Charity volunteer roles

Our charity funds around £100 million of research each year into all heart and circulatory diseases and the things that cause them. Heart diseases. Stroke. Vascular dementia. Diabetes. They're all connected, and they're all under our microscope.  Our volunteers help us fund lifesaving science to improve the lives of families and loved ones living with heart and circulatory disease. Volunteering with us is easy, flexible, and inclusive. If you can spare a few hours a week, or a couple of hours occasionally, we’d love you to join our volunteer team. 

Could you be the friendly face of your local British Heart Foundation shop? With support around you and full training provided, you will be processing sales through the till as a volunteer cashier, talking to customers and thanking every donor - helping us continue to fund life saving research. This is a customer focussed role where you will meet and interact with a wide range of people.  

Just so you know, we are unable to accept volunteers aged under 17 or with unspent criminal convictions. Please note this is an unpaid voluntary position in a friendly charity shop.  

Typical tasks include:

• Engaging with customers and serving them in a helpful and friendly way
• Answering questions from customer, donors and supporters
• Communicating with fellow volunteers about what has sold and needs re-stocking
• Honing your retail and cashier skills behind the till and taking payments
• Helping with administration and reception duties around the till area
• Promoting Gift Aid and sales campaigns

Volunteering with British Heart Foundation comes with plenty of benefits too… 

• A 25% discount on donated goods and 10% discount on New Goods in our shops
• Unlimited, free, and confidential support by Retail Trust
• Access to training and development 
• Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed 
• Refreshments available  
• Volunteer certificates, references and long service awards provided
• Access to discounts with other retailers 

A conservation NGO in Indonesia is seeking a volunteer accountant to strengthen donor reporting, financial systems and accounting processes.

The organisation works with fishing communities, women and young people to support community based natural resource management, sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation.

The finance team currently relies heavily on Excel and is planning to move to a more structured accounting platform.

The volunteer will work with the team to review budgeting and donor reporting templates, support the transition from Excel, improve reporting consistency, strengthen financial systems and controls, and provide practical mentoring.

This would suit a collaborative volunteer with experience in donor reporting, Excel, accounting systems and small NGO finance.

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Accounting for International Development, AfID, matches experienced accountants with charities, NGOs and social enterprises around the world. Our volunteers provide practical finance support, helping partners strengthen systems, reporting, controls and confidence.

Job Overview
We are seeking dedicated and compassionate Volunteers to join our drop in group in Crawley that take place on 1st and 3rd Monday of month, 10:30-12:30. This role is ideal for individuals looking to make a meaningful impact in the community while gaining valuable experience or perhaps someone looking to train as a speech and language therapist.

The Say Aphasia charity provides support groups across the UK for people with aphasia; a language and communication disability caused by a brain injury like a stroke. Aphasia affects over 350,000 people in the UK but is little understood or known about by the public. It is the only aphasia charity set up by people with aphasia for people with aphasia; helping them to adapt to their new way of life and regain their independence and confidence.

Aphasia occurs due to injury to the brain such as a stroke. It affects access to language, resulting in difficulties following conversations, speaking, reading and writing.

Volunteers will support the running of the group with communicating, and will have the opportunity to utilise their communication skills and IT knowledge to take a register of attendance.

Responsibilities

• Provide companionship and support to individuals, particularly those living with asphasia.
• Assist in organising activities that promote social interaction and engagement.
• Communicate effectively with participants, ensuring their needs are understood and met.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all participants.
• Collaborate with other volunteers to enhance the group.

Qualifications

• An understanding or knowledge in aphasia is desirable.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse groups.
• Proficiency in IT, including familiarity with common software applications.
• A compassionate and patient attitude towards individuals in need of support.

This volunteer position offers a rewarding opportunity to contribute positively to the lives of others while developing personal skills and experiences.

Join FARA, a charity with over 30 years of experience and 39 charity shops across London. Our FARA New Malden shop is looking for a dedicated Antiques and Jewellery Volunteer to support our team in researching, valuing, and preparing donated items for sale.

