Charity events manager volunteer roles

Support our mission to bring vital funding to adult carers in Solihull.
Your work helps keep services running and opens new opportunities for people who care for others.

As an Adult Carers Fundraiser Admin & Support Volunteer, you will play a key part in helping Carers Trust Solihull secure funding that enables us to continue and expand our vital services for adult carers across the borough.

Working alongside the manager, you will help identify and apply for funding opportunities, assist with administrative and community-based fundraising activities, and represent the charity in local events. Your support will directly contribute to improving the quality of life for carers by enabling new services, resources, and opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone with good communication and organisational skills who enjoys building connections and making a tangible difference in the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Research and help identify funding opportunities relevant to our work with carers.
• Support the manager with administrative tasks linked to grant applications and fundraising.
• Represent Carers Trust Solihull as a friendly and professional ambassador at fundraising events.
• Keep accurate records of fundraising activity, donations, and outcomes.
• Attend and help organise fundraising events that support our mission.
• Present pre-prepared presentations or films to funders and partners to raise awareness of our work.
• Assist or lead in writing small grant applications (and larger ones where confident).
• Collect and log donated items for our service (e.g., gift vouchers, tickets, Easter eggs, and Christmas selection boxes).
• Monitor when key funding streams renew or reopen, ensuring timely applications.
• Work collaboratively with the manager to assess the viability of opportunities within our available resources.
• Carry out any other agreed tasks related to fundraising and community engagement.

Preferred Skills and Qualities

• Good understanding of marketing and community engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Confident when approaching potential funders or representing the charity in public.
• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience writing small, medium, or large funding applications (desirable).
• Willingness to travel across the borough to attend events (expenses reimbursed).
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
• Able to understand and work within resource and role boundaries.
• Passionate about achieving a high-quality service for adult carers in Solihull.

What You Will Gain

• Purpose and fulfilment: Contribute directly to sustaining and growing services that support unpaid carers.
• Professional experience: Gain valuable insight into charity fundraising, marketing, and community partnerships.
• Skill development: Strengthen your communication, writing, and organisational skills.
• Confidence building: Engage with funders, local businesses, and the public in meaningful ways.
• Training and support: Receive full induction and ongoing guidance from experienced staff.
• Recognition: Be part of a supportive team, attend volunteer celebrations, and receive references or certificates for your contribution.

Additional Notes / Special Requirements

• Flexible working hours and days, with some evening or weekend events required.
• An enhanced DBS check and references will be required before commencing the role.
• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with Carers Trust Solihull’s volunteer policy.

Role – Community Engagement Volunteer

Are you passionate about supporting the Armed Forces Community? Could you help to raise awareness for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Community Engagement Volunteer?

As a community engagement volunteer, you and your fellow branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. We want to ensure that our Armed Forces community knows that SSAFA is here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families.

A varied programme of awareness raising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is diverse and allows for you to focus on the areas that you have skills or interests in. The role has flexibility and can work around your other commitments.

Below are some examples of possible activities you can take on or be a part of as a SSAFA Community Engagement Volunteer.

Event Champions

Be the friendly face of SSAFA! Help at events, chat with visitors, sell merchandise, and spread the word about our work.

Activity Organisers

Love planning? Help coordinate amazing events like charity dinners, carol concerts, and local fairs.

Promoting SSAFA Services

Help provide a warm, welcoming presence at Veterans Breakfast clubs, cafes or hubs - offering information about SSAFA services and signposting as appropriate.

SSAFA Storytellers

Deliver engaging talks to organisations and groups, sharing SSAFA’s incredible history and mission.

Community Connectors

Collaborating with the Community Engagement Manager to establish a local network, promote SSAFA's services, and respond to community opportunities such as gardening projects

Fundraising Heroes

Whether it’s rallying local businesses, organising events, or getting creative with unique fundraising ideas, you’ll play a crucial role in keeping SSAFA’s support going strong.

Administrators

Are you detail-oriented and love keeping things organised? Assist with branch and event administration, manage schedules and branch calendars, and ensure everything runs smoothly currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference.

• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and SSAFA Community Engagement Manager.

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience

lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role 

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep

clients, their families safe and personal information safe.

• Access to a range of e-learning courses and marketing materials.

• Access to support from across SSAFA.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.

• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people.

• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and

SSAFA colleagues face-to-face.

• Reliable attitude, staying connected with your Branch and/or Community Engagement Manager about your availability.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.

• Access to public transport or a car to get to events if necessary.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Support our mission to bring vital funding to adult carers in Solihull.
Your work helps keep services running and opens new opportunities for people who care for others.

As an Adult Carers Fundraiser Admin & Support Volunteer, you will play a key part in helping Carers Trust Solihull secure funding that enables us to continue and expand our vital services for adult carers across the borough.

Working alongside the manager, you will help identify and apply for funding opportunities, assist with administrative and community-based fundraising activities, and represent the charity in local events. Your support will directly contribute to improving the quality of life for carers by enabling new services, resources, and opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone with good communication and organisational skills who enjoys building connections and making a tangible difference in the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Research and help identify funding opportunities relevant to our work with carers.
• Support the manager with administrative tasks linked to grant applications and fundraising.
• Represent Carers Trust Solihull as a friendly and professional ambassador at fundraising events.
• Keep accurate records of fundraising activity, donations, and outcomes.
• Attend and help organise fundraising events that support our mission.
• Present pre-prepared presentations or films to funders and partners to raise awareness of our work.
• Assist or lead in writing small grant applications (and larger ones where confident).
• Collect and log donated items for our service (e.g., gift vouchers, tickets, Easter eggs, and Christmas selection boxes).
• Monitor when key funding streams renew or reopen, ensuring timely applications.
• Work collaboratively with the manager to assess the viability of opportunities within our available resources.
• Carry out any other agreed tasks related to fundraising and community engagement.

Preferred Skills and Qualities

• Good understanding of marketing and community engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Confident when approaching potential funders or representing the charity in public.
• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience writing small, medium, or large funding applications (desirable).
• Willingness to travel across the borough to attend events (expenses reimbursed).
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
• Able to understand and work within resource and role boundaries.
• Passionate about achieving a high-quality service for adult carers in Solihull.

What You Will Gain

• Purpose and fulfilment: Contribute directly to sustaining and growing services that support unpaid carers.
• Professional experience: Gain valuable insight into charity fundraising, marketing, and community partnerships.
• Skill development: Strengthen your communication, writing, and organisational skills.
• Confidence building: Engage with funders, local businesses, and the public in meaningful ways.
• Training and support: Receive full induction and ongoing guidance from experienced staff.
• Recognition: Be part of a supportive team, attend volunteer celebrations, and receive references or certificates for your contribution.

Additional Notes / Special Requirements

• Flexible working hours and days, with some evening or weekend events required.
• An enhanced DBS check and references will be required before commencing the role.
• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with Carers Trust Solihull’s volunteer policy.

About Make A Smile

Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Our Trustees and Central Officers help keep the charity “current, fresh and forward‑thinking” so we can continue to provide the best possible experience for volunteers and the children we visit.

About The Role

The Innovations Officer leads the development of a new project from concept to rollout, ensuring Make A Smile continues to evolve and deliver high‑quality, engaging experiences. You will design, test, refine, and launch an innovations project that strengthens the charity’s impact across all chapters.

Key Responsibilities

You will take ownership of an innovations project and guide it through every stage of development. Responsibilities include:

● Creating a full project outline, including aims, failure criteria, projected costs, timeline, and required skills.

● Recruiting and managing an Innovations Subcommittee with the skills needed to deliver the project.

● Delegating tasks, providing support, and ensuring subcommittee members fulfil their roles.

● Setting up all required admin, including risk assessments, reflection templates, and task‑tracking systems.

● Leading the creation of a prototype or pilot version of the project.

● Running tests with well‑established chapters and gathering feedback from volunteers, committees, and event leads.

● Overseeing multiple rounds of refinement until the project is ready for rollout.

● Supporting the staged rollout of the project across chapters.

● Providing regular updates to Trustees, including progress, budget status, and test outcomes.

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

This role suits someone creative, organised, and excited by bringing new ideas to life. You’ll thrive if you bring:

● Strong project‑management skills.

● Creativity and a passion for innovation.

● Confidence in leading and motivating a team.

● A solution‑focused mindset.

● The ability to plan, test, evaluate, and refine ideas.

● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Act in the best interests of Make a Smile… Enjoy it!”).

You do not need prior innovation or project‑design experience - just enthusiasm, commitment, and a willingness to learn.

Time Commitment

Innovations Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including subcommittee meetings, project development, and monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.

Training and Support

You will receive:

● Full Trustee Training (online).

● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).

● Guidance from the Chair and fellow Trustees.

● Access to templates, handbooks, and previous innovations materials.

● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity-funded training.

What You’ll Gain

● Experience leading a full project lifecycle from concept to rollout.

● Skills in innovation, design, testing, and evaluation.

● Leadership and team‑management experience.

● The chance to shape the future of Make A Smile’s activities and volunteer experience.

● The satisfaction of seeing your project used across chapters to bring joy to children.

Safeguarding and Eligibility

Innovations Officers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.

How to Apply

To express your interest, please send across your CV and a short message outlining your experience, interests, and why you’d like to lead an innovations project.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.

Support our mission to bring vital funding to adult carers in Solihull.
Your work helps keep services running and opens new opportunities for people who care for others.

As an Adult Carers Fundraiser Admin & Support Volunteer, you will play a key part in helping Carers Trust Solihull secure funding that enables us to continue and expand our vital services for adult carers across the borough.

Working alongside the manager, you will help identify and apply for funding opportunities, assist with administrative and community-based fundraising activities, and represent the charity in local events. Your support will directly contribute to improving the quality of life for carers by enabling new services, resources, and opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone with good communication and organisational skills who enjoys building connections and making a tangible difference in the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Research and help identify funding opportunities relevant to our work with carers.
• Support the manager with administrative tasks linked to grant applications and fundraising.
• Represent Carers Trust Solihull as a friendly and professional ambassador at fundraising events.
• Keep accurate records of fundraising activity, donations, and outcomes.
• Attend and help organise fundraising events that support our mission.
• Present pre-prepared presentations or films to funders and partners to raise awareness of our work.
• Assist or lead in writing small grant applications (and larger ones where confident).
• Collect and log donated items for our service (e.g., gift vouchers, tickets, Easter eggs, and Christmas selection boxes).
• Monitor when key funding streams renew or reopen, ensuring timely applications.
• Work collaboratively with the manager to assess the viability of opportunities within our available resources.
• Carry out any other agreed tasks related to fundraising and community engagement.

Preferred Skills and Qualities

• Good understanding of marketing and community engagement.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Confident when approaching potential funders or representing the charity in public.
• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Experience writing small, medium, or large funding applications (desirable).
• Willingness to travel across the borough to attend events (expenses reimbursed).
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.
• Able to understand and work within resource and role boundaries.
• Passionate about achieving a high-quality service for adult carers in Solihull.

What You Will Gain

• Purpose and fulfilment: Contribute directly to sustaining and growing services that support unpaid carers.
• Professional experience: Gain valuable insight into charity fundraising, marketing, and community partnerships.
• Skill development: Strengthen your communication, writing, and organisational skills.
• Confidence building: Engage with funders, local businesses, and the public in meaningful ways.
• Training and support: Receive full induction and ongoing guidance from experienced staff.
• Recognition: Be part of a supportive team, attend volunteer celebrations, and receive references or certificates for your contribution.

Additional Notes / Special Requirements

• Flexible working hours and days, with some evening or weekend events required.
• An enhanced DBS check and references will be required before commencing the role.
• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with Carers Trust Solihull’s volunteer policy.

Role – Community Engagement Volunteer

Are you passionate about supporting the Armed Forces Community? Could you help to raise awareness for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Community Engagement Volunteer?

As a community engagement volunteer, you and your fellow branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. We want to ensure that our Armed Forces community knows that SSAFA is here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families.

