Independent living services coordinator volunteer roles in Manchester
How's your job search on our site?
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!
Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.
As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances.
-
Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas
-
Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.
-
Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.
Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.
Role Summary
The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will:
-
Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees.
-
Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas
-
Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.
-
Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning
-
Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance.
-
Oversee the development and observation of financial policies
-
Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy
-
Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action.
-
Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)
-
Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.
-
Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.
-
Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.
-
Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants
-
Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero
-
Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report
-
Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.
The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.
Person Specification
The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation.
Essential
-
Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
-
Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas
-
Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.
-
Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information
Desirable
-
A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations.
-
An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer.
-
Good communication and competent IT skills
-
Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills.
About Refugee Biryani & Bananas
Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide.
What We Do
RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including:
-
France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris
-
Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base)
-
Northern Iraq: Duhok
-
Serbia: Belgrade Barracks
-
Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp
-
Turkey: Istanbul
-
Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border
-
Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides)
-
Palestine: Gaza
-
Egypt: Cairo
Our Approach
RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.
Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.
Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts.
Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers.
We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care.
Advocacy & Awareness
RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action.
We are a safe space for all people and welcome those who are new to and currently underrepresented on Charity Boards, in particular members who consider themselves to have a disability and those in the global majority. Lived experience of migration or asylum or a commitment to this work is welcomed.
Interested applicants should send a CV with full contact details and a brief covering letter to address your motivation for the role, what specific skills and expertise you would bring and how you meet the competencies listed in the role description.
Female-led grassroots organisation delivering humanitarian aid and advocacy with displaced communities through a community-led approach.
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!
Volunteer Driver – David Lewis
“Help us get where we want to go… and be part of our journey.”
A Message From the People We Support
“We’re looking for Volunteer Drivers who will help us get out into our community, enjoy activities, make appointments, meet friends, and live the lives we choose.
Sometimes we just need someone kind, reliable, and friendly to help us get from A to B — so we can do the things that matter to us.”
Your time, even a little, helps us stay connected, independent and included.
What You’ll Do — From Our Perspective
As a Volunteer Driver, you will help us to:
- Travel safely to activities, appointments, events, and days out
- Feel comfortable and supported during journeys
- Stay independent by helping us access places that are important to us
- Experience new things and take part in opportunities we enjoy
You might drive your own car or one of our David Lewis vehicles — whatever works best for you.
What We’ll Provide to Support You
“You don’t need to know everything — just be willing to help and show up with a smile.”
You’ll receive:
- Full induction and ongoing support
- Out‑of‑pocket expenses covered
- Access to our vehicle fleet if you prefer not to use your own
- A friendly, helpful team around you
- The chance to make a meaningful difference in our everyday lives
Who We’re Hoping to Meet
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has a full, clean driving licence
- Is reliable, calm, and a good communicator
- Treats people with kindness, patience, and respect
- Is happy to complete the necessary checks and training
If that sounds like you, we’d love to have you on our journeys.
Why Volunteering With Us Matters
“When you volunteer with us, you’re not just giving a lift — you’re giving us freedom, choice, and connection.”
Your time helps us:
- Reach our personal goals
- Feel confident travelling
- Stay active in our community
- Enjoy richer, more meaningful experiences
Every journey you support makes a difference.
Interested? Let’s Talk.
We’d really like to hear from you.
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!
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!
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer - role in Cheshire West
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
- Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
- Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
- Raise concerns
- Keep detailed notes and records
- Make a real difference to someone’s life
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.
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!
Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer - role is in Cheshire West
People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them. This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve. Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.
As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:
· Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
· Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
· Raise concerns
· Keep detailed notes and records
· Make a real difference to someone’s life
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.
Chair of Trustees role:
You will be chairing the Board of Trustees, ensuring that we have minimum representation required for decisions to be made, keeping the board aligned in decision-making, ensuring all minutes are recorded and that all decisions by trustees are made with the appropriate context provided.
This is a great opportunity to develop further governance skills and experience, and help steer an important charity in the right direction.
Trustees meetings are usually held every six weeks, plus there is an AGM, away days, and any sub-committee meetings that trustees may be involved in. Most meetings will remain virtual but there will from time to time be a need to attend key meetings and events in Nottingham. The time commitment is approximately 4hours per month, but there may be occasions when more time is required for a short period.
Who are we looking for?
- Previous chairing experience
- Relevant experience in any of the following financial management, HR, charities, fundraising, social prescribing, NHS, local authorities, marketing, business development, governance, strategy or legal
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
- Good, independent judgement
- The ability to challenge and ask questions
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
- A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership
NB: We are looking for both a Chair of Trustees and additional Trustees (particularly those with a finance background, but other functions are also welcome). If you are interested in a Trustee role instead of the Chair role, please mention this in your covering letter when applying.
Both the Chair and Trustee positions are unremunerated, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
About Self Help UK
Self Help UK is a leading peer support organisation with over 40 years of experience in developing and delivering peer-led services. Our mission is to empower individuals and communities by embedding peer support principles into health and wellbeing initiatives. We have created a range of innovative programmes that help people living with cancer and other long-term health conditions to navigate challenges and take control of their health and wellbeing.
We work in partnership with Macmillan Cancer Support on projects that make a real difference. These include national and local initiatives for the Deaf community, volunteer-led support for anyone affected by cancer, and prehabilitation services for those facing complex treatment. In 2026, we will collaborate with our Integrated Care System to improve health literacy and increase cancer screening uptake among underserved communities in Nottingham. Looking ahead, we are exploring a new direction to position Self Help UK as a holistic, person-centred support provider, embedding peer support and volunteer-led activity at the heart of everything we do. Our vision is to challenge health inequalities and enable people to feel confident, informed, and supported in shaping their own health journey.
A selection of causes covered by Self Help UK
- Peer support
- Long-term health conditions
- Cancer diagnoses and prevention
- Voluntary sector support
- Health inequalities (including the deaf community)
- Under-served communities
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.