Asylum support coordinator volunteer roles

Transport Support Volunteer

Watford and Three Refugees Partnership is a charity offering practical and emotional support to asylum seekers, migrants and refugees in Watford and Three Rivers. We are looking for a team of volunteers who have time to support our clients in the community.

Would you like to join a team within our charity that provides more practical support to our clients?

Some examples of support includes;

· Helping with house moves

· Collecting furniture that is being donated and drop off at client’s homes

· Lifts to attend appointments if the client struggles using public transport

You must have access to your own vehicle. You will work as part of a supportive team and it can fit around work and caring commitments. You will be able to claim mileage at 45p per mile and parking costs as expenses. We will need proof that your driving documents are up to date, including informing your insurance that you are using your car for ‘business’ purposes (usually at no extra cost).

If you are interested or want to find out more information, please contact us and we can arrange a chat with our volunteer coordinator in the first instance. To join us you will need to complete an application process which includes obtaining two references and an enhanced DBS check. We look forward to hearing from you!

Role Purpose
To support refugees and asylum seekers in developing their English language skills (ESOL – English for Speakers of Other Languages), helping them to build confidence, integrate into the community, and access education, employment, and essential services.

Key Responsibilities

· Assist in delivering ESOL classes to adult learners at varying levels of English proficiency

· Support learners one-to-one or in small groups with speaking, listening, reading, and writing

· Help prepare learning materials and classroom activities

· Encourage participation and build learners’ confidence in using English in everyday situations

· Provide informal conversational practice and support

· Offer cultural orientation where appropriate (e.g., local services, daily life in the UK)

· Monitor learner progress and provide feedback to the ESOL coordinator

Skills and Experience

· Good standard of written and spoken English

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills

· Patience, empathy, and cultural sensitivity

· Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds

· Teaching or tutoring experience essential

· TEFL/ESOL qualification essential

Personal Qualities

· Supportive and encouraging attitude

· Reliable and committed

· Flexible and adaptable

· Interest in refugee support and community integration

· Time Commitment - typically 2 hours a week (flexible depending on availability)
Minimum commitment of 6 months preferred

Training and Support

· Induction and ongoing support provided

· Supervision from ESOL coordinator or lead tutor

· Benefits of Volunteering

· Gain experience in teaching and community work

· Develop cross-cultural communication skills

· Make a meaningful impact in the lives of refugees and asylum seekers

Be part of a supportive and welcoming team

Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.

As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances. 

• Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.

• Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.

Role Summary 

The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will: 

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees. 

• Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.

• Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning 

• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance. 

• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies 

• Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy

• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action. 

• Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)

• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.

• Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.

• Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

• Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants 

• Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero

• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report

• Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.

The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.

Person Specification 

The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation. 

Essential 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas

• Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information 

Desirable 

• A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations. 

• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer. 

• Good communication and competent IT skills 

• Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills. 

About Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide. 

What We Do 

RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including: 

• France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris 

• Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base) 

• Northern Iraq: Duhok 

• Serbia: Belgrade Barracks 

• Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp 

• Turkey: Istanbul 

• Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border

• Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides) 

• Palestine: Gaza

• Egypt: Cairo

Our Approach 

RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.

Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.

Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts. 

Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers. 

We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care. 

Advocacy & Awareness 

RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action. 

Social Hub Administrator at Watford & Three Rivers Refugee Partnership

Location: St Mary’s Church, Watford

Time Commitment: Tuesday 10.30-2 and 2 hours admin from home

About Us:

We are a community-driven charity dedicated to supporting asylum seekers and refugees as they rebuild their lives with dignity, hope, and belonging. Our Social Hub offers a welcoming space where individuals and families can connect, access support, learn new skills, and build friendships.

Role Overview:

As a Social Hub Administrator, you’ll play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of our weekly Social Hub. You'll help manage basic admin tasks, support event and activity planning, and act as a friendly, organised point of contact for both visitors, clients and volunteers.

Key Responsibilities:

· Welcome clients to the hub and provide general information about services and activities.

· Maintain up-to-date records of attendance, volunteer rotas, and bookings.

· Help coordinate schedules for activities, workshops, and social events.

· Support communications by helping with newsletters, flyers, and social media posts (optional).

· Assist with keeping the space tidy and organised.

· Apply for Social Hub expenses.

· Manage the Tuesday Social Hub when the Social Hub Coordinator is not present.

· Collaborate with volunteers, staff, and clients to create a warm, inclusive environment.

What We’re Looking For:

· Friendly, reliable, and well-organised

· Good verbal and written communication skills

· Comfortable using basic IT (email and Microsoft)

· Respectful of confidentiality and boundaries

· Able to work independently but also as part of a team

What We Offer:

· A warm, supportive volunteer environment

· Full induction and on-the-job training

· Opportunities to develop skills in administration, coordination, and community engagement

· A chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives

Applicants nee to be able to voluteer for at least six months and live in the Watord / Three Rivers area ideally).

If you are interested in becoming Social Hub Administrator, please apply via Charity Jobs

You will welcome clients and visitors, and support the smooth running of our local office at our drop in sessions on Mondays or Thursdays (or both)

Commitment: 6 hours/week (flexible)

Receptionists are the first point of contact for clients, welcoming visitors. You’ll record client details on our computer system, explain waiting times, and help ensure the service runs smoothly. The role builds communication, IT, and teamwork skills while making a real difference in the community. Full training and expense reimbursement are provided.

What you gain: Communication skills, admin experience, confidence using IT, and full training.

You'll gain valuable transferable skills in communication, problem solving, teamwork.

Whether you are starting out, changing career, retired, or returning to work, volunteering strengthens your CV and provides practical experience.