Community support volunteer roles

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. Candidates must be over 18 to apply.

Volunteering in the shop

Our Bath 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. Candidates must be over 18 to apply.

At St John Ambulance we are looking to embed ourselves within our communities, delivering support which is tailored to the needs of those communities whilst providing a positive experience for our Volunteers.

We need leaders who are passionate about making a difference in their communities, who care about helping and developing others, who will lead and inspire a volunteer movement across a geographical area to deliver Community First Aid, Community Education and Community Fundraising as well as develop our offering for young people. Through leading a team of Volunteer leaders, you will drive excellence in delivery, develop an inclusive and diverse volunteering experience for new and current volunteers, and help navigate through change to build a bigger and better St John Ambulance.

As a member of our network leadership team, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride through supporting a team and our volunteers to deliver our essential services. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Volunteers would be expected to attend training for the role both online and in person, to attend regularly network weekly meetings to enable them to keep their skills up to date.

If you are successful you will need to undertake relevant training for the role, details of which will be discussed after you have been appointed.

• Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/08/2026
• Interviews will take place Date, Times and Location to be advised
• Inductions and training or this role will take place between Date, Times and Location to be advised

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Do you want to make a real impact on the lives of vulnerable individuals in your community?

We are looking for Client Support Volunteers to assist in the Garden alongside our horticulturists in the supervision of our adult clients and teenagers with a variety of disabilities.

Our volunteers work in the garden with clients, helping them with various tasks such as planting, harvesting, pruning and mowing to name a few, under the guidance of our team of horticulturists. 

As well as general gardening work you will be assisting our clients, both children and adults with the opportunity to achieve a qualification in horticulture.

Other tasks our volunteers help with include general garden maintenance, DIY tasks or craft/cookery activities.

No gardening experience is required, just the ability to get along with others and muck in! This can be a great stepping stone to further education or work opportunities.

At present, we are looking for Volunteers who can offer a regular weekly commitment.

Join our friendly team, working alongside our horticulturists supporting adults and teenagers with a range of challenges or disabilities.

Description

Sooty, the nation’s much-loved bear and a true national treasure, has featured on RNIB’s collection boxes for over 50 years. Thanks to generous public support, these iconic boxes have raised more than £13 million in donations.

We’re looking for friendly, reliable volunteers to join our network of Sooty Box collectors. In this flexible role, you’ll help place new boxes and collect and bank donations from Sooty Boxes in local shops, cafés and other businesses in your area. Whether you volunteer on your own, with a friend or as part of a group, you’ll be making a real difference in your community.

You can give as much or as little time as you like and fit the role around your other commitments.

Please note: Volunteers are expected to use their own transport and ideally should have access to a car. Mileage or public transport costs will be reimbursed.

How often will I be needed?

• 1 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• Requires 2 references

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

1. It's flexible
2. You'll learn and share skills
3. You'll be making a difference
4. 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. Candidates must be over 18 to apply. 

Volunteering in the shop

Our Broughty Ferry 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. Candidates must be over 18.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

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

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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

Join our team of befrienders! You will support us to reach some of the most isolated adults in your community to reduce their feelings of loneliness, build friendships and provide support for mental wellbeing. You will support people to relight a spark to continue a hobby, interest or encourage them to explore and participate in new social activities.

You will support individuals to rebuild their lives beyond crisis.

Loneliness and isolation can affect anyone in life, whatever their age or family situation. Official data from the Office for National Statistics shows that rates of depression doubled during the COVID pandemic, and one of the major causes of depression is isolation.

What you will be doing

• Agree a mutual time and frequency to meet in the local community
• To develop and promote a positive relationship with your befriendee
• To encourage your befriendee to engage in social activities and support them in doing so whilst building their confidence
• To support your befriendee in developing their goals and social skills
• Encourage your befriendee to make links with community services, based on their identified goals

The skills you need

• Good listening and communication skills
• Ability to provide a supportive and inclusive atmosphere which motivates and inspires others
• Willingness to engage in activities in the community
• Able to maintain strict confidentiality and follow professional boundaries

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

Volunteer Partnerships & Growth Manager (Remote) 

Organisation: Influential Stars 

Location: Remote (UK based). London or Herts preferred (not essential)

Commitment: Min of 10 - 15 hours per week (Flexible)

Contract Type: Volunteer 

About Us 

Influential Stars is a purpose driven platform connecting creators, supporters, and causes through exclusive experiences and campaigns that raise funds for UK charitable organisations. We are a growing team committed to delivering meaningful impact through professionally managed experiences. 

