45 Church volunteer roles

M13 Youth Project has been serving the communities of Ardwick and Hulme for over 30 years, building an outstanding reputation for high-quality youth work, deep community roots and a long-term commitment to children, and young people. Today, the organisation is recognised nationally for its expertise in detached youth work and for the impact it continues to have on the lives of young people.

What impresses me most about M13 is its unwavering commitment to showing up consistently, particularly in communities where opportunities can be limited and challenges are significant. Through its work, young people are supported to build confidence, develop leadership skills, strengthen their sense of belonging and create positive change for themselves and those around them.

As Chair of Trustees, I have the privilege of seeing first-hand the dedication, creativity and professionalism of our staff, volunteers and supporters. Their commitment ensures that M13 remains a trusted and respected organisation while continuing to adapt and respond to the changing needs of young people.

As we look to the future, we are seeking new Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives, skills and experience to help shape the next chapter of M13's development. Your contribution could help ensure the organisation remains strong, sustainable and impactful for years to come.

Trustees play an essential role in providing strategic oversight, supporting good governance and championing the values that have guided M13 throughout its history. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an organisation that is making a meaningful difference every day.

We would be delighted to hear from people who share our passion for young people, thriving communities and social justice.

Dr Matthew Harrison, Chair of Trustees

Who We Are

M13 Youth Project exists to be a consistent, trusted presence in communities experiencing deep-rooted inequality. We walk alongside young people, nurturing hope, belonging and belief so they can flourish and help shape thriving communities for generations to come. We do this through relational detached youth work and purposeful informal education, working alongside young people to create opportunities to learn about themselves, others and the world, to develop their voice and power, and to work together to create lasting change in their communities.

We are a Manchester-based youth work charity working alongside children and young people in Ardwick and Hulme and young dads city-wide. Established in 1995 by Dr Helen Gatenby, we have built a national reputation for delivering high-quality detached youth work, informal education and consistent relationship-based practice that supports young people to flourish.

Our work is rooted in long-term trusted relationships. Each year we work with hundreds of children, young people and young fathers through street-based detached youth work, group work, community activities, leadership opportunities and targeted projects. We create spaces where young people feel valued, heard and supported, enabling them to explore who they are, develop their strengths and work together to make positive change.

Our caring approach is informed by the principles and practices of youth work, informal education and trauma-informed practice, underpinned by our open and inclusive Christian value base that emphasises love and justice. We believe all young people deserve to be treated with respect and dignity and that each young person can love, think, create, reflect, enjoy, achieve and make a positive difference to their world.

Why M13 Matters

Many of the communities where M13 works experience persistent social and economic inequalities. Young people often face barriers including poverty, racism, difficult childhood experiences, limited opportunities, exclusion and a lack of access to trusted adult relationships. Our response is simple but powerful: we show up consistently and walk alongside young people over time. 

The relationship is the work.

Through trusted relationships and informal education, young people develop hope, belonging and belief. They discover their voice, strengthen their confidence and realise their ability to influence their own futures and the communities around them.

Governance and Leadership

M13 is governed by a volunteer Board of Trustees who generously contribute their time, expertise and enthusiasm. The board provide strategic leadership, oversight and accountability for the charity.

The board meets throughout the year working closely with Helen and the staff team. As M13 celebrates more than 30 years of youth work practice, we are undertaking significant reflection and planning for the future.

We are:

• Evaluating our long-term impact
• Researching future need within our communities
• Developing strategic priorities for the next five years
• Strengthening organisational systems and sustainability
• Building on our national reputation for detached youth work excellence
• Expanding opportunities for young people to influence and shape our work

This is an exciting time to join the Board and contribute to the next chapter of M13's story.

Why become a Trustee?

Trusteeship with M13 offers an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of children and young people. As a Trustee you will:

Make a Lasting Difference: Help ensure young people have access to trusted relationships, opportunities and support.

Shape Strategic Direction: Contribute to the future development of a respected charity with a strong track record and clear purpose.

Use Your Skills for Good: Apply your professional knowledge and experience to create positive social impact.

Develop Leadership Experience: Gain valuable experience in governance, strategic planning and organisational development.

Join a Passionate Community: Work alongside committed Trustees, staff, volunteers and young people who believe in the power of relationships and community.

Support Social Justice: Help tackle inequality and create opportunities for young people to flourish.

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

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

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

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis
 

Orchards is looking for a reliable and organised admin volunteer to support our vision to see more women free from sexual exploitation. This role offers hands-on experience in the VAWG sector and the chance to contribute to the running of supported accommodation services.

Testimonial from our previous Admin Intern:

“I have learned a great deal about the VAWG sector and how Orchards support the women, I have learned how to use Expense plus and In-Form and how the charity operates from an administration perspective. I have received a lot of support from the team, and the Head of Operations in particular. I really enjoy our weekly meetings and have found them very beneficial. Orchards have an amazing culture. They are incredibly kind and considerate and the whole team is so supportive of one another which is so lovely.”

