 1BX. We can be flexible on the times you would like to volunteer. Our hub opening times (Monday to Friday 8am to 4pm). We’d love your help for as little as 1 hour a week, but if you can give more time that would help us even more
   

Who we are looking for

We welcome anyone who is passionate about disability equality and willing to support our work! You must be over 18 years old. You will need to feel comfortable working in a large busy warehouse environment and be able to lift and carry items, although we have a forklift truck to assist with heavier items.

Some volunteers want to learn more about charities or about retail. Others want to make a difference to the lives of disabled people. Other volunteers are interested in our training and development opportunities. Some people join us to meet new people and make friends. Sometimes people want to help a charity shop they like shopping in, while also getting a discount online!
We particularly welcome applications from disabled people. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of Scope’s mission. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all volunteers.
 

Skills and experience you can gain

• teamwork
• organisation
• warehousing
• ecommerce
• communication
• stock preparation and management
• health and safety
• valuable experience for your CV
• experience of a large, national disability charity

What we can offer you

• introduction to Scope
• demonstration of your tasks
• training courses, in person and online
• personal development opportunities
• support and regular catchups from a dedicated manager
• agreed travel expenses
• adjustments to make the role accessible for you
• work experience for your CV
• a work reference
• 20% discount in our Scope eBay shop
• safety shoes and a hi vis jacket will be provided

Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Scope is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk, whether receiving services or being staff or volunteers. It expects all trustees, staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Volunteering at Scope
Scope is a disability equality charity providing practical information, emotional support and campaigning for a fairer society. As a volunteer in our warehouse, you’ll help raise vital funds for our work towards everyday equality for disabled people. You will make a real difference to the lives of disabled people and their families.

Love driving? Make a difference by helping blind and partially sighted people get to local activities—enjoy good company while exploring your area!

Do you enjoy driving and meeting new people?

 As a FriendshipDriver, you’ll do more than give a lift — you’ll help blind and partially sighted people get out and about, enjoy social activities, and feel more connected to their community. Along the way, you’ll share conversation, companionship, and maybe even make a new friend.

Where?

Chalfont St Giles

What you will be doing:

·Driving members to and from BucksVision social groups and activities using your own vehicle

·Offering a friendly chat and companionship on the journey

·Providing light sighted guiding support when needed

·Choosing the level of involvement that suits you — some volunteers simply drop members off and head home, while others stay to join in with activities such as lunch clubs, reading groups, tai chi, Pilates, or walking groups

What skills and experience are needed?

·A warm, friendly, and reliable nature

·Punctual and responsible

·Ability to work independently

·Full UK driving licence, valid MOT, and insurance

What will you gain from the role?

·The joy of making someone’s day easier and brighter

·A sense of purpose and fulfilment

·New friendships and connections in your community

·The chance to learn more about living with sight loss

What support will be given?

·Full induction and training (including sight loss awareness and sighted guiding)

·Ongoing support and development opportunities

·Out-of-pocket expenses covered

·A friendly network of volunteers and your Volunteer Manager for guidance

Criminal Record Check Information (DBS):

This role requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check (working with adults), as you’ll be supporting vulnerable people on a one-to-one basis.

Make a meaningful difference by becoming a friendly visitor for a gentleman in his early 70s who, while non-verbal, is active, engaged, and enjoys simple pleasures. He loves doing jigsaws, reading gardening magazines, and watching television. This is a “stop and stay” role where you’ll spend relaxed, quality time together helping with a jigsaw, sharing quiet moments, and offering companionship.

This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you.fr

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• A craft activity at home
• Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

**About Mencap ** Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us

As a maintenance (handyman) volunteer at SeeAbility, you will support the facility in maintaining a safe, functional, and pleasant environment for people we support and our teams.

This position requires a reliable, skilled, and proactive individual who can carry out general maintenance tasks and assist with small repairs around the property. Your efforts will directly contribute to the well-being of the people we support and ensure that the home remains a comfortable and secure place for all.

Skills Required 

• Perform general maintenance and minor repairs to the building and facilities, including but not limited to:  carpentry, painting, decorating and repairing

• Assist with the installation of furniture, fixtures, or equipment, ensuring they meet safety standards.

• Ensure that all tools and materials are properly maintained and stored safely.

• Help identify potential maintenance issues before they become problems.

• Report more complex repairs or safety concerns to the Facility Manager or Maintenance Supervisor.

