Church volunteer roles

Our Community Volunteers are vital in enabling us to continue to feed the 3 million children we feed every day and to help us reach the next child. They use their talents in their communities to spread the story of Mary’s Meals.

What is the role of a Community Volunteer?

Some of the things you can do as a community volunteer:

• Help us to share our story – arrange and give Mary’s Meals talks to local community organisations, schools, churches and faith groups to raise vital awareness and funds
• Use your networks and contacts to book talks, stalls and events and help us share our story
• Organise fundraising events in your local area such as coffee mornings, quizzes, supermarket bag packs and bucket collections
• Organise film screenings in your community to show Mary’s Meals films
• Volunteer at local fundraising and awareness events such as film screenings, bucket collections or concerts
• Promote Mary’s Meals’ fundraising campaigns and events in your community and across their networks and contacts
• Distribute and display promotional materials
• Place collection tins in local community areas
• Host community engagement events about Mary’s Meals’ work
• Come together as a group with other local volunteers to support each other with this work
• Lead a group in your community to fundraise for Mary’s Meals

What support and resources will I receive?

• Support, encouragement, and guidance from your local Supporter Engagement Officer
• A comprehensive induction to Mary’s Meals
• Opportunities to join online or in person volunteer meetings and briefings
• Training and if desired, public speaking training
• Resources to fulfil your role
• A regular volunteer update e-mail

What are the benefits of volunteering for Mary's Meals?

• Feeling part of the global Mary’s Meals movement to end world hunger
• Learning new skills and gaining experience as part of a growing and vibrant organisation
• Meeting new like-minded people
• Increasing confidence and team-working skills.
• Developing communication skills (verbal and written)
• Feeling empowered to have your voice heard, knowing that you are playing an active role in changing the lives of those who need it the most.

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES AND TRUSTEES 

Do you have a heart for missionaries and those who serve on the front lines of God's kingdom?

Do you believe in the power of rest, renewal and Christian fellowship for those in ministry?

We are thrilled to be partnering with the Highbury Centre. For over 125 years, The Highbury Centre has been providing rest, renewal and Christian hospitality to missionaries and Christian workers from around the world. What began as the Foreign Missions Club has grown into something truly special, a home away from home where God's workers can rest, recharge, and reconnect with their calling.

In their beautiful Victorian building, they welcome church leaders, missionaries, aid workers and their families who come seeking not just accommodation, but genuine Christian fellowship and a space to catch their breath. 

We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees and up to four new trustees to join their board at this pivotal moment in their history. As a trustee, you'll play a crucial role in shaping their strategic direction, ensuring they remain financially sustainable, maintaining their beautiful historic building, and upholding the Christian values that have guided them for more than a century.

These are voluntary roles where your insight, experience and faith-driven enthusiasm will help continue their 125-year legacy of serving missionaries and Christian workers from across the globe. You'll be part of a committed board where your contribution will make a real and visible difference.

We are particularly interested in individuals with expertise in one of the following:

• Finance (ideally with a relevant accounting qualification such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)
• Building Management and Property (particularly Victorian buildings and heritage properties)
• Hospitality and Guest House Management
• Christian Missionary Work and Global Missions

Your responsibilities will include ensuring compliance with charity law, shaping strategic direction, overseeing financial health, supporting the General Manager, and acting as an ambassador for The Highbury Centre. You'll champion our unique ministry of providing rest and renewal for those serving God's kingdom worldwide.

Above all, we're looking for committed Christians with passion for mission, and a heart for serving those who serve others. We warmly welcome first-time trustees, your fresh perspective and enthusiasm are just as valuable as prior board experience.

For more information, please contact Nick Thomas, Senior Consultant, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your application should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement (no more than two pages).

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status or other category protected by law.
*In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, it is an occupational requirement that the post holders are practising Christians aligned with The Highbury Centre's evangelical Protestant ethos and values. 