Our Story 

Influential Stars was founded by Lisa Connell, who is living with an inoperable brain tumour and has spent many years raising awareness and support for UK causes. The platform was created from a deeply personal belief that influence, connection, and community can be powerful forces for good when brought together in the right way. 

Volunteers play a vital role in helping turn that vision into real world impact, enabling experiences that raise funds, create joy for winners, and support charitable organisations across the UK. 

The Role 

We are seeking a proactive, confident, and relationship driven Volunteer Partnerships & Growth Manager to identify, approach, and onboard affiliate partners, collaborators, agents, and other supporters who can help expand the reach of the platform. 

This role focuses on building a strong network of individuals and organisations who can introduce creators, promote campaigns, or otherwise support the growth of Influential Stars.

Key Responsibilities 

⭑ Identify and approach potential affiliate partners, collaborators, agents, and networks 

⭑ Introduce individuals and organisations to the platform and explain how they can get involved 

⭑ Support onboarding of new collaborators and affiliates ⭑ Build and maintain positive relationships with partners and introducers 

⭑ Encourage ongoing engagement and participation 

⭑ Maintain regular communication to nurture long term partnerships ⭑ Coordinate with internal team members to ensure smooth onboarding 

⭑ Provide clear information about roles, expectations, and opportunities 

⭑ Maintain accurate records of outreach and partnerships using our CRM management system 

⭑ Represent the organisation professionally in all communications 

Skills and Experience Required 

Essential: 

⭑ Experience in outreach, partnerships, business development, or relationship building 

⭑ Excellent customer service skills 

⭑ Outstanding written and verbal communication skills ⭑ Confidence communicating by phone, email, and online platforms ⭑ Strong networking ability and proactive approach 

⭑ Strong IT skills, including confident use of computer databases and standard office software (e.g. Word, Excel) 

⭑ Experience using a CRM or similar database system ⭑ Highly organised with strong attention to detail 

⭑ Ability to work independently and manage multiple contacts ⭑ Professional, reliable, and personable manner

Desirable: 

⭑ Familiarity with HubSpot CRM (preferred but not essential as training will be provided) 

⭑ Experience in affiliate programmes, partnerships, or community building 

⭑ Experience working remotely within a team 

⭑ Interest in charitable or social impact work 

⭑ Based in London or Hertfordshire for occasional in person meetings (not essential) 

Working Arrangement 

⭑ Fully remote position 

⭑ Min 10 - 15 hours per week (Flexible working hours depending on organisational needs)

⭑ No travel required. However, if you choose to meet with partners in person, reasonable travel costs will be covered where possible

⭑ Occasional (optional) in person team meetings 

Why Volunteer With Us 

⭑ Play a key role in expanding a platform designed to create meaningful impact 

⭑ Help build networks that support fundraising for UK causes ⭑ Gain valuable experience in partnerships, outreach, and growth strategy 

⭑ Join a mission driven organisation at an exciting stage of development 

⭑ Flexible volunteering that can fit around other commitments ⭑ Opportunity to build a wide professional network across multiple sectors 

Although this is currently a volunteer position, Influential Stars is actively working to grow the platform with the long term aim of creating paid roles. While we are unable to provide a timeframe and future opportunities will depend on the organisation’s growth and incoming work, this role offers the chance to be part of that journey from an early stage.

We are looking for volunteers who can offer time, conversation and companionship to older clients in and around Central London.

You can support someone by:

· Spending time with them in person

· Speaking with them regularly by phone

Your time and kindness can help older people feel more connected, happier and less alone.

What You’ll Do

You could be visiting someone at home or accompanying them in their community, chatting in coffee shops or talking while you walk. What you do will depend on what the client would like. Our clients are older Scots aged 60 plus who simply want to enjoy activities many of us take for granted.

As one of our volunteers once said, “this is an easy, very meaningful way to help someone and is immensely rewarding and fun!”  

