Applications and database services manager volunteer roles

Community engagement charity Sobus is looking for talented, passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees.  We are looking for a new Trustee Treasurer to help guide the charity through a time of exciting opportunity and development.

It's an exciting time for Sobus, as we look to refresh our service offer, and maximise the investment opportunity following the disposal of a property in 2024.

Our overarching aim is to “strengthen local communities”, through the provision of infrastructure support to the local voluntary sector in the borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and supporting business communities around our North Kensington hub. 

Our work is focussed on five main areas:

• Voice & Representation
• Information & Intelligence
• Brokerage & Partnerships
• Capacity Building & Business Support
• Affordable Premises (through the provision of our business hubs in Fulham and North Kensington)

Trustee Treasurer: We are seeking a committed individual with a proven, professional track record of financial management and leadership at the highest level, and a sound understanding and experience of the voluntary sector.  We need someone with significant experience of leading long-term strategic development and driving financial sustainability.

You will share our vision and want to take a leading role in our journey to be recognised as an outstanding organisation. It would be a significant advantage if you have an understanding or experience of working in the voluntary and community sector, and even more so if you are a current or former resident of Hammersmith & Fulham or have a tangible, established and current connection with the area.

Sobus was formed in 2014 following a merger between the Community & Voluntary Sector Association and Fulham Community Partnership Trust. However, we were first established as the local CVS in Hammersmith & Fulham in 1998. 

Sobus is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people that we support. We therefore warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Selection process:

Candidates are requested to complete an application and a equalities monitoring form., and if shortlisted, an interview with our outgoing Treasurer, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the CEO.  t

For an informal discussion about the position, of for the Job Description and application form, contact the Sobus CEO, Sue Spiller

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About the CARAS ESOL Team:

Our ESOL team offer English language classes to adults at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling people to attend college and access other services in the future.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our online Zoom classes on Monday mornings: 

• ESOL Entry 2+ level: 1:30am to 2:30pm (plus a 10-minute debrief) 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

As a volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistant your role is flexible and varied. It will involve supporting the Adult ESOL Teacher in the delivery of online Zoom classes, as well as providing learners with one-to-one or small-group support. 

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes; 

• Helping learners build confidence in digital literacy; 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the lessons; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, online communications and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements:  

Essential  

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching; 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English; 

• The ability to volunteer on Tuesday mornings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of three months;  

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; * 

• Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to start of role 

• UK resident; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable  

• Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish). 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including ESOL safeguarding training; 

• Gain experience in teaching and interpreting. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth Club:

Youth Club is a place for young people aged 14-19 to come and play games, learn new skills, make and strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging. Regular activities include classic youth club games such as table tennis, pool, foosball, board and card games.

Youth club takes place at Tooting Hub- Beechcroft Road, Tooting, SW17 7B

About the Role:

CARAS is looking for volunteer Football Assistants to support our Football sessions on Mondays, 5.30-7pm in Balham.

Football coaching sessions are led by Fulham FC Kicks programme weekly, supported by CARAS volunteers to offer welcome to young people.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities

· Welcoming young people to the session;

· Helping young people to register for sessions;

· Join in and be role model for young refugees and asylum seekers;

· Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

· Following FULHAM FC safeguarding policy and CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, online communications and all other policies as relevant.

Requirements:

Essential

· To be 18 years or older;

· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;

· To be reliable and punctual;

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;

· The ability to volunteer on Monday evenings for a minimum of four months;

· Currently resident in the UK;

- A love of football, and wanting to encourage others to play.

· Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo an enhanced DBS check (residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

· Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to start of role

Desirable

· Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).

Through volunteering with us you will:

· Meet new members of your local community;

· Learn about different cultures;

· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;

- Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;

· Develop your skills and competencies;

· Be able to access relevant training;

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for volunteer ESOL Teaching Assistants to support our face-to-face study programme called ‘Get Ready for School.’

This programme is attended by young people out of education and is based in Streatham on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Core delivery of the programme includes English, Maths, Digital skills, complemented by Reading and Writing for Pleasure.

We also run Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon classes open to all existing CARAS youth community members, 4:30pm to 6pm. These classes tend to be larger and have a large range of language levels. 

Volunteers in this role are required to commit to at least one 2-hour session per week, during these times:

• Monday 10 am to 3pm

• Tuesday 2pm to 6pm 

• Wednesday 11am to 6pm

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within ESOL classes;

• Help young people to build confidence in digital literacy;

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources;

• Engaging learners in informal conversations or games during breaks to help them practice their conversational English.

• Checking the session plan aims with the lead teacher and assisting learners achieve them;

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session;

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class;

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project;

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential;

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements;

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements 

Essential: 

• To be 18 years or older;

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (travel and food expenses can be reimbursed);

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;

• To be reliable and punctual. We ask volunteers to commit to at least one class every week for a minimum of 4 months. If you are unable to attend a class due to a planned holiday, you must inform the program lead in advance. 

• Excellent communication skills, especially with people who are new to English;

• The ability to volunteer on Monday mornings and Wednesday afternoons/evenings during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum seeker or refugee status

• *Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check (DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a Caras community member who is more recently arrived in the UK);

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

*DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK. 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months’ regular volunteering 
   

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS learning staff team and a community member. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP! 
 

 All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. 

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Digital Skills Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The Digital Skills group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the digital skills sessions is as follows: 

• Tuesday evenings 4pm to 6pm 

Volunteers are required to attend one session per week. They are also welcome to come early and support ESOL classes before the Digital Skills sessions, where appropriate. 

The Tuesday Digital skills sessions focus on practical, accessible digital skills, such as, but not limited to: 

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones confidently 

• Keyboard and navigation skills 

• Using email and online communication tools 

• Accessing learning platforms and online resources 

• Online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Using digital tools to support English learning, homework and study skills 

The aim of the Digital Skills sessions is to build independence, confidence, and digital inclusion, supporting young people to engage more fully with formal education and everyday life in the UK. Enrolments to the programme are based on rolling admissions, requiring adaptability to the changing digital skills needs of the group through participatory enquiry led by the ESOL teacher. 

The ESOL teacher will provide guidance, session plans, and tips for supporting learners with emerging English, including how to explain digital concepts in clear, accessible ways. 

Volunteers will typically work with 1–5 students, offering one-to-one or small group support and adapting tasks to different ability levels. 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing one-to-one or small group support during Digital Skills sessions 

• Supporting young people to use digital devices and software confidently 

• Helping to set up the classroom and digital equipment 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session 

• Sharing observations on learners’ progress, challenges, and successes 

• Making use of any community languages if any, to support learners’ understanding 

• Working collaboratively as part of a team and helping to shape the project 

• Supporting young people to recognise and celebrate their achievements 

• Showing flexibility to a wide range of ability levels and confidence with technology 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, and all other relevant policies 

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• Aged 18 years or older 

• An interest in education, digital inclusion, and supporting young people 

• Confident using computers, smartphones, or tablets 

• Currently resident in the UK or has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses and willing to undergo a DBS check 

• DBS and proof of residency are not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to starting 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed) 

• Non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds 

• Reliable and punctual, with a commitment of at least one session per week for a minimum of 4 months 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English 

• Willingness to explain digital concepts patiently and clearly 

• Ability to volunteer during Wandsworth term time 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting young people with digital skills or IT (formal or informal) 

• Knowledge of community languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali, or Spanish 

• Experience working with young people, refugees, or learners of English in a work or volunteer capacity 

• Interest in using digital tools to support language learning 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will be invited to a taster session at CARAS, following which they will have an informal interview with a staff member of the CARAS ESOL team and a community member. All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. These meetings and the induction training will be on a rolling basis, so apply ASAP!

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The reading group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the reading group sessions are as follows: 

• Monday afternoons 2pm to 3pm 

• Wednesday mornings 11am to 1pm. 

Volunteers are required to attend either one of both sessions. Volunteers are also welcome to stay and support the more traditional English language classes either before the reading session on Mondays or after the reading session on Wednesdays. 

Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.

The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.

The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.

Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

Trustee Opportunity at Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire is seeking new trustees to help shape the future of our high-performing advice charity.

With offices in Grantham, Spalding and Stamford, plus outreach centres across the region, we support a population of 225,000 people. Last year, we helped 14,000 clients with 60,000 issues and secured over £7 million of additional income for them. We are here for everyone to help people move on with their lives.

As a trustee, you’d join a well-known, respected charity, influence strategy, strengthen governance and contribute to meaningful change. This is an opportunity to share your expertise with other professional, dedicated trustees, gain valuable experience, build on your leadership and strategy skills, and increase your employability. Prior Board experience is not required.

We welcome expertise in digital media, finance, fundraising, HR, IT, law, marketing, PR, risk management, senior management, local government, or strategy.

What do you need to become a trustee?

Trustees don’t need specific qualifications, but we expect all trustees to have six core skills:

● Insight into the organisation: considering CASL’s objects and its public benefit strategically

● Challenging constructively: clarifying facts; stimulating thought

● Analysing issues: being objective; evaluating risks; using evidence; planning ahead

● Weighing up opinions: using evidence; balancing long- and shortterm; prioritising value

● Interpersonal skills: communicating clearly; listening actively; supporting a healthy culture

● Confidence and self-awareness: collaborating with others; treating everyone with respect.

The Board also values specialist skills as assets among its members:

● experience or qualifications in:

 ‣ business or charity leadership

 ‣ equity, diversity and inclusion

 ‣ facilitation

 ‣ finance and accountancy

 ‣ human resources

 ‣ IT, AI or digital media

‣ law or governance

‣ local government

‣ marketing, PR or communications

‣ risk management, or

‣ strategy development

● past experience as a client or service user of this (or a similar) organisation

● a track record of charitable fundraising, or

● being an effective chair. 

Finally, competent trustees should have these six personal qualities to some extent, and demonstrate them in their behaviours:

● Committed - motivated, dedicated, persevering; plays an active role.

● Responsible - accountable, independent, reliable; accepts collective responsibility.

● Trustworthy - ethical, principled; is a critical friend and focuses on continuous improvement.

● Collaborative - team-oriented, approachable; builds relationships and seeks consensus.

● Confident - independent; contributes constructively and expresses opinions courageously.

● Thoughtful - curious, adaptable, open-minded; appropriately challenges the status quo

We’re looking for detail-orientated, proactive people who’d like to use their research or writing skills to help strengthen our funding applications and impact reporting.

As a Research and Bid Support Volunteer, you’ll help identify funding opportunities, gather data and evidence, and support the preparation of grant proposals. You’ll also assist with compiling feedback and monitoring information that helps us demonstrate the difference our work makes.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys research, analysis and writing and wants to gain experience in how charities develop projects and secure funding.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Researching grant opportunities that align with our programmes and priorities
• Helping gather data, statistics and community evidence to support funding applications
• Reviewing funder guidelines and eligibility criteria
• Assisting with drafting or formatting sections of funding proposals
• Collecting quotes, case studies and outcomes to demonstrate impact
• Supporting report preparation and data organisation for monitoring and evaluation

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Strong written and research skills
• Attention to detail and ability to analyse information clearly
• Organised and methodical approach to work
• Confidence using digital tools and online databases
• Interest in community development, funding or project design
• Discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information

What You’ll Gain

• Experience contributing to real funding applications and impact reporting
• Insight into charity fundraising, project development and evaluation
• Opportunities to build research, analysis and writing skills
• The satisfaction of supporting projects that bring lasting community benefits

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We're looking for Trustees with a range of skills (HR, fundraising and bid writing, governance, strategic planning, impact and evaluation reporting and more) to support the Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group to move forwards and positively impact the lives of our members.

What will you be doing?

We're looking for up to 10 Trustees, including a Chair, to continue the amazing work already achieved. 

As a Trustee you’ll have an essential role in contributing towards our journey of change and continuous improvement. We are looking for individuals with an open mind, a willingness to challenge each other and the Manager constructively, a willingness to understand the needs of our members and a desire to positively impact their lives. 

In an attempt to increase the diversity of both the Board and the membership, we particularly welcome applications from those aged 30 or under and people of colour; the perspectives of individuals with lived experiences of chronic illnesses is important to us too. 

The charity is currently unincorporated but this is a decision that the new Board will consider.

One of the challenges is that the Board and staff team are small, with several Trustees either having chronic illnesses themselves or caring for those that do. With the loss of our last manager, the Trustees have become fairly operational; this new chapter of our journey will re-establish these boundaries, enabling Trustees to be strategic and empowering staff to be operational. 

We are also looking for a permanent Manager and will shortly be recruiting an Benefits Adviser, a fantastic service that has a real impact on the lives of our members. 

Additional challenges are that we rely on external funding to ensure that we continue to deliver high quality services for our growing membership.

In the coming years we aim to work more closely with local communities and medical practitioners to raise awareness of these conditions, that are often dismissed, reaching many that might not see themselves as having a chronic illness in the first instance.  We will also develop our relationship with our members to ensure that the services we provide continue to meet their needs.

Following Covid and the introduction of long Covid as a chronic illness, societal perceptions are changing and more research is being undertaken in this area.  

We hope to have convinced you that it is an exciting time to be part of the Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group!

What are we looking for?

Any skills and experiences you can provide will be hugely beneficial...

Our Board is currently small and as such we are looking for up to 10 Trustees with skills in a range of areas:

HR and governance: we are currently incorporated but this is a decision we hope the Board will consider. Expertise in these areas will ensure we remain legally compliant

Strategic planning: in addition to having an understanding of our current intentions, the ability to scan the horizon and identify new possibilities will continue to ensure the charity grows

Coupled with individuals with fundraising / bid writing experience, we can continue to deliver our current programme but identify gaps within our provision that benefit our members whilst matching these with potential funders.

Impact and evaluation reporting: as a charity we are brilliant at what we do however we are not so effective at communicating this. Assistance in this area will enshrine our work locally and nationally.

We need to represent our members effectively, undertaking research with our members will ensure that we continue to meet their needs with current and new opportunities. It is important to hear the voices of those un(der)represented. A focus on equity, diversity and inclusion can help us increase our diversity, both as a Board and our membership, ensuring that our support reaches those individuals that require it and that we identify ways of engaging them that are meaningful to those communities.

It is equally important to ensure that the views of those with lived experiences continue to shape the actions of the organisation, be that through ring-fence roles on the Board or a sub-committee that reports directly to it.

Please get in touch if your skills aren't listed but you are committed to making a difference, we'd love to hear from you!

What difference will you make?

Why become a Trustee at the Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group?

Becoming a Trustee of the Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group is more than a governance role — it’s an opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of people living with chronic, often misunderstood conditions.

The impact you’ll nave

• Championing voices: Trustees ensure that the needs and experiences of people with ME and Fibromyalgia are heard, respected and represented in local health and community discussions.
• Strengthening support: By guiding the charity’s strategy, you help sustain vital services — peer support, advocacy and wellbeing activities — that reduce isolation and improve quality of life.

• Driving change: Trustees influence how the organisation grows, ensuring it remains resilient, inclusive and responsive to the evolving needs of its members.

Why it matters

• Chronic illnesses affect thousands of people across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, and beyond, often leaving individuals feeling invisible or unsupported.
• The Group provides a lifeline — connection, understanding, and practical help— that empowers people to live fuller lives despite their conditions.
• Trustees safeguard this mission, ensuring the charity continues to thrive and expand its reach.

What you’ll gain

• Personal fulfilment: Knowing your skills and decisions directly improve lives in your community.
• Professional growth: Experience in charity governance, leadership, and strategic planning.
• Community connection: Join a passionate team committed to compassion, advocacy and positive change.

By becoming a Trustee, you’re not just joining a board — you’re joining a movement to bring hope, dignity, and support to people living with ME and Fibromyalgia, CFS and long Covid.

Before you apply

Please don't hold back because of imposter syndrome — that voice that says “I’m not good enough” or “others are more qualified.”

• Imposter syndrome is common
• Your lived experience, skills and perspective are valuable. Roles like this aren’t about being perfect — they’re about bringing diversity of thought, passion and commitment.
• Growth comes from stepping forward. You don’t need to have all the answers; you just need the willingness to learn and contribute.

If you’re hesitating remember the very fact that you care enough to doubt yourself shows humility and integrity — qualities that make you exactly the kind of person organisations need.

Don’t let self-doubt silence your potential. Apply anyway. You may be surprised at how much you have to offer and how much impact you can make.

This is an open application; there are no scheduled interview dates. We will contact applicants and arrange a suitable time to meet. 

We reserve the right to remove this post once suitable candidates have been found. 

Start date: as soon as possible, training will be provided.

Join the Savio House Retreat Team 2026-27, and work with young people at our Youth Retreat Centre at Bollington, Cheshire.

Why Savio House? Well, wouldn't you love to …

• • Live in a Christian community that works for young people
  • Wake up each day in a fantastic location in the Pennine hills
  • Develop skills in working with young people
  • Develop team working skills alongside qualified leaders
  • Develop valuable planning and leadership skills
  • Learn to create totally new resources
  • Get free training in first aid, food hygiene, fire prevention training, health and safety etc.
  • Explore accreditation paths towards a future career working with young people
  • Search out the answers to some of your deeper life questions
  • Join a world-wide Salesian network of youth workers
  • Receive a weekly allowance
  • Have all food, accommodation and laundry provided
  • Enjoy national conferences/events and meet up with other volunteers
  • Have regular mentoring and support through the whole year- September- July

Job description - Main duties and responsibilities:

• Live in Roman Catholic religious community

• Share faith with hundreds of young people on retreat

• Assist to lead and organise Salesian retreats

• Work as a team to enhance the retreat experience for those who attend

Skills, qualifications and experience needed for the job:

Mandatory:

• Must be 18 or over

• Be able to communicate in English

• Must be willing to provide police check and 2 character references

Desirable:

• Experience of working with young people

• Experience of working within a Salesian or parish setting, or be willing to participate with one of our provinces outside of the UK

GFS is a charity dedicated to enabling girls and young women to become unstoppable. We are seeking people who are committed to gender equality, passionate about youth development, and who value safe, inclusive spaces for girls and young women. 

Roles: Various Trustee positions, including Safeguarding, HR and Treasurer

As a Trustee you will provide leadership and contribute to the Board of Trustees enabling the fulfilment of responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of GFS.

We are looking for Trustees who care deeply about our mission and who bring experience, skills and enthusiasm to help steer the charity into its next chapter.

• The Treasurer is a member of the GFS Board of Trustees and is responsible for leading the Board’s oversight of the organisation’s financial strategy, governance, and sustainability.
• The Safeguarding Trustee provides strategic leadership and assurance on all aspects of safeguarding across GFS. They ensure that the Board of Trustees fulfils its collective duty to protect all children, young people, and adults at risk who come into contact with GFS’s activities.
• We are also looking for Trustees with experience in Human Resources and being part of People teams.
• See Safeguarding and HR Trustee roles for more details.

The Treasurer is a member of the GFS Board of Trustees and is responsible for leading the Board’s oversight of the organisation’s financial strategy, governance, and sustainability. Working closely with the Chair, fellow Trustees, and GFS staff, the Treasurer ensures that GFS manages its resources responsibly and in line with its charitable aims to support girls and young women.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Governance & Oversight

• Ensure that GFS operates within its financial policies, charitable objects, and legal and regulatory requirements (e.g., Charity Commission guidance).
• Oversee the financial strategy of GFS and provide leadership to the Board on financial planning, sustainability, reserves, and investment decisions.
• Review and monitor financial reports, management accounts, and forecasts, ensuring the Board receives clear and accurate information to support decision-making.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Work with the CEO and finance staff to review the annual budget and recommend it for Board approval.
• Oversee the preparation of annual statutory accounts and ensure timely submission of all regulatory filings.
• Present the annual accounts at the AGM in a clear and accessible way for members.
• Ensure that financial information is understood by all Trustees, supporting good collective financial stewardship.

Risk & Control

• Oversee financial risk management processes, including internal controls, cashflow, reserves, and investment management.
• Ensure GFS maintains appropriate financial procedures, controls, and delegations.
• Provide scrutiny and challenge where needed to support robust governance.
• Committee Leadership, Co-Chair the Finance and Fundraising Committee

Collaboration & Support

• Act as a key support to the Chair on matters requiring financial insight.
• Work in partnership with the CEO and finance staff, acting as a sounding board while respecting the boundary between governance (trustees) and operations (staff).
• Provide financial guidance to Trustees, helping to build confidence and capability across the Board.

Time Commitment

• Board Members serve an initial three-year term and are eligible for reappointment for an additional term.
• Three Virtual Board meetings and an in person in either in Central London or a central city (meetings are currently held on Saturdays).
• Occasional strategy days, workshops or working groups.
• Quarterly Sub - Committee membership depending on skills and capacity.
• Additional time for reviewing reports, advising staff, and supporting financial planning cycles.
• Attendance at the Annual General Meeting

Closing date: Monday 16 th February, 9am 

Optional Q&A Session: To be booked individually by contacting our recruitment team. 

Interviews: Thursday 26th and Friday 27th February 

A pragmatic and dependable individual who takes a thoughtful, structured approach to their work and is motivated by supporting a charity with purpose. They are analytical, organised, and adaptable, able to balance attention to detail with awareness of the bigger picture, and communicate ideas clearly to help strengthen systems.

Please send us your CV with a Cover Letter detailing why you would want this opportunity. 

About the Role
We're seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Sales & Business Development Volunteer to help drive our growth and expand our reach. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain hands-on experience in sales,  business development, and relationship management while making a meaningful contribution to our cause.

Key Responsibilities
As a Sales & Business Development Volunteer, you'll work closely with our team to identify new opportunities and build lasting partnerships. Your responsibilities will include:

• Researching and identifying potential clients, business leads, sponsors, partners, and business opportunities.
• Supporting the development of sales strategies and outreach campaigns.
• Helping to create compelling proposals and presentations.
• Conducting initial outreach to prospective clients via email, phone, and social media
• Help maintain the contact database with updated leads and follow-up notes.
• Analysing market trends and competitor activities.
• Contributing ideas to improve our sales processes and materials.
• Reach out to companies, NGOs, and institutions to introduce TESYouth’s initiatives.

What We're Looking For

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Interest in sales, marketing, fundraising or business development
• Comfortable with technology and learning new systems
• Proactive, organised, and able to work independently.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• A positive attitude and desire to contribute to a social impact organisation.

(Previous experience in sales, customer service, social media for business purposes, marketing, or or business development is a plus, but not required.)

What You'll Gain

• Practical experience in sales and business development
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals
• Opportunity to build your professional network
• Development of valuable transferable skills
• Flexible working arrangements

Additional Information

• This is a voluntary role and can be carried out entirely remotely.
• All reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

About TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a social enterprise and not-for-profit organisation dedicated to reducing youth unemployment. Through training programmes, work experience, interactive workshops, and volunteering opportunities, we support young people in developing their skills and achieving their career aspirations.

Together with our collaborators and partners, we aim to make a lasting positive impact in the community.

TESYouth is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and communities.

Volunteer Role: HR & Volunteer Recruitment Team

Location: Hybrid / London (Must be based in London)

Time Commitment: Flexible (approx. 3–5 hours per week) with occasional attendance at unit nights or recruitment events.

The Heart of Our Growth

Are you a people person with an eye for talent? The Ranger Cadets are expanding rapidly across England, and we need a dedicated HR & Volunteer Recruitment Team in London to ensure we find, onboard, and retain the best possible mentors for our cadets.

Whether you have a professional background in Human Resources or simply love connecting people with great opportunities, this role is vital to our mission of ensuring every young person is "Prepared for Life."

Your Strategic Impact

You will be the first point of contact for potential volunteers, guiding them through their journey into the organization. Your team will lead on:

• Talent Attraction: Creating and managing adverts for both Uniformed Adult Volunteers and Non-Uniformed Support Staff.

• The Onboarding Journey: Managing the "end-to-end" process, from the initial enquiry and interview to reference checks and DBS clearances.

• Welcome & Induction: Ensuring every new volunteer feels supported and informed before they even step foot into a unit.

• Strategic Growth: Working with the Chief Ranger and Launch Teams to identify recruitment needs in new areas.

• Volunteer Experience: Developing initiatives to keep our volunteers engaged, rewarded, and motivated.

What We Are Looking For

• Excellent Communicators: You are the "face" of the organization for new applicants; a warm, professional, and helpful manner is essential.

• Organisational Skills: Ability to track multiple applications and ensure no one "falls through the cracks."

• Discretion & Integrity: Comfortable handling sensitive information and background checks with the utmost confidentiality.

• Passion for People: A genuine interest in finding the right "fit" for our units to ensure long-term success.

Why Join the HR & Recruitment Team?

• Shape the Culture: You have the unique opportunity to choose the leaders who will mentor the next generation.

• Professional Experience: Enhance your CV with high-level HR, recruitment, and safeguarding experience within the charity sector.

• Flexible Volunteering: Much of this role can be done remotely, making it perfect for those who want to help but cannot attend every weekly parade night.

Help Us Build a World-Class Team

Behind every successful cadet is a team of dedicated volunteers. Help us find them.

RANGER CADETS

#PreparedForLife