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YMCA DownsLink Group (YMCA DLG) is the leading charity supporting children and young people across Sussex and Surrey through safe homes, mental health support and trusted advice. Following a significant period of organisational stabilisation and transformation, we are now entering an ambitious new phase focused on growth, influence and deepening our impact.
YMCA DownsLink Group is proud to be a member of the Federation of YMCA England and Wales.
Our purpose - every child and young person has the right to be safe, heard and to shape their own future. We work alongside them to make that happen.
Our values - we do what’s right. We work with heart. We build real connection.
About the role
The Chair plays a pivotal role in guiding the Board and supporting the CEO, ensuring that governance is strong and aligned with the organisation’s values, strategic goals and founding Christian principles.
As a leader, the Chair shapes the culture, champions inclusivity and drives the strategic direction of the organisation.
This is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people through a dynamic and highly respected organisation.
Who we are looking for
We are looking for a values-led and collaborative leader who is genuinely excited by the opportunity to chair an ambitious organisation at an important moment in its journey. With a bold new strategy, strong foundations and a talented executive team in place, this is a compelling opportunity to help shape what comes next for children and young people across Sussex and Surrey.
You will be an experienced Chair or senior board-level leader, bringing a progressive, strategic mindset and a strong track record of creating the conditions for high-quality dialogue and sound decision-making. You will strike the right balance between support and constructive challenge, applying emotional intelligence to cultivate a trusted and effective partnership with the CEO and executive team.
You will demonstrate an active Christian faith alongside a genuine passion for our purpose and values, aligning personal conviction with organisational mission.
Time commitment - approximately one day per month on average.
This is an unpaid role; however, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. The initial term of appointment is three years.
We are working with Peridot Partners, who are supporting us with the recruitment of this role. Please click on 'Redirect to recruiter' button on this advert to be redirected to the the full role details and contact details for further information/to arrange a confidential discussion with our advising consultant at Peridot Partners.
Closing date: 9am Tuesday 21 July
Our mission is to help children and young people have a fair chance to be who they want to be.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Fight for Home Group Chair [Bristol]
Are you keen to use your creative energy or leadership skills to bring people together to fight for home?
Information about the role
This role will lead and shape our Fight for Home group. This will involve organising meetings, communicating with other group members and keeping the group engaged and enthusiastic.
With a team of other volunteers you’ll come up with ideas, plans and deliver fundraising events. As well as raising funds, you’ll also be sharing awareness of the local housing emergency within your local area.
Location: Bristol
Suggested contribution: It’s flexible, but at least once a month, with potential for more volunteering in the lead up to an event.
Availability: This is a flexible opportunity, with meetings and events likely to take place in evenings and weekends.
The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.
Main activities may include:
Leading a Fight for Home group, including communicating with other volunteers.
Organising and hosting meetings with your Fight for Home group.
Encouraging group members to come up with fundraising ideas.
Leading the group to design and host fundraising events.
Inspiring your network of contacts to support your fundraising events.
Attending local events such as Rotary meetings or community fairs to raise awareness of Shelter and collect donations.
Speaking about what we do and promoting national campaigns in your community
Raising awareness of our local Community Hubs
This role fights the housing emergency by raising funds that enable Shelter to provide advice and support and campaigning for change. The events you’ll be attending are also great for raising awareness of the housing emergency and how people can get involved to help tackle it.
Benefits of volunteering with Shelter
Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering.
We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity.
Your skills and experience
Creativity and organisational skills may be useful, and you’ll need to be willing to collaborate as part of a team. But the most important thing is that you are passionate about joining our fight for home!
Supporting you
You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook.
The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.
You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.
You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders.
Next steps
You can apply for this role by clicking ‘fill in an application’. If you need to apply by an alternative method, please contact us.
We will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further.
Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information.
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The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)
Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.
�� Core Expectations
Fundraising Commitment:
Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).
Time Commitment:
Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.
Ambassadorship:
Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.
Governance & Accountability:
Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.
Strategic Leadership:
Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.
Passion for the Mission:
Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.
�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS
Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.
Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.
Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.
Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.
Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.
Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.
�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)
We are looking for leaders who are:
Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.
Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.
Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.
Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.
Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.