Current Locations

Our current waiting list has clients in Stockwell, Hackney, Putney and Stepney Green. Locations will change as more referrals are made. If you want to make a difference to an older person’s wellbeing, please contact us — we may have a client in your area.

Time Commitment

Meetings are weekly or fortnightly for at least six months, although most volunteers stay involved for longer because they enjoy what they do. Phone calls are weekly and can be made from any quiet space at home or at work.

Who This Role Is For

This could be an ideal opportunity to gain practical experience of working with adults in a health and social care setting. It may also suit anyone who enjoys meeting new people and making their lives a little brighter.

Skills and Qualities Required

· Good communication and listening skills, including spoken English

· Friendly, warm and non-judgemental

· Honest, reliable and committed

· Empathetic

· Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries, which will be covered in training

Checks and References

An enhanced DBS check will be processed for successful applicants and two references are required.

Training and Support

We provide training before you start, ongoing support once you are matched, out-of-pocket expenses, references, social events and newsletters. The training will start in September. 

Please contact us for more information, and a very warm welcome.

Please note, we are unable to respond from 14th to end of August 26. 

About International Lawyers Project

ILP is an alliance of talented and passionate lawyers drawn from diverse countries and cultures across the globe. We pull together teams of pro bono experts to support the policy and legal needs of individuals, communities and organisations that would otherwise not have access to expert advice.

A UK registered charity founded in 2005, we are staffed by a group of lawyers dedicated to using the law to achieve economic and environmental justice through strategic pro bono legal support. Our focus areas are environment and sustainable development, sustainable finance, governance and accountability (with a focus on anti-corruption measures), and protecting the civic space of those working on these themes. Over twenty years we have supported partners in more than 100 countries.

We are proud to have a diverse staff team from Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe, reflective of the communities we support. Our staff have extensive experience in our focus areas, as well as international law and development. We work primarily in the Global South, with active projects across sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, Asia and Europe.

As a charity, our ultimate aim is to help our partners create long-lasting change, in line with our vision of a just and sustainable world in which law serves as a tool for those who need it the most.

You may find out more about ILP’s work at its website.

About the Role

ILP has a 13-member Board, with members based in the UK, Spain, Kenya and the USA. Successful candidates will be joining a collegial team with a wide range of expertise in the thematic areas of ILP’s work and experience in charity governance.

ILP is a growing and ambitious organisation, with its budget more than doubling in size over the course of the last few years. Currently with a budget of approximately £500,000 and an additional £6 million value mobilised in pro bono hours, we are looking for a trustee and ultimately a Chair who is able to support the team as the organisation continues to grow and move to the next level.

Successful candidates will be appointed initially as an ordinary Trustee. The term of the current Chair comes to an end in mid-2027. Shortly before then the Board will decide on the appointment of a new Chair, with the expectation that the successful candidate will be elected from the Board in accordance with the Articles of Association.

The key responsibilities of Board members are to ensure that the organisation has a clear strategy for the fulfilment of its charitable purposes, and to provide oversight of and support to the executive team, in accordance with the Articles of Association and the guidance on governance obligations established by the Charity Commission.

 In addition to these general obligations the Board Chair’s key responsibilities are to:

• Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees in oversight of the strategic direction and execution of the governance responsibilities of the Charity.

• Chair and facilitate meetings of the Board (hybrid meetings held from ILP’s London office), ensuring that they are conducted in an effective and inclusive manner and monitoring the implementation of decisions taken at such meetings.

• Support ILP’s Executive Director in leading the day-to-day management of the Charity and preparing for Board meetings.

• Take lead responsibility on behalf of the Board for the relationship with ILP’s Executive Director, appraising their performance and holding him or her to account.

• Give direction to Board policy making.

• Act as an ambassador for the Charity, representing its strategy and contribution to its partners and funders.

• Plan for the recruitment and development of Board members as needed in order to improve the performance of the Board.

Term of Office: Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term, serving a maximum of 3 consecutive terms.

Expected Time Commitment: Variable, but up to two days a month as Board Chair. Ordinary trustees attend four two-hour Board meetings annually, for which moderate background reading is required, and may be requested to assist with other contributions.