Volunteers Wanted! Help Bring Our Rewilded Nature Trail to Life

The Sherriff Centre is looking for enthusiastic, community-minded volunteers to help care for and bring our new Rewilded Nature Trail to life in West Hampstead.

You could help with guided nature tours, gardening and seasonal maintenance, looking after our wildlife habitats, or simply helping keep the trail welcoming and accessible.

No experience is needed — just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved! You’ll learn about biodiversity and sustainability, meet new people, gain practical experience and make a visible difference to your local community.

We welcome people who can volunteer regularly or occasionally, including weekdays, weekends and school holidays. Full training and support will be provided.

Interested? Send us your CV and a little about yourself and we'll send you an application form.

Could you serve coffee once a week? Could you bake us the occasional sweet treat? Are you a big fan of boardgames? Do you like meeting new people? The Living Room Community Hub at St Andrew's Church in Boscombe and is open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays 9am-11:30am. It offers a welcoming space where the local community can enjoy hot drinks and cake. Visitors are encouraged to take part in games, puzzles, and social activities that foster connection and community. Regular events include a Monday Games Club and Tea & Toast Tuesdays, creating consistent opportunities for people to meet new friends and feel part of a supportive local network.

Role Description This is a volunteering opportunity to support our local community. The role includes welcoming visitors, serving refreshments, setting up and tidying away games and activities, and helping maintain a warm, inclusive atmosphere. The volunteer supports the smooth running of Monday Games Club and Tea & Toast Tuesdays by preparing the space, engaging participants, and encouraging conversation and participation.

The ideal team member has:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience in customer service or hospitality, including welcoming guests, serving food and drinks, and ensuring a positive visitor experience.
• Organisational and time management skills for setting up activities, maintaining a tidy environment, and supporting the smooth-running of the hub.
• Teamwork and collaboration skills, with a willingness to get stuck in.
• Reliability, punctuality, and a commitment to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and community-focused space.
• Familiarity with safeguarding and basic health and safety.

Providing a confidential non-judgemental listening ear to Residents and Staff. Supporting those wishing to develop their spiritual journey from a Christian perspective. The role will be based across one of our hostels in Watford, Borehamwood, Bishop's Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or High Wycombe, 

Activities include:

• Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to build safe relationships and trust
• Offering a ‘listening ear’ to all and giving emotional support
• Sensitively discerning when to offer prayer and support from a Christian perspective, and when to use faith based language
• Be inclusive and welcoming to people of all religious faiths and none, referring people to other faith communities as appropriate
• Working alongside support staff, volunteers & local agencies
• Maintaining records of support and feeding back concerns about Resident welfare to Staff/Line Manager.
• Attend regular volunteer team meetings
• Being proactive in seeking spiritual and emotional support for your own benefit as this is a challenging role.

Additional activities could include:

• Facilitating group work for example: Retreat Programme, Bible Study, prayer or Mental Health Support.
• Welcoming new Residents by phone or in person
• Leading or helping with Chaplaincy lead events: Easter/Christmas activities, Remembrance Services
• Being an ambassador for YMCA’s mission in local Churches

Skills/Qualities/Experience:

• Be a good and active listener who can support others
• Be of a friendly, welcoming and cheerful disposition
• Self-motivated, reliable and punctual
• Sensitivity and courage to care for people experiencing a range of distressing situations including: grief, trauma, poor mental health, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts.
• A commitment to your own spiritual development
• A good understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some understanding of other faith traditions
• Ability to use both faith and non-faith based language, as appropriate
• Good communication skills in English; in person & over the phone
• A willingness to learn new things and get stuck in
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Respect the Christian ethos of the YMCA and uphold its values
• Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have

Training Support:

• A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided
• A one day ‘Chaplaincy Essentials’ training, plus a menu of additional training will be made available
• Online training: Safeguarding (Adults & Young People), Fire Awareness, Manual Handling
• Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager
• Team meetings and social events
• Mileage and expenses may be payable

You will need 2 x references and a DBS (we will apply for and fund this). 

Food Service Volunteers

Enthusiastic, hands-on volunteers needed to help provide food to the community. A key role, you will work at the main hub of the food bank and help the food service run as smoothly as possible. An exciting opportunity to make a real, immediate impact to those in need of support. 

Hours: Thursdays, a range of shifts from 9:30am - 5pm

Book shifts to suit your own schedule! No requirement to sign up for the same shift each Thursday or to volunteer consecutive weeks.

Location: St Michael's Church Hall, 37 Bounds Green Rd, London, N22 8SD

About Bounds Green Food Bank: 

Open since June 2020, we serve over 4,600 children and adults in the community. We are committed to improving lives by providing food and essential household items to build a healthy, hunger-free tomorrow. We strive to promote social inclusion by supporting people who need assistance to feed themselves and their families.

