Health and wellbeing volunteer volunteer volunteer roles

Become the new friendly face in your local Tŷ Hafan charity shop!

Volunteering in our charity shops is a great way to look after your wellbeing, build confidence, and make a real impact.

You’ll be part of a friendly team, learning new skills while helping raise vital funds to support children with life‑shortening conditions and their families across Wales.

About our Barry Shop:

Barry High Street is one of our longest standing shops. It is also one of our smallest shops, but boasts incredible volumes of donations from our supporters.

The shop is supported by a fantastic team of volunteers who work incredibly hard to turn over the high volumes of stock.

How your role makes a difference

•Raise vital funds to support children and families
•Create a welcoming shop environment for customers
•Support sustainability by giving donated items a second chance
•Make a positive impact in your local community.

What you could get involved in

•Helping on the shop floor and serving customers
•Sorting and preparing donated items
•Pricing and displaying stock
•  Creating eye-catching shop displays

You’ll be supported by the shop team and can take on tasks that suit your confidence and interests.

Got a particular interest?

Whether you love fashion, books, jewellery, or have an eye for vintage or collectibles, you can bring your interests into your role and help us make the most of donations.

Till & Customer Service Volunteer Role Description
Stockroom Volunteer Role Description

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16+

Location: 2 High St, Barry, CF62 7DZ

Commitment:  Our shops operate Monday-Saturday, 9am-4:45pm and we appreciate any time you can spare, but ideally at least 2 hours per week.

Shifts will be discussed during your informal chat.

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees.

Expenses: Reasonable mileage or public transport costs can be claimed for this role in line with Tŷ Hafan’s volunteer expenses guidance. Volunteers who wish to claim expenses must follow the agreed process and let the Volunteer Team know in advance. Receipts or proof of purchase must be provided when submitting claims.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments. Please let us know in your application form if you require any adjustments for this role.

This can be a great, no‑pressure way to meet the team, see the shop in action, and get a feel for the role before deciding.

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract.

Could you help bring moments of togetherness to families facing cancer? 

Families supported by Young Lives vs Cancer are going through some of the most challenging times of their lives. At Young Lives vs Cancer, we get that. We are a charity that helps children and young people (aged 0-24), and their families find the strength to face whatever cancer throws at them.  

As an Events Coordinator in the South West Social Work team, you will plan and coordinate a range of events throughout the year; working directly with the families we support and partner organisations. we hope to run events across the region including end‑of‑treatment celebration days, sibling days, festive events and bereavement support events 

What you give as a volunteer goes far beyond practical support; it’s reassurance, kindness, and hope at a time when it’s needed most. Your time and commitment can help make the cancer journey a little lighter and leave a lasting, positive impact on the families you support. 

What you’ll be doing 

We hope to carry out regular events across the whole region. Your help will be invaluable in achieving this. Your tasks will include: 

• Helping to organise, co-ordinate and run events. 

• Communication with invitees and organisations involved in the planning and facilitation of events. 

• Attendance of events as a welcoming presence; helping people feel comfortable, supported, and gently connected to one another. 

• Working alongside social workers as a valued member of the team and reporting back to your volunteer manager. 

Become the new friendly face in your local Tŷ Hafan charity shop!

Volunteering in our charity shops is a great way to look after your wellbeing, build confidence, and make a real impact.

You’ll be part of a friendly team, learning new skills while helping raise vital funds to support children with life‑shortening conditions and their families across Wales.

About our Cardigan Shop:

Our Cardigan shop is a long narrow shop on the high street. This space is put to great use with stock displayed on beautiful handmade display pieces, made by the shop team.

There's also a haberdashery section with fat quarters, button bundles and more, created from stock that would usually be unsaleable.

Diane, our shop manager, has been with us from the start and used to fundraise along with family members for Tŷ Hafan before the shop opened.

Amy is a jewellery expert and generates thousands each year because of her specialist knowledge. 

How your role makes a difference

•Raise vital funds to support children and families
•Create a welcoming shop environment for customers
•Support sustainability by giving donated items a second chance
•Make a positive impact in your local community.

What you could get involved in

•Helping on the shop floor and serving customers
•Sorting and preparing donated items
•Pricing and displaying stock
•Creating eye-catching shop displays

You’ll be supported by the shop team and can take on tasks that suit your confidence and interests.

Got a particular interest?

Whether you love fashion, books, jewellery, or have an eye for vintage or collectibles, you can bring your interests into your role and help us make the most of donations.

Till & Customer Service Volunteer Role Description
Stockroom Volunteer Role Description

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16+

Location: 2 Pendre, Cardigan, SA43 1JL

Commitment:Our shops operate Monday-Saturday, 9am-4:45pm and we appreciate any time you can spare, but ideally at least 2 hours per week.

Shifts will be discussed during your informal chat.

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees.

Expenses: Reasonable mileage or public transport costs can be claimed for this role in line with Tŷ Hafan’s volunteer expenses guidance. Volunteers who wish to claim expenses must follow the agreed process and let the Volunteer Team know in advance. Receipts or proof of purchase must be provided when submitting claims.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments. Please let us know in your application form if you require any adjustments for this role.

This can be a great, no‑pressure way to meet the team, see the shop in action, and get a feel for the role before deciding.

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract.

Are you interested in making a difference to the lives of children and young people? Is there a skatepark in your area? If so, this role could be for you.

We are a UK registered youth development charity that uses teaching and learning to skateboard in a structured and supportive environment as a platform to develop the skills and abilities of children and young people.

The Role: Chapter Leader

As a Chapter Leader with the Skateboarding Foundation (SF), your role is to set up and run a Local Chapter that gives young people access to skateboarding and life skills through the SF ‘Eduskate’ programme.

Training, materials, resources, equipment and ongoing support, advice and guidance will be provided.

Key responsibilities

Your key responsibilities include:

• Setting up and running the chapter
• Recruiting coaches
• Recruiting learners
• Coordinating the delivery of the coaching programme
• Raising funds and spreading the word
• Helping us monitor and evaluate the programme
• Giving three/four hours a month of your time

You’ll have overall responsibility for the chapter’s activities, compliance, and smooth running. You’ll provide direction and support to your chapter committee, chair meetings, and ensure volunteers, coaching programmes, and fundraising are well managed.

The role involves motivating the team, planning chapter development, and stepping in where needed to keep things on track. You’ll also liaise with the national Board of Trustees, keeping them informed of key decisions and changes. 

Strong leadership, organisation, and a passion for youth development (and ideally skateboarding) and the charity’s mission are essential.

Become the new friendly face in your local Tŷ Hafan charity shop!

Volunteering in our charity shops is a great way to look after your wellbeing, build confidence, and make a real impact.

You’ll be part of a friendly team, learning new skills while helping raise vital funds to support children with life‑shortening conditions and their families across Wales.

About our Carmarthen Shop:

Our Carmarthen shop is located in a busy walkthrough shopping mall on the edge of Carmarthen town. The shop is well supported with donations and is historically our top performing Lottery shop.

The shop team are always on the lookout for new ways to generate income, including taking part in shopping centre and community events.

How your role makes a difference

•Raise vital funds to support children and families

•Create a welcoming shop environment for customers

•Support sustainability by giving donated items a second chance

•Make a positive impact in your local community.

What you could get involved in

•Helping on the shop floor and serving customers

•Sorting and preparing donated items

•Pricing and displaying stock

•Creating eye-catching shop displays

You’ll be supported by the shop team and can take on tasks that suit your confidence and interests.

Got a particular interest?

Whether you love fashion, books, jewellery, or have an eye for vintage or collectibles, you can bring your interests into your role and help us make the most of donations.

Till & Customer Service Volunteer Role Description

Stockroom Volunteer Role Description

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16+

Location: Merlin's Walk, Carmarthen, SA31 3BN 

Commitment:Our shops operate Monday-Saturday, 9am-4:45pm and we appreciate any time you can spare, but ideally at least 2 hours per week.

Shifts will be discussed during your informal chat.

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees.

Expenses: Reasonable mileage or public transport costs can be claimed for this role in line with Tŷ Hafan’s volunteer expenses guidance. Volunteers who wish to claim expenses must follow the agreed process and let the Volunteer Team know in advance. Receipts or proof of purchase must be provided when submitting claims.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments. Please let us know in your application form if you require any adjustments for this role.

You’re very welcome to pop in for an informal chat before applying

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member. The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

Independent Members bring external expertise, independent scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the Committee in fulfilling its responsibilities. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, focused on strengthening oversight, improving learning and helping Scouts respond effectively to current and emerging safeguarding risks.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide strategic advice, challenge and independent scrutiny to support the Committee in discharging its responsibilities.

· Assist the Committee in ensuring that Scouts remains at the forefront of safeguarding practice and development.

· Review safeguarding performance information, assurance reports, learning reports and risk information to support effective oversight.

· Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

· Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, procedures, guidance and assurance arrangements.

· Help identify emerging safeguarding risks and opportunities affecting young people, volunteers and the wider organisation.

· Support the Committee’s oversight of safeguarding culture, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

· Participate in monitoring and reviewing safeguarding risks delegated to the Committee by the Board.

· Contribute to discussions on strategic priorities and future safeguarding developments across Scouting.

· Act as an advocate for excellent safeguarding practice and a culture that places the safety and wellbeing of young people at its centre.

THE PERSON

Skills

· Communicate effectively with senior volunteers, trustees, staff and external stakeholders.

· Analyse complex information and exercise sound judgement.

· Provide constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

· Contribute effectively within a strategic committee environment.

· Work collaboratively while maintaining independence of thought.

· Quickly develop an understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding framework.

EXPERIENCE

The Committee is particularly seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas.

· Priority area: substantial expertise in digital safeguarding, including online safety, digital harms, safeguarding in online environments, social media risks, emerging technology risks and child protection risks associated with digital platforms.

· Additional areas of interest: family law, social care practice or leadership, child protection and safeguarding within statutory services, law enforcement experience relating to safeguarding, horizon scanning, regulatory or inspection environments, quality assurance, or safeguarding within youth, education, faith or voluntary sector settings.

CHARECTERISTICS

· Commitment to the purpose and values of Scouts.

· Strong personal integrity and sound judgement.

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

· Ability to operate strategically and objectively.

· Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. Members will also be expected to read papers in advance of meetings and may occasionally be consulted between meetings on specific matters.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for an initial three-year term, subject to a six-month review, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term by mutual agreement.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.

Summary

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

Detailed description

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

 As a YMCA Parish Nurse you would:

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

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

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

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

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

What volunteers need�� Disclosure and Barring Service

What we will provide to volunteers

�� Reimbursement of costs�� Extra support

🔥 RESET THE PYRAMID. SHAPE THE FUTURE. 🔥

First Team Coach | Kenningwell United WFC

📍 Location: Dulwich / Peckham, South London
⏰ Commitment: Highly efficient – just 6 hours per week
🏆 Level: Tier 7 (Ambitious, elite-minded grassroots)
🙌 Type: Volunteer with elite professional backing
✈️ Perk: End-of-season overseas tour included!

This is not just another coaching slot. This is a football revolution.

Let’s be honest. Most volunteer coaching roles ask for everything and give absolutely nothing back. They drain your energy and stall your career. We are here to completely smash that cycle.

Kenningwell United WFC isn’t just another grassroots club. We are a powerhouse of raw ambition in South London, explicitly bridging the gap between community football and the elite pro game. We refuse to accept that Tier 7 players and coaches should settle for substandard resources. We believe hungry, talented coaches deserve an explosive platform to launch their careers.

If you live, breathe, and bleed football, if you want to empower women to absolutely dominate on the pitch, and if you want to build a reputation that makes the professional leagues take notice—your dugout is waiting.

The KUWFC Launchpad – What we pour into YOU:

• Elite Player Pipeline: Take control of a squad armed with an official loan agreement with Tier 4 giants Dulwich Hamlet. You will have the unique opportunity to develop, integrate, and coach top-tier elite youth talent right here in South London.
• Real Madrid Level Technology: We don't just kick a ball around. The data systems we use for biometric athlete monitoring—Kubios and Elite HRV systems—are the exact same physiological tracking tools used by global giants like Real Madrid. You will gain hands-on experience with high-end sports science data that 99% of grassroots coaches never touch.
• Elite Mentorship: You will work side-by-side with ex-Chelsea professionals. You cannot buy this kind of tactical oversight, elite feedback, and professional networking.
• Pro-Club Networks: Alongside our Dulwich Hamlet pipeline, we hold powerful, direct connections with Crystal Palace and London City Lionesses. Your tactical work here will be visible to the right people.
• The Overseas Tour: Hard work deserves an elite reward. At the end of the season, you’ll be heading abroad with the squad for our overseas team tour to celebrate, compete, and bond.
• Your Next Big Step: We don't want you to stay in Tier 7 forever. We want to help you sharpen your tools, build an undeniable CV, and push you directly toward your UEFA B and the pro game.

Your Professional Backroom Team 📋

At most grassroots clubs, the coach has to do everything from pumping balls to managing injuries. Not here. You will lead a fully functional, professional-grade multidisciplinary backroom team dedicated entirely to supporting your tactical vision:

• Video Analyst: Records and analyses matches, offering feedback to you and your players to sharpen tactics and performance.
• Strength & Conditioning Coach: Designs fitness programs to enhance player strength, stamina, and reduce injury risks.
• Sports Therapist: Manages injury recovery, provides treatments, and ensures peak physical health all season.
• Sports Psychologist: Supports mental well-being, building resilience and focus to optimize performance on and off the pitch.
• Journalist, Photographer & Social Media Team: Captures key moments, writes match reports, and runs high-impact marketing campaigns to boost club visibility and build your personal profile as a manager.

Your Mission on the Pitch:

• Ignite the First Team: Deliver electric, high-tempo training sessions that make players sprint to training after work.
• Own Matchday: Bring your tactical absolute best to the touchline. Inspire, adjust, integrate loan players seamlessly, and drive the squad to win.
• Weaponise Data: Collaborate with your S&C coach and backroom staff to integrate HRV data, pro-level biometrics, and video analysis into your tactical blueprint.
• Protect the Culture: Build a fierce, loyal, inclusive family where every player feels valued, respected, and ready to fight for the badge.

Who You Are:

• You hold a UEFA C Diploma (minimum) or higher.
• You don't just manage players; you inspire them. You speak with clarity, passion, and empathy.
• You are fascinated by modern football—tactics, player pathways, sports science, and player psychology.
• You care deeply about equality and creating space for women to thrive in sport.
• Female coaches: we want your visibility, your energy, and your leadership at the absolute forefront of this club.

Stop waiting for your break. Create it.

Don't just coach a team. Change the game for women in South London and skyrocket your own coaching profile while doing it.

📩 Bring your fire. Send us a quick note about your football journey or drop your coaching CV 

Kenningwell United WFC is an equal-opportunity club. Bring your passion—let’s build a legacy together.

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 an organised and enthusiastic Events Coordinator to help plan and coordinate our community events and awareness activities.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys organising, planning and bringing people together. Working closely with the Founder and the wider team, you'll help ensure our events run smoothly, creating positive experiences for volunteers, supporters and the communities we work with.

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. 3–5 hours per week (flexible). Remote Role

An ideal match:

• Someone who is highly organised, proactive and enjoys planning and coordinating projects.

• Someone with excellent communication and organisational skills

• Someone who enjoys working collaboratively and supporting a friendly volunteer team.

• Someone who is passionate about making a difference to children, young people and their families.

• Basic computer skills - such as emails and spreadsheets

• Previous experience in event planning or coordination is desirable but not essential.

The role will include activities such as:

• Assisting with coordinating the planning and logistics of community events, awareness events and fundraising activities.

• Researching and identifying events, festivals and other opportunities where Cards for Bravery could have a presence.

• Coordinating volunteers attending events, including organising rotas and sharing event information.

• Helping organise equipment, resources and promotional materials required for events.

• Working alongside the media & comms volunteers to ensure events are promoted effectively.

• Helping gather feedback and ideas following events to continually improve future activities.

Benefits:

• Flexible volunteering that fits around your existing commitments.

• Gain valuable experience in event coordination, project management and charity sector.

• 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.

Become the new friendly face in your local Tŷ Hafan charity shop!

Volunteering in our charity shops is a great way to look after your wellbeing, build confidence, and make a real impact.

You’ll be part of a friendly team, learning new skills while helping raise vital funds to support children with life‑shortening conditions and their families across Wales.

About our Penarth Shop:

Our Penarth shop seeks to celebrate the town’s diversity in the way our team thoughtfully curates the mixture of preloved items its occupants have generously donated.

We offer high street to designer names, tea sets to linens, vinyl to hatpins, toys and books for all ages and plenty in between. 

How your role makes a difference

•Raise vital funds to support children and families
•Create a welcoming shop environment for customers
•Support sustainability by giving donated items a second chance
•Make a positive impact in your local community.

What you could get involved in

•Helping on the shop floor and serving customers
•Sorting and preparing donated items
•Pricing and displaying stock
•Creating eye-catching shop displays

You’ll be supported by the shop team and can take on tasks that suit your confidence and interests.

Got a particular interest?

Whether you love fashion, books, jewellery, or have an eye for vintage or collectibles, you can bring your interests into your role and help us make the most of donations.

Till & Customer Service Volunteer Role Description
Stockroom Volunteer Role Description

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16+

Location: 1a Stanwell Road, Penarth CF64 2AB

Commitment:Our shops operate Monday-Saturday, 9am-4:45pm and we appreciate any time you can spare, but ideally at least 2 hours per week.

Shifts will be discussed during your informal chat.

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees.

Expenses: Reasonable mileage or public transport costs can be claimed for this role in line with Tŷ Hafan’s volunteer expenses guidance. Volunteers who wish to claim expenses must follow the agreed process and let the Volunteer Team know in advance. Receipts or proof of purchase must be provided when submitting claims.

We welcome applications from individuals with disabilities and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments. Please let us know in your application form if you require any adjustments for this role.

You’re very welcome to pop in for an informal chat before applying

This can be a great, no‑pressure way to meet the team, see the shop in action, and get a feel for the role before deciding.

At Tŷ Hafan our people values are working together, demonstrating compassion, providing excellent service and taking ownership.

This role is purely voluntary and this arrangement is not meant to be a legally binding one or an employment contract.

Summary

The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The main activity in the role is to act on behalf of members where a planning development is likely to have an adverse impact on the walking environment in the Sussex countryside.

Description

The Ramblers, the Sussex Area of which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2026, is the only charity dedicated to removing barriers so everyone can enjoy walking in green spaces, and to improving Britain’s most popular and least-known walking places. We’re committed to campaigning to keep our footpaths open to all and to fighting for the things that matter most to walkers. We lead the way, and the walks, for a vibrant community united by the joys of walking, helping everyone get more out of their walks. 

The role of East Sussex Area Countryside Officer involves reviewing planning applications published by Local Authorities and creating and submitting objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers if an application is likely to have an adverse impact on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Objections may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasion attendance at public hearings or meetings with representatives of Local Authorities or with other stakeholders such as Parish Councils and environmental and wildlife organisations.

The role holder will work closely with other Ramblers volunteers such as the East Sussex Area Footpath Officer, the West Sussex Area Countryside Officer and Local Footpath Wardens in East Sussex and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' Central Office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils, the South Downs National Park Authority and the East Sussex Local Access Forum. The role holder will be a member of the Area leadership team (Area Council). You will need to be a member of the Ramblers and to live in or close to East Sussex.

What Impact will you have?

The Ramblers help everyone, everywhere, enjoy walking and protects the places we all love to walk. By volunteering as an Area Countryside Officer you will be playing a vital role in making sure we can achieve this by holding Local Authorities to account for planning decisions, and helping to ensure that our countryside and the places people walk, essential to health and wellbeing, are safeguarded.

Skills and Experience Required

You should have a passion for walking and for the preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of the county. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities' planning process is not essential but would be an advantage. The role is suitable for someone who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written and spoken form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.