Information volunteer roles

We are seeking new trustees to strengthen our Board and help shape the future of our work. We are also seeking a new Chair of the Board of Trustees.

We are looking for dedicated, creative people, of all ages, with a range of professional and life experience to join the Age UK Stockport Board of Trustees.

Being a trustee or Chair of any charity, including ours, is to be an active volunteer in your community. Like any volunteer involved in our work, our aim is for you to enjoy what you do with us, know how you contribute towards our work and see the positive impact that you have on people’s lives. 

But it’s not the easiest volunteering role! It can be challenging, but rewarding, and a big responsibility. Trustees have collective legal responsibilities – you work together for the best interests of Age UK Stockport and for the people in later life we work with across the borough. We will tell you more about these responsibilities elsewhere in the pack. 

If you’re passionate about supporting everyone to make the most of their later life, and you have the skills and experience to help shape and guide our organisation to achieve our vision, we’d like to hear from you.

We are seeking two new members to join our trustee board's Grants Committee. While this is not a trustee role, committee members will be part of a collective decision-making process to ensure that our limited resources are reaching organisations providing advice to those most underserved. Grant applications are initially reviewed by our staff team. The role of the Grants Committee is then to critically review the recommendations made by the team and make decisions about how and where funding is awarded. The Grants Committee and our Board of Trustees have the final say on where our funds are allocated.

Please see the attached recruitment pack for more information.

Help our charity to create new Allotment sites!

Green Allotments is a small, national, charity on a mission to create new allotment sites in England. 

We are currently looking for lovely volunteers for various roles which are all home-based:

Volunteer Desk-based Researchers (Our most popular volunteering role!)

Archaeologist (desk-based, minimum of 3 years work experience)

Occasional professional/specialist micro-volunteers

Landscape Architect (minimum of 3 years work experience)

Social Media Supporters

Welsh Language Translators / Gwirfoddoli Cyfieithwyr Cymraeg

There are no set hours when volunteering for us and you can turn down anything that you are offered. Obviously, we will treat you with dignity and respect.

We do not anticipate that you will incur expenses in this role. We expect our volunteers to already have an internet connection and be willing to use that as part of their volunteer role with Green Allotments CIO.

(At present we are unable to accept applications from under 18s, although we hope to be able to do so in the future as our charity grows)

Provide a welcoming and supportive first point of contact for clients and visitors across our Dudley and Wolverhampton offices.

Role Responsibilities:

• Provide reception cover and welcome clients into the Information Hub.

• Carry out initial triage by listening to clients’ needs and directing them appropriately.

• Book in clients who have appointments with advice staff

• Handle calls and emails, and record client information accurately.

About You:

• Friendly, approachable, and empathetic.

• Good communication and basic IT skills.

• Organised, reliable, and able to work independently and in a team.

• Willing to travel between Dudley and Wolverhampton offices.

Commitment:

• Volunteer 1 day a week (you can volunteer if you want up to 5 days a week), volunteering between the hours of 9am – 3pm, for minimum 6 months commitment.

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED, FULL TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED
Plus, we'll reimburse your travel expenses (fuel or bus fares, car parking), so volunteering won't cost you anything but your time.

Why Volunteer with Us? 
✨ Valuable Experience: Gain practical skills and a sense of fulfilment with a trusted charity that has over 80 years of experience.
✨ Training and Support: Enjoy comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you succeed.
✨ Social Connection: Meet like-minded individuals and become part of our wonderful team.
✨ Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy of making a real difference in someone's life.
✨ Flexible Hours: We offer flexible volunteering hours to suit your lifestyle.
✨ Health and Wellbeing: We prioritise the wellness of our volunteers, contributing to professional   success.
✨ Professional Development: We're committed to continuous development and growth opportunities.
✨ Diversity and Inclusion: We embrace individuals from all walks of life and encourage authenticity.

�� What Our Volunteers Say:
"Now that I am retired, volunteering at Citizens Advice gives me a purpose in life. I feel I can serve my community and make a difference to local people who are in difficulty. I learn a lot, use my skills and discover new skills as well as having new and varied experiences every day."
-Volunteer Generalist Advisor

"I now feel braver when looking at new job opportunities. I can utilise my skills and experience from volunteering in the hubs."
-Cost of Living Support Hub Volunteer

Ready to make a difference?
�� For further information about the individual roles, please visit our website:

If you require any of the information in an alternative accessible format, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.

You will welcome clients and visitors, and support the smooth running of our local office at our drop in sessions on Mondays or Thursdays (or both)

Commitment: 6 hours/week (flexible)

Receptionists are the first point of contact for clients, welcoming visitors. You’ll record client details on our computer system, explain waiting times, and help ensure the service runs smoothly. The role builds communication, IT, and teamwork skills while making a real difference in the community. Full training and expense reimbursement are provided.

