Community volunteer manager volunteer roles

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

Join us as a Volunteer Coordinator and help create a welcoming, supportive experience for volunteers across our community programmes.

About us

Cede Foundation is a community-led charity dedicated to reducing poverty by empowering individuals and fostering sustainable communities.

We provide practical, personalised support to people who may be facing barriers to inclusion, independence and participation. Our work includes programmes and activities across employability and skills, health and wellbeing, social inclusion, active citizenship, environmental sustainability, youth engagement, and arts and culture.

Volunteers play a vital role in extending our reach and delivering meaningful support to the communities we serve.

We are seeking a friendly, organised, and reliable volunteer coordinator to recruit, support, and retain volunteers across our programmes.

About the role

As Volunteer Coordinator, you will help ensure volunteers feel informed, valued and supported in their roles.

You will be the main point of contact for volunteers, matching them with suitable opportunities and ensuring a positive, inclusive experience.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working with people, is well organised, and is committed to creating a positive volunteering experience.

What you will be doing

You will coordinate daily volunteer activities, including:

• Promoting volunteer opportunities.
• Responding to volunteer enquiries.
• Supporting recruitment, onboarding and induction.
• Matching volunteers to suitable roles.
• Coordinating rotas, schedules, and activities.
• Maintaining up-to-date volunteer records.
• Promoting inclusive volunteering practices.
• Recognising and celebrating volunteers’ contributions.
• Supporting monitoring and feedback processes for volunteers.

What we are looking for

This role is suitable for someone who is:

• Friendly, approachable and reliable.
• Organised and able to follow through on tasks.
• A good listener and confident communicator.
• Comfortable using basic digital tools and systems.
• Able to work as part of a team.
• Committed to equality, inclusion, and treating everyone with dignity.
• Interested in community work, volunteering or the charity sector.

Experience in administration, volunteering, recruitment, HR, community work, or events is helpful but not required. Full guidance and support will be provided.

Time commitment

We are looking for someone who can commit to 4–6 hours per week.

Volunteering times will be agreed based on your availability and organisational needs.

Location

This role is primarily in-person in Manchester, with some agreed tasks completed remotely where appropriate.

What you will gain

This is an opportunity to contribute to community-focused work while developing your skills and experience.

You will:

• Gain experience in volunteer coordination and charity operations.
• Build skills in communication, organisation, recruitment and people engagement. 
• Meet new people and be part of a friendly team.

Support and expenses

You’ll receive an induction and ongoing support so you feel confident in the role.

Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel costs, will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Safeguarding and checks

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of the people we work with. Depending on the nature of the role, references and a DBS check may be required. We will discuss this with you during the application process.

Equality and inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating an inclusive, supportive and accessible environment, and we will make reasonable adjustments where possible.

How to apply

To apply, please click 'Apply' below and submit a brief expression of interest.

Please tell us why you are interested in the role, any relevant skills or experience you would like to share, and your general availability.

If you feel this role is a good fit, we would love to hear from you.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply.

Join the Team and Help Us Build the Future of The Swadhinata Trust 

The Swadhinata Trust is embarking on a journey of significant growth and transformation. Having recently refreshed our purpose, mission, and brand, we are now ready for our next big leap: transitioning from a grassroots volunteer organisation to a scalable charity with paid staff and expanded reach.

To reach our full potential, we need 'roll-up-your-sleeves' leaders who are eager to help us transform. This isn’t just about giving advice from the sidelines; it’s about being the engine of our transformation. Whether you are an expert in your field or looking to develop new skills, joining us as a collaborative partner offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible, lasting impact on our journey.

How Can You Help 

We are looking for both professionals and enthusiasts eager to use their skills to help us transform. Whether you can offer 2 hours a week or 10, your expertise will be a vital part of reaching our big goals. You don’t need to be a veteran in your field; we value a 'roll-up-your-sleeves' attitude and a commitment to our mission just as much as a CV.

Strategy and Programme Volunteer

The Goal:Help us turn our big dreams into reality. You will be part of the team that takes our ambitions and builds them into practical, life-changing projects.

We’d love help with:

• Planning the Journey: Helping us draft clear project plans and timelines.

• Tracking our Progress: Helping us collect information to see how well our projects are doing.

• Organising Teams: Assisting with the coordination of different tasks to keep everything running on time.

What you bring:

• An organised mind and a love for "getting things done."

• Experience in project management or a strong interest in how charities run.

• The ability to see the steps needed to reach a big goal.

Sorting Room Volunteer

Do you enjoy organising, spotting quality items and bringing order to chaos? Join our behind-the-scenes sorting team!

We are looking for volunteers to help process donated items and prepare quality stock for our charity shop. This is an ideal role for someone who enjoys sorting, organising and has a good eye for detail.

