Customer service volunteer roles

CAFÉ VOLUNTEERS – We’re Brewing Something Special in Erdington 

Join a Team that’s making a real difference, one cuppa at a time! 

Start your volunteer journey with Birmingham Hospice, the city’s leading provider of compassionate end-of-life care. 

Location: Rookery House, Erdington 
Role: Cafe Volunteer: Create warm moments by serving delicious coffee, tea and tasty treats while sparking friendly conversations that brighten someone’s day. 

About Birmingham Hospice 
For over 100 years, Birmingham Hospice has been caring for people with life-limiting illnesses across Birmingham, Solihull and Sandwell. We believe everyone deserves dignity, comfort and choice at the end of life. Every day, we support around 670 patients and their families, whether in our hospices, in the community, or in their own homes.

Why this café matters 
Our new Hive in the Park café will be a warm, welcoming space where local people can enjoy affordable food and drinks, connect with others, and feel part of the community. By volunteering, you’ll help create a place of friendship and support and belonging. 

We are looking for friendly and enthusiastic volunteers who would like to assist us in the day to day running of the community café! 

What will I do? 

• Serve drinks and meals, help with serving customers and using the till. 

• Keep the café tidy and welcoming.Be a friendly face for visitors. 

What do I need? 

• Basic kitchen, numeracy and IT skills. 

• A friendly, approachable attitude.You will be part of a friendly, team and there will always be someone nearby to lend a helping hand. 

• Good communication and teamwork.Reliability and willingness to learn 
  (An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful applicants). 

When and where? 

Set in Rookery House, in the beautiful Rookery Park, Erdington, our café will be open seven days a week, Monday to Friday 8am – 4pm, Saturday 9am to 2.30pm and Sunday 10am to 2.30pm 

What’s in it for me? 

• Make a real difference in your community. 

• Receive training and ongoing support. 

• Gain experience and develop new skills such as food and hygiene or barista training. 

• Meet new people and join a diverse, friendly team. 

Ready to join us? 
Be part of something truly meaningful. Contact us today and help make every moment matter! 

Contact details: Anna Shiels, People Officer -  Telephone: 07816 250543 

Overview of the Role:

The Head of IT & Systems will lead the technological vision, strategy, and execution

for the organization. This role requires a strong focus on developing robust IT

systems, overseeing digital transformation, ensuring data security, and maintaining

operational efficiency to support the organization's objectives. Management and

people leadership are integral to this role, ensuring effective team collaboration and

development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement the IT strategy in alignment with
• organizational goals.
• System Management: Oversee the design, deployment, and maintenance of
• IT systems, ensuring seamless operation and security.
• Digital Transformation: Lead initiatives to modernize technology
• infrastructure and integrate innovative solutions.
• Cybersecurity: Develop policies and practices to protect the organization
• against cybersecurity threats and ensure compliance with data protection
• regulations.
• Vendor Relations: Manage relationships with external IT service providers,
• ensuring value and quality.
• Team Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing IT team, fostering
• professional development and maintaining strong team dynamics.
• Budget Management: Plan and manage the IT budget effectively to
• maximize resources.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with other departments to support
• organisational needs with technology solutions.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Proven experience in IT leadership roles.
• Strong understanding of IT systems, infrastructure, and security.
• Exceptional management, people leadership, and strategic thinking skills.
• Effective communication and stakeholder management abilities.

Commitment: This role requires a flexible commitment of approximately 5 to 10

hours per week, which can be adjusted to fit around other responsibilities

Thank you so much for your interest in becoming a Non-Executive Director for Elizabeth Finn Homes. The company is at an incredibly exciting moment in our journey to become the UK’s most loved care homes – filling later life and care careers with joy, community and kindness. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise to a leading provider of high quality care for the elderly, while supporting a vital mission to combat poverty across the UK.​

Elizabeth Finn Homes is not just a care provider that fills later life with joy, community and kindness. Our mission extends far beyond the grounds of our homes. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Turn2us, a national charity building financial security for some of the most vulnerable in the UK, Elizabeth Finn Homes plays a crucial role in this cause. The profits and rental income generated by our homes go straight to Turn2us so that it can offer direct financial support, high quality information and strengthen communities.​

We are looking for a qualified accountant to join our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director (NED), and as Chair of our Finance Committee. You could bring your expertise in strategic insight, financial strategy and performance and be instrumental in our growth, development and maximising our contribution to Turn2us. All our NEDs will play a pivotal role in guiding the company’s strategic direction, ensuring robust governance, and upholding the values and standards that are integral to our operations.

We are seeking a finance candidate who may each enhance ourBoard’s experience and expertise in order to support our financialoversight and business growth. ​

Equity, inclusion and diversity are critical to our ability to deliver excellence. we need our board to be diverse, inclusive and to refelct our communities of staff, residents and thier families.

If you'd like to be part of a team determined to do our very best for our residents, staff, and in the fight against poverty, we'd be thrilled to hear from you. 

Hybrid: We hold meetings at our eight homesacross London, at our Central London offices,and virtually.

Voluntary, part-time – approximately eightdays per year.​

This is an unremunerated voluntary role.All reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Key Responsibilities​

   This job description is intended to provide a general overview of​ the role and responsibilities of a Non-Executive Director at ElizabethFinn Homes. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change asthe companycontinues to evolve and grow.

• Strategic Oversight: Provide independent oversight andcontribute to the development of the company’s long-termstrategy, ensuring alignment with its purpose, values, andbusiness objectives.​

• Governance: Uphold the highest standards of corporategovernance, integrity and ethics, including compliance withlegal and regulatory requirements, the highest standardsof safeguarding practice and oversight, and effective riskmanagement.

• Performance Monitoring: Oversee the performance of theexecutive management team, offering support and constructivechallenge to ensure the company meets its strategic goals.​

• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as an ambassador for ElizabethFinn Homes and Turn2us, engaging with key stakeholdersincluding residents, families, regulators, and partners to promotethe organisation’s vision and reputation.​

• Financial Stewardship: Contribute to financial oversight, ensuringthat the company’s financial resources are managed effectivelyand sustainably. ​

• Quality Assurance: Champion high standards of care and ensurecontinuous improvement in the quality of services providedacross all homes.​

•  

• Ethical Leadership: Uphold and promote the company’scommitment to our values and guiding principles alongsideethical practices, inclusivity, and resident-focused care.​

Required Skills and Experience​

• Board-Level Experience: Previous experience as a Non-ExecutiveDirector or similar senior leadership role, preferably within thecommercial healthcare, social care, or not-for-profit sectors.​
• Financial Expertise: We are looking for a qualified accountant to actas the Chair of the Finance Committee, a sub committee of the EFHBoard.​

• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal andcommunication skills, with the ability to engage effectivelywith a wide range of stakeholders.​

• Commitment to Values: Alignment with thepurpose, vision and values of Elizabeth Finn Homes, with agenuine passion for improving the quality of life for residents.

• Strategic Insight: Demonstrated ability to contribute to thedevelopment and implementation of organisational strategies.​

• Governance Expertise: Strong understanding of corporategovernance principles and practices, with experience in riskmanagement, compliance, and financial oversight.​

• Sector Knowledge: Deep understanding of the commercialhealth and social care sector, including current trends,challenges, and regulatory environment.​

• Leadership: Proven ability to influence and provide constructivechallenge and support to senior executives, combined with​ a collaborative approach to decision-making.

To apply for this position, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant​ experience and why you are interested in joining Elizabeth Finn Homes as a Non-Executive Director. 

Our partner is delivering specialist services and long-term support to people affected by conflict, displacement and severe adversity. Through direct programmes, partnerships and systems-level work, they help individuals rebuild their lives and strengthen community-based support structures.

The organisation is now undertaking a major upgrade of its finance function, as its current Sage 50 and Excel-based system is no longer fit for purpose. They are seeking pro bono support to help select and prepare for the implementation of a modern, efficient accounting system that will strengthen controls, reduce manual processing and improve management reporting.

They are looking for an experienced finance professional to work alongside their finance team in a phased engagement, providing both strategic guidance and practical support. The initial phase will focus on clarifying what a “good” future system looks like, defining functional and reporting requirements, preparing for conversations with software providers, and assessing data readiness and migration strategy. Depending on skills, availability and progress, this may then extend into hands-on support with implementation and migration activity.

Key areas of support include:

• Clarifying future finance system requirements and what “good” looks like for the organisation
• Supporting preparation for conversations with accounting software providers
• Reviewing data quality, chart of accounts and readiness for migration
• Sense-checking the proposed implementation approach and project plan
• Supporting development of efficient accounts payable, bank reconciliation and reporting processes
• Advising on integrations, automation and data flows (e.g. bank, CRM, reporting tools)
• Coaching and mentoring finance staff to ensure skills are embedded

The volunteer will work closely with the finance systems project team, led internally by a member of the finance team.

Profile

The ideal volunteer will be a finance professional with strong experience in day-to-day accounting processes and finance systems. They should have worked at a practical level with accounting software and understand what good controls, reconciliations and reporting look like. Experience of system selection, data migration, integrations or automation would be highly valuable, as would a coaching and mentoring mindset. This role would suit someone who enjoys combining hands-on delivery with advisory support.

Time commitment

The assignment will be delivered remotely over an initial three-month period, requiring approximately 2–5 hours per week, with the option to extend depending on progress and mutual availability. The start date is ASAP.

Become a Family Mentor — Help Families Thrive in Southend-on-Sea

Would you like to make a lasting difference in your community? Are you a good listener with a heart for helping families facing real challenges? If so, the Volunteers Supporting Families – Family Mentor programme in Southend-on-Sea needs you.

What you’ll be doing

Supporting families with children who are at risk of neglect or harm, or families with existing social care involvement. 
Meeting regularly (once a week for approximately 1 hour) in the family home over a minimum six-month period. 
Offering consistent emotional and practical support: listening, guiding, helping parents build confidence and parenting skills, reducing isolation, navigating day-to-day challenges.
Working alongside project staff who will match you with a family, train you, and support you throughout. 

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need formal experience working with families, just the right qualities and commitment:

• 18 years old or above, living in Southend-on-Sea or nearby.
• Able to commit to weekly visits for at least six months.
• Willing to complete necessary checks (DBS/criminal record), and provide references.
• Caring, patient, reliable: a good listener who can offer non-judgemental support, even when progress is slow. 
• Someone with an interest in helping both children and parents. Personal life experience can be helpful. 

What you’ll get

Volunteering is giving—but it’s also growing. As a Family Mentor, you’ll receive:

• Full training & ongoing support from experienced project staff.
• Opportunities to develop new skills and gain real experience working with families. 
• The chance to make a direct, positive impact by helping to keep families together and preventing children entering care. 
• Reimbursement for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including travel. 
• A strong reference for future work or volunteering opportunities. 

Why it matters

Families in Southend-on-Sea are facing pressures such as domestic violence, mental health challenges, substance misuse, and social isolation. By acting as a steady support person, you’ll be part of helping to turn things around—reducing the load on social care, improving life outcomes for children, and offering hope to parents.

Full Training provided - Applicants will need to attend compulsory training on 13th & 14th May 2026

As part of the Government led Gommunities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups to make up a team of 6 volunteers to support an Afghan family - you could be friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations are welcome. 

We are currently focussed on supporting families across Wales, West Midlands and Scotland but be keen to support elsewhere geographically where possible.  With this in mind, you may live in these areas, but we are also delighted to bring volunteers together remotely to support a family. 

You will be at the heart of this programme. It is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference!

The Communities for Afghans programme is a community-led Government initiative supporting families as they rebuild their lives in the UK. It is a Government-approved scheme that enables local people to welcome Afghan refugee famiklies into their community. Volunteers will be supported by us to find housing for a family, provide practical and emotional support enabling them to settle into daily life and feel a genuine sense of belonging in the community.

How community sponsorship work

1. Form a Sponsor Group Create a team of six or more volunteers — friends, neighbours, colleagues, faith groups, veterans, or community organisations.
2. Training & Ongoing Support Our partners provide full training, so your group feels confident and well prepared. This simple, practical training is offered before you begin and continues throughout the sponsorship journey.
3. Identify Suitable Housing With our guidance, your group helps find long-term accommodation. We then match an Afghan family of the appropriate size and ensure the property is suitable and affordable. Government funding is available for rent deposits and related costs.
4. Welcome & Support the Family Volunteers help the family register with schools, healthcare, benefits, and local services, while introducing them to the community and supporting them as they adjust to life in the UK.
5. Be the Local Point of Contact You act as the family’s trusted guide, helping them navigate the area, understand local systems, and access opportunities that only residents truly know.
6. Commit for Three Years Sponsor groups support the family for three years, providing consistency as they grow in independence, confidence, and resilience.

Why Your Support Matters

Volunteering through Community Sponsorship is a powerful act of solidarity. You are not only helping one family — you are strengthening your entire community.

Your support helps families: 

• Rebuild their lives in safety and dignity
• Access education, healthcare, and employment
• Learn English and integrate into the community
• Become confident and independent

And your community benefits:

• Stronger local connections
• Celebrated diversity
• Practical meaningful humanitarian action

Make a Meaningful Difference in Your Community

De Aston School has been at the heart of Market Rasen since 1863. As a vibrant, friendly, and truly comprehensive 11–18 school, we are passionate about providing exceptional education for every young person—regardless of background or starting point. Our ethos, Believe. Strive. Achieve., shapes everything we do: we believe in potential, we strive for excellence, and we achieve through commitment, care, and community.

This commitment doesn’t stop with students—our governors and staff are valued, supported and invested in. During a recent Ofsted inspection, staff described De Aston as “one big family”, praising the school’s supportive culture and strong sense of belonging.

Why Volunteer With Us?

Becoming a School Governor is one of the most effective ways to help shape the future of young people in your community. You don’t need previous experience—just a desire to make a positive impact. We provide full training, induction, and ongoing development, alongside a genuinely welcoming and committed governing body.

By volunteering, you’ll:

• Influence strategic decisions that improve outcomes for hundreds of students
• Gain meaningful board‑level experience
• Build leadership, oversight and analytical skills
• Support an inclusive, ambitious, and high‑performing school
• Join a school with an outstanding reputation for pastoral care and evidence‑informed practice

About the Role

As a School Governor, you will work as part of the governing board to provide strategic leadership, oversight and challenge. You’ll act as a critical friend to senior leaders—supporting them to deliver excellence while holding them accountable for performance, safeguarding, resources and compliance.

Your insight will help shape school priorities, ensure financial sustainability, and uphold the values and vision of the school. This role has a real and lasting impact on the life chances of young people.

Key Responsibilities

As a Governor, you will:

• Help define the school’s mission, values and long‑term vision
• Review and approve key policies
• Support the appointment and appraisal of senior leaders
• Monitor educational outcomes and ensure a broad, balanced curriculum
• Oversee financial management and resource allocation
• Assess risk and ensure robust safeguarding procedures
• Attend a minimum of six meetings per year
• Build strong professional relationships with leaders and fellow governors
• Make occasional school visits to deepen your understanding of the school environment
• Undertake induction and ongoing training

What We’re Looking For

No formal qualifications are required. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds—especially those who bring diversity of thought, lived experience or specialist knowledge in areas such as education, finance, HR, law, community engagement or data analysis.

You’ll be a great fit if you are:

• Passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people
• Able to communicate clearly and listen constructively
• Objective, fair, and committed to confidentiality
• Willing to give time to meetings, reading papers and preparing questions
• Collaborative, professional and supportive of team decision‑making
• Committed to safeguarding and the Seven Principles of Public Life
• Open‑minded, resilient and eager to learn

De Aston School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts will be subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure, medical and reference checks.  All pre-employment checks are in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education. 

Join the non-executive Board of Governors of the University of Wolverhampton and help shape the future of an inclusive, values-driven university through strategic leadership, independent challenge, and a shared commitment to the transformative power of higher education.

Who we are

Independent Governors are non-executive members of the University’s Board of Governors. They bring independent judgement, strategic insight, and professional expertise to support the University’s long-term success, financial sustainability, and compliance with an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

The Board operates through a constructive partnership between Governors and the Executive, underpinned by mutual respect, clarity of roles, and a shared commitment to the University’s mission. Governors are responsible for strategic oversight, assurance, and governance, while the Executive team retains accountability for operational leadership and delivery.

Independent Governors are expected to work collaboratively, valuing strong relationships, open dialogue, and collective responsibility. The role requires a genuine commitment of time and attention, including engagement in discussions and workshops that support informed decision-making and long-term stability.

About the role

Setting direction and providing strategic oversight:

• Contribute to the definition, approval, and review of the University’s mission, values, and strategic priorities.
• Support the Board in maintaining a clear long-term strategic direction that is responsive to a volatile external environment.
• Provide assurance on institutional performance and future strategic positioning.

Ensuring financial sustainability and effective governance:

• Monitoring financial performance, long-term sustainability, and the effective management of risk.
• Overseeing governance frameworks and ensuring regulatory compliance, including with the Office for Students Conditions of Registration.
• Ensuring adherence to the University’s Instrument and Articles of Government, Board Regulations, and the Committee of University Chairs Code of Governance.

Providing constructive challenge and assurance:

• Offer informed questioning and constructive challenge, supporting robust decision-making.
• Recognise and respect the professional expertise and leadership of the Executive team, providing oversight without encroaching on operational management.
• Receive and evaluate assurance on delivery, outcomes, and the effectiveness of strategic execution.

Working in partnership with Board leadership and the Executive:

• Effective governance depends on strong relationships and clear communication. Independent Governors are expected to:
• Adopt a collaborative, relationship-based approach that supports Board cohesion and effectiveness.
• Maintain a ‘no surprises’ approach, keeping the Chair appropriately informed and supported.
• Be prepared to adapt thinking and support changes in strategic direction where required.
• Commitment, engagement, and ambassadorship.

The role requires:

• A meaningful commitment of time, including attendance at Board and committee meetings, strategy sessions, and workshops.
• Ongoing development of knowledge of higher education governance, policy, and regulation.
• A willingness to act as an ambassador for the University, representing and promoting it at key events and formal occasions, including graduations

Governors are expected to act in line with the Nolan Principles of Public Life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

Appointments are typically for a three-year term, renewable up to nine years, with a 12-month probationary period. The time commitment averages a minimum of 5 hours per month, plus preparation, briefings, and 2 annual strategic away days.

Who we are looking for

We welcome and encourage interest from experienced, values-driven individuals who can bring independent, strategic thinking and senior professional expertise to the University of Wolverhampton’s Board of Governors.

Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee

We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded leader with either direct experience of leading audit and risk services for large and complex public institutions as clients, or as an experienced non-executive with prior service on an audit & risk committee. The successful candidate will have an excellent understanding of the business cycle of an audit & risk committee, including its critical oversight role in financial management, risk, and regulatory compliance, and the importance of audit in ensuring the long-term sustainability and governance of a higher education institution.

Independent Governor – Digital Transformation

We are seeking an individual with extensive experience leading major programmes of IT and digital change, linked to infrastructure planning, capital development, and investment to support organisational growth. This role requires the ability to bring strategic insight into how technology and digital initiatives can transform operations, enhance student and staff (customer) experience, and deliver long-term institutional impact.

Independent Governor – Higher Education Policy & Regulation

We are seeking a candidate with significant experience in higher education policy, regulation, or governance, gained either through work in government, advising government, or supporting the sector through professional and membership organisations.

Candidates could also come from think tanks or policy organisations with expertise in shaping higher education strategy, regulation, and compliance. This role requires an understanding of the wider higher education landscape and the ability to contribute insight into regulatory, policy, and sector developments that affect the University’s strategic objectives.

All Independent Governors

Successful candidates for all roles will demonstrate:

• Independent judgement, integrity, and the ability to act impartially
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, and collaborative skills
• The ability to provide constructive challenge while supporting collective decision-making
• A commitment to preparation, attendance at meetings, and ongoing development
• Alignment with fairness, inclusion, public service, and the University’s values
• A passion for the transformative impact of higher education and the University of Wolverhampton

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Diversity of experience and thought strengthens the Board and reflects the inclusive values of our university.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 23 February. 

Primary Location:          Walton Firs Activity Centre, Convent Lane, Cobham, Surrey KYT11 1HB
Secondary Location:     Dixcart House, Addlestone Road, Bourne Business Park, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 2LE
Remuneration:                Voluntary (reasonable expenses will be reimbursed)
Time Commitment:       Between 15 and 40 hours annually, depending on personal capacity. Role commitments include five board meetings per year including the annual general meeting, and periodic sub-committees and public events.

1. Organisational Information:

1.1 The Walton Firs Foundation is a Surrey-based registered charity (Charity registration number: 1113830), and a company limited by guarantee without share capital (Companies House registration number: 05695208). The Foundation’s charitable mission is to support young people’s personal development and social inclusion, through enabling their engagement in outdoor education, vocational training, and volunteering programmes. Since its establishment in 2006, the Foundation has enabled over 250,000 young people from across the south-east of England to learn, develop and enjoy in nature, including many whose backgrounds and circumstances have previously restricted their access to the natural environment. The Foundation is a recipient of The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, in recognition of its developmental impact on the lives of young people. In 2024/25, the Foundation recorded a total income of £852,977, and a net trading surplus of £81,286.

1.2 The Foundation owns and manages Walton Firs Activity Centre, a fifty-acre facility that provides forty land-based outdoor education activities and residential capacity to accommodate up to 1,100 young people. The activity centre is commissioned by a wide range of children’s and youth service providers and by primary, secondary and SEND schools to deliver high quality curriculum enhancement programmes and outdoor learning activities. In addition, the activity centre directly-delivers a range of services for local young people, including holiday and afterschool activity projects, work experience programmes, and The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. In 2024/25, Walton Firs Activity Centre delivered 479 service commissions and engaged 32,000 young people in outdoor learning activities and programmes.

1.3 Currently, the Foundation has six trustees / directors, who work with the company secretary under the leadership of the chairman of the board, to provide oversight and scrutiny of, and support and guidance to, the chief executive officer and the activity centre management team. A group of twenty-five charity patrons provide overview over the trustees / directors.

1.4 For more information about the Walton Firs Foundation and Walton Firs Activity Centre, please visit our website

2. Role Purpose:

2.1 The Trustees / Directors of the Walton Firs Foundation serve simultaneously as a charity trustees and as company directors, and manage statutory duties under the Companies Act 2006. They are responsible for the strategic direction, operational governance, and financial status of the organisation, and work closely with the chief executive officer to ensure the Foundation delivers its charitable objects and activities for the public benefit, in compliance with the Charity Commission’s regulations and company law. The role’s key accountabilities include ensurance of the Foundation’s capacity to manage high-quality outdoor education experiences and facilities for young people, whilst complying with all relevant legislative and regulatory requirements.

3. Key Responsibilities:

Governance and Compliance:

3.1 The Trustees / Directors:

3.1.1 Ensure the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and other relevant legislation / regulations including health and safety, safeguarding, data protection, and employment law.

3.1.2 Ensure the organisation is managed ethically and with integrity, and avoid conflicts of interest or misuse of charity / company assets.

3.1.3 Ensure that organisational policies, procedures, and practices comply with legal requirements and sector best practice.

3.1.4 Ensure the safeguarding and promotion of the wellbeing and safety of children and young people.

Strategic Leadership:

3.2 The Trustees / Directors:

3.2.1 Contribute to setting the organisation’s strategic direction, vision, mission, and values.

3.2.2 Monitor the organisation’s performance against agreed objectives and outcomes.

3.2.3 Ensure the organisation’s activities align with its charitable objects and activities, and provide measurable public benefit.

Financial Stewardship:

3.3 The Trustees / Directors:

3.3.1 Ensure effective and efficient management of the organisation’s resources, including safeguarding assets and ensuring funds are used exclusively to pursue the charity’s objects and activities.

3.3.2 Approve annual budgets, business plans, and financial statements.

3.3.3 Oversee risk management, ensuring appropriate internal controls, reserves, and sustainability planning.

Board and Organisational Development:

3.4 The Trustees / Directors:

3.4.1 Actively participate in board meetings and relevant committees.

3.4.2 Contribute expertise, constructive challenge, and support to the chief executive officer.

3.4.3 Support fundraising and income generation, ensuring compliance with the Fundraising Regulator’s Code of Practice.

3.4.4 Promote the organisation’s work to stakeholders, partners, and the wider community.

4. Statutory Duties as a Charity Trustee:

4.1 In accordance with the Charity Commission regulations, the Trustees of the Walton Firs Foundation:

4.1.1 Act in the charity’s best interests – prioritise the needs of the charity beneficiaries above personal or external interests.

4.1.2 Manage the charity’s resources responsibly – ensure effective use of charity funds, assets, and staff and volunteers.

4.1.3 Act with reasonable care and skill – use personal and professional competencies and experience to inform charity decision-making.

4.1.4 Ensure accountability – be answerable to beneficiaries, patrons, the Charity Commission, funders, and the wider public.

5. Statutory Duties as a Company Director:

5.1 In accordance with the Companies Act 2006, the Directors of the Walton Firs Foundation:

5.1.1 Promote the success of the company for the benefit of its customers.

5.1.2 Exercise independent judgment and make organisational decisions objectively.

5.1.3 Exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence based on personal and professional expertise and the standards expected of a company director.

5.1.4 Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any that arise.

5.1.5 Refuse benefits from third parties that could compromise their independence.

5.1.6 Ensure accurate records and filings are maintained with Companies House.

6. Person Specification:

6.1 Essential Criteria:

6.1.1 Commitment to the charity’s objects and activities: the provision of developmental outdoor education opportunities for the benefit of young people.

6.1.2 Knowledge and understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of charity trustees and company directors.

6.1.3 Capacity to think strategically and contribute to organisational policy and procedural development.

6.1.4 Effective communication, interpersonal and advocacy skills.

6.1.5 Integrity, objectivity, and willingness to assert personal views and opinions.

6.1.6 Availability to attend meetings and engage fully in governance activities.

6.2 Desirable Criteria:

6.2.1 Experience of the delivery and management of education, youth work, outdoor learning, or related sectors.

6.2.2 Financial, legal, or governance expertise.

6.2.3 Fundraising, marketing, or business development experience.

6.2.4 Human resources, accountancy, project management experience.

6.2.5 Educational curriculum design and delivery, capital project management experience.

6.2.6 Health and safety and quality control and assurance procedures experience

6.2.7 Volunteer engagement and development experience

6.2.8 Lived experience or understanding of the needs and aspirations of young people.

7. Additional Information:

7.1 Trustees / Directors are appointed for a term of four years, renewable subject to board approval.

7.2 The Trustee / Director role is unpaid, but reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed where requested.

7.3 Training and induction will be provided for Trustees / Directors, and ongoing development opportunities supported as required.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Closing Date:

We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and applications will be reviewed as they are received.

The Role:

We are currently seeking a Finance Trustee to join our Board as Treasurer. It’s a voluntary role that requires a committed individual with financial expertise to take a collaborative approach, supporting our Trustees, our Head of Finance and Governance, and our management team to oversee the financial affairs of our charity and ensure that they are legal, constitutional, and within accepted accounting practice.

Our Organisation:

Greener and Cleaner delivers locally but thinks, and influences, nationally. Our vision is greener, healthier, better connected communities across the UK. We seek to achieve this through normalising 360-degree sustainable living, bringing the community together to make changes that can deliver a big impact. We have a non-judgemental peer-to-peer approach, so that all elements of the community feel empowered to take action in how they live, work, and play and in how they use their voice to push for change.

Treasurer Role:

The primary role is to ensure alongside other Trustees that they accept ultimate responsibility for the affairs of G&C and ensure that it is solvent, well run, and delivering the charitable outcomes for which it has been set up. As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls, and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.

• Overseeing the presentation of budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements, as produced by the finance team or others where appropriate, to the Board of Trustees
• Ensuring that proper accounting records are kept, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place. 
• Liaising with any paid staff about financial matters, as appropriate.
• Ensuring that robust and comprehensive financial policies are in place and being implemented, and supporting the development of policies covering financial reserves, and cost management. 
• Overseeing financial controls and adherence to systems. 
• Drawing any major financial concerns to the attention of the trustee and the management team.
• Ensuring that the charity has appropriate reserves in line with its reserves policy, and monitoring and advising on the financial viability of the charity. 
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan, including overseeing the charity’s financial risk-management process.
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy and that investments and assets are maximised.
• Leading on the appointment of and liaison with external auditors. 
• Overseeing the development and implementation of systems for appraising, mitigating, and reporting corporate risk. 
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by relevant statutory bodies – for example, the Charity Commission and/or the Registrar of Companies.
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities.
• Supporting other Trustees in understanding the charity’s financial position and decision making.
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the charity and its ethical fundraising policy.
• Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the Annual General Meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way.

The Person We’re Looking For:

• A finance professional with a firm understanding of charity finance and some experience of fundraising and pension schemes.
• Knowledge of charity fundraising, bid writing, and/or other income generation and/or securing funding through creation or leveraging of partnerships and networks (at a national or local level).
• A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity and the skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
• Clear communicator with the ability to explain financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, and liaising with auditors.

In addition, the Treasurer will also have the responsibilities and qualities of all Trustees.

Responsibilities of All Trustees:

• Demonstrating a commitment to G&C’s objectives
• Contributing to setting the strategic goals and monitoring performance by active participation in Board discussions and decision-making
• Actively assisting the charity to build their connections and partnerships for the purposes of most effectively delivering their goals and fundraising
• Ensuring that G&C complies with its governing documents, the law, and all other relevant documentation
• Helping to identify risks and ensuring appropriate controls are in place
• Helping the Board to make sound decisions by making available their own personal knowledge and experience
• Assisting the Chair to appoint and appraise the performance of the Senior Leadership Team members
• Sharing relevant skills and expertise with the Senior Leadership Team members
• Making all reasonable efforts to attend Board meetings, away days, development meetings, publicity events, and other such public functions as requested by the Chair
• Ensuring the charity’s focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion remains at the heart of its strategy and delivery

Trustee Person Specification:

In addition to the Treasurer role specific above, our Trustees will ideally also demonstrate the following:

• A commitment to the objectives and activities of G&C
• A willingness to devote time and effort to G&C beyond attending board meetings
• Have strategic vision, an ability to think creatively, and an appropriate level of financial literacy
• Understanding of and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of their position
• Have good independent judgement
• Be willing to effectively act as part of a team
• Adhere to the Nolan Principles of public office: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
• A willingness to allow the Employee/s to make reasonable decisions and to act within the limits prescribed by the Board

To Apply:

To see the full job advertisement with details on how to apply, and to learn more about the role and our organisation, please see the attached supporting documents.

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

Are you passionate about Jesus and gospel outreach into London?

Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity to serve as a Trustee or as an Independent Sub-Committee Member?

Then London City Mission would like to hear from you!

London City Mission serves the church of London in sharing the love of God and the good news of Jesus Christ with the communities least likely to hear the Gospel.

One in three people don’t have a Christian friend to invite them to church, open a Bible with them, or tell them the good news of Jesus. We want to see that change. The poor areas of London are incredibly diverse, in fact London is the most ethnically diverse in the world, growing at over 100,000 people a year. The world has come to London – we long to see the Gospel taken to the world by working alongside churches to visit homes and go out into the streets of London with the good news of the Gospel.

Our monthly team gatherings are full of testimonies of how God is working amongst the communities least likely to hear the Gospel, and our deep conviction is that much more needs to be done – and can be done – at this urgent hour for London.

We are seeking to make up to five appointments; a mixture of Trustees (likely time commitment: 10-12 days a year) and Independent Sub-Committee Members (likely time commitment: 4 days a year). Individuals who bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Safeguarding – someone with safeguarding expertise who can provide strategic oversight, ensure robust policies and reporting procedures, and champion a culture of safety across the organisation.

HR - someone with HR expertise who can support organisational people practices, strengthen workforce policies, and provide strategic insight on recruitment, performance, and staff wellbeing.

Fundraising – someone with fundraising expertise who can guide income-generation strategy, strengthen donor relationships, and support LCM to diversify and grow its funding base.

Property – someone with professional property expertise who can advise on asset optimisation, and support strategic decisions regarding sales, leases, and maintenance.

Finance – most likely a qualified Accountant with strategic financial leadership skills and a passion to see resources deployed for Kingdom-purpose.

Through these roles the successful candidate will be able to make a difference in London for the salvation of souls and to the glory of God.

We appreciate the rich diversity of our Trustees, Sub-Committee Members and Staff and seek to create a culture where everyone develops and fulfils their potential. We recognise the immense value of different perspectives brought by those with varied backgrounds, characteristics and experiences. We particularly welcome applications from under-represented sections of the community (specifically in our context, individuals of Global Majority Heritage and those at an earlier stage of career).

In order to support greater diversity of experience and career stages, we encourage those earlier in their career to consider an Independent Sub-Committee Member role as a pathway to Trusteeship.

These posts are subject to an occupational requirement that the postholders are practising Christians under Part 1 of Schedule 9 to the Equality Act 2010.