A varied programme of awareness raising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is diverse and allows for you to focus on the areas that you have skills or interests in. The role has flexibility and can work around your other commitments.

Below are some examples of possible activities you can take on or be a part of as a SSAFA Community Engagement Volunteer.

Event Champions

Be the friendly face of SSAFA! Help at events, chat with visitors, sell merchandise, and spread the word about our work.

Activity Organisers

Love planning? Help coordinate amazing events like charity dinners, carol concerts, and local fairs.

Promoting SSAFA Services

Help provide a warm, welcoming presence at Veterans Breakfast clubs, cafes or hubs - offering information about SSAFA services and signposting as appropriate.

SSAFA Storytellers

Deliver engaging talks to organisations and groups, sharing SSAFA’s incredible history and mission.

Community Connectors

Collaborating with the Community Engagement Manager to establish a local network, promote SSAFA's services, and respond to community opportunities such as gardening projects

Fundraising Heroes

Whether it’s rallying local businesses, organising events, or getting creative with unique fundraising ideas, you’ll play a crucial role in keeping SSAFA’s support going strong.

Administrators

Are you detail-oriented and love keeping things organised? Assist with branch and event administration, manage schedules and branch calendars, and ensure everything runs smoothly currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others and make a difference.

• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising awareness of SSAFA.

• Support from your local SSAFA branch and SSAFA Community Engagement Manager.

• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience

lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role 

• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep

clients, their families safe and personal information safe.

• Access to a range of e-learning courses and marketing materials.

• Access to support from across SSAFA.

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.

• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people.

• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and

SSAFA colleagues face-to-face.

• Reliable attitude, staying connected with your Branch and/or Community Engagement Manager about your availability.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.

• Access to public transport or a car to get to events if necessary.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

The Chapter President leads and oversees the local chapter, with overall responsibility for its activities, compliance, and smooth day-to-day running. You’ll provide direction and support to your committee, chair meetings, and ensure volunteers, events, and fundraising are well managed. The role involves motivating the team, planning chapter development, and stepping in where needed to keep things on track. You’ll also liaise with the national Board of Trustees, keeping them informed of key decisions and changes. Strong leadership, organisation, and a passion for the charity’s mission are essential.

Ready to Make a Difference in 2026? Then come and Volunteer with Us.........

We are thrilled to be opening a brand-new Charity Shop in Langney Road, Eastbourne – and we are looking for volunteers to come and join our Team.

Our shops are a hive of activity and the heart of the local community. They raise funds to support our vital work and provide a place to find out more about how we help older people in the local area.

Our Stock Preparation Volunteers always enjoy being part of our shop teams; making new friends and helping the charity to maximise the income from the amazing items people donate to us.

In this role you will usually be working in our donation sorting area, which is off the shop floor. Here you will help the team process, prepare and price the items people donate.

We receive hundreds of bags of clothing, bric-a-brac, toys, games and all sorts of items every week. You will help us to turn these into vital funds to support our work.

After full training you will be part of our processing team; sorting through the donated items, identifying those which we should sell, preparing them and pricing before they are put onto the shop floor.

You may have a particular area of experience, such as clothing, books or antiques. Your skills and knowledge will help us to gain the best value for each item and some of our volunteers even coordinate entire sections, such as a book rooms within our stores.

When people come in to donate their items you will be helping to thank them for their support. Many items are Gift Aided so when processing the items you will ensure that Gift Aid labels are attached so that we can gain this additional vital income.

You will help to make our products look amazing; steaming clothes (if this is your area) and helping to clean and make every item look great and ready for sale.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer at least one shift a week, which is about three hours but we're also happy to have more flexible times. No special skills are needed as we will show you what to do and will provide all the training you need.

It’s really easy to get your volunteering started, if you're over 16 years old please apply now!

Volunteer Chairperson Milton Keynes Junior Ice Hockey Club (MKJIHC)

Milton Keynes Junior Ice Hockey Club is a registered charity delivering training and competitive ice hockey to young people aged 5 to 19. We are affiliated with English Ice Hockey and have teams competing in both the Junior league and Women’ National Ice Hockey league.