Compensation: This is a volunteer role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Specification for Board Chair

• Experience serving on the Board of one or more other registered UK charities.

• Understanding of the Charity Commission’s governance requirements, and the balance of roles between governance and management.

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity.

• Professional background related to ILP’s thematic areas of focus and familiarity with the non-profit sector working in an international context.

• Commitment to ILP’s strategic objectives.

• Good communication and people management skills and strong independent judgement.

Voluntary Action Camden (VAC) is seeking a dedicated Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. This is a pivotal role, ensuring our charity remains financially secure while continuing to move in the right strategic direction. VAC is the Local Infrastructure Organisation for Camden, representing over 1,200 charities, community groups, social enterprises and faith-based entities.

As Treasurer, you will work closely with staff and fellow Trustees to oversee VAC’s financial health, support robust governance, and help shape the future of our support for the Camden community. 

VAC strengthens and connects Camden’s voluntary and community organisations. Supporting over 345 member groups, we represent a diverse range of communities and interests. Our mission is to empower Camden’s residents, helping them become resilient and influential in the decisions that affect their lives. 

Our vision is a borough where people feel a strong sense of belonging, where communities collaborate, shape services, and take action to meet local needs. 

VAC is committed to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from all backgrounds to ensure our Board reflects the vibrant community of Camden. We look forward to hearing from you.  

Chair of the Board of Trustees

The Ripple Pond Charity - Supporting Armed Forces and Veteran Families

A Voluntary Trustee Position
With reasonable expenses reimbursed

Please note that although the closing date for applications is 11 September 2026, we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply early, as the recruitment process may close once a suitable appointment is made.

 Help Shape the Future of Support for Military Families

The Ripple Pond is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees.

This is an opportunity to lead a unique and growing charity that supports the families and carers of Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have sustained a service-related physical or psychological injury. Through peer support, advocacy, collaboration and innovation, we help military families feel seen, heard and supported throughout their journey.

We are looking for a values-driven leader with strategic vision, strong governance experience and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of military families and the wider Armed Forces community.

About the Role

As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that The Ripple Pond remains focused on its charitable purpose, strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and fellow Trustees, you will help guide the charity through its next phase of development, strengthening our impact, partnerships and influence across the military, veterans, health and social care sectors.

You will function as an ambassador for the charity, helping to build relationships, influence decision-makers and create opportunities that support lasting positive change for those we support.

Who Are We Looking For?

The Chair of The Ripple Pond leads a small but complex charity that provides support to more than 1,200 Armed Forces and veteran family members across the UK. Around 20% of new Members joining our services live in environments that place them at high risk.

These challenges often arise from complex and overlapping circumstances, including addiction, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns, risk of homelessness and wider welfare needs.

This places significant responsibility on the Chair to provide strong board leadership, support and develop trustees, maintain effective governance and strategic oversight, and work in close partnership with the CEO to ensure the charity remains focused on delivering meaningful impact for military families. The Chair also acts as one of the charity's principal ambassadors and public representatives.

We are seeking an individual with a broad range of experience and perspectives, ideally gained across multiple sectors. This might include commercial business, the public sector, healthcare, social care, the arts, the Armed Forces, emergency services or the voluntary sector.

You will have experience in developing and delivering regional or national strategies that have achieved sustainable and measurable positive outcomes, preferably through collaboration and partnership with a range of stakeholders.

You will have operated at executive or equivalent senior leadership level and be comfortable working across organisational boundaries, where success is achieved through influence, relationships and shared purpose rather than formal authority alone.

You will possess a strong understanding of risk, including strategic, organisational, and people-related risks, and be able to explain complex issues in a way that is clear, practical, and accessible to others.

Most importantly, you will demonstrate humility, integrity and compassion. You will care deeply about people, value the contribution of others and be motivated by a desire to serve the Armed Forces community and improve the lives of military families.

Role Profile

We are seeking an experienced senior leader who can provide effective governance, constructive challenge and confident stewardship to help guide The Ripple Pond through its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will bring:

Experience and Capability

Organisational Leadership and Change

• Significant executive, board-level or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Experience of leading organisations through growth, transformation or periods of significant change.
• A proven ability to develop and deliver complex strategies, align stakeholders behind a shared purpose and achieve sustainable outcomes.
• The ability to balance organisational ambition, opportunity, risk and long-term sustainability.