Person specification: 

• Aged 18 or above

• Have a basic understanding of spoken English

• Available on Thursdays 

• Able to travel at your own expense (no parking is available)

• Patient and flexible - you will help on different sections on each shift and may need to switch during shifts too

• A team player - the food bank is run completely by volunteers, so we require enthusiasm and cooperation

• Willing to attend training - The Orientation Tour is required before you join us, but other training may be offered.

• Understand and sensitive to the challenges and difficulties faced by guests accessing the food bank e.g. food and fuel poverty, feelings of shame and embarrassment, language barriers.

The role: 

• Take in deliveries and count stock at the start of the day 

• Help with setting up the food service, including getting food out of storage and onto the service tables, decanting and repacking items and replenishing goods when needed. 

• Warmly welcome guests, serving them the number of items advised by Section Leads and Food Service Coordinators during each shift. 

• Pack away once we close. Make decisions about storage of items. Count stock to inform future procurement.

• Follow food bank policies including Health and Safety procedures e.g. wearing gloves when handling fresh food and lifting boxes safely. 

• Keep the hall safe throughout the food service e.g. tidying away boxes and keeping walkways clear. 

Benefits:

• Flexible - book shifts to suit your own schedule!

•  Give back to the community - one of the NHS’ 5 Ways to Wellbeing!

• Upskill on a range of topics, e.g. customer service, interpersonal skills, organisational abilities and health and safety

• Gain a sense of community and meet the huge team of volunteers

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

Role Purpose:

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

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Strategic Leadership

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

Financial Oversight:

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

Support for Senior Leadership

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

Advocacy & Representation

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

Compliance & Accountability

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

Monitoring Impact

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

How to apply

To make an application, please:

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

Recruitment timeline

Closing date: Monday 28 September2026

Shortlisting & Interviews: October 2026

Oxfam Retail Volunteers – Guisborough Redcar and Cleveland

Oxfam GB

Job details

Job type

• Volunteer

Shift and schedule

• 4 - 8-hour shift – we are very flexible
• Location: 1 Church Street, Guisborough TS14 6HG

Full job description

Oxfam's Guisborough Shop is looking for Shop Volunteers to help Oxfam’s fight to support the world’s most vulnerable communities.

We’re looking for volunteers who can give 4-8 hours (or more!) of their time in the shop each week, and we’re excited to welcome brand new volunteers to our stores!

Right now, we're looking for people to help in the shop in our stock room and with our ecommerce/online department!

Location:

Become a volunteer!

We like to give volunteers an opportunity to try a range of areas before they find something that suits them. You might become a Retail Volunteer, Till Volunteer, Stock Volunteer. Or you might find yourself in a more specialist role such as an Ecommerce Volunteer, a Shift Lead Volunteer, or even a Stock Specialist Volunteer.

Whatever your skills or interests, there’s something for everyone…

Why be a volunteer?

Your time will make a huge difference. We estimate one four-hour shift will, on average, provide enough income to enable Oxfam to provide life-saving handwashing facilities for 81 people.

Volunteering also has a positive impact on wellbeing, with an incredible 7 in 10 volunteers saying that their charitable actions were beneficial for their mental health.

Benefits of becoming a Volunteer:

· Gain genuine experience working in a retail environment.

· Volunteering can help you learn new skills, gain experience, and develop your CV.

· Great way to meet new people & be part of a community. Volunteering can help you feel part of something outside your friends and family.

· Be part of a fantastic team and make a positive change to the world.

· Opportunity to utilise and develop your transferable skills.

Volunteering with Oxfam will give you the skills, confidence and experience you need to build your CV and boost your employability. Problem solving, communication, working with others and familiarity with the workplace are universally valued by employers.

No experience is necessary as full training, and an induction will be given. You don't need to be computer literate to join our team; there are volunteer opportunities for all. All we ask is that you’re happy to work as part of a diverse and inclusive team.

We can be flexible around parenting, caring, health, employment, education, and any other commitments you have.

Tempted? Apply now!

Oxfam covers expenses incurred in line with Oxfam’s Volunteer Expenses Policy, including local, reasonable travel expenses and lunch (for volunteering 5 hours +).’

· We take the welfare of volunteers and everyone we work with very seriously. We do not tolerate discrimination, bullying, abuse of power, or any sexual misconduct within the workplace.

· Oxfam do not accept applications from anyone on the Sex Offenders list. We may inquire about unspent convictions relevant to the role and you may be required to submit to PVG/DBS check (at no expense to you).

· *NB: due to the current capacity of some shops, it may be that you will be placed on a waiting list and/or, if you are under 18, until a shop has enough staff and/or volunteers DBS cleared. The Shop Manager will discuss this with you.

Job Type: Volunteer

Work Location: In person

Ref: V272 | Support Group Volunteer | Bangor, Northern Ireland

We’re looking for 3 Support Group Volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based at 30 Breezemount Grove, Conling, Bangor, BT23 7TX.