By volunteering with us, you’ll play an important role in uncovering hidden gems, enhancing the customer experience, and supporting our commitment to reuse and a sustainable circular economy.

The Role:

As a volunteer, your responsibilities will include (but are not limited to):

• Researching and valuing donated antiques, jewellery, and collectables
• Identifying rare, collectable, or high-value items
• Pricing and organising items appropriately for sale
• Ensuring items are clearly presented with accurate information
• Creating attractive and engaging displays
• Greeting and assisting customers
• Assisting with till operations when required

The Volunteer:

We’re looking for someone who:

• Has a genuine passion for jewellery, antiques, or decorative objects
• Has a good eye for detail
• Is friendly, approachable, and enthusiastic
• Is reliable and able to work as part of a team
• Knowledge of brands, materials, or collectable items is a plus, but not essential

What’s in it for You?

At FARA, our shops are run by welcoming and collaborative teams where everyone works together. You’ll gain valuable experience, working alongside supportive colleagues who help each other develop, learn, and celebrate achievements. Full training is provided, and we offer a positive, inclusive, and safe volunteering environment.

Your Time:

Our shop operates from 09:30 to 17:30, and we’re looking for someone who can volunteer for a minimum of 4 hours either in the morning or afternoon, whenever you are available in arrangement with the shop manager.

FARA is committed to creating an inclusive environment. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the application process, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

JOIN the SUNSHINE Team

We’re 100% volunteer-powered — and we need you.

At SUNSHINE, we believe that even a little bit of your time can make a huge difference.

Whether you can give an hour, a skill, a helping hand, or just some good vibes, you’ll be helping us support people facing loneliness and build a kinder, more connected community. We know life is relentless, but together we can do something meaningful, joyful, and full of hope.

We’re a new start-up charity with big ambitions, and every single contribution matters. Big or small, visible or behind the scenes, your support helps us keep going.

WAYS YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

• Events and Fundraisers. Help us host or join community events, fundraising activities, and awareness days. Bring your energy, your enthusiasm, and your ideas.

• Packing and Organising Donations. Give us a hand sorting, packing, and preparing gifts, packs, and donations for the people who need them most.

• Marketing and Distribution. Help spread the word about SUNSHINE by sharing posters, flyers, and promotional materials in your local area.

• Social Media Ambassador. Share our mission, events, and impact online to help us reach more people and grow our community.

• Content Creator or Manager. Use your creativity to help us tell our story, raise awareness, inspire action, and support fundraising.

• Lots of other roles available: We have lots of other opportunities to get involved with us at SUNSHINE Charity. Just get in touch.

WHY VOLUNTEER WITH SUNSHINE?

Because your involvement really does matter.

We are here to support people who are living with loneliness, isolation, and disconnection — and we cannot do that without the help of our community. By volunteering with us, you’ll become part of something warm, positive, and purpose-led.

You’ll be joining the SUNSHINE team, the SUNSHINE community, and the SUNSHINE family — a group of people who care deeply about making life better for others.

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR

We’d love to hear from you if you are:

• Friendly, reliable, and happy to get stuck in.

• Passionate about helping others and making a difference.

• Keen to be part of a welcoming community.

• Able to give whatever time you can, whether that’s regularly or occasionally.

• Excited to support a charity that is growing from the ground up.

GET IN TOUCH

If you’d like to help, we’d love to hear from you.

Tell us a little about yourself, what interests you, and how you’d like to get involved. There’s a place for everyone at SUNSHINE, and we’d be so grateful to have you with us.

• JOIN THE SUNSHINE TEAM.
• JOIN THE SUNSHINE COMMUNITY.
• JOIN THE SUNSHINE FAMILY.

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

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

 What we need from you

You’ll be:

· supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· keeping financial records from fundraising events

· encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

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

Sea Cadets Leith, based in Prince of Wales Docks, is currently looking for enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to join our committee team. Whether you chair the committee, run our social media, or help us fundraise on an ad-hoc basis, you’ll be supporting young people to access opportunities to create life-long memories and friendships.