Position: Board of Director - Fundraising & Partnerships Expert (Unpaid Volunteer Role)
Reports to: Board Chairperson
Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)
Purpose: To lead all donor relations, sponsorships, and income-generation initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Identify and engage high-value donors, sponsors, and investors.
Create innovative fundraising campaigns and grant proposals.
Build long-term relationships with corporations and philanthropists.
Collaborate with the marketing team for event-based fundraising.
Mentor board members in effective fundraising techniques.
Requirements/Skills:
Experience in fundraising, business development, or grant writing.
Strong negotiation and networking abilities.
Passion for social causes and storytelling.
Benefits:
Access to elite philanthropic and corporate networks.
Recognition as a key force in funding life-changing housing and support programs.
Direct involvement in shaping financial growth strategy.
Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.
At Guardian Light Foundation, we restore hope for homeless children, teens and single parents scarred by abuse, harassment and homelessness.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits Our Mission
Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.
We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.
BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)
Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.
Core Expectations
Fundraising Commitment:
Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).
Time Commitment:
Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.
Ambassadorship:
Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.
Governance & Accountability:
Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.
Strategic Leadership:
Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.
Passion for the Mission:
Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.
OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS
Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.
Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.
Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.
Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.
Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.
Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)
We are looking for leaders who are:
Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.
Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.
Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.
Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.
Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.
Position: Board of Director - Socially Connected Ambassador (Unpaid Volunteer Role)
Reports to: Board Chairperson
Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)
Purpose: To leverage personal and professional networks to expand GLF’s reach and influence.
Key Responsibilities:
Represent GLF at social, political, and business networking events.
Connect GLF with potential partners, donors, and sponsors.
Support awareness campaigns through social media and public engagement.
Advocate for youth and family issues in community forums.
Requirements/Skills:
Strong public presence or social influence.
Excellent networking and relationship-building skills.
Passionate advocate for vulnerable children and families.
Benefits:
Opportunity to be the public face of a growing national movement.
Exclusive access to elite events, media appearances, and social recognition.
Personal fulfillment from using influence to create tangible change.
Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.
At Guardian Light Foundation, we restore hope for homeless children, teens and single parents scarred by abuse, harassment and homelessness.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)
Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.
�� Core Expectations
Fundraising Commitment:
Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).
Time Commitment:
Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.
Ambassadorship:
Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.
Governance & Accountability:
Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.
Strategic Leadership:
Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.
Passion for the Mission:
Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.
�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS
Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.
Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.
Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.
Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.
Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.
Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.
�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)
We are looking for leaders who are:
Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.
Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.
Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.
Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.
Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.
Position: Board of Director - Program & Impact Expert (Unpaid Volunteer Role)
Reports to: Board Chairperson
Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)
Purpose: To oversee program design, evaluation, and delivery quality.
Key Responsibilities:
Guide development of youth and family support programs.
Ensure alignment between mission, outcomes, and measurable impact.
Oversee safeguarding and quality assurance standards.
Provide expertise in social work, education, or community development.
Mentor staff to maintain high ethical and service standards.
Requirements/Skills:
Background in social work, education, youth engagement, or nonprofit program management.
Strong understanding of safeguarding, wellbeing, and inclusion.
Data-driven mindset with empathy and creativity.
Benefits:
Direct influence on the lives of vulnerable youth and families.
Leadership in creating innovative, measurable community impact.
Recognition as a founding architect of transformative social programs.
At Guardian Light Foundation, we restore hope for homeless children, teens and single parents scarred by abuse, harassment and homelessness.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,
About VoiceAbility
VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations.
We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most. For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.
Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility
Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!
We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!
Volunteer positions currently available in Bedfordshire
Hospital Visitor Volunteer
Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate. The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.
This role entails weekly visits to either Townsend Court and Poplar Wards (Luton) on Fridays 1-4 or Fountains Court (Bedford) on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
As a hospital volunteer, you might:
hold drop-in sessions
attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
share information
assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre
Support Session Volunteer
You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities. Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis. The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.
As a support session volunteer, you might:
help people have their say when it matters most
Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
help people to make complaints and use local services
All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00. You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.
Safeguarding Commitment Statement
VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.
ED&I Statement
VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.
VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.
To find out more click “Apply Now”.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.