You’ll be volunteering every Wednesday between 11am and 1pm.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group. The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by downloading the role description for the Support Group Volunteer role.

About us: 

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C is a pioneering Podcast/YouTube Channel and healing membership organisation. We provide a platform for survivors and whistleblowers to share their lived experiences, highlight systemic frustrations and offer solutions rooted in culturally trauma-informed care.

Our membership offers young people and survivors a path to heal, learn digital skills and interactively participate in our Alchemic 369 Book Club, where members engage in weekly interactive discussions, debates and critical analysis of African, Caribbean and world history, Ifa, classics and political thought. Members will sharpen their reading, reasoning and imagination skills, with opportunities to discuss works directly with authors, highly subsidised plant-based transformative retreats and join a community designed to empower and educate.

We are a mission-driven, collective-focused C.I.C building a movement that combines healing, re-education and empowerment.

Our content focuses on:

• Survivors of CSA, RSA, CT, CA stories

• Whistleblowers and retired experts

• Generational trauma and healing

• Youth empowerment and education

• Community transformation through honest storytelling

Our mission is to challenge generational cycles, expose hidden truths, fight for justice and create a platform rooted in authenticity, deep healing, and transformation.

Job Purpose:

To actively identify, locate, and surface potential real-world stories, individuals, and lived experiences that align with the organisation’s mission, ensuring a continuous pipeline of high-quality, relevant story leads for the Story Intelligence Team.

This role exists to function as the organisation’s primary “frontline discovery engine,” scanning a wide range of public sources—including media platforms, social networks, interviews, documentaries, podcasts, books, advocacy spaces, and community forums—to uncover individuals who have either publicly shared their experiences or are visibly positioned within ongoing social, cultural, or institutional narratives.

The Research Story Scout is responsible for recognising not just individual stories, but also broader story ecosystems, including repeated patterns of lived experience, underrepresented voices, emerging testimonies, and whistleblower disclosures that may not yet have been formally documented or widely circulated.

A key purpose of this role is to convert scattered public information into structured, actionable story leads that can be passed efficiently to the Outreach Team for ethical and appropriate engagement.

The role also ensures that potential stories are identified early, before they become widely saturated or lost in mainstream attention cycles, enabling the organisation to engage responsibly, respectfully, and at the right stage of the individual’s willingness to share.

Ultimately, this role ensures the organisation maintains a consistent flow of credible, relevant, and timely story opportunities by continuously scanning the public landscape and translating discovery into structured, usable intelligence for outreach and engagement.

About the role:

Story Scouts spend their time locating individuals who have publicly shared their experiences or indicated a willingness to discuss their story.

Sources may include:

• Podcasts

• YouTube interviews

• Social media platforms

• Survivor groups

• Charity websites

• News reports

• Books

• Blogs

• Conferences

• Public speaking events

Once identified, the scout prepares a short lead profile and passes it to outreach for them to make contact, sign consent forms and safeguarding checks, schedule call with guest and host hand over to host. (PPTeam).

Ideal Candidate

• Extremely resourceful.

• Strong online research skills.

• Curious and persistent.

• Enjoys finding information.

• Comfortable working independently.

Experience Required

• Internet research.

• Community management.

• Journalism.

• Talent sourcing.

• Recruitment sourcing.

• Social media research.

What You Will Gain

• Real-world hosting and interviewing experience

• Opportunity to build a public profile and media presence

• Portfolio-building opportunities across podcasting and storytelling

• Networking and relationship-building opportunities

• Experience working within a growing media and advocacy platform

• Creative freedom and personal growth opportunities

• Leadership and media mentorship

• Opportunity to develop your own audience and storytelling identity

• Potential future paid opportunities and long-term media career pathways

• Direct pathway into a future paid role

• The chance to help build a nationally recognised media and survivor-support platform

• COS opportunities for top performing staff members 

This role is designed as a long-term pathway opportunity to a paid position and lifestyle transformation.

We don’t operate on individualism—we build through collectivism, meaning:
  As the platform grows, your role, influence, and opportunities grow with it

Additional Notes

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work

• Avoid handling sensitive data or detailed reporting

• Are seeking immediate paid employment

• Are uncomfortable applying analysis to strategic decisions

To Apply

Please send:

• Your CV, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile (if available)

• A short introduction about yourself

• Why this mission resonates with you

• Any relevant experience, skills, ideas, or vision you would bring to the role

We welcome individuals who are passionate about helping create platforms that inspire healing, justice, truth, education, empowerment, and lasting community impact. That see themselves transforming their lifestyles to maintain the above for the generations to come.

Activity Leader

Challenge Adventure Group (“CAG” for short and the operating name of CAG Trust) is a voluntary youth organisation for Knowle, Dorridge and beyond aimed at boys aged 10 and above.

As our name suggests, we provide challenging, adventurous and fun activities and the D of E Award for young people in their leisure time. Taking part in fun experiential activities enables members to develop their physical and mental skills and capacities and reach their full potential of becoming positive, active and happy citizens.