Closing date: Thursday 19th March 2026
Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by: Tuesday 25th March 2026
Interviews with The Highbury Centre: 9th and 10th April 2026

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). 

Trustee Opportunity – Finance

International China Concern UK (ICC UK)

About Us

International China Concern (ICC) is a Christian development organisation dedicated to changing lives for children with disabilities in China.

• Mission: To ensure every child with a disability in China is embraced by love, fueled by hope, and empowered with life-changing opportunities.

• Vision: All children with a disability living fulfilling lives in a welcoming society that accepts and respects them.

As China continues to evolve economically and socially, ICC is keeping pace to meet today’s needs and anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities. We envision a future serving tens of thousands of children with disabilities and their families, while overcoming prejudice in the communities in which they live.

The Role

We are seeking two Trustees with strong financial management experience to join our Board and serve on our Finance Sub-Committee.

Commitment:

• 4–5 trustee meetings per year (2 in person, 2–3 online)

• Additional Finance Sub-Committee meetings (online and/or in person)

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide financial oversight and governance to ensure ICC UK’s sustainability, compliance and financial stability. 

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the charity’s funds are invested properly.

• Contribute to strategic decision-making and risk management

• Support the Finance Sub-Committee in managing investments, reviewing budgets, reserves, financial reports, and policies

• Champion ICC’s mission and vision, acting as an ambassador for our work

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in financial management or accounting or auditing 

• Understanding of charity finance and trustee responsibilities

• Strong analytical skills and ability to communicate complex financial information clearly

• Commitment to ICC’s mission and values

• Committed Christian, able to provide a church reference

• We welcome a diverse board of trustees, including people from across the UK, ages, ethnic groups. 

Why Join Us?

By becoming a trustee, you will play a vital role in ensuring that children with disabilities in China not only survive but thrive. Your expertise will help ICC UK steward resources wisely, expand our impact, and build a more inclusive future. We offer a supported induction, training and mentoring as required. 

For more information about the role of a trustee, see this information from the Charity Commission: www(dot)gov(dot)uk/government/publications/the-essential-trustee-what-you-need-to-know-cc3

How to Apply

If you are passionate about using your financial expertise to make a difference, we would love to hear from you. 

Please submit your CV and a 1-page cover letter outlining why you are suitable for the role and detailing your faith journey

#Trustee #Trusteeship #Finance #Finance Trustee #Trustee Finance Sub-Committee #Trustees #Board Governance #Board

This is a befriending role to visit a 75-year-old die hard Watford FC fan in Borehamwood. He is looking for a man to join him at home for a cup of tea, to watch Final Score with him, and in time perhaps take him in his wheelchair to feed the ducks nearby or to Church on a Sunday.

His mobility and verbal communication are limited, so patience and a loud, clear voice are key. It may take some time to get to know one another, but soon enough you’ll find you can get an enthusiastic thumbs up for football talk and maybe even a cheeky grin if you make an impressive joke!

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This will start as a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you.  The person you visit might choose to take part in simple activities or watch you doing the activities.  Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

- Sitting and having a chat

- Checking in on their well- being

- A craft activity at home

- Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

- Friendly and approachable

- Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

- Reliable and patient

- Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

- Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit

- Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training

- Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed

- Meet new people

- Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap

Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:

1. It's fun

2. It's flexible

3. You'll learn and share skills

4. You'll be making a difference

5. You'll work with a great team

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Volunteering in the shop

Mary's Living & Giving for Save the Children is unique - a vibrant result of the generous gifts of local individuals and companies being turned around by the skills and passions of volunteer teams, to create a destination retail experience. We hold a prime position on the picturesque Church Street and from our little pink shop we raise lifesaving funds for Save The Children’s work both in the U.K. and abroad. As well as raising awareness on sustainable fashion and fashion climate activism, we’re a hub of excitement and passion!

Our Stoke Newington Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.

It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.

Why volunteer with Save the Children?

In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.

Skills and experiences we seek

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children. 

We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.

What happens next?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related). 

How to apply

Express your interest on email via the apply button. 