 Governance, Finance and Risk

• A strong understanding of governance, accountability and effective board leadership gained through charity trusteeship, corporate governance, public service or other relevant senior leadership experience.
• Experience of supporting effective decision-making, constructive challenge and organisational assurance.
• Financial confidence and literacy, including the ability to understand budgets, financial performance, investment decisions and long-term sustainability.
• An understanding of risk management and the importance of robust oversight.

Influence, Partnerships and Representation

• Experience of building effective partnerships and relationships across sectors.
• The ability to represent an organisation with credibility, authenticity and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage and influence a wide range of audiences.

Leadership Style and Values

We are particularly interested in individuals who demonstrate:

Integrity and Accountability
A commitment to ethical leadership, transparency and maintaining the highest standards of governance.

Collaborative Leadership
The ability to build trust, bring people together and create an environment where trustees, Members, workforce, partners and other stakeholders feel valued and able to contribute. You will listen, encourage open discussion and help create a shared sense of purpose both within The Ripple Pond and across the wider community.

Compassion and Respect
An understanding of the experiences of military families and carers, with genuine respect for different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences.

Courage and Constructive Challenge
You will be confident asking the difficult questions, challenging thinking and encouraging open and honest conversations. You will build trusted internal and strategic relationships, using your influence to ensure the experiences of military families and carers are understood and reflected in wider conversations and decision-making. This will help ensure that The Ripple Pond continues to play its part in shaping a stronger support landscape for military and veteran families.

Self-Awareness and Learning Mindset
A willingness to listen, reflect and continue developing, recognising that effective leadership requires curiosity, humility and openness to new ideas.

Commitment to Our Purpose
A genuine desire to improve the lives of military families, carers and veterans affected by service-related injury. You will understand the importance of lived experience in shaping services, strategy and practice, ensuring that those we support remain central to organisational decision-making.

Experience within the Armed Forces, veterans, healthcare, social care, public service or charity sectors would be beneficial but is not essential.

Safeguarding and Creating a Safe Culture

The Ripple Pond is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all Members, volunteers, staff, trustees and partners. Safeguarding is fundamental to our work, and trustees share responsibility for ensuring that people feel respected, listened to and able to raise concerns.

The Chair will champion a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring the Board maintains appropriate oversight of safeguarding practice, risk management, policies and organisational culture.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Ripple Pond believes that diversity of experience and perspective strengthens our organisation and improves the support we provide. We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, including those with relevant lived experience.

The Chair will help ensure equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout governance, decision-making, culture and service development, creating an organisation where everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute.

Time Commitment

The role of Chair is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of Armed Forces and veteran families. While voluntary, it carries significant responsibility and requires a consistent commitment throughout the year.

Key responsibilities include:

• Chairing at least four formal Board meetings annually.
• Participating in occasional committee, strategic planning and development meetings.
• Maintaining regular engagement with the Chief Executive, providing guidance, support and constructive challenge.
• Supporting trustee recruitment, development and succession planning.
• Attending selected events, conferences and stakeholder engagements.
• Acting as an ambassador for The Ripple Pond with partners, funders, supporters and the wider community.
• Providing occasional availability for matters requiring Chair input between scheduled meetings.

Many meetings are held virtually to maximise accessibility and efficiency, although some travel will be required for Board meetings, key events and stakeholder engagement.

Professional Practice

As a national charity supporting over 1,200 military family members across the UK, the Chair will maintain an informed understanding of The Ripple Pond’s work, operating environment, opportunities and risks to provide effective Board leadership and appropriate support and challenge to the Chief Executive.

Applicants should be able to commit sufficient time in line with Charity Commission guidance and recognised principles of good governance. The time requirement will vary throughout the year, with additional involvement likely during periods of strategic development, organisational change or significant emerging issues.

Above all, the Chair will view this not simply as a governance appointment, but as an opportunity to help shape and strengthen an organisation making a lasting difference to military families across the United Kingdom.

Digital Confidence and Ways of Working

The Ripple Pond is a digitally enabled charity, with services, meetings and engagement activity delivered predominantly through online platforms. The Chair should therefore be comfortable working in a digital environment and using technology to support effective governance and communication.