At Leith we aim to give young people an experience that will help them grow into the person they want to be in a safe and friendly environment. We offer a range of different activities from sailing, windsurfing and powerboating - to rock climbing, camping, and music - plus, so much more!

Leith is a long-established Sea Cadet Unit that has provided life-changing opportunities for many young people. We currently have 24 cadets who come from all over the area. Our cadets come from all walks of life, with some experiencing adverse childhood events, and limited access to social youth groups. Without support from volunteers like you, our charity cannot provide the adventure, community, and opportunities that young people experience through the Sea Cadets.

The primary purpose of the CFAV is to assist in the development of young people as
Individuals and active citizens by providing safe and rewarding training, direction and guidance.
The secondary purposes of a CFAV are:
- Maintain the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) values
- Assist the Unit Training Officer (UTO) to plan a varied training programme.
- Safely and securely maintain the unit’s resources and equipment.

We will support you to understand your role, how to do it and the difference you make to the SCC
- Understand the skills and experience you have, as well as your aspirations for volunteering
- Provide you with an induction, ongoing support and training to undertake your volunteer role
- Provide regular updates about any developments in the charity that are relevant to you
- Value your contributions and providing you with potential opportunities to progress

ABOUT THIS OPPORTUNITY

Behind every meal served, every child supported, and every family helped — there is a story. Your job is to help us capture it.

As our Volunteer Impact & Data Administrator, you'll support us in recording, organising, and presenting the data that tells the world what Children With Voices achieves.

This is a behind-the-scenes role that makes a very visible difference — helping us secure funding, report to partners, and demonstrate our impact to the community we serve.

WHAT YOU'LL BE DOING

• Accurately record attendance, programme data, and beneficiary information

• Support the team in maintaining up-to-date spreadsheets and databases

• Help prepare impact reports, case studies, and statistics for funding applications

• Assist with data entry from Food Hub and programme activity records

• Flag any gaps or inconsistencies in records to the Admin & Programme Lead

• Support the team in adopting and maintaining simple, effective data systems

• Handle all information with strict confidentiality in line with GDPR

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

ESSENTIAL

• Organised, accurate, and confident with data and admin

• Comfortable using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets

• Strong attention to detail

• Able to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately

• Reliable and self-motivated

HELPFUL BUT NOT ESSENTIAL

• Experience with charity databases or CRM systems

• Background in data, administration, or project management

• Understanding of reporting requirements for charitable organisations

• Knowledge of GDPR principles

WHAT YOU'LL GAIN

• Hands-on experience in charity data and impact measurement

• A professional reference from our leadership team

• Understanding of how grassroots organisations demonstrate value and secure funding

• Development of data skills in a meaningful, real-world context

Do you have experence of fundraising reserach and/or writing grants applications? Want to put those skills to use and make  a difference for those whose lives are affected by cancer?

This role would suit those with experience or interest in research, bid writing, charity fundraising, marketing, creative writing, commissioning, public sector tenders or grant assessment who is looking for a meaningful, regular volunteering commitment. Anyone with expertise or transferable skills in the area of research and/or writing compelling proposals/marketing who is interested in volunteering is encouraged to have a chat with us as we can be flexible.

The Mulberry Centre is looking for opportunities to identify and apply for relevant grants, trust and foundations funding in a competitive market. Grant requests will be on average £500-£10,000 for specific services as well as core Centre costs. This Fundraising Volunteer (the role can be undertaken by one volunteer or split into two parts and shared) will work closely with the Fundraising and Engagement Team to help streamline the research and application process. The first part of the role is to research and check grants and trust funding lists and databases for current opportunities and deadlines for applications to determine which are relevant, where we meet the necessary criteria, and how quickly we need to apply. The second part of the role is to draft and adapt application information to inspire and appeal positively to specific funders. 

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role...