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests. 

Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London

Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)

Type: Voluntary

Start Date: Early 2026

Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives

The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.

About Us

From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.

Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.

UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.

UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.

We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.

About the Role

As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.

You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.

We’re looking for someone who can

• Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
• Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
• Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
• Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence

About You

We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

We’re interested in candidates with

• A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative, values-driven approach
• The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference

Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.

Time Commitment

• As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
• Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
• Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
• Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
• Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
• Representing the charity at local events

Why Now

By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.

The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.

If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.

Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.

Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.

Join the Savio House Retreat Team 2026-27, and work with young people at our Youth Retreat Centre at Bollington, Cheshire.

Why Savio House? Well, wouldn't you love to …

• • Live in a Christian community that works for young people
  • Wake up each day in a fantastic location in the Pennine hills
  • Develop skills in working with young people
  • Develop team working skills alongside qualified leaders
  • Develop valuable planning and leadership skills
  • Learn to create totally new resources
  • Get free training in first aid, food hygiene, fire prevention training, health and safety etc.
  • Explore accreditation paths towards a future career working with young people
  • Search out the answers to some of your deeper life questions
  • Join a world-wide Salesian network of youth workers
  • Receive a weekly allowance
  • Have all food, accommodation and laundry provided
  • Enjoy national conferences/events and meet up with other volunteers
  • Have regular mentoring and support through the whole year- September- July

Job description - Main duties and responsibilities:

• Live in Roman Catholic religious community

• Share faith with hundreds of young people on retreat

• Assist to lead and organise Salesian retreats

• Work as a team to enhance the retreat experience for those who attend

Skills, qualifications and experience needed for the job:

Mandatory:

• Must be 18 or over

• Be able to communicate in English

• Must be willing to provide police check and 2 character references

Desirable:

• Experience of working with young people

• Experience of working within a Salesian or parish setting, or be willing to participate with one of our provinces outside of the UK

Position Title: Treasurer Trustee

Location: Hope Nottingham CIO

Reports To: Board of Trustees

Term: 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 terms

Time Commitment: Bi-monthly evening Board Meetings in Beeston, Nottingham. Monthly review of financial reports, ongoing auditing through spot checks. Bi-monthly finance sub committee meetings, can be online or in person in day or evening to suit the right candidate.

Hope Nottingham began as a small drop-in café, with a dozen volunteers in 2010. It has now grown to encompass 2 community hubs, a network of foodbanks, with eleven staff and 350+ volunteers. We support communities across Nottingham, seeking to offer holistic and life changing support to thousands of people. We hold the East & West Nottingham Trussell franchise and partner with many churches and organisations such as Citizens Advice.

If you are looking to make a real difference in your community, this could be the opportunity for you! Now in our 15th year, Hope Nottingham seeks a new Treasurer.  With the other Trustees, you will be responsible for our overall governance, strategic direction, and our financial health and activities. Whether you are an experienced Trustee, or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we are particularly keen to recruit members of the local community with financial skills.  We have a strong Senior Leadership team, are in a good position financially and have recently invested in an external independent financial review, with the need for a Treasurer being the main recommendation. Could you be the right person to join our team?  We are a Christian charity but welcome those of all faiths or none, we just ask that you will uphold our Christian values. We are also always looking to increase the diversity of our board.

Overview of role

The Treasurer is a key member of the Board of Trustees. In addition to their general trustee duties, they are responsible for overseeing the financial governance and health of the charity. This includes ensuring (via auditing and review) that the charity's finances are well-managed, transparent, and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The Treasurer works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, and other members of the Board to ensure sound financial planning, risk management, and reporting. The Treasurer also leads the Finance Committee and reports to the trustees on all financial aspects of Hope.

