Communication officer volunteer roles in Leeds
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.
As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances.
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Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas
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Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.
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Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.
Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.
Role Summary
The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will:
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Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees.
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Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas
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Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.
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Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning
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Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance.
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Oversee the development and observation of financial policies
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Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy
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Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action.
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Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)
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Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.
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Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.
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Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.
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Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants
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Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero
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Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report
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Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.
The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation.
Essential
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Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
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Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas
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Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.
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Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information
Desirable
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A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations.
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An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer.
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Good communication and competent IT skills
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Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills.
About Refugee Biryani & Bananas
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide.
What We Do
RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including:
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France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris
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Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base)
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Northern Iraq: Duhok
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Serbia: Belgrade Barracks
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Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp
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Turkey: Istanbul
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Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border
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Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides)
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Palestine: Gaza
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Egypt: Cairo
Our Approach
RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.
Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.
Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts.
Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers.
We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care.
Advocacy & Awareness
RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action.
We are a safe space for all people and welcome those who are new to and currently underrepresented on Charity Boards, in particular members who consider themselves to have a disability and those in the global majority. Lived experience of migration or asylum or a commitment to this work is welcomed.
Interested applicants should send a CV with full contact details and a brief covering letter to address your motivation for the role, what specific skills and expertise you would bring and how you meet the competencies listed in the role description.
Female-led grassroots organisation delivering humanitarian aid and advocacy with displaced communities through a community-led approach.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a passionate and strategic Head of Communications to lead our communication efforts and enhance our visibility. The role involves working closely with the CEO and collaborating with other members of the operations team to develop and implement effective communication strategies that resonate with our stakeholders, support our growth and amplify our charity's impact. This individual will have a budget to conduct campaigns and work with our partners in communications to ultimately grow our donor base.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Description
The Press/Media Manager will work closely with the Communication Officer to lead on the Pagan Federation's media strategy. You will act as a primary point of contact for journalists, broadcasters, and media outlets working to promote positive coverage of Paganism and to respond appropriately to media interest, engaging in both proactive and reactive.
You will develop and oversee press strategies, prepare statements and press releases, brief spokespersons, and assist the organisation in sensitive communications where required. As this is a council-level role within the Pagan Federation you will be expected to provide regular reports to the Communications Officer and the Council of the Pagan Federation.
This is a voluntary role, and volunteers are expected to work remotely. We have volunteers working across England and Wales. Some travel may be necessary, reasonable expenses will be covered in line with our expenses policy.
Qualifications
- At least two years experience in the field of Communications, Journalism, Public Relations, or similar. (Essential)
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to ensure accuracy in media engagement. (Essential)
- Strong organizational and communication skills to effectively assist in strategic communications planning and discussions. (Essential)
- Commitment to supporting the mission, values, and inclusiveness of the Pagan Federation. (Essential)
- Prior experience in volunteer or nonprofit organisations. (Desirable)
- Membership of a professional organisation in Media, PR, or Communications (desirable)
General Requirements
- Must be aligned with the PF's mission, be willing to conform to our Code of Conduct, and unreservedly support the charitable objectives of the PF.
- Knowledge of the Pagan Community
Pagan Federation is a registered charity dedicated to supporting Pagans and promoting their rights and beliefs.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Description
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Direct Working Relationships: C-Level Executives, National Research, Policy, Ethics, Research Reporting, and Local Operations
Location: Remote, UK-based
Time Commitment: Part-time | Flexible hours | Long term commitment
About the Role
We are seeking a volunteer Chief Operating Officer (COO) to provide strategic and operational leadership across our national and local operations. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the COO will play a pivotal role in ensuring effective delivery of projects and research, maintaining ethical and operational standards, and driving continuous improvement across all organisational systems and processes.
This is a senior voluntary position ideal for an experienced operations or strategy leader who thrives in a collaborative environment and wants to make an impact in the not-for-profit or research sector.
Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.
Key Responsibilities
• Provide executive oversight of Policy, Ethics and Research Reporting, National Operations, and Local Operations (including projects and research).
• Oversee operational delivery to ensure smooth, ethical, and effective implementation of all projects.
• Lead the optimisation of systems, structures, and processes to maximise organisational efficiency.
• Ensure resource allocation is effective and aligned with strategic goals.
• Support and collaborate with C-Level colleagues to drive organisational progress.
• Attend high-level meetings and provide regular operational updates and recommendations.