Summary

CAG was formed in 2009 and became a charity, CAG Trust, in 2019. Our activity leaders are at the centre of what we do - their good nature, leadership and passion for outdoor activities are what we pass on to the next generation. It is a role with a lot of responsibility and a huge amount of reward and satisfaction.

You will be part of a team of enthusiastic and passionate leaders who help to run CAG meeting nights on Tuesdays in term time.  You will help run both indoor and outdoor team building activities for our all male members and this can include going on night walks, building fires, cooking on fires, trying out some bush craft, going on bike rides, trying indoor climbing, having a go at scuba diving in swimming pools, playing team building games, entering cake competitions, attempting bushtucker trials, putting up tents, learning navigation skills, keeping fit by doing bleep tests, going karting, having a crack at skiing at Ackers Trust, eating curry at Christmas and much, much more.

You can also join us on our weekend trips away to faraway places such as the Lakes, Snowdonia, the Peaks and even to snowier, colder climes on our legendary ski trip.

Description

The Building Manager will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning, safety, and pleasant environment of Challenge Adventure Group’s premises at Bickenhill Church Hall. This position involves overseeing general building maintenance, coordinating with service providers, and supporting health and safety initiatives to provide a safe and professional space for our members and volunteer staff. This role is essential in upholding the quality of our physical environment, which underpins the service we provide.

Responsibilities:

Conduct regular visual inspections of the premises to identify any maintenance needs, repairs, or health and safety concerns;

Liaise with the Group Leader regarding identified issues and coordinate with external contractors (e.g., plumbers, electricians, general maintenance) for necessary repairs or services;

Oversee the general cleanliness and upkeep of the premises, liaising with cleaning staff and addressing any immediate concerns;

Manage external contracts related to building operations, such as utilities ensuring continuity and addressing any issues;

Ensure adequate stock levels and provision of general consumables for Cag's use of kitchen, toilets etc and manage ordering as required;

Act as a designated Fire Marshal and/or First Aider for the premises, undertaking relevant training and fulfilling associated duties;

Support delegated Health and Safety activities, including regular checks and reporting, to ensure compliance with relevant policies (e.g., Fire Safety, Health and Safety); Raise any immediate health and safety concerns or risks to the attention of the Group Leader;

Serve as a key point of contact for building-related matters, liaising effectively with contract providers and the landlord;

Facilitate access for maintenance personnel or service providers when required; Provide regular updates to the Group Leader on building status, ongoing issues, and completed tasks;

Maintain an organised system for tracking maintenance requests, contractor visits, and health and safety checks;

Contribute to establishing and maintaining a sustainability and recycling program for the premises.

We are looking for a volunteer who ideally should have / be:

• Commitment to CAG and its ethos.

• Enthusiasm and a positive attitude to work is essential.

• Ability to work on own initiative but also as part of a team.

• A proactive attitude.

Making a difference - what impact will the opportunity have?

Your input is key to the day to day running of CAG as well as securing its future.  You will have a big impact because this role is essential to ensuring that CAG members have a safe and secure environment to carry out their activities when they are on site.

What's in it for the volunteer? 

You would become part of our small, friendly team and you have the opportunity to use your time, skills and experience to make a real difference to CAG and the community in which we operate.  Additionally we can offer you:

• The chance to be part of a charity at an exciting time in its development.

• The opportunity to make a difference to young people’s lives through outdoor trips, activities and adventures.

• Expenses, so you are not out of pocket.

About the location

Where will the volunteer be working?

• The role requires a degree of physical presence to conduct inspections and liaise with on-site personnel.

Travel Limit

The candidate should also be available for occasional face to face Leader meetings.

When will the volunteer be working?

Volunteer availability

• As required 

Estimate of time commitment

• Minimum 2 hours / week - the candidate will be able to offer further time as they wish

Details

The volunteering could be long term. 

Successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS and two references.

1. Chair’s welcome

WCT has been part of the community for more than 40 years. At the heart of what we do is something very simple: helping people to get where they need and want to go, and making it possible for people to remain independent, connected and involved in their community.

Our services are about much more than getting from A to B. They enable people to go shopping, enjoy days out, maintain friendships and social connections, and take part in everyday life. We also work with schools, charities and other community organisations across Wandsworth, helping them provide the transport their communities need.

It is a particularly exciting time to join us. Since our new Chief Executive joined WCT in May 2026, we are finalising our organisational strategy for the next three years – protecting the trusted services people already rely on while looking carefully at how WCT can become stronger, more sustainable and continue to respond to the changing needs of our community.

Our Trustees have an important part to play in that next chapter. We are looking to strengthen our Board with some particular skills and experience, but we are equally interested in the different perspectives people bring. You do not need to have been a Trustee before. We welcome people who share our commitment to inclusion, independence and community, who are curious about our work and who are willing to contribute their experience, ideas and time.