Key Responsibilities (with specific tasks highlighted in italics)

1. Financial Oversight and Governance

• Ensure the charity has appropriate financial policies and procedures in place to safeguard its financial resources.Review the financial controls policy and manual at least annually
• Keep the Board informed of its financial duties and responsibilities
• Provide leadership in setting and maintaining high standards of financial governance and accountability.
• Ensure the charity operates within its budget and is managing resources efficiently, while safeguarding its long-term financial sustainability. Review of monthly financial reports with the CEO before the Finance Committee meeting.
• Act as a bank signatory and oversee banking procedures  Authorise payments as required, review bank reconciliations and approve mandate changes

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Oversee and approve the annual budgeting process, ensuring that financial planning supports the charity’s strategic goals. Review and input into annual draft budget with CEO and finance committee members
• Provide advice and guidance to the Board on financial matters, helping trustees to understand financial reports and implications of financial decisions. Input into finance sub-committee meeting and report back to Board
• Review and approve the budget and financial forecasts, ensuring they align with the charity’s priorities and objectives and financial position. Review performance against budget through the year via monthly financial reports

3. Financial Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of regular financial reports ensuring they are accurate, timely, and in line with the charity’s financial policy.  Review financial reports presented by CEO before discussing at the Finance Committee meeting and presenting a summary report to the trustees
• Present financial updates to the Board of Trustees, highlighting any concerns or issues that need attention.

4. Audit and Compliance

• Monitor cash flow, income, and expenditure, ensuring that the charity remains financially solvent and sustainable.
• Oversee Quick Books access  Treasurer has administrator level access and approves users and their access
• Oversee bank reconciliationsCEO completes reconciliation after end of month and informs Treasurer for their sign off
• Oversee the payroll process to ensure staff payments, PAYE and pension are processed and reported as required CEO will report by exception as payments generally do not change save for contract or pay change, minimal overtime. Treasurer has access to BrightPay and TPT Pension portal and can view any documents there.  
• Oversee the annual audit process, liaising with external auditors when required and ensuring the charity’s financial statements are audited in a timely and accurate manner.  A shared mailbox is used for all audit communications to keep Finance Committee in loop of any queries. Any meeting with auditor, Treasurer to attend.
• Review the audited financial statements for accuracy and recommend their approval to the Board at the Annual General Meeting. Draw attention to important points in an easily understandable way and sign off when audit is completed by the external auditors
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including charity law, tax law, and Charity SORP financial reporting standards, including charity accounts being kept up to date on Charities Commission website. Review and keep up to date with Charity SORP requirements

5. Risk Management

• Identify financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.Review Financial risks on risk register quarterly and as part of finance sub committee
• Ensure that the charity has appropriate insurance and other safeguards in place to protect its assets. Review insurance requirements with the CEO a month before renewal date to ensure we have adequate cover in place and to obtain alternative quotes if appropriate
• Advise the Board on the management of financial risks and any significant financial challenges facing the charity.
• Review any substantial or complex grant terms

6. Fundraising and Income Generation

• Input into and provide financial oversight of fundraising activities and income generation strategies, ensuring they align with the charity’s financial goals. Input into and review fundraising strategy and review effectiveness on quarterly basis
• Advise on the viability of fundraising campaigns and the allocation of resources to maximise financial returns. 
• Assist in ensuring that fundraising activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

7. Financial Strategy and Sustainability

• Contribute to the long-term financial strategy of the charity, helping to ensure its financial sustainability.
• Ensure the charity has an appropriate reserves policy Review reserves policy and reserves calculation annually
• Advise on diversification of income streams and opportunities to strengthen the charity’s financial position. Review income streams quarterly to highlight opportunities or risks e.g. individual / corporate / grants
• Help develop investment strategies and manage assets in line with the charity’s financial objectives, legal responsibilities and values. Review bank interest rates annually. CEO to notify on changes to interest rates or bank charges as received

8. Chair the Finance Sub-Committee

• Act as the Chair of the Finance Sub-Committee, leading agenda, discussions and decision-making on financial matters. A pre-meeting with the CEO and treasurer is required so fully informed in advance of committee meeting.
• Ensure that the Finance Sub-Committee operates effectively, reporting regularly to the full Board.