What you’ll be doing

You’ll play an important role in helping donated items reach the shop floor ready for sale.

Tasks may include:

• Sorting through donated clothing, books, toys and household items
• Checking quality and carrying out quality control
• Identifying valuable or desirable brands
• Pricing items ready for sale
• Organising stock in the sorting room
• Preparing donations for the shop floor
• Helping keep the sorting area tidy and efficient

We’re looking for someone who:

• Enjoys organising and practical tasks
• Has good attention to detail
• Has an eye for quality and presentation
• Has brand awareness (desirable, but not essential)
• Is reliable and able to work independently
• Enjoys being part of a friendly team

Time commitment

• Shifts are usually 10am–1pm or 1pm–4pm
• Regular weekly volunteering preferred, with some flexibility available

JOB DESCRIPTION

Role Title: Charity Worker (Volunteer)
Organisation: Morning Star International Church (MSIC)
Location: Croydon, United Kingdom
Compensation: Voluntary (no salary) – support and accommodation may be provided as per charity guidelines.

About Morning Star International Church (MSIC)

Morning Star International Church (MSIC) is a Christ-centered, Pentecostal church based in Croydon, UK, serving a multi-ethnic and multi-generational congregation. Our mission is to share the love of Christ through worship, outreach, discipleship, and community service.
We are seeking temporary Charity Workers who feel called to support our ministry’s day-to-day activities, outreach programmes, and events on a voluntary and short-term basis.

Summary of Role

Charity Workers will assist in non-pastoral, non-salaried, and supportive functions of the church. Under the supervision of the ministry team, you will serve in a range of activities aimed at supporting the mission and community work of MSIC.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

These responsibilities are temporary and voluntary, supporting the charitable and religious objectives of Morning Star International Church.

• Welcoming and assist attendees during church services and events.
• Helping with ushering, seating arrangements, and basic hospitality (e.g., serving refreshments).
• Distributing service materials such as bulletins, flyers, and other church resources.
• Providing general support to church staff and volunteers during gatherings to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all.

Person Specification

Essential Attributes:

• A heart to serve others with humility and dedication.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith.
• Willingness to work as part of a team and under supervision.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• A flexible and adaptable approach.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience in community or church-based volunteering.
• Familiarity with Pentecostal worship practices.
• Ability to communicate in English (spoken and written).
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of other languages (e.g., Swahili Language) is an asset.

Important Notes

• There is no contract of employment.
• The role is designed to support the charitable objectives of the ministry and provide the volunteer with experience in church-based events and service.
• No remuneration will be provided, though reasonable accommodation or support may be offered in line with charity regulations.

Application Process

To apply, please email the following documents:

• A current CV
• A cover letter detailing your interest in the role and your availability
• Two references (preferably church or ministry-related)

Reference Code: MSIC/CW0126

Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. But if you have any experience or particular interest, tell us; it may be helpful. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

Job description

Quilombo UK is looking for a Bid Writer (Grant & Funds), who loves to face work challenges; to join their growing team.

The Bid Writer (Grant & Funds) will play a critical role by assisting the manager to prepare the proposal that helps the organization to further develop and establish.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; love to 'give back to their community'. The role is for you if you are looking for flexibility and autonomy. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Apart from writing proposals, you will also be reviewing and editing previously written content wherever necessary.
• Working with other team members to produce bid responses and writings
• Helps in writing funding applications for the varied projects that we run in order to meet our organisational objectives.
• Also helps in presentations and all supporting documentation.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• You must be based in the UK
• You will need to have good written skills
• Able to write effective, concise and compelling content
• You will be self-starting and willing to research and look for new funding opportunities that match our aims and objectives;
• Ability to work on tight deadlines
• Well organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.
• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.
• Good time-management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and excel.
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

The volunteering program with Quilombo UK requires a minimum of 16 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday (2 times a week).

Please note that this is a volunteering unpaid role.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits: Work from home

Experience:

• Technical Writing: 2 years (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

Cards for Bravery is a volunteer-led charity dedicated to improving the emotional wellbeing of hospitalised, seriously ill and chronically ill children and young people across the UK. We provide a range of services including the distribution of items such as handmade cards, activity packs, care packages and other initiatives designed to bring comfort, connection and support during difficult times.

As we continue to grow, we're looking for a passionate and organised Volunteer Lead to help coordinate and support our incredible volunteer community.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the charity by helping recruit, welcome and support volunteers, ensuring they have a positive experience while contributing to our mission. Working closely with the Founder and the wider team, you'll help build an engaged, motivated and connected volunteer community, enabling us to reach even more children, young people and families.

A DBS Check will be required for this role, completed by the charity.

Candidates must hold a relevant laptop/tablet or other IT device to complete this role.

Any relevant expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment: Approx. 4-6 hours per week (flexible)

An ideal match:

• Someone who is organised, proactive and enjoys supporting and encouraging others.

• Someone with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Someone who is reliable, approachable and passionate about making a difference.

• Someone with good organisational and time management skills.

• Someone who is confident working independently while also collaborating with a remote team.

• Basic computer skills - such as using emails and spreadsheets. 

• Previous experience coordinating volunteers or leading a team is desirable but not essential.

The role will include activities such as:

• Supporting the recruitment, onboarding and induction of new volunteers.

• Being a first point of contact for volunteer enquiries and providing ongoing support throughout their volunteering journey.

• Developing and maintaining a digital volunteer hub, ensuring volunteers have access to resources, updates, guidance and opportunities.

• Assist organising volunteer communications, including updates, newsletters and online meetings or catch-ups.

• Maintaining volunteer records and helping monitor volunteer engagement and involvement.

• Working with the Founder to identify volunteer needs and support the growth of our volunteer team.

• Helping to recognise, celebrate and thank volunteers for their contributions.

• Sharing ideas and feedback to continually improve the volunteer experience at Cards for Bravery.

Benefits:

• Flexible volunteering that fits around your existing commitments.Gain valuable experience in volunteer management, leadership and charity operations.

• We are committed to being flexible and inclusive, particularly for volunteers who are chronically ill, disabled or have other circumstances that may require adjustments.

• Join a friendly, supportive and passionate team making a real difference to children and families across the UK.

About Roots Academy 

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 2,000 students across the UK, Ireland, Canada & Australia.

Role Summary:

The Fundraising Lead for Roots Academy Canada will be responsible for developing and executing fundraising strategies to support the expansion of Roots Academy’s programs.

This role is critical in ensuring that Roots Academy has the financial resources needed to deliver high-quality Islamic education to communities around the world.

The ideal candidate will be passionate about the mission of Roots Academy, skilled in engaging donors and securing funding through various channels, and able to build lasting relationships with key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Community Engagement:

• Develop and implement a dynamic fundraising plan that includes a variety of strategies tailored to Roots Academy’s target audiences, including university MSAs, mosques, and Islamic organisations.

• Identify and build partnerships with key community organisations, MSAs, and Islamic centres to create collaborative fundraising opportunities.

• Stay adaptable to emerging opportunities for funding, leveraging both traditional and innovative approaches to engage and attract potential donors.

Relationship Building:

• Actively engage with MSAs, Islamic centres, and community organisations to establish Roots Academy as a cause worth supporting and to cultivate long-term donor relationships.

• Collaborate with MSAs and community partners to organise local fundraising events, campaigns, and other initiatives that resonate with the community.

• Serve as a liaison between Roots Academy and these partner organisations to foster a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.

• Work closely with MSAs and community organisations to retain donors by creating meaningful engagement opportunities and maintaining a sense of involvement with Roots Academy’s mission.

Campaign Management:

• Lead and coordinate diverse fundraising campaigns, including online initiatives, MSA-driven campaigns, and in-person events like benefit dinners and community gatherings.

• Work with Roots Academy’s marketing team to create campaign materials and digital content, ensuring that each initiative is tailored to engage and inspire potential donors.

• Coordinate and oversee logistics for events, ensuring a smooth and impactful experience for all participants and maximising fundraising outcomes.

Tracking and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of fundraising activities, donor interactions, and campaign outcomes to ensure transparency and accountability.

• Provide regular reports to the leadership team on fundraising efforts, adapting strategies as needed based on campaign performance and community feedback.

• Use data to evaluate the effectiveness of different fundraising approaches, enabling continuous improvement in future efforts.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Fundraising Experience: Proven experience in developing and executing successful fundraising strategies, particularly for nonprofit organisations, educational initiatives, or Islamic institutions.

• Community-Oriented: A deep understanding of the Muslim community in Canada, especially in relation to university students and local mosques.

• Relationship Building: Proven experience in building and maintaining meaningful relationships with a wide variety of stakeholders.

• Project Management: Strong organisational skills with the ability to support program delivery efficiently.

• Communication: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences, from students to community leaders.

• Commitment to Ihsaan: This role requires someone who strives to deliver their responsibilities with ihsaan.

• Dedication to Service: A heart for khidma (service), and a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of young Muslims through education.

What We Offer:

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers from across the globe.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy. 

Read Easy provides free, confidential, one to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, through a network of volunteer groups. Read Easy groups are changing the lives of individual adults across the country by providing them with the support they need to learn to read, and in turn opening doors for them to all sorts of new opportunities in life. 