• Act as a key decision-maker in operational strategy, compliance, and performance management.
• Support and coach department heads and senior managers to strengthen internal leadership capacity.
• Step in to provide hands-on support to other C-Level officers and direct reports when needed.
What We're Looking For
We’re looking for a confident, experienced, and adaptable leader who can bring structure, strategy, and calm to a dynamic environment. You’ll be most successful in this role if you have:
• Significant experience in operations management, project delivery, or organisational leadership.
• Proven ability to oversee multiple teams or departments in complex environments.
• Strong ethical grounding and commitment to compliance and transparency.
• Excellent organisational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• A hands-on, solutions-focused approach with the ability to balance strategy and execution.
• Experience mentoring or managing senior leaders or functional heads.
• Comfort working remotely with cross-functional, volunteer-led teams.
• A collaborative, supportive leadership style and openness to learning and adaptation.
• An understanding of the not-for-profit, research, or policy sectors (advantageous but not essential).
What You’ll Gain
• The opportunity to lead national operations for a values-led organisation making a tangible impact.
• Executive-level experience within a collaborative, mission-driven C-Suite.
• The chance to refine strategic and operational leadership skills in a complex, real-world setting.
• Recognition through:
o LinkedIn testimonial and reference
o A public thank you post
o Permission to list the organisation as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn
o A written reference upon completion of your commitment
Important Information
This is a voluntary position. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. This opportunity is ideal for seasoned operations leaders or executives seeking to contribute their expertise to a meaningful, values-driven mission and support the growth of an impactful organisation.
Apply Now
If you’re ready to help shape the strategic and operational backbone of a growing organisation and support our mission through effective leadership, we’d love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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 the charity run smoothly across the UK, acting “in the best interests of Make a Smile” and supporting chapters to thrive.
About The Role
Regional Officers oversee a group of Make A Smile chapters within a specific UK region. You will support chapter committees, monitor activity, encourage collaboration, and provide hands‑on help when needed. This role is essential in ensuring chapters stay active, compliant, and connected to the wider charity.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a leadership and support‑focused role across 5–8 chapters in your region. Responsibilities include:
- Overseeing chapters within your assigned region (South West, South East, Midlands, North West, or North East)
- Providing guidance, advice, and signposting to Presidents and committee members.
- Monitoring chapter activity by checking committee chats, emails, volunteer communities, and social media.
- Flagging concerns to the Chair if a chapter becomes inactive or is not adhering to policy.
- Attending chapter meetings where possible and building strong relationships with committees.
- Being the first point of contact when committees have questions about central activities.
- Collaborating with Trustees and other Officers when specialist support is needed.
- Providing hands‑on support to struggling chapters, such as posting on social media, chairing meetings, emailing volunteers, or chasing sign‑ups.
- Encouraging collaboration between chapters—joint socials, fundraisers, training sessions, or large events.
- Using the Presidents’ regional chat to coordinate cross‑chapter activities and build a sense of wider community.
- Celebrating chapter successes and sharing good practice across the region.
- Reporting insights, concerns, and achievements at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone organised, supportive, and confident in guiding others. You’ll thrive if you bring:
- Strong communication and relationship‑building skills.
- Confidence in supporting and advising multiple committees.
- A proactive, solution‑focused mindset (“Approach problems with the attitude of solution identification.”).
- The ability to monitor activity and spot early signs of disengagement.
- Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Show dedication… Enjoy it!”).
- A calm, friendly presence that encourages volunteers to reach out for help.
Experience in leadership or volunteer management is helpful but not essential.
Time Commitment
Regional Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including monitoring chapter activity, supporting committees, and attending 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, Supporting Chapter Managers, and fellow Trustees.
- Access to the Chapter Levelling document and annual plans to help assess chapter needs.
- Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.
What You’ll Gain
- Experience supporting multiple teams across a national charity.
- Skills in leadership, volunteer management, and organisational oversight.
- The chance to shape the success and sustainability of Make A Smile chapters.
- A meaningful role that directly strengthens the charity’s impact across the UK.