Being a Trustee is a responsibility, but it should also be rewarding and enjoyable. We are a friendly Board, working alongside a committed staff and volunteer team and an organisation with a long history of making a very practical difference to people’s lives.

I hope this pack gives you a sense of who we are, where we are going and what being part of WCT could look like. If what you read interests you, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Hicky Clark
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Wandsworth Community Transport

2. About Wandsworth Community Transport

Wandsworth Community Transport (WCT) has been helping people get out and about for more than 40 years.

Founded in 1982, we provide safe, accessible and affordable transport and opportunities for people to stay independent, connected and involved in community life across Wandsworth.

Today, our work includes:

· Shopmobility – Supporting people to access local shopping safely and independently, with transport and shopping support from our base at Sainsbury’s in Garratt Lane.

· Silver Day Trippers and Road Runners – Affordable outings giving people opportunities to visit new places, enjoy shared experiences and spend time with others.

· Community vehicle hire – Providing minibuses and transport to charities, community groups, sports clubs, places of worship and other local organisations.

· School and contracted transport – Delivering specialist transport, including work in partnership with the London Borough of Wandsworth and local schools.

· Driver training – Sharing our specialist knowledge through MiDAS training for drivers working within WCT and other organisations.

· WCT Community Transport Choir – Founded in May 2018 and made up of people who access our services alongside WCT volunteers. Our choir brings people together through music and performs at local events, day centres and community groups across Wandsworth.

Behind all of this is a committed team of staff, drivers, volunteers and Trustees, together with longstanding relationships across the borough.

Our work is about much more than transport. It is about enabling people to remain independent, build friendships, enjoy new experiences, play a role in their community and stay connected to the people and places that matter to them.

That sense of connection and participation is at the heart of WCT – and has been for more than four decades.

3. Why join our Board now?

WCT is entering an important and exciting new chapter.

Since Peter Edwards, our new Chief Executive, joined in May 2026 we have been finalising our organisational strategy for the next three years. Our focus is on protecting and strengthening the services our community already values, while building a resilient, sustainable and forward-looking organisation.

An important part of this will be diversifying our income and developing new collaborations and partnerships. We want to build on WCT’s strong local relationships, work more closely with other charities, community organisations, funders and businesses, and explore opportunities to work together where our combined experience can create greater impact.

Community participation and innovation will help shape WCT’s future. We want the people who access our services – alongside our volunteers, staff and wider community – to have a meaningful voice in what comes next. By listening, consulting and involving people from the earliest stages, we can understand changing needs, identify new opportunities and develop ideas with our community rather than simply for it.

Alongside protecting our core community transport services, we will actively encourage innovation – exploring new ideas, testing new approaches and learning from what works. This could mean using our transport expertise in new ways, developing new services, or working collaboratively with partners to respond to needs that no single organisation can address alone. Innovation at WCT will always be purposeful: rooted in evidence, shaped by participation and focused on creating greater impact for our community.

This makes it a particularly interesting time to become a Trustee.

New Trustees will be joining a well-established local charity, with strong community relationships, but at a point when there is also real opportunity to contribute to what comes next.

You will have the opportunity to bring your own knowledge, experience and perspective to our discussions, help shape our future direction and work alongside fellow Trustees, our Chief Executive and the wider WCT team as we take the organisation into its next chapter.

In 2027, WCT will celebrate its 45th anniversary – an important milestone for an organisation that has been part of local life since 1982. We want to enter that anniversary year proud of our history, open to new ideas, ambitious for our future and continuing to make a meaningful difference to the communities we are here to serve.

4. Our Board

Our Board of Trustees is responsible for the governance and strategic direction of Wandsworth Community Transport, working closely with our Chief Executive while maintaining the important distinction between governance and the day-to-day management of the charity.

Under the leadership of our experienced Chair, we are a friendly and engaged Board, bringing together a mix of professional expertise, community knowledge and lived experience. Our Trustees come from different backgrounds, and each brings something different to the table. We see that breadth of perspective as a real strength.

Trustees work collectively. No individual Trustee is expected to have all the answers. We ask questions, share knowledge, challenge constructively and support one another in making decisions in the best interests of WCT and the communities we serve.

Most matters are considered by the full Board, although we may establish smaller working groups for particular pieces of work when this is useful.

As WCT moves into its next chapter, we are also strengthening the way our Board works – including Board development, succession planning and more opportunities for Trustees to contribute to strategy.

Above all, we want our Board to be a place where different voices are heard and valued. We welcome challenge, curiosity and new ideas, and we want Trustees to feel able to contribute from their own experience while learning from others.

5. What makes a great WCT Trustee?

You do not need prior trustee experience to make a valuable contribution to the WCT board.

We are interested in people who care about our communities and believe in the importance of independence, inclusion and access to opportunities.

Great Trustees bring different things. You might bring professional expertise, knowledge of Wandsworth and its communities, insight from another sector, lived experience, or simply a perspective that is not currently represented around our Board table.