Outline of the Volunteer Recruiter role
If you’re a ‘people person’ and enjoy meeting a wide range of people, the Volunteer Recruiter role will give you the opportunity to be the first point of contact for all potential volunteers and to have overall responsibility for managing the recruitment and interviews for your local group.

You will need to be enthusiastic, a good listener and be able to spot a strong volunteer. By helping to recruit the 
right volunteers, you will play a vital role in ensuring the longevity of the group. 

How we will support you
You will be provided with the Management Team Handbook, policies, training/induction, and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, via your Team Leader. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional and national forums which gives volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups. 

What you will be doing 
● Managing the recruitment process of all volunteers for your group, leading interviews with the Coordinator or Team Leader.
● Making sure all volunteers feel properly supported, informed, heard and valued.
● Working with the rest of your group’s Publicity Organiser to identify the best means of advertising to attract the volunteers you need.
● Managing the recruitment process for all potential volunteers and ensuring that an appropriate induction is provided, and keep everyone informed on progress.
● Ensuring that volunteers’ expectations are managed appropriately and that your group does not recruit significantly more volunteers than it can reasonably allocate roles to.
● Providing all Coaches with an annual Feedback Questionnaire and raise any issues identified that need addressing with the Management Team.
● Ensuring compliance with Volunteer Policy and Equality Diversity and Inclusivity Policy
● Attending Management Team meetings typically every six to eight week.

The skills you will need
● Ideally, experience of interviewing. 
● The confidence to promote the work of Read Easy and a strong commitment to improving the lives of people who struggle with reading.
● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
● Reasonable confidence in using IT.
● The ability to use initiative and work independently.
● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.
● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.
● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.
● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of two - three hours a week to commit to the role.

What is in it for you? 
● Apply and develop your interviewing and communication skills
● Meet and work collaboratively with new people
● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community.

Perinatal Support Volunteers provide one-to-one support to parents during pregnancy and up to nine months after the birth. These parents either have mental health issues or are at risk of developing them.

Perinatal Support Volunteers visit these families once a week (usually weekdays during working hours) for 2-3 hours, providing emotional support and practical help in the family’s home or local community. Support is aimed at empowering parents and building resilience beyond the support period.

The type of support Perinatal Support Volunteers provide to parents may include:

• An empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear
• Support to prepare for parenthood
• Support to build confidence in parenting skills
• Support to develop a positive relationship with their infant
• Support to establish daily and weekly routines
• Support to take time for self-care
• Support to manage the things that are causing stress
• Support to access relevant services
• Support to access local green spaces
• Support to make connections with other parents

No special qualifications are necessary to become a Perinatal Support Volunteer, but Home-Start volunteers are usually either parents or grandparents themselves, or people with experience of young children and family life. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges.

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.

Shop Volunteering Opportunities

Beverley

Our shops are at the heart of local communities raising vital funds for our fight against homelessness and bad housing - and they’re powered by our volunteers!

Suggested Involvement: It’s up to you! We have volunteers who support for one hour a week and others who volunteer more. Many people volunteer for a morning or an afternoon each week, but we’ll have a chat about your availability after you’ve applied.

Availability: The shop will be open Monday - Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 10-4

Location: Shelter, 28 Saturday Market, Beverley

Supervised by: Community Shop Manager / Assistant Manager

Why volunteer with Shelter? 

Home is a human right. It's our foundation and it's where we thrive. Yet, every day millions of people are being devastated by the housing emergency.

We exist to defend the right to a safe home. Because home is everything.

We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams ensure fighting the housing emergency never felt so fun. 

What can I do?

After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal chat to find the right role for you. Some roles involve a basic criminal record check being completed during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not mean that you cannot volunteer with us, but it may impact the ways you can get involved.

• Volunteering in the shop

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

- You will not undergo a criminal record check for this role   

• Volunteering in a leadership role

Our volunteer supervisors help with overseeing the running of our shop and creating a fantastic environment for our customers. You may be involved with coordinating and supporting other volunteers, operating computer systems, and being a key point of contact for the shop.

Skills and Experiences Required:

We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need to have volunteered or worked in a shop before as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and willing to follow Shelter’s policies and can be an excellent ambassador for Shelter. We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of bad housing or homelessness.

Induction, Learning and Development:

To enable you to take part in this opportunity Shelter will:

• Welcome you with a Volunteer Handbook
• Provide training, induction, and ongoing support from your Shop Manager to help you feel confident in your role
• Refund any out-of-pocket expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter…

• Supporting Shelter in our fight against bad housing and homelessness
• Gain valuable experience in a retail environment
• Getting involved in your local community and being part of a great team
• Build your confidence and develop transferable skills

We aim to respond to all applications within 14 days

If you would like to find out more about the volunteering opportunity before applying, contact the Shelter Volunteering Team.