We are seeking a Chairperson who is enthusiastic about youth sports and development to lead our committee to continue to grow and develop the club whilst remaining inclusive and accessible to all.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who have strong leadership skills and can encourage collaborative working who are independent of Milton Keynes Ice Hockey. Previous board or governance experience would be beneficial but not essential.

This is a voluntary role, expected to require 8-10 hours a month of your time, though there can be occasions where additional input is necessary. There is a requirement to attend the monthly face to face committee meeting but there will be flexibility regarding other involvement.

Role Overview

The Chairperson is responsible for leading MK Storm Junior Ice Hockey Club and ensuring it operates

effectively as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). As both Chairperson and Trustee, the role

provides strategic leadership, supports strong governance, and ensures the charity delivers its objectives of

developing young people through ice hockey.

The Chair works closely with the Board of Trustees, committee, coaching staff, volunteers, and parents to

ensure the club is well-managed, financially sustainable, and aligned with its charitable purpose.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Governance

● Chair committee meetings and ensure effective decision making.

● Provide strategic leadership to support the long term development of the club.

● Ensure the charity operates in line with its governing document and charitable objectives.

● Support trustees and committee members in fulfilling their responsibilities.

Charity Trustee Duties

● Fulfil the legal duties of a trustee in accordance with the Charity Commission for England and

Wales.

● Ensure the charity complies with relevant laws, regulations, and safeguarding requirements.

● Act in the best interests of the charity and its beneficiaries (young players).

● Ensure appropriate financial oversight and responsible use of charitable funds.

Strategic Development

● Lead the development and implementation of the club’s strategic vision.

● Support growth in participation, player development pathways, and community engagement.

● Identify opportunities for partnerships, funding, and sponsorship.

Club Oversight

● Provide oversight of key operational areas including:

○ Coaching programmes

○ Safeguarding and welfare

○ Finance and budgeting

○ Volunteer management

○ Events and competitions

● Work closely with the club’s designated safeguard lead to ensure a safe environment for all young

players.

Representation

● Act as the primary ambassador for the club.

● Represent the organisation with governing bodies and partners such as Ice Hockey UK and

England Ice Hockey.

● Build positive relationships with the local community and sporting organisations.

Committee & Volunteer Support

● Encourage a collaborative and inclusive committee culture.

● Support recruitment and development of volunteers and committee members.

● Ensure clear delegation and accountability across the club structure.

Key Skills & Experience

● Leadership or governance experience (charity, sport, or community organisations).

● Understanding of trustee responsibilities within a UK charity.

● Strong communication and management skills.

● Ability to lead volunteers and build collaborative teams.

● Strategic thinking and decision making ability.

Desirable Experience

● Experience in youth sport or community sports clubs.

● Knowledge of safeguarding requirements in youth sport.

● Experience working with national governing bodies or sports associations.

● Understanding of financial oversight in a charity setting.

Time Commitment

● Committee meetings (once a month).

● Attendance at key club events and occasional matches.

● Ongoing communication with trustees and club volunteers.

What You’ll Gain

● Opportunity to shape the future of youth ice hockey in the community.

● Experience leading a registered charity.

● Development of governance and leadership skills in sport.

● The chance to positively impact young athletes’ development.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

OVERALL PURPOSE OF ROLE

MAIN ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Using the voluntary working practices, policies, procedures and values set by Alex TLC, work with paid staff to ensure the charity shop business is run accordingly.

Work to the high standards expected at all Alex TLC shop premises according to the requests of the Shop Manager.

Work as a team member, taking full responsibility for all shop duties undertaken.

Participate in all training and legislative checks required by Alex TLC, statutory and specific to role.

CUSTOMER RESPONSIBILITIES (INTERNAL & EXTERNAL)

Maintain excellent levels of customer service (remembering customer service extends to colleagues and service providers, as well as customers), going above and beyond where possible.

TECHNICAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Expert knowledge of the safe and correct use of all equipment used in the day to day running of the charity shop, for example the till, steamer, pricing equipment. Training is provided.