What matters to us is that you are willing to:

· Share knowledge, experience and ideas.

· Listen to and value different perspectives.

· Think strategically and look at the bigger picture.

· Ask questions and offer constructive challenge.

· Make decisions collectively and take shared responsibility for them.

· Champion inclusion, accessibility and community participation.

· Be curious, open to innovation and willing to learn.

· Act with integrity and always in the best interests of WCT and the communities we serve.

We particularly welcome people who can bring skills and experience to complement those already on our Board and we are committed to broadening the range of voices and perspectives involved in governance.

You will not be expected to arrive knowing everything about charity governance or community transport. We will support you to understand WCT, your responsibilities as a Trustee and the wider context in which we work.

What we are looking for most is people who want to contribute, participate and help us make good decisions together.

6. Trustee role profile

The role

As a Trustee of Wandsworth Community Transport, you will share responsibility with your fellow Trustees for the governance and strategic direction of the charity.

The Board works collectively to ensure that WCT remains true to its charitable purpose, is well governed and financially sustainable, manages its responsibilities and risks appropriately, and continues to deliver meaningful benefit for the people and communities we serve.

Our Chief Executive and staff team are responsible for the day-to-day running of WCT. The role of the Board is to provide strategic leadership, oversight, support and constructive challenge.

As a Trustee, you will:

· Help shape and oversee WCT’s strategic direction and future development

· Ensure that WCT remains focused on its charitable purpose and the needs of the communities it serves.

· Contribute actively to Board discussions and collective decision-making.

· Provide constructive support and challenge to the Chief Executive and senior team.

· Oversee WCT’s financial health and ensure its resources are used responsibly.

· Contribute to oversight of risk, safeguarding, legal and regulatory responsibilities.

· Support WCT’s commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

· Champion meaningful community participation and ensure that the voices and experiences of the people we serve inform our thinking.

· Help WCT develop strong relationships, collaborations and partnerships.

· Act as an ambassador for WCT and help raise awareness of our work.

· Contribute your own knowledge, skills, networks and experience while respecting the perspectives of others.

· Act with integrity, confidentiality and in the best interests of WCT.

Collective responsibility

Trustees have collective responsibility for the decisions made by the Board. We therefore expect Trustees to prepare for and participate in meetings, contribute thoughtfully to discussions and support agreed decisions.

You will never be expected to manage WCT’s services or take on responsibilities that properly belong to our Chief Executive and staff team.

We want our Trustees to have the space to think strategically: asking the right questions, considering opportunities and risks, listening to our communities and helping WCT make well-informed decisions about its future.

Term of office

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term and may serve for a maximum of nine years, subject to reappointment and WCT’s governing arrangements.

The role is voluntary and unpaid, with reasonable expenses reimbursed in accordance with policy.

7. Who we’re particularly looking for

We want our Board to bring together a strong mix of skills, experience, backgrounds and perspectives.

Following our recent Board skills audit, we have identified some areas where additional experience would particularly strengthen WCT as we move into our next chapter.

You do not need to have previous Trustee experience, and we don’t expect any one person to cover all of these areas. We would particularly love to hear from people with experience in one or more of the following:

Fundraising + income generation

As we diversify our income and develop new partnerships, we would welcome someone with experience of fundraising, income generation or business development.

This might include trusts and foundations, corporate partnerships, individual giving, commissioning, strategic partnerships or other approaches to developing sustainable income.

We are particularly interested in someone who can bring strategic thinking – helping us identify opportunities, build relationships and strengthen our approach to income diversification rather than being expected to personally fundraise for WCT.

Legal + compliance

We would welcome someone with legal, regulatory, governance or compliance experience who can help strengthen the Board’s collective understanding and oversight in these areas.

You might be a practising or former legal professional, work in compliance or regulation, or bring relevant experience from the charity, public or private sector.

Diversity, equity, inclusion + accessibility (DEIA)

Inclusion and accessibility are central to the communities we serve and to the organisation we want WCT to be.

We would welcome someone who can bring knowledge, experience or perspective that helps us continue developing our approach to DEIA across our governance, services, workforce, partnerships and community engagement.

Marketing, communications + social media

We would love to strengthen the Board with someone who understands how good communications can help a charity connect with its community, tell its story and build relationships.

We are particularly interested in experience of marketing, communications, digital engagement or social media – helping us think strategically about how WCT communicates its impact, reaches different audiences and grows its profile across Wandsworth and beyond.

Lived experience + community perspective

Professional expertise is only one form of expertise.

We particularly value lived experience and would welcome people who can bring perspectives shaped by their own life, their communities or their understanding of the people WCT serves.

This might include experience of disability or accessibility barriers, caring responsibilities, ageing, social isolation, community services or community transport – whether personally, through your family or the wider community.

We also want our Board to better reflect the diversity of Wandsworth and encourage applications from people whose voices and perspectives have traditionally been underrepresented in charity governance.