- The satisfaction of helping volunteers feel supported, confident, and connected.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Regional 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 your CV and a short message outlining your experience, interest in supporting chapters, and why you’d like to join Make A Smile as a Regional Officer.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping volunteers and chapters thrive.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Events Officer oversees chapter events, ensuring they run smoothly from start to finish. You’ll manage event requests, coordinate volunteers, support Lead Volunteers, and follow up on post-event tasks such as social media, hours tracking, and costume returns. Strong organisation, communication, and teamwork skills are essential to keep events engaging and well-staffed.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Widening Participation Officer tries to recruit, engage and support as many 16-18 year old volunteers as possible across all of our chapters, with particular focus on those that’d benefit the most from additional WP volunteers, often those
chapters doing the most events.
Due to the sizable scope of the role, the WP Subcommittee is there to help as needed. This is primarily through admin work. You should ensure that you have a suitable number of keen volunteers within the subcommittee that you can delegate tasks to, ensuring that they were well informed, supported and any tasks followed up. This is likely to involve plenty of messaging and occasional meetings.
A primary part of the role that you can delegate is to conceptualise and write the policy for managing 16-18 year old volunteers. This should have a focus on appropriate safeguarding and you can get input from the subcommittee and other Trustees/Officers but should include things like recruitment methods, required paperwork, risk assessments, management at events etc. These policies need to then be communicated effectively to committee and volunteers.
There are several ways that WP volunteers should be recruited. Schools/6th Forms should be proactively reached out to and a long-term connection formed, ideally through a named person such as a head of year, head of medicine applications or career progression advisor. They can then pass the information on to their students using a range of methods ranging from email to sending a video to, if the local chapter is keen or a member of the subcommittee is nearby, an in-person visit to an assembly or lunchtime/after-school training session.
Efforts should be made to build relationships with National bodies that provide volunteering or work experience to 16-18 year olds such as In2MedSchool and Medic Mentor, working closely with them to advertise our volunteering to their
students.
Once students are interested, they should be able to register as volunteers and attend an Introduction Training session. This can be a WP-specific session with particular focus on benefits and support for WP volunteers such as Duke of Edinburgh hours.
Once volunteers are involved, they should be supported through their time with us including email updates, check-ins, social media posts and training sessions around key times such as university applications.
Finally, of particular note, you should work with the Conference Officer to ensure that WP volunteers are supported in attending the Annual National Conference, in a safe way and have talks of interest to them.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference?
Join us as a Trustee and help shape the future of the British Dyslexia Association.
Our Trustees play a vital role in ensuring we stay true to our mission, deliver on our charitable objectives, and continue supporting everyone affected by dyslexia. As part of the Board, you’ll guide our strategy, support and challenge our Senior Management Team, and help the organisation grow and thrive.
This is an exciting opportunity to bring your skills, insight and energy to a cause that matters.
What you’ll do
As a Trustee, you will:
- Act in the best interests of the charity and uphold the highest standards of governance.
- Help set and oversee strategy, policy, financial plans and key risks.
- Support, advise and constructively challenge the CEO and Senior Management Team.
- Ensure our work aligns with our purpose, vision and values.
- Contribute your expertise, ideas and networks to strengthen our impact.
- Prepare for and attend Board and committee meetings, and take part in key governance activities.
What we’re looking for
We welcome applications from individuals with enthusiasm, integrity and a commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
We are especially interested in people with experience in:
- Fundraising / business development / income generation
- Communications and marketing
- Policy and public affairs
You’ll also bring:
- Strong strategic thinking and independent judgement
- Effective communication and collaboration skills
- A genuine passion for the BDA’s mission
- A willingness to lead in line with our values
What you’ll gain
Becoming a BDA Trustee offers you the chance to:
- Make a real difference to the lives of people with dyslexia
- Develop your leadership and governance experience
- Connect with like‑minded professionals
- Experience genuine personal fulfilment by supporting a meaningful cause
This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
Time commitment
Around 8–12 days per year, including:
- Quarterly Board meetings (mix of in‑person and online)
- Committee meetings
- Occasional away days, events and training
- Providing expert input on an as‑needed basis
We understand the need for flexibility and welcome applications from people with a range of commitments.
For more details, view the full role description.
To change society by removing barriers so that everyone with dyslexia can reach their full potential in education, in employment and in life.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Training Officer ensures volunteers receive engaging, high-quality training to prepare them for events. You’ll organise sessions, secure tutors and spaces, encourage attendance, and gather feedback to improve future training. This role is vital for volunteer development and maintaining Make a Smile’s professional standards.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
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 running smoothly across the UK, acting “in the best interests of Make a Smile” and ensuring volunteers are well‑trained, supported, and empowered.