Every penny counts when it comes to improving the lives of the thousands of cats and kittens across the UK that need our help each year. Our Collection Box Volunteers help us raise vital funds by collecting and distributing collection boxes in their local area. Making a difference can mean as little as raising 20p, which is enough to feed one cat in our care for a day, to £150 which is the average cost of a cat in our care.

What can I expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• Researching local shops, pubs and businesses to place Collection Boxes
• Delivering Collection Boxes to locations
• Recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters
• Collecting and replacing Collection boxes when they're full
• Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of Volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathy to cats and our values
• Good communication skills
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Confidence in handling money

How much time is expected of me?

Our Collection Tin Volunteer role is very flexible and can be completed at your own pace, independently with our dedicated support.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!

No one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it. St John Ambulance teaches people first aid so they can be the difference between life and death, and you can help us do this.

As a County President for Northamptonshire – you will support the District Managers; act as an ambassador to the community on behalf of St John Ambulance and the Order of St John, promoting the charity’s objectives and our work within the local community. You will also act as a member of the County Priory Group and liase between St John Ambulance and the Order of St John locally, under the direction of the Chief President for St John Ambulance.

You will have established links in the community and be able to help SJA achieve our charitable aims by developing relations both externally and internally with local units, volunteer managers, and regional staff and with the County Priory Group and other Presidents. All you do will be aimed at supporting the county to fulfill our vision:  ‘Everyone who needs it should receive first aid from those around them. No one should suffer for the lack of trained first aiders.’

Closing date for this post is 22/06/2026

Job Description – HR Manager

Organisation: Children With Voices

Reports to: the executive ops manager

Location: Hackney, London - Hybrid

Contract: Full-time / Part-time – specify as needed

Job Purpose

The HR Manager plays a vital role in supporting the vision and mission of Children With Voices by ensuring that all HR practices are fair, compliant, and aligned with safeguarding, equity, and community wellbeing. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, from recruitment and staff development to compliance and wellbeing initiatives. The HR Manager will be instrumental in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where staff, volunteers, and young people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

1. Oversee Daily HR Operations
   • Manage HR functions to ensure efficiency, compliance, and alignment with organisational goals.
   • Champion safeguarding and equality in every aspect of HR practice.
2. Recruitment & Onboarding
   • Lead fair and inclusive recruitment, ensuring diversity, equal opportunity, and alignment with our safeguarding responsibilities.
   • Deliver onboarding that instils Children With Voices’ values, safeguarding culture, and commitment to community impact.
3. HR Policies & Compliance
   • Develop and implement HR policies and procedures in line with UK employment law, charity governance, and safeguarding legislation.
   • Ensure GDPR compliance and maintain secure, confidential records.
4. Training & Development
   • Coordinate training on safeguarding, equality, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.
   • Support ongoing professional and personal development for staff and volunteers.
5. Employee Relations & Wellbeing
   • Provide advice and support on employee concerns, encouraging a culture of respect, accountability, and collaboration.
   • Promote mental health and wellbeing initiatives, aligned with our duty of care.
6. Volunteer Engagement
   • Oversee volunteer recruitment, DBS checks, safeguarding induction, and ongoing engagement.
   • Support volunteers to feel valued and integrated into the charity’s mission.
7. Collaboration with Leadership
   • Work closely with the CEO and department leads to ensure HR strategies support the organisation’s mission and goals.
   • Streamline HR processes to improve efficiency and impact.
8. Conflict Resolution
   • Mediate disputes fairly, maintaining trust and confidentiality.
   • Support managers in handling sensitive matters in line with policy and safeguarding standards.
9. Records & Benefits Management
   • Maintain accurate HR records, ensuring data protection compliance.
   • Administer employee benefits and ensure fair, transparent processes.
10. Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Ensure workplace compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Embed safeguarding responsibilities across all HR practices, ensuring no child or vulnerable adult falls through the gaps.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in an HR management role, ideally within the charity or community sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR compliance, and safeguarding requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust at all levels.
• Experience managing recruitment, onboarding, and training processes.
• Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts in a fair, professional, and sensitive manner.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience working with volunteers, young people, or community-focused organisations.
• Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in developing wellbeing or mental health initiatives.

