91 Homelessness volunteer roles

Tell stories that make a difference.

We're looking for a creative Volunteer Service Comms & Admin Support Volunteer to help share the stories of the incredible volunteers supporting women across London. If you enjoy writing, photography, Canva, newsletters, social media, or creating engaging content, this could be the perfect opportunity.

You'll help bring volunteer experiences to life, contribute to our quarterly newsletter, improve our website content, and support communications that celebrate the impact of volunteering at Housing for Women. No professional communications background required, just enthusiasm, creativity, and a passion for making a difference.

As part of the Government led Communities for Afghans programme, we are looking to recruit individuals or groups (UK BASED ONLY) 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 focused 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 families 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

Full training and expenses covered.

Refugee Support Volunteer

Location: Folkestone, Kent (Wednesdays 12:00pm to 4:00pm) or Dartford, Kent (Fridays 10:00am to 1:00pm)
Time commitment: One half-day per week

Preferred commitment: We welcome applications from anyone able to volunteer regularly. While there is no minimum commitment, volunteers who stay for six months or longer often have the greatest impact and consistency for the refugees we support and allows volunteers to gain the most from their experience.

Expenses: Travel and lunch expenses reimbursed in line with our volunteer expenses policy.

Help Refugees Build Confidence and Independence

Do you want to make a meaningful difference in your local community?

The Refugee Council is looking for compassionate and enthusiastic volunteers to support refugees who have recently been resettled in Kent. This is a rewarding opportunity to help people rebuild their lives, develop confidence and become more independent as they settle into their new communities.

You do not need previous experience of working with refugees. We are looking for people who are patient, supportive, reliable and committed to helping others thrive. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

About the Role

As a Refugee Support Volunteer, you will work alongside our Kent Resettlement Team, helping refugees gain the confidence and skills needed to access services independently and participate fully in community life.

You may support people to:

• Learn how to use digital services and online accounts
• Access NHS, Universal Credit and immigration-related online systems
• Build confidence using email, websites and mobile apps
• Understand appointment booking systems and telephone services
• Discover local activities, services and community groups
• Develop social connections and reduce isolation
• Build confidence communicating directly with services and organisations

This is a person-centred role focused on encouraging independence through coaching and guided support rather than doing things for people.

Who We're Looking For

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and life experiences.

Someone who has:

• An Interest in refugee issues and social justice
• Good communication and listening skills
• Basic digital confidence
• Reliability and professionalism
• Respect for people from diverse backgrounds
• A willingness to learn and work as part of a team

You may be:

• Already involved in your local community and wanting to make a difference
• A student looking to gain experience in the charity sector
• Someone considering a career in social work, education, housing, health or community development
• Retired and looking to use your skills to support others in your local community

A second language is welcome but not essential.

What You'll Gain

Volunteering with the Refugee Council offers the chance to:

• Gain practical experience supporting refugees within a professional resettlement service
• Develop coaching, communication and interpersonal skills
• Learn about refugee experiences and the UK resettlement programme
• Build experience within the voluntary and community sector
• Receive comprehensive induction and role-specific training
• Access training and development opportunities
• Work alongside experienced refugee support professionals
• Strengthen skills relevant to careers across the charity, public and community sectors

About Refugee Council

The Refugee Council is one of the UK's leading organisations supporting refugees and people seeking asylum. We work to help people rebuild their lives safely, integrate into local communities and achieve independence.

Our values are: Inclusive • Collaborative • Courageous • Respectful

Interested?

We would love to hear from you.

Help refugees rebuild their lives in Kent. Volunteer with the Refugee Council today.

About Us

The Beacon Project is a community-focused programme providing confidential advice, connection, and learning opportunities for residents in the World’s End area. Through weekly coffee mornings, group sessions, and a befriending service that matches individuals with friendly Connectors for regular meet-ups, Beacon helps reduce isolation and build meaningful local relationships. We also offer free, practical support on issues such as benefits and housing, helping people understand their options and access the advice they need. The programme is delivered as a partnership between Family Friends and Nucleus Legal Advice Centre.

About the Role

As a Legal Advice Volunteer, you will be the first point of contact for many of our clients, providing a welcoming and professional service while supporting our advice team. You will play an important role in helping people access the advice and support they need, while gaining valuable experience in legal advice and community engagement.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone interested in legal advice, social justice, policy, or community development who wants to gain practical experience while making a meaningful difference.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out initial triage to assess advice needs and, where appropriate, signpost clients to relevant services.

• Analyse information from advice cases to identify recurring issues and patterns affecting residents.

• Assist clients in completing income and expenditure forms and budgeting plans.

• Help gather evidence from client experiences to support service improvement and advocacy.

• Support projects and campaigns focused on digital inclusion, accessibility, and reducing barriers to online services

• Support the delivery of drop-in advice sessions.

• Complete benefit checks and applications.

• Work collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and community partners to achieve shared objectives.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Beacon Project is committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and experiences. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and during volunteering to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and thrive.

We believe that a diverse team helps us better serve the residents of World's End Estate and strengthens our work within the community.

Expenses

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. Reasonable travel and food expenses will be reimbursed. Further information on claiming expenses will be provided during the interview stage.

Chair of the Board — United St Saviour's Charity

For almost 500 years, we've supported Southwark's communities. Now we're looking for a new Chair to help lead our next chapter — including delivering the RIBA Stirling Prize-winning legacy of Appleby Blue into a bold ten-year strategy.

United St Saviour's Charity is a place-based community investor in Southwark, providing almshouses, grant-funding and community programmes that build resilience and connection across the borough. Over the last decade we've nearly doubled our housing provision and delivered Appleby Blue — a social housing development for older people that went on to win the RIBA Stirling Prize, the UK's most prestigious architecture award.

This role is for you if:

• You have board leadership experience, ideally including previous experience chairing a board or significant committee
• You've held senior leadership roles within a medium-to-large charity or purpose-driven organisation, ideally through periods of growth, complexity or strategic change
• You bring strength in one or more of: housing and property development, organisational governance, community development, or finance and accounting
• You have a genuine, lived or learned understanding of Southwark and its communities
• You're as comfortable challenging and questioning as you are supporting — leading with influence rather than authority

What you'll do

As Chair, you'll lead our Board of Trustees and work in close partnership with our Chief Executive, Martyn Craddock, providing support, guidance and constructive challenge to help the organisation deliver its strategic plan. You'll ensure the charity remains well governed, financially sustainable, and focused on delivering lasting impact for the people of Southwark — while acting as an ambassador for our values, purpose and reputation, including in situations that require urgent decision-making.

You'll be joining at a pivotal moment: we're scaling up our housing development pipeline, delivering a new Community Investment Strategy for 2025–2030, and increasingly being asked to share what we've learned with other boroughs and housing providers as our national influence grows.

Location and time commitment

Based in the London Borough of Southwark — Board and committee meetings take place at our offices and almshouses. This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses met) requiring approximately 2–3 days a month, including four Board meetings a year, a Strategy and Reflection Day, and membership of one to two committees.

How to apply

Send a CV and covering letter to Alison Benzimra, Director of Strategy and Operations by 14 October 2026, setting out why you're interested and how your skills, experience and background fit what we're looking for. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to interview with a panel drawn from the Board in 23 November 2026.

TRUSTEE MARY WARD SETTLEMENT

Stratford London hybrid

Unpaid role

Voluntary

Education, legal and community services

Actively interviewing

Job Description

Join the Boards of the Mary Ward Settlement, the Mary Ward Legal Centre and the Blackfriars Settlement at a pivotal time for the charities, as the Settlement has relocated to purpose-built accommodation in Stratford. The Mary Ward Settlement has a proud heritage as part of the Settlement Movement which developed in the late 19th Century as a response to urban poverty and social problems arising from industrialisation. Mary Ward founded the Settlement in 1892 to “provide public education and social service for the benefit of the community” at a time and in an area where great wealth and great deprivation stood side by side, much as they do today – the Settlement’s work continues to be important.

Currently the Settlement delivers its services via:

· The Mary Ward Centre – an Institute of Adult Learning and an adult and community learning provider offering a wide range of learning opportunities for local and pan London residents funded primarily by the Greater London Authority.  Most accredited provision is at Level 2 or below in Essential Skills (ESOL, English and Maths and Digital Skills.  There is also a significant and thriving non-accredited offer of courses ranging from 12 weeks to one day workshops, the majority of which are Art and Design. 

· The Mary Ward Legal Centre – providing free specialist legal advice on housing, welfare benefits and debt. We also provide free legal advice as part of our pro bono clinic in the areas of employment, housing, small claims, consumer, and family.

· The Blackfriars Settlement – providing services to the community including health and well-being for older people, and mental health and wellbeing services to support people achieve their goals and stay well.

The Settlement is looking for people who are passionate about social justice, lifelong learning and education, and the importance of strong local communities to foster wellbeing for all. This is an opportunity to:

· Apply your skills and experience in a leadership role.

· Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV

· Support a vital organisation during a time of transformation

· Contribute to the local community.

As part of the Board, you will:

· Set strategic direction

· Hold leadership to account

· Ensure governance excellence

· Act as a charity trustee and company director ensuring financial sustainability and legal compliance.

We welcome people who have knowledge and experience of working in the following areas including but not limited to:

· Education, particularly with Adult and Community Learning, FE or Local Authority experience

· Finance, Audit and RIsk

· IT and cyber security

· Legal, Governance and Compliance

· Marketing, HR, Communications and PR

· Fund Raising

· Health and wellbeing

· Charity

· Community work, including volunteering in your local community

Most meetings are remote, but two or three meetings a year will take place in Stratford, East London.

Who We Are

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. (TMTSD) is a survivor-led organisation being established to create a platform for truth-telling, accountability, community healing and meaningful social change.

Our work centres the voices and experiences of people who have historically been ignored, silenced or left behind by existing systems.

TMTSD is a developing podcast and documentary storytelling platform designed to create space for real human experiences — particularly stories connected to childhood sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, survival, resilience and social neglect.

However, TMTSD is intended to become more than a storytelling organisation.

It is being developed as one of the organisations through which a much broader vision can be explored, developed and ultimately brought into reality.

TMTSD is a sister organisation of The SHG Family Group Corp, which is being established as a long-term innovation, creativity and closed-membership ecosystem focused on addressing significant social and economic challenges through technology, education, social infrastructure, sustainable enterprise and international collaboration.

SHG's long-term vision includes the development of interconnected initiatives across areas such as:

• Renewable Energy
• AI/Social/Community Housing
• Artificial Intelligence
• Education
• Cybersecurity
• Healthcare & Family Wellness
• Economic Development
• International Development
• Social Infrastructure
• Public-Private Partnerships
• Emerging Technologies
• Other strategically important sectors

The ambition is not simply to create individual projects.

It is to develop interconnected systems, organisations and initiatives capable of creating sustainable economic and social opportunity while improving quality of life — particularly for young people and communities across the Global South.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an exceptional Founding Director / Political Affairs Strategist to establish and lead the Political Intelligence Strategic Relations and Partnerships function within Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C.

This is one of the most strategically important founding positions within the organisation.

The purpose of this department is to help move the SHG vision from concept to reality.

Many of the initiatives being contemplated within the SHG ecosystem will ultimately require relationships with:

• National governments
• Government ministries
• Local and regional authorities
• Public bodies
• Regulators
• International organisations
• Development institutions
• Universities and research institutions
• Major corporations
• Foundations
• Strategic investors
• Public-private partnership bodies
• International development organisations
• Other major institutional stakeholders

The Political Affairs function will therefore serve as a strategic bridge between SHG's ambitions and the institutions capable of helping those ambitions become real-world programmes, partnerships and infrastructure.

We are looking for someone capable of building that bridge.

Your Mission

Your central mission will be:

Build the Political Intelligence Strategic Relations and Partnerships (P.I.S.R.P) function within TMTSD into a capability that helps turn SHG's strategic initiatives and long-term vision into credible government, institutional and international partnerships.

You will help establish the relationships, strategies, structures and institutional pathways required for SHG's initiatives to progress from ideas and concepts into viable programmes, organisations, partnerships and real-world projects.

This means understanding not only how governments work, but also:

who needs to be involved, why they would become involved, what value SHG can provide, what conditions need to exist for collaboration, and how an initial relationship can develop into a meaningful long-term institutional partnership.

Your Role as Founding Director

You will become the founding architect of TMTSD's P.I.S.R.P function.

Your role will include determining:

• Which countries should be prioritised.
• Which government sectors are strategically relevant.
• Which ministries, departments and public bodies should be engaged.
• Which international institutions should be approached.
• Which SHG initiatives are ready for government engagement.
• Which initiatives require further development before approaching government.
• What SHG's government proposition should be.
• What value SHG can credibly offer governments and institutions.
• Which relationships should be developed.
• Which relationships should be escalated to senior leadership.
• What constitutes a qualified government opportunity.
• How government engagement should be structured.
• How government relationships should be maintained.
• How government intelligence should flow through SHG.
• What future international Political Affairs offices should look like.
• What type of people should eventually represent SHG in different countries and regions.

Your Strategic Mandate

You will be given the following founding mandate:

"Establish the P.I.S.R.P function within Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. and build the institutional pathways through which SHG's strategic initiatives can become reality."

The objective is to create a department capable of looking at an SHG initiative and asking:

What would it take to make this real?

Then determining:

• Which country?
• Which government?
• Which ministry?
• Which public institution?
• Which strategic partners?
• Which policy environment?
• Which regulatory requirements?
• Which funding mechanisms?
• Which institutional relationships?
• Which political and governmental stakeholders?
• Which sequence of engagement?
• Which leadership involvement?
• Which risks?
• Which opportunities?

The department should ultimately become the function that can say:

"This is how we take an SHG initiative from concept to institutional reality."

Core Responsibilities

The Founding Director will be responsible for building the function from the ground up, including:

Government Strategy

• Develop TMTSD/SHG's government-affairs strategy.
• Establish government-engagement principles and protocols.
• Develop country and jurisdiction prioritisation frameworks.
• Identify government sectors relevant to SHG initiatives.
• Monitor political, governmental, policy and regulatory developments.
• Provide strategic government-affairs intelligence to SHG leadership.

What We Are Looking For

We are not primarily looking for someone with a political science degree.

We are looking for someone who has actually operated around government, institutions and senior decision-makers.

Ideally, your career will include experience across combinations of:

• Government Affairs
• Public Affairs
• Government Relations
• Public Policy
• International Development
• Public-Sector Partnerships
• Diplomacy
• Government Contracting
• Ministerial or Government Offices
• International Organisations
• Regulatory Affairs
• Institutional Partnerships
• Major Corporations dealing with Government
• Strategic Stakeholder Engagement

Experience operating across multiple countries, jurisdictions or political systems would be particularly valuable.

Qualifications / Experience

Ideally, you will have:

• 5+ years' experience in government affairs, public affairs, government relations, policy, diplomacy, international development, public-sector partnerships or a closely related field.
• Demonstrable experience engaging with government departments, ministries, public bodies, senior officials or institutional decision-makers.
• Strong understanding of political and governmental systems.
• Strong stakeholder-management capabilities.
• Strong strategic-thinking ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience developing senior institutional relationships.
• Strong political and institutional judgement.
• Understanding of ethical government engagement and compliance boundaries.
• Ability to operate across cultures and jurisdictions.
• Ability to work independently and build a new function from the ground up.

Exceptional candidates may be considered with a different combination of experience where they demonstrate significant government, institutional or strategic capability.

The Person We Are Looking For

You understand that government affairs is not simply about knowing politicians.

It is about understanding systems.

You understand the difference between:

an introduction → a relationship → an opportunity → a partnership → an institutional programme.

You know how to navigate complex organisations. You know how to identify who actually matters within an institution. You can build credibility with senior stakeholders. You are politically aware without being politically partisan. You understand discretion, integrity and confidentiality. You are diplomatic without being passive. You are strategic without losing sight of execution.

You can take an ambitious idea and begin asking the practical institutional questions required to make it real.

You are comfortable with uncertainty. You enjoy building things that do not yet exist.

You think internationally. You think in decades rather than months. You care about creating meaningful social and economic impact. And importantly:

You want to build a function, not simply occupy a position.

The Founding Leadership Opportunity

This position is initially offered as an unpaid volunteer/member founding leadership opportunity during Phase 1.

The intention is to build the function alongside the organisation rather than create a permanent unpaid executive position.

As TMTSD and the wider SHG ecosystem develop, secure funding, establish operational entities and generate sustainable economic activity, appropriate paid executive positions will be created subject to organisational growth, governance, funding and operational requirements.

The successful Founding Director will therefore have the opportunity to help design the function they may ultimately lead.

To Apply

Please send:

• Your CV, portfolio or LinkedIn profile, if available.
• A short introduction about yourself.
• A summary of your government, public-affairs, policy or institutional experience.

We are particularly interested in understanding what you have actually done, the environments in which you have operated, the complexity of the relationships you have managed, and how you think strategically.

We're looking for Reception volunteers across our offices in South West Surrey: Cranleigh, Farnham, Godalming, Guildford, Haslemere. 

What will you do?

• complete an introduction to Citizens Advice and training for your role
• welcome clients and other visitors to the local Citizens Advice
• explain to the client how long they might be waiting and what will happen and give out a form for clients to fill in
• type up information from the client form onto a spreadsheet or database
• answer the telephone, reply to emails and post
• help with the day to day running of the Citizens Advice service

What’s in it for you?
• gain and build on valuable skills and experience such as communication, IT skills and working in a team
• increase your employability
• contribute to the smooth running of the advice service which makes a real difference to peoples’ lives
• work with a range of different people, independently and in a team.

And we’ll reimburse your travel expenses too.

What do you need to have?
You don’t need specific qualifications or skills but you’ll need to:
• be friendly and approachable
• be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
• have good IT skills
• be calm under pressure
• be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principlesand policies, including confidentiality and data protection
• be willing to undertake training in your role

How much time do you need to give?

We ask for a commitment of 1 day a week for 12 months at least.

Valuing inclusion

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from racially minoritised people/people of colour, disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBTQ+ and non-binary people.
If you are interested in becoming a customer service volunteer / reception volunteer and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us.

Contact details
To apply, please email to request a Volunteer Application Form.

Our small friendly Charity Shop in South Westminster

As well as being an important source of revenue for the Centre, the shop on Horseferry Road is the public face of the Cardinal Hume Centre to the residents and workers of Westminster. It can be a very busy environment with lots of regular customers. You will be part of a friendly, international team!  You will receive excellent support and opportunities to learn team skills and customer service.  You can obtain a reference for future employers.

How does this role make a difference?

You will be part of the fundraising team, raising funds to support the work of the Cardinal Hume Centre and promoting the work of the Centre to the public.

What will you be doing?

Flexibility will be given where possible, but in general, volunteers will undertake the following tasks as part of this role:

· Customer service on the till

· Cashing up at the end of the day and walking the takings round to the reception and handing in to Finance Team

· Greeting and helping customers

· Replenishing the stock on the shop floor

· Sorting donations

· Helping present top items in window display and around the shop

· Promoting the work of the Centre to the public

Want to increase your skills in retail?

If you want to develop in this role, we are keen to support you.  There are more responsibilities you can take on in the shop, for example; opening and closing the shop, cashing up at the end of the day and helping with the induction of new volunteers.  Let us know if this interests you.  We also have employment advisors who can provide employment support.  Furthermore, if you want to expand your experience in the voluntary sector, you can combine your role in the shop with a volunteer role elsewhere in the organisation.

What are we looking for?

No special qualifications are needed to work in our shop, as relevant training will be given, however, we will be asking for the following qualities:

· Over 18+

· Good spoken English needed – at least Entry Level 3

· The ability to contribute to a positive team culture and atmosphere

· Be able to provide a friendly, high-quality service to customers

· A commitment to equal opportunities and to treating all individuals who visit or work in the shop with dignity and respect

· Physically fit - able to lift light bags and boxes and to comfortably use the stairs between the shop floor and the stock room.  Manual handling training will be given.

What is the time commitment?

The shop opening hours are 10am – 4.30pm, Monday – Friday.  A full or half day (10 – 1pm or 1 – 4.30pm) is ideal, but weare flexible and are grateful for even a couple of hours help each week. Ideally, volunteers will commit to a period of at least 4 months.

How will you be supported?

· You will be supported and trained in all areas of retail and customer service by the Charity Shop Manager and the Assistant Shop Manager.

· You will receive a Centre induction from a Volunteer Coordinator

· You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out-of-pocket’ expenses such as travel and also lunch if working a full day.

· For volunteers who stay for more than three months, we are happy to provide a reference.

Action for Refugees in Lewisham is looking for a trustee to act as secretary, supporting the board's governance role helping AFRIL deliver for refugees and vulnerable migrants in south-east London. Time commitment is flexible, and not onerous, and formal company secretary functions are supported by a member of staff.

AFRIL was founded in 2006 to support asylum seekers, vulnerable migrants and refugees in south-east London to lift themselves out of poverty and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. Our support is holistic: both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes that tackle the underlying problems that lead to crisis, supporting people to integrate, contribute and thrive. We work in the community across south-east London, including in local asylum hotels.

We are a small charity, with mostly part-time staff, but we make a significant difference. Our client group is predominantly people in, or with experience of, the asylum system. We also support newly granted refugees, and migrants with no recourse to public funds who have complex and unmet protection needs.

AFRIL's board of trustees is collectively responsible for supporting and challenging the charity to oversee its good governance and proper financial control in line with its charitable aims and strategic plan, charity law, and all other relevant legislation. The time required of trustees is not onerous, and is flexible - although it is, of course, possible to take on more responsibility and expand your time commitment.

As a board member, you will be expected to be available for board meetings approximately every two months, which are generally an hour and a half long and take place in a weekday evening. These mostly take place online, with occasional hybrid meetings or meetings in-person.

As secretary to the board, you will be responsible for the timetabling of meetings, the agenda, and for taking and sharing a minute of board meetings – just main points and actions – to support the board in carrying out our remit. You may also assist with other areas of support to the governance for the charity, such as ensuring that we maintain regular review of the organisation’s policies, and providing some assistance from time to time to the member of staff leading on liaison with the Charity Commission and Companies House.

You will also need to be able to commit some ad hoc time to consider papers ahead of meetings, and occasionally to take part in email discussion on issues as they arise. You would also be expected to attend the charity’s AGM, which tends to take place on a Saturday afternoon in January/February.

We value diversity in our trustee team, as we do in the staff team. We particularly welcome applications from anyone who can bring lived experience of the immigration and asylum system, and are always keen to see applications from people with experience with fundraising, or with HR. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.

To apply, please submit a short (no more than one side of A4) letter explaining why you would like to join AFRIL’s board, and what skills and experience you would bring to the role, along with your CV.

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Treasurer and Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee

Remuneration: Like most Trustee roles, these roles are unremunerated

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Start date:  As soon as possible

Benefits:  In addition to making a real difference in the lives of and deepening your understanding of youth organising,, you will receive:

• Safeguarding Training and support in developing expertise here
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred in your role

At The Advocacy Academy, we envision a world where young people with lived experience of injustice (LEofI) harness their collective power to shape a more fair, just, and equal society. Our mission is to organise and support these young people to drive systemic change on the most pressing issues of our time. 

We do this by offering deep coaching, delivering transformative leadership programmes, and creating clear pathways for sustained action. Through shared learning and community-building, we help young leaders build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to launch and lead proactive campaigns. We also recognise that real change starts from within - so we’re committed to a governance structure that is values-driven, participatory, and beyond reproach, ensuring TAA is as accountable to young people as it is to the communities we serve and its wider responsibilities.

We’re now looking to recruit two new Trustees to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in one or more of the following areas: Finance, Treasurer, Community Organising and Campaigns.

Trustees of The Advocacy Academy play a unique role in delivery of our mission. They are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation, represent it to the community, and accept ultimate compliance authority for the charity and its activities. As a Trustee with experience in the UK’s youth sector, you will support the Board and the Executives in ensuring that TAA continues to deliver an exceptional quality of youth work, and the role that safeguarding plays in achieving this. As a trustee:

• Work with the Chair, Trustees and Senior Leadership team (SLT) to ensure there is a clear, long-term and strategic vision The Advocacy Academy.
• Work with the Board to ensure we function within the financial requirements of a UK registered charity and company, our constitution and that we strive for best practice
• Take responsibility with the other trustees so that the charity has effective practice to safeguard the people it works with
• Act as an ambassador, spokesperson and champion our work supporting our income activities, and fostering networks that can help generate income.

About Our Board of Trustees

• Our Board currently consists of six members, recruited, selected, and approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Each trustee serves a three-year term, and we are made up of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• The Board meets quarterly (four times per year) to provide strategic oversight and governance. Operations/day to day are managed by the Executives.
• Given the size of the board, we expect all trustees to join at least one subcommittee meeting per year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. The subcommittee meets are typically held prior to full Board meetings.
• Board meetings are held at our Liberation Centre in Brixton and subcommittee meets are held virtually
• The role of trustee is voluntary, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• Trustees are expected to prepare in advance by reading reports and meeting papers, and are also warmly invited to attend our events throughout the year.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

1. The Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee - will provide mobilisation and campaigns governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Director of Organising and Campaigns and fellow trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic oversight of The Advocacy Academy’s organising and campaigning activities and priorities.
• Ensure campaigns are ethical, legally compliant, and aligned with the organisation’s values.
• Support the development of effective, youth-led organising and campaigning strategies.
• Offer insight into advocacy trends, movement-building, and political landscapes.
• Serve as a sounding board for the team, offering critical friend feedback without operational interference.
• Help the board assess risks and opportunities related to public positioning, reputation, and partnerships.
• Good governance, diversity and teamwork are at the core of the Board’s values. We want to ensure trustees represent the young people we work with and we are particularly interested in applications from people with lived experience.

2. The Treasurer - will provide charity financial governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Finance Director and the Finance & Risk Committee and fellow Trustees, they will:

• Provide support on financial oversight and ensure compliance with relevant charity and regulatory requirements.
• Review and co-present financial reports and key insights to the Board of Trustees.
• Actively participate in the Finance and Risk Committee, ensuring effective financial scrutiny.
• Strategic contribution to long-term financial and fundraising planning and support the organisation’s risk management framework.
• Attend Finance and Risk subcommittee meetings quarterly

PERSON SPECIFICATION  

1. The Campaigning/Mobilisation Trustee -

• Understanding of power-building, community organising, or movement strategy (essential).
• Experience in grassroots organising and campaigns, advocacy, or social justice movements.
• Familiarity with political or social justice contexts in the UK.
• Willingness to support youth leadership and work in solidarity with young campaigners.
• Previous board or governance experience is helpful but not essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

2. The Treasurer -

• Proven expertise in charity fundraising and financial management.
• Experience of charity finance and fundraising is essential.
• Experience of supporting organisational growth
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

EXPECTATIONS & ENTITLEMENT  

• Attend at least one training programme that we run, so that you understand the work we deliver
• Attend trustee meetings, which are held four times a year in London or virtually, and last between 3-4 hours - trustees are expected to attend at least three each year.
• Participate in one of our sub-committees as may be required by the trustee role.
• Demonstrate commitment to The Advocacy Academy by supporting fundraising efforts.
• Serve for a term of three years and be able to stand for re-election for a further term and
• possibly two.
• Work with the Chair to review your performance
• Claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses to attend meetings

This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Trustee roles, it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of The Advocacy Academy’s board. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holders.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply to be our Trustee by sending your CV together with a supporting statement to us - Your supporting statement should explain why you would like to be our Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the specific Trustee role and Requirements above. 

If you have any questions please email us using the email listed on the job description

DATES  

Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 24th September 2026 at 10:00am.

First Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for 28th -30th September 2026 (Dates are subject to change)

Second Round of Interviews: will be scheduled for 6th -7th October 2026 (Dates are subject to change)

A NOTE ON USING AI TOOLS IN YOUR APPLICATION

We understand that AI tools like ChatGPT can be helpful when preparing an application, and you’re welcome to use them as a support. However, we’re most interested in hearing directly from you. Please ensure your application reflects your own voice, experiences, and perspective.

We value the unique insights, lived experiences, and ways of thinking that each candidate brings. These are what help us understand who you are and what you would bring to the role, and they are an important part of how we assess applications.

If you require any adjustments or support during the application process, please don’t hesitate to let us know. we’re committed to making our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible.

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US  

We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.
As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims, and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required. 

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your application if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not “protected” (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013)). We consider each person on their own merits, taking into account all the circumstances.

Do you want to make a real difference?

At Oxfam, we're not just selling pre-loved items and unique finds – we're working together to build a radically better world. With your help, we will turn pre-loved treasures into resources that empower communities worldwide.

As a stock volunteer, you'll be behind-the-scenes, sorting and organising donations to keep our retail spaces well-stocked. Your keen eye for detail and passion for helping others will ensure our customers always have a great choice of items to buy.

Here's why Oxfam is the perfect opportunity for you:

Be a Second-hand Superhero: In our high street shops, Ecommerce Hubs and Online Shop, people like you help create exciting and inspiring collections – retail therapy with a purpose!

Increase Your Skills: Gain valuable retail experience you can add to your CV, such as following instructions, customer service, and teamwork.

Find Your Community: Meet like-minded people who share your passion for a fairer world.

Flexibility: We know life gets busy. That's why we offer flexible volunteering options. A few hours a week is all it takes to make a big difference.

Oxfam isn't just another charity shop. We're a movement of passionate individuals working to create a fairer world, and we’d love you to be a part of it!

What happens next?

After you apply, the manager will ask you to come in for an initial chat. This is not an interview, just a chance to get an idea of what you'd like to do in the shop. From there, you can meet the rest of the volunteer team and get involved with whatever area of the shop takes your interest!

As an Outreach Volunteer, you will help raise awareness of the Beacon Partnership and the support we provide to individuals and the local community. You will play an important role in helping people learn about our services, activities, events and volunteering opportunities. 

This is a friendly, community-focused role that is ideal for someone who enjoys meeting people, communicating with others and getting involved in local activities. 

Bid Writer Role Description

What will you be doing?

We are excited to announce an incredible opportunity for a talented Bid Writer to join our passionate team at the Africa Health Organisation (AHO)!  Since 1999, we've been dedicated to delivering health and social care to millions across Africa and the Diaspora, and now we're ready to elevate our impact further.

This year, we're embarking on a mission to broaden our funding strategy by incorporating bids and tenders.  Our goal is to engage with the governments in Africa and the UK, the public sector, and the public, providing essential practical and emotional support to those facing chronic conditions.  We need a visionary like you to help us achieve our goals.

We're seeking a dynamic and experienced Bid Writer to assist the Bid Manager and Head of Bids in developing and executing a winning strategy to secure the necessary financial backing.  There are numerous exciting possibilities ahead, including central government tenders, as well as local and statutory opportunities.  We're eager to explore them all.

In this pivotal role, you'll assist the Bid Manager in planning and executing our bids and tender writing, ensuring our bid proposals not only shine but also come to life in meaningful ways.  If you're a bid writer who thrives on creativity and collaboration, we want to hear from you!  Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and mentor volunteers within our bid and tender team, making a positive impact together.  Join us on this exciting journey!

What are we looking for?

Person Specification: What You'll Bring:

• Educated to a degree level
• At least one year of proven experience in bid and tender management, preferably within the healthcare (NHS & private), medical, social care and services, international development, economics, international relations, UN agencies, ege, UNICEF, WHO, etc, or technology sectors.
• End-to-end bid management experience: A minimum of 3 years' experience leading the whole bid process.
• Preferred qualifications include a degree in Business, Communication, Marketing, Creative Writing, English or equivalent.
• APMP Certification is also desirable, but not important.
• Sector versatility: Experience in working with both public and private sector bids in the medical, biotech, biomed, health and social sectors is preferred.
• Industry knowledge: Understanding of contact centres and/or customer experience is essential.
• Commercial acumen: Strong business sense, negotiation skills, and a hands-on approach.
• Resilience under pressure: Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Detail orientation: High attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Growth mindset: Self-motivated, proactive, and focused on continuous improvement.
• Strong communicator: Confident and articulate, with the ability to build trusted relationships across stakeholders.
• Time management: Skilled at prioritising tasks and managing competing deadlines.

What difference will you make?

In this exciting role, you will lead the strategic effort to win new business through competitive bids, tenders, and proposals, ultimately driving AHO's success. Your specialised knowledge will enhance our win rates and maximise revenue by bringing clarity, quality, and coordination to what can be a complex and high-stakes journey.

Your primary mission is to boost AHO's tender win rates and strengthen our strategic advantage.  By diligently overseeing each step of the bidding process—from initial evaluation to final submission—you will significantly improve the quality and persuasion of our proposals, directly increasing our chances of securing valuable contracts.

You'll provide key insights to help the Bid Manager target the most promising opportunities by implementing a thoughtful "bid/no-bid" process.  This approach will ensure we focus only on lucrative and winnable contracts that closely align with our strategic goals, ultimately saving time and resources and allowing us to prioritise high-potential projects.

In this role, you will orchestrate a well-coordinated process that drives operational efficiency. Acting as the central point of contact, you will gather input from diverse internal teams—sales, finance, legal, and technical experts—ensuring everyone collaborates smoothly to meet critical deadlines.

As a self-starter, you'll elevate the quality of our bid content.  By overseeing the creation of compelling, polished materials, you'll ensure that our final submissions are professional, cohesive, and error-free. You will utilise a centralised content library filled with valuable resources, such as case studies and CVs, to streamline our efforts and enhance our proposals.

You will keep projects on track by developing detailed project plans and timelines, ensuring that all tasks are completed punctually—especially critical in the fast-paced environment of tender submissions.  Your effective management will ease the workload for colleagues focused on their core responsibilities, allowing the entire team to shine.

To foster long-term business growth, you'll create a wealth of knowledge around our tenders and bids. By conducting insightful post-submission debriefs and analysing feedback, you will capture invaluable lessons from both successes and setbacks.  This ongoing improvement process will enhance our bidding capabilities for future opportunities.

You can also enhance AHO's brand reputation by submitting well-organised, accurate, and compliant bids.  By doing so, you'll showcase our professionalism and reliability to clients, building trust and solidifying our credible standing in the market.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone passionate about fundraising, social impact, and business development.  If you're eager to apply your skills to drive meaningful change, we'd love to hear from you!