OTHER FEATURES OF JOB

Hours of work are according to those agreed between yourself and the Shop Manager.

Opportunity for paid employment in our charity shops.

Opportunity to attend the Alex TLC Community Weekend and meet sufferers of leukodystrophy and their families. Volunteers assist in the running of activities during the Weekend and attend the social events included.

LOCATION

South East London Alex TLC charity shop premises.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING

DESIRABLE:

· GCSE, ‘O’ Level or equivalent Mathematics and English Language

· customer service

EXPERIENCE

DESIRABLE:

· Willingness to learn about leukodystrophy and the challenges our beneficiairies face

· charity shop or other retail

WORK BASED COMPETENCIES

DESIRABLE:

· Good customer service skills

· Good telephone skills

· Good writing skill

· Good numerical ability

· Good organisational ability

· Flair for display

· Computer literacy

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

ESSENTIAL:

· Motivated

· Honest

· Committed

· Ability to work in a team

DESIRABLE:

· Enthusiastic

· Articulate

· Calm under pressure

· Methodical

· Resourceful

· Commercial acumen

We are only able to accept applications from UK residents.

OPERATIONAL SUPPORT VOLUNTEER

First Aid Services Operations deploy hundreds of volunteers and employees every week on community and
commercial events, to make sure first aid is available in our local communities, as and when it is needed.
Operational Support is a flexible role which will work with, and proactively provide support to, various teams
to ensure volunteers always have a positive experience. This could range from carrying out practical tasks
which positively impact our people’s welfare on events, to be a friendly face welcoming new volunteers to
selection events, or existing volunteers to their Clinical Competency Assessments, or even helping Units to
increase their presence in the community.

Expected time commitment: Task specific
Line managed by: Unit Manager or Fellowship Branch Coordinator
Work with and support: Event Manager or District New Volunteer Lead or District Training Lead or
Unit Manager or Fellowship

WHAT YOU WOULD BE INVOLVED IN (DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES)

• On first aid events, work with Event Managers, Treatment Centre Managers, Event Communications teams and Logistics teams, to support the welfare of adult volunteers and employees by taking proactive action. This can include making sure people are taking sufficient breaks, drinking plenty of water, eating appropriately and supporting one another. Other tasks could include helping make and serve refreshments, regularly checking to see if everyone is ok and signposting to support available through MyWellbeing, where necessary.
• Support Training and Recruitment teams on selection events, welcome events, training events and Clinical Competency Assessments, to ensure they run smoothly and are a positive experience. Thiscan include welcoming and signing in attendees, collating and processing relevant paperwork, inputting outcomes on computer programmes, providing refreshments and invigilating written assessments.
• Assist Unit Managers to increase their Unit’s presence in the local community by promoting recruitment opportunities, supporting the fundraising lead and building relationships with local organisations to raise awareness of first aid.
• Perform any other administrative and support duties commensurate with these responsibilities to keep the organisation running smoothly.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR (PERSON SPECIFICATION)

•  Approachable, friendly and able to communicate effectively with a variety of people Required
• Proactive approach to providing practical support to various teams Required
• Passionate about ensuring volunteers always have a positive experience Required
• Basic computer literacy Required
• Willingness to be adaptable, flexible and to travel as needed Desirable
• Basic awareness of first aid if attending events Desirable

WHAT YOU WILL GET FROM THIS ROLE

•  Pride from playing a key part in enabling us to care for the community.
• Personal satisfaction from seeing the positive impact your efforts make.
• Opportunities to meet and build relationships with new people/
• Ongoing support and guidance.

To complete an induction role the role. attend all relevant training courses and complete any relevant on-line training.

The closing date for this advert is 08/05/2026

Interview date, time and location to be advised

To complete an induction role the role. attend all relevant training courses and complete any relevant on-line training.

Training date, time and location to be advised

As Chapter President, you will provide strategic leadership to your local Make a Smile chapter, overseeing volunteers, events, and fundraising activities. You will be responsible for guiding the chapter’s development, ensuring effective governance, and supporting your committee to deliver the charity’s mission.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 26 April 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 27 April and 8 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.