This includes participating in virtual Board meetings, reviewing digital reports and documents, communicating with the Chief Executive and engaging with stakeholders online. Confidence using video conferencing, shared document systems and online collaboration tools is essential to ensure effective participation, timely decision-making and organisational agility.

Term of Appointment

The appointment is for an initial term of three years.

Trustees may be reappointed for further three-year terms up to a maximum of nine years, subject to the charity's governing document and Board approval.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to lead the Board of a growing charity with a clear purpose and a strong commitment to military families across the United Kingdom.

The Ripple Pond exists because the experiences and challenges faced by families caring for injured serving personnel and veterans are often unseen and not fully recognised. As Chair, you will help shape our next chapter, working with an experienced team and community of Members to strengthen our impact, ensure the voices of military families and carers are heard, and help influence wider understanding, services and support.

Bravecore Counselling CIC is a values-driven counselling service offering inclusive, trauma-informed support for individuals navigating life's challenges. We are a small, heart-centred organisation committed to promoting emotional wellbeing and mental health awareness.

We are currently seeking a passionate and proactive Volunteer Director of Fundraising to help secure essential funding through grant writing and creative fundraising strategies. This role is key to helping us sustain and expand our therapeutic services.

Responsibilities

• Research and identify suitable grant opportunities, trust funds, and community funding streams.

• Write compelling, values-aligned funding proposals and grant applications.

• Develop and implement a fundraising strategy aligned with Brave Core’s mission and goals.

• Build relationships with potential funders, sponsors, and supporters.

• Explore and implement other fundraising avenues (e.g. crowdfunding campaigns, donor outreach).

• Keep accurate records of applications submitted and track outcomes.

• Stay informed about developments in the mental health charity funding landscape.

Requirements

• Experience in fundraising, bid writing, or grant applications is highly desirable, but not essential—we welcome motivated learners.

• Strong writing and research skills with attention to clarity, tone, and impact.

• Organised, self-motivated, and able to manage deadlines effectively.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative, mission-driven team.

• Alignment with Brave Core’s values of compassion, inclusivity, and integrity.

• A genuine interest in mental health, counselling, or community-based support work.

Benefits

• Gain valuable experience in nonprofit fundraising and strategy.

• Be part of a supportive and purpose-led organisation.

• Contribute to making mental health support more accessible and sustainable.

• Receive mentorship and a reference for your contribution.

• Work remotely and flexibly.

Summary

Could you combine nursing skills, compassion and faith to offer care in body, mind and spirit?
Could you support people experiencing homelessness?

Detailed description

You could be part of our exciting pilot project as a volunteer Parish Nurse offering life-transforming whole-person healthcare, working alongside Chaplains, Complex Needs and Housing Support Workers.

 As a YMCA Parish Nurse you would:

• Help service users identify issues and self-manage their wellbeing so they flourish in body, mind and spirit. This might be 1:2:1 or in a group setting.
• Signpost, support, and provide information and reassurance enabling service users to access NHS and other professional or community support as well as internal support from YMCA colleagues and projects.
• Offer spiritual care from a Christian perspective, such as prayer or acts of worship
• Be instrumental in supporting the project develop in this pilot phase

Training for this role is provided by PNMUK as part of their on-going programme of support and personal development for Parish Nursing nationally. The next course is 15-17th November with follow-up online sessions.

This project is being developed and lead by One YMCA’s Chaplaincy Team, together with our Medium Complex Intensive Support Service (MCISS) and supported by Parish Nursing Ministries UK (PNMUK).

The Chaplaincy Team offer life-transforming spiritual care and pastoral support. For us Chaplaincy is about journeying with people, inspired by the life, example and teaching of Jesus. Our vision for Chaplaincy is to see even more of our service users and staff thriving through experiencing the love of God for themselves. Following a re-shaping of our work, Chaplaincy is now part of the newly formed Christian Mission team, which is at the heart of this growing charity. 

YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by and faithful to our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive, and energising communities where young people can truly belong, contribute, and thrive.

What volunteers need😇 Disclosure and Barring Service

What we will provide to volunteers

💸 Reimbursement of costs🤝 Extra support