8. Meetings and time commitment

We want prospective Trustees to have a clear and realistic idea of the commitment involved.

Our Board meets six times a year, in person, at 6pm in central Wandsworth. We also hold our AGM in November, which Trustees are expected to attend.

Trustees receive papers in advance of each Board meeting and are expected to take the time to read these and come prepared to contribute to discussion and decision-making.

Most of our governance work is undertaken through the full Board. From time to time, we may establish a small working group for a particular piece of work, drawing on the skills, experience and interests of individual Trustees.

As we develop our new three-year strategy, we also intend to create opportunities for Trustees to come together for strategic planning and Board development outside our regular meeting cycle.

We recognise that our Trustees have work, family and other commitments. We don’t expect everyone to be available for everything, but we do ask Trustees to participate regularly, stay engaged with WCT between meetings where needed and contribute their time and expertise in a way that is manageable and meaningful.

9. Support and development

We want every Trustee to feel welcomed, supported and confident in their role.

You don’t need to arrive knowing everything about WCT, community transport or charity governance. New Trustees will receive an induction to help you understand the organisation, our services, your responsibilities as a Trustee and how our Board works.

You will be supported by our experienced Chair, Chief Executive and fellow Trustees, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and build your knowledge as you settle into the role.

We also encourage Trustees to get to know WCT beyond the Board table. This might include visiting our services, meeting staff and volunteers, joining one of our outings or community activities, and spending time with the people who access our services. We believe this first-hand understanding is an important part of being an effective WCT Trustee.

As a Board, we are committed to continuing to learn and develop. Trustees will have opportunities to take part in relevant training and Board development, as well as strategic planning sessions as we shape and oversee WCT’s future.

Whether this would be your first Trustee role or you already have considerable Board experience, we want you to feel able to contribute, ask questions, continue learning and enjoy being part of WCT.

10. Our commitment to DEIA

Diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility are important to WCT – in the services we provide, the way we work and the way we govern our charity.

Our Board has adopted a DEIA Policy and Charter, alongside a three-year DEIA Strategy for 2026–2029 which will continue to develop as we learn, listen and strengthen our practice.

We want our Board to reflect a broad range of experiences, backgrounds and perspectives, and we particularly welcome applications from people in groups under-represented in charity governance.

We are committed to making our Trustee recruitment process as inclusive and accessible as possible. If there is anything we can do to make it easier for you to explore the opportunity, apply or participate in the recruitment process, please let us know.

For us, DEIA is not a finished piece of work. It is an ongoing commitment to listening, learning and ensuring that people have meaningful opportunities to participate in and help shape WCT.

11. How to apply

Thank you for considering joining the Board of Wandsworth Community Transport. We hope this pack has given you a sense of who we are, what matters to us and why this is such an exciting time to become part of WCT.

If you are interested in joining us, there are two ways to take the next step.

Arrange an informal conversation

If you would like to find out a little more before deciding whether to apply, Peter Edwards, our Chief Executive, would be very happy to have an informal conversation with you about WCT, the Trustee role and any questions you may have; an opportunity to find out more and decide whether WCT feels right for you.

Contact Peter Edwards, Chief Executive:

Or complete your application now

If you have read this pack and already feel that you would like to apply, you are very welcome to complete your application now by completing the form provided with this pack.

We want to understand what interests you about WCT and what you feel you could bring to our Board. We are interested in your experience, skills and perspective – whether these have come through your professional life, volunteering, your community or your lived experience.

We recruit Trustees on a rolling basis, although we may set closing dates when recruiting for particular skills or experience.

What happens next?

Following your application, we will invite shortlisted applicants to meet with us. This is an opportunity for us to learn more about you, but equally for you to learn more about WCT and decide whether joining our Board feels right for you.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Volunteering Opportunity

Telephone Survey Assistant
What You’ll Do

Help us understand what older people need by calling clients to complete short surveys. You’ll collect feedback that helps shape our services and programmes.

You will:

• Make phone calls using a provided script
• Record answers clearly and accurately
• Explain why the survey matters and how responses will be used
• Maintain confidentiality and data protection at all times
• Report any issues to staff
• Attend occasional training sessions

Skills You’ll Use or Develop

• Clear, confident telephone manner
• Good listening and data recording skills
• Patience and empathy with older adults
• Able to follow scripts and stay on task
• Comfortable using a computer
• Reliable and respectful of confidentiality

Time Commitment

2–4 hours between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday
(Flexible)

Location: Age UK Enfield offices or remote
Reports to: Survey Coordinator

Ready to Apply?

Our Volunteer Opportunities Pack and Volunteer Application Form are attached and available to download.

If you're interested in joining our volunteer team, simply complete the application form and email it to us. (Email address included in the application pack)

Once we've received your application, we'll arrange an informal telephone chat to discuss the volunteer role(s) you're interested in, answer any questions you may have, and help you find the opportunity that's the best fit for you.

We look forward to hearing from you!