• Support the care home during renovation or redecoration projects.

• Work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff to ensure the upkeep of the home.

• Would not be asked to carry out and electrical or plumping works

• Adhere to health and safety guidelines, ensuring all tasks are completed with care and in compliance with regulations

Training required for this role (all delivered vis e-learning)

• Safeguarding

• H&S

• Manual Handling

• How to be Eye Care Aware

• Fire Safety

• Infection Control

• Data Security and Confidentiality

• First Aid

All these courses will take approximately 40-60 minutes, apart from the First Aid which is 2 hours

Benefits

Being a maintenance (handyman) volunteer provides a key service by helping to keep our homes in good condition. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a direct impact upon the lives of others.

SeeAbility provides training and this can help you to develop new skills.

Volunteers can claim travel expenses.

About Us 

Registered as The Royal School for the Blind, SeeAbility is one of the oldest disability charities in the UK. This year we are celebrating our 225th anniversary, having pioneered specialist support across multiple generations since 1799!

We specialise in supporting people who have learning disabilities, autism, complex needs, who may also have sight loss. Our support ranges from providing person-centred support across our many supported-living and residential care provisions. Furthermore, we provide specialist eye-care services to children and adults alike and assists people to find paid employment for the very first time.

SeeAbility provides the resources and expertise that make this possible, we support people to live ambitious lives and achieve things they never thought possible.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Roles available at colleges across Stockton-on-Tees

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across Stockton-on-Tees, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers onto governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

We offer specialist governor, chair, and trustee recruitment services as part of our mission to build exceptional boards. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

Volunteer Opportunity – Treasurer Trustee
Independent Arts Isle of Wight

Do you have financial skills and experience that could help strengthen creativity, wellbeing, and
community connections across the Isle of Wight?

Independent Arts is seeking a Treasurer Trustee to join our Board and help support the charity’s
continued growth and sustainability.

Independent Arts works with people of all ages and backgrounds, using creativity and
participation in the arts to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, build confidence, and
strengthen communities. We believe that creativity can have a positive impact on people’s lives,
and we are looking for someone who shares our values and wants to make a meaningful
contribution.

As Treasurer Trustee, you will play an important role in helping the Board oversee the charity’s financial affairs, ensuring strong financial governance and supporting informed decision-making. You will work alongside fellow trustees and staff to help ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and able to continue delivering its valuable work across the Isle of Wight.

We are looking for someone who can offer:
• Experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, business planning, or financial
management
• The ability to understand and explain financial information clearly
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to Board discussions
• Commitment to good governance and the aims of Independent Arts
Previous charity trustee experience or a professional accounting qualification would be
welcome but is not essential. We encourage applications from people with relevant skills and
practical experience from a range of professional and personal backgrounds.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the local community
• Experience of charity leadership and governance
• The chance to use your professional skills for social good
• The opportunity to work alongside a passionate and committed Board and team
• A chance to support creativity, wellbeing, and inclusive community development across
the Isle of Wight

Time commitment
This is a voluntary role. The Treasurer Trustee will be expected to attend quarterly Board and
finance committee meetings and review papers in advance, with additional time required to
support the CEO in financial planning, Board and annual reporting activities.
Independent Arts is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications
from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities.
 

We are looking for English teachers or tutors to provide one-to-one, group or asynchronous lessons to Palestinians aged 13+ and adults for at least 3 months. All volunteers must complete training before they begin. 

The autumn term will run from 13/09/26 to 20/12/26.

What will you be doing?

• Applying the concepts learned through trauma-informed and emergency education training. 
• Delivering weekly 90-minute lessons, plus 30–60 minutes of preparation for at least 3 months.
• Creating a supportive, positive learning environment.
• Tailoring methods to individual learner needs.

• Filling in a weekly check-in form to track attendance and student progress.

What are we looking for?

• Tutoring Experience, or
• TEFL/CELTA Certification
• Ability to prepare structured and engaging lessons
• Strong communication and teaching skills
• Flexibility
• Empathy

What difference will you make?

This role is crucial because it enables Palestinian students to learn English, French and German alongside volunteers from around the world. Proficiency in English opens the door to a wider range of work and educational opportunities. Students can work for humanitarian organisations on the ground or find remote opportunities thanks to their English skills. English is also essential for scholarships. Furthermore, proficiency in English enables students to contribute to their community and have their voices heard on the global stage.