About the Role
The Sign Language Officer leads Make A Smile’s British Sign Language (BSL) and Makaton training programme, ensuring volunteers gain the communication skills needed to create magical, inclusive interactions at events. You will oversee teachers, develop engaging lesson plans, and ensure volunteers progress through training effectively.
Key Responsibilities
You will play a central role in developing and delivering high‑quality sign language training. Responsibilities include:
● Overseeing BSL and Makaton teachers and supporting them in running weekly sessions.
● Recruiting suitable teachers or supporting new teachers to develop their skills to the required level.
● Ensuring the charity can offer training at multiple levels (Beginners, Improvers, Novice, Intermediate) for both BSL and Makaton.
● Reviewing and approving lesson plans, ensuring content focuses on vocabulary and phrases useful for Make A Smile events.
● Managing volunteer applications for training, selecting participants based on commitment and likelihood of attending events.
● Supporting weekly sessions by ensuring attendance is taken, volunteers are engaged, and teachers have the resources they need.
● Stepping in to run a session or arranging cover if a teacher is unavailable.
● Monitoring volunteer engagement and removing volunteers from the programme if attendance or participation is consistently poor.
● Ensuring asynchronous training materials on the dashboard remain relevant and accessible.
● Reporting on training progress, volunteer engagement, and teacher needs at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.
Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For
This role suits someone organised, supportive, and passionate about inclusive communication. You’ll thrive if you bring:
● Strong organisational and coordination skills.
● Confidence in supporting and guiding teachers.
● Creativity in helping shape engaging, event‑focused lesson plans.
● A proactive, solution‑focused mindset.
● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Show dedication… Enjoy it!”).
● An interest in BSL or Makaton (you do not need to be fluent - teachers deliver the content).
Time Commitment
Sign Language Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week, including supporting teachers, reviewing lesson plans, managing training groups, and attending 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 existing lesson plans, training materials, and templates.
● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity‑funded training.
What You’ll Gain
● Experience managing a training programme within a national charity.
● Skills in coordination, leadership, and inclusive communication.
● The chance to shape how volunteers interact with children who use BSL or Makaton.
● A meaningful role that directly enhances the accessibility and impact of Make A Smile events.
● The joy of helping volunteers develop skills that create magical, inclusive moments for children.
Safeguarding and Eligibility
Sign Language 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 a CV along with a short message outlining your experience, interest in sign language, and why you’d like to support Make A Smile’s training programme.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Wellbeing Officer represents the voice of volunteers and helps ensure a positive, inclusive, and supportive chapter culture. You’ll provide a safe and approachable point of contact for volunteers, gather feedback, and raise concerns or suggestions with the committee where appropriate. The role involves developing a chapter wellbeing plan, promoting widening access, and creating a welcoming environment where volunteers feel heard and supported. You’ll also assist the President and Vice President with wider committee responsibilities.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are searching for a enthusiastic volunteer to become the Newcastle chapter's Social Media Officer. The primary role is to ensure the smooth every day running of the social media accounts. This involves responding to messages (even if it’s just sign posting) and replying to comments. They should try to ensure growth of the social media account including Facebook and Instagram with the potential of Twitter. They should make use of the Facebook groups to create an engaging atmosphere for members and chase lead volunteers to ensure they post on the page and group promptly following events. After each event they should make posts following up on it. Finally, they will liaise with photographers and assist with designing and running the website.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Recruitment Officer is responsible for attracting, onboarding, and supporting new volunteers into the charity. The role focuses on maintaining a steady flow of volunteers by proactively identifying recruitment opportunities, organising and delivering Introduction Training sessions, and promoting the charity through events such as Freshers’ Fairs, Open Days, and external outreach.
* To bring children's dreams to life * To provide a professional service * To bring fun to both children and volunteers



Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Exciting opportunity to help shape the future of the UK’s leading Badger charity
Become a Trustee on our active board!
Badger Trust celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2026. We are the leading voice for badgers in England and Wales, dedicated to promoting and enhancing the welfare, conservation, and protection of badgers, their setts, and their habitats.
We have a network of over 50 local voluntary badger groups, growing all the time, supported by thousands of dedicated supporters and followers.
We are now seeking new Trustees to join our Board. These will support the current Trustees and Chief Executive in delivering the charity's objectives, ensuring we have the right mix of skills, experience, and people to achieve even more for badgers in the coming years.