What you gain: Communication skills, admin experience, confidence using IT, and full training.

You'll gain valuable transferable skills in communication, problem solving, teamwork.

Whether you are starting out, changing career, retired, or returning to work, volunteering strengthens your CV and provides practical experience.

Green Allotments charity is seeking an appropriately qualified Archaeologist to provide occasional advice.

Our innovative work programme focusses on the purchase of land and the creation of allotments. Hence, we are keen to learn more about how to identify potential heritage issues which could affect the creation of allotments on the top layer of soil. Learning more about how allotments can be sensitively placed within historical environments will help our charity bring allotments to more people.

We are keen to work with you if you can interpret information held in open-data online records such as Historic Environment Records. Your valuable insights will help our charity decide if a tract of land is worth buying for allotments, or should be avoided entirely. 

We are a small and friendly charity team, with three trustees, one staff member, and a team of volunteers. The charity is funded by a generous single donor. Everyone brings something special to Green Allotments, if you think your archaeological experience and knowledge could help our charity to grow please get in touch for an informal discussion.

Your specialist contribution will help our charity make important decisions on land purchase and locations for new allotment sites in communities. Demand for allotment is very high, people are desperate for a plot of their own, to grow food and teach their children about where food comes from. Your support will help put more locally produced food on tables.

Who we are looking for:

• Appropriately qualified Archaeologist to undertake desk-based analysis (e.g. degree-level and/or 3 years+ in archaeological practice).
• Able to undertake desk-based research using Historic Environment Records and/or LiDAR.
• Able to communicate findings in plain language to non-archaeologists.

Our charity is currently creating allotment sites in England only. We can accept volunteers located in any part of the UK, as long as the volunteer appreciates they will be focussing on England-only sites.

Our CEO, Deborah, has been working with home-based geographically dispersed volunteers for 20+ years and is happy to fit around your time commitments.

Application process:

Please apply via our website. When you make contact with us, we will consider your application. If interested in learning more about you, we will invite you to an informal discussion via zoom at a time/date to suit you. Unsuccessful applicants will be notified by email within one week.

Position Title: Treasurer Trustee

Location: Hope Nottingham CIO

Reports To: Board of Trustees

Term: 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 terms

Time Commitment: Bi-monthly evening Board Meetings in Beeston, Nottingham. Monthly review of financial reports, ongoing auditing through spot checks. Bi-monthly finance sub committee meetings, can be online or in person in day or evening to suit the right candidate.

Hope Nottingham began as a small drop-in café, with a dozen volunteers in 2010. It has now grown to encompass 2 community hubs, a network of foodbanks, with eleven staff and 350+ volunteers. We support communities across Nottingham, seeking to offer holistic and life changing support to thousands of people. We hold the East & West Nottingham Trussell franchise and partner with many churches and organisations such as Citizens Advice.

If you are looking to make a real difference in your community, this could be the opportunity for you! Now in our 15th year, Hope Nottingham seeks a new Treasurer.  With the other Trustees, you will be responsible for our overall governance, strategic direction, and our financial health and activities. Whether you are an experienced Trustee, or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we are particularly keen to recruit members of the local community with financial skills.  We have a strong Senior Leadership team, are in a good position financially and have recently invested in an external independent financial review, with the need for a Treasurer being the main recommendation. Could you be the right person to join our team?  We are a Christian charity but welcome those of all faiths or none, we just ask that you will uphold our Christian values. We are also always looking to increase the diversity of our board.

Overview of role

The Treasurer is a key member of the Board of Trustees. In addition to their general trustee duties, they are responsible for overseeing the financial governance and health of the charity. This includes ensuring (via auditing and review) that the charity's finances are well-managed, transparent, and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The Treasurer works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, and other members of the Board to ensure sound financial planning, risk management, and reporting. The Treasurer also leads the Finance Committee and reports to the trustees on all financial aspects of Hope.

Key Responsibilities (with specific tasks highlighted in italics)

1. Financial Oversight and Governance

• Ensure the charity has appropriate financial policies and procedures in place to safeguard its financial resources.Review the financial controls policy and manual at least annually
• Keep the Board informed of its financial duties and responsibilities
• Provide leadership in setting and maintaining high standards of financial governance and accountability.
• Ensure the charity operates within its budget and is managing resources efficiently, while safeguarding its long-term financial sustainability. Review of monthly financial reports with the CEO before the Finance Committee meeting.
• Act as a bank signatory and oversee banking procedures  Authorise payments as required, review bank reconciliations and approve mandate changes

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Oversee and approve the annual budgeting process, ensuring that financial planning supports the charity’