Our Values at Children With Voices

• Safeguarding First: Every decision is made with the protection and safety of children and vulnerable people in mind.
• Equity & Inclusion: We champion fairness and diversity, ensuring no child or family is left behind.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of working together with partners, communities, and families.
• Empowerment: We support children, families, staff, and volunteers to thrive and reach their full potential.
• Community Impact: We exist to rebuild stronger, safer communities for future generations.

Salary & Benefits - £1,520 per month

Days 1–2 days in the office, with flexibility to choose from Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The remaining hours can be worked remotely.

Working pattern: 20 hours per week

Volunteer Creator Outreach & Community Collaborator (Remote)

Organisation: Influential Stars
Location: Remote (UK based)
Commitment: Flexible hours
Contract Type: Volunteer  Digital Marketing Students Encouraged to Apply 

ABOUT US

Influential Stars is a purpose-driven platform connecting creators, supporters and causes through exclusive experiences and fundraising campaigns.

We believe anyone with a BIG heart can use their influence, networks and community to make a positive difference.

Our Story 

Influential Stars was founded by Lisa Connell, who is living with an inoperable brain tumour and has spent many years supporting charitable causes.

The platform was created from a simple belief: when influence, connection and community come together, they can create meaningful impact.

Role and Purpose

Did you know you can use your influence for good?

Most people don’t realise how much influence they already have.

We’re looking for proactive and enthusiastic individuals to help identify and inspire people with BIG hearts to raise money for causes they care about through Influential Stars.

As a Volunteer Creator Outreach & Community Collaborator, you will help grow awareness of Influential Stars by engaging with people online and offline, building relationships and introducing suitable individuals to the platform.

This role is ideal for students and aspiring professionals looking to gain practical experience in digital marketing, outreach, networking and community growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Identify potential creators, supporters and collaborators

• Engage with people through LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and other networks

• Build relationships and introduce suitable individuals to Influential Stars

• Encourage people to explore fundraising opportunities for causes they care about

• Promote Influential Stars within online and offline communities

• Support creator outreach and community growth activities

• Share approved content and raise awareness of the platform

• Maintain accurate records using our CRM system

• Contribute ideas to support growth and engagement

Skills and Experience Required

Experience

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills

• Confidence engaging with people online and offline

• Comfortable using social media platforms

• Strong organisational skills

• Self-motivated and proactive approach

• Passion for helping others and creating positive impact

Desirable

• Interest in Digital Marketing, Marketing, Communications, Media, PR, Business or Events

• Experience using social media for engagement or promotion

• Interest in fundraising, charities or social impact initiatives

Working arrangement

• Fully remote position

• Flexible hours to fit around studies, work and other commitments

• Typical commitment of 2–5 hours per week

• Optional online and in-person team meetings

Why Volunteer with Us?

• Gain practical experience in digital marketing, outreach and networking

• Develop communication and relationship-building skills

• Strengthen your CV and LinkedIn profile

• Join a growing mission-driven organisation

• Build your professional network

• Help people use their influence for good

Volunteer Benefits & Rewards

This is currently a volunteer role, offering valuable experience and the opportunity to be part of Influential Stars as the platform grows.

Collaborators can also receive rewards for helping expand the platform:

• £25 referral reward when a Collaborator you introduce goes on to refer a Creator who successfully completes their first campaign.

• 5% referral reward from Influential Stars' share when a Creator you personally introduce successfully completes their first campaign.

These rewards are paid by Influential Stars and never come from donations made to charities or personal causes.

Fundraising Volunteer – Hampshire Hub

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

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

This role covers the Hampshire area.

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people  

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

You can expect us to

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

What we need from you

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

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

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

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

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

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

Time expectation

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

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

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