For these vacancies, Badger Trust is particularly interested in people with experience in charity fundraising, law, and development planning to help us achieve our goals in these areas, building on our research, citizen science, and campaigning work.
Your skills
Trustees with a focus on fundraising will have a strategic approach to opportunities, and might offer support through one or more of the following methods:
- Identifying and reaching out to major donors and corporate partners
- Assisting in writing bids for grants and trust applications
- Offering guidance in planning and executing fundraising strategies and campaigns.
We encourage members of badger groups to apply to ensure the group network is effectively represented.
We are seeking applicants whose professional knowledge will bring value to our Board.
You should be a strong strategic thinker, capable of working collaboratively, and willing to engage with the broader role of Trustee. Badger Trust values diversity and aims to broaden our Board in terms of skills, background, and life experience.
We encourage all applications, especially from individuals of racially diverse backgrounds and those with disabilities, as these groups are currently under-represented on our Board.
We also encourage applicants from a wide range of socio-economic backgrounds across the UK.
Time Commitment
The Board typically holds four to six meetings each year on Saturdays. Most of these meetings are conducted online, with two in-person meetings scheduled annually. However, there may be occasions when virtual meetings are necessary outside of the regular schedule.
We also conduct an Annual General Meeting (AGM) or Symposium, which Trustees are expected to attend and support. The head office is located in Brighton, but in-person meetings are
generally held in central England. The 2026 Badger Trust Symposium is being held at the University of Northampton.
In addition to routine Board activities, past and present Trustees have contributed to various initiatives and assisted with staff-led projects based on their skills, expertise, and interests. Examples of this work include assisting the creation of our planning and development guide, updating the guide to badger rescue and rehabilitation, engaging with Government and Parliament on the Planning & Infrastructure Bill, scrutinising Government policy and commissioning information searches, taking legal action, and assisting in the recruitment and interviewing of specialised staff.
Our Mission
Our mission is to promote and enhance the welfare, conservation, and protection of badgers, their setts, and their habitats.
Our Vision
Our vision is a world where badgers are respected as part of our rich wildlife heritage and are safe from persecution.
Chair, Rosie Wood, joined the board in 2021:
“Being on the Board of Badger Trust brings with it plenty of opportunities to learn and collaborate with people of like mind, which I hope you would expect. But it also offers opportunities to open conversations with different decision-makers who can drive change. It gives me scope to remake our arguments in fresh and compelling ways, informed – in my case –by sharing the background of those I need to engage with.
While we need people committed to protecting and conserving badgers, we also need them to understand those who can best help – funders, policymakers, lawmakers, and communicators. Don’t expect it to be a passive role – badgers need active friends and advocates. But it will rapidly build your skills, professional networks, and CV, and we will do our best to match your interests and availability to the Charity’s needs.
Content publishing template for Badger Trust ©Cox and Co Creative 2023 updated 24.04.2023
Badger Trust Vice-Chair, Phil Loveday, who joined the Board in 2023, encourages you to get in touch:
“I joined the Badger Trust board as I just love badgers and am a member of my local badger group. I also bring extensive organisational, educational and people skills gained during my career in teaching, including as a head teacher at large secondary schools in the Midlands.
I feel passionately that we need the next generation to have the chance to enjoy nature, and to do that, we need to protect it now — that’s what Badger Trust is all about. We need more experienced people willing to help guide the charity in the years ahead.”
Further information
Find out more about our work on our website, where you can also see details of our current Board. You can connect with us on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube.
We are a registered charity and limited company, registered with the Information Commissioner’s Office for data protection compliance and with the Fundraising Regulator for fundraising compliance. We are also members of the Small Charities Coalition and NCVO for best practice, guidance, and support as part of our aim to be an effective and efficient charity.
We encourage applicants to ensure they are familiar with the legal responsibilities of a charity Trustee, and more information can be found on the Charity Commission’s website. See Badger Trust’s registration with the Charity Commission.
Trustee roles are voluntary and unpaid. Expenses for Board business will be reimbursed in line with our expenses policy. The final appointment to the Board depends on the election of the recommended Trustees at the AGM of Badger Trust by member groups.
How to apply
Please complete the Trustee application form (provided as a Word document) and send it back as a pdf, with a copy of your CV.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.