50 Area volunteer development officer volunteer roles

Location: Worldwide

Term: Voluntary – Unpaid (reasonable travel expenses can be claimed)

Closing date: Friday 2nd October 2026

Inspired by the Islamic faith and guided by our values, we envisage a caring world where communities are empowered, social obligations are fulfilled, and people respond as one to the suffering of others.

We provide lasting routes out of poverty, empowering people to transform their lives and serving all communities without prejudice.

As an independent faith-based humanitarian and development organisation, Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) has been serving humanity for over 40 years. With an active presence in over 40 countries across the globe, we strive to make the world a better and fairer place for the three billion people still living in poverty.

Since we were founded in 1984, Islamic Relief has grown into one of the world’s largest relief and development charities, touching the lives of over 120 million people.

Islamic Relief Worldwide (IRW) is seeking to appoint additional independent members to join our International General Assembly (IGA).

Following appointment to the IGA, independent members are eligible for nomination to the BoT after 1 year as an IGA independent member.

Appointments on the BoT are for a 4-year term limit.

The IGA is the highest body of the new Islamic Relief Worldwide governance structure and consists mainly of representatives elected by Islamic Relief family members across five continents, creating a body that is truly globally representative. It is from the IGA that IRW draws its trustees.

We would like to hear from exceptional applicants with considerable experience and specialist knowledge in a range of professional backgrounds: law, accountancy, audit, humanitarian programming, PR/communications, marketing or fundraising, IT, charity financial policy and strategy, shariah compliance. Those selected will play a vital role in IRW’s strategic work and in helping us respond to key challenges.

As a member of the IGA, it is expected you will be fully committed to the organisational objectives of IRW, sharing our vision, mission and values. You will be expected to attend meetings and be willing to devote the necessary time and effort to the role and to act in the best interest of IRW’s work and its rightsholders.

The Role

Key responsibilities:

• Participate in the oversight of the organisation in accordance with its statutory obligations, making sure that IRW satisfies its regulatory and legal requirements as a charity
• Act in a manner which supports the organisation in meeting aims and objectives as set out in IRW governing documents and in ensuring IRW long-term security
• Focus on strategic planning and governance when setting IRW priorities and objectives
• Participate in the approval of annual plans, strategies and budgets

• Support the financial stability of the charity and contribute to its effective and efficient administration, reviewing and approving financial strategies and monitoring income and expenditure, to ensure the organisation is in good financial health
• Promote IRW’s vision, mission and values and demonstrate IRW’s values in all of the IGA’s work.

About You

We are seeking exceptional candidates with a breadth of leadership experience who can enhance the strategic development of IRW and have the following skills and qualities:

• A deep commitment and passion for IRW’s faith-inspired values, vision and mission
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Considerable professional experience and specialist knowledge in one or more of the following – law, accountancy, audit, humanitarian programming, PR/communications, marketing or fundraising, IT, charity financial policy and strategy, shariah compliance
• Strategic vision and critical thinking skills
• Skills in problem solving and conflict resolution
• Legislative and operating framework for charities/voluntary and community sector organisations, especially an understanding of Charity Commission requirements
• A good understanding of the context IRW operates within
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; enjoys teamwork
• Willing to be an ambassador for IRW
• Demonstrates past public conduct, statements and behaviour that are in line with IRW’s values and expectations of the role

If you are interested in this role, please review the information pack before applying.

How to apply:

To make your application for the IGA position, please send a current CV and cover letter.

The deadline for applications is Friday, 2nd October 2026

PLEASE NOTE: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Applications without a cover letter will not be accepted.

***Please note: this is not an internship***

Role Purpose:

Trustees provide strategic leadership, ensuring that St. George's Crypt fulfils its charitable objectives, makes a postive impact in the Leeds community, and remains financially sustainable. Trustees act collectively to safeguard the charity's values, reputation, and long-term effectiveness.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Strategic Leadership

• set and review the charity's strategic direction in alignment with its mission to support homeless and vulnerable individuals in Leeds
• ensure that all activiites deliver public benefit and comply with charity law, the governing document, and regulatory expectations
• monitor risks and ensure that robust governance structures are in place
• support and review the work of the Head of Finance and finance team
• oversee the external audit process, from appointment of auditors to implementation of any recommendations

Financial Oversight:

• oversee financial performance, ensuring funds are used responsibly and transparently in line with donor expectations and regulatory requirements
• review budgets, annual accounts, and financial policies, ensuring sustainability of services such as emergency shelter, addiction recovery programmes and meal supervision
• ensure effective oversight of the Crypt's financial affairs and its financial viability

Support for Senior Leadership

• provide guidance and constructive challenge to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team
• ensure leadership decisions reflect the charity's values and strategic propositions

Advocacy & Representation

• act as an ambassador for St. George's Crypt within Leeds and beyond, promoting awareness of its services and impact
• represent the charity's values of compassion, dignity and hope 

Compliance & Accountability

• ensure the charity meets all legal and regulatory obligations, including those set by the Charity Commission
• uphold confidentiality, ethics, and good governance practice at all times
• ensure the Crypt fulfils its mission and values, taking advantage of new opportunities and navigating challenges and managing risks appropriately
• ensure the Crypt has sound financial policies, controls and governance in place, and complies with these

Monitoring Impact

• evaluate the effectiveness of programmes such as residential support, training opportunities, and health and wellbeing initiatives
• ensure all services remain responsive to the needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Leeds
• give clear strategic direction, setting overall policy and goals, and monitoring progress and impact
• understand the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) and provide guidance on accounting and financial reporting for the charity

How to apply

To make an application, please:

• download our Finance Trustee application pack 
• complete application form
• send CV 
• contact Martin Barry 

Recruitment timeline

Closing date: Monday 28 September2026

Shortlisting & Interviews: October 2026

Birmingham Cathedral is seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join its Chapter as a trustee (non-executive member). This is a unique opportunity to contribute as a trustee to the cathedral's strategic direction, provide governance and oversight, and share responsibility for the stewardship and sustainability of the resources that support its mission and ministry.

About Birmingham Cathedral

Birmingham Cathedral is where prayer and praise have been offered to God for more than 300 years. This daily worship continues to be at the heart of our cathedral life today. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Birmingham. Most striking to visitors and worshippers is the exceptionally important set of stained-glass windows designed by Birmingham born artist Edward Burne-Jones and made in the workshop of William Morris. The cathedral is the spiritual home for a lively Christian community where worship, from the simplest prayer to soaring musical excellence, is always accompanied by a warm welcome. We aspire to pray, to serve and to grow in the love of God and our care of God’s people. More than an artistic treasure, Birmingham Cathedral offers a place of peace, hospitality and welcome. 

About The Role

As a member of the Cathedral Chapter, you will share with the Dean in the oversight of cathedral life. Chapter members are invaluable in shaping the direction of the cathedral and ensuring we continue to fulfil our mission and purpose. You will work collaboratively with clergy, staff, volunteers and external partners to uphold the cathedral’s mission, vision, values and strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities of Chapter Members

· Perform the requirements of Charity Trustees for the purposes of the Charities Act 2011.

· Take full part in the discussions and decision making of the Chapter as it fulfils its statutory responsibilities to exercise general control and management of the administration of the cathedral.

· Order the worship of the cathedral and promote its mission;

· Formulate, after consulting the bishop, proposals relating to the general direction and mission of the cathedral.

· Ensure the approval of an annual budget.

· Ensure the preparation and approval of an annual report and accounts for audit and subsequent approval.

· Keep under review the Constitution and Statutes.

· Ensure the appropriate management of cathedral property and income, including necessary repairs and maintenance.

Key Individual Responsibilities of Chapter Members

· Attend Chapter meetings, held a minimum of six time a year for approximately three hours on a weekday afternoon, including one all-day away-day (all held in Birmingham City Centre).

· Offer an average time commitment of six hours per month, unevenly spread.

· Attend and contribute to worship at the cathedral.

· Contribute to the ministry of hospitality offered at the cathedral, and other cathedral activities as may be appropriate.

· Attend civic and community events.

· Act as an ambassador for the cathedral.

· Carry out the objects of the cathedral.

· Expect to serve for the full three-year appointment period, with opportunity for reappointment.

Who We Are Looking For

To support delivery of the cathedral’s strategic plan, we particularly welcome applications from individuals at this time with skills in:

· Strategic finance, financial management or stewardship

· Audit, assurance or internal controls.

· Property and heritage asset management

· Fundraising and income generation

· HR, organisational development or governance.

Candidates are not expected to hold experience across the multiple of these criteria to meet the eligibility threshold.

Experience in arts and heritage, community engagement or social justice initiatives, digital communications, investment planning, partnership-building across sectors and urban mission and inclusion would also be welcome.

Person Specification

Essential

· Commitment to the Christian faith and to the cathedral’s mission, vision and values, including wisdom, compassion, justice, inclusion, courage and collaboration.

· Eligibility to serve as a charity trustee.

· Commitment to safeguarding excellence, including completing safeguarding training and contributing to a safe, healthy and positive cathedral culture.

· Ability to think strategically and long-term, exercise sound judgement, and contribute to complex organisational governance.

· Understanding of, or willingness to learn about, the responsibilities of a charity trustee, including accountability, confidentiality and collective decision-making.

· Commitment to the cathedral’s strategic priorities.

· Strong communication skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively, collaborate effectively and build trust across diverse groups.

· Willingness to undertake trustee development and continue learning in support of effective governance.

· Ability to commit the time and energy required for the role, including meetings, preparation and training.

Desirable but not required

· Local knowledge or community context.

Other Information

This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Training and support will be provided.

Birmingham Cathedral is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of those under 18 and vulnerable adults. This role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Closing date for applications is noon on Monday 5 October 2026.

Join us in making a meaningful difference at one of Birmingham’s historic and spiritually significant places.

Our Recruiting Approach

As applications are received, interviews may take place prior to the advertised closing date.

We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

We welcome applications from underrepresented groups.
We kindly ask no contact from recruitment agencies please.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the work of Portsmouth Cathedral through membership of its well-established Finance (incorporating Audit and Risk) Committee. 

We are looking for up to three candidates who have:governance and committee experience at senior level; relevant and recent financial or fundraising experience; and/or a track record in accountancy, investments, endowments, trading subsidiaries, audit and risk. In addition to sound interpersonal skills, they should be competent and able to exercise governance in a charity organisation 

We are committed to increasing diversity and inclusion within our Committees. We welcome applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, social economic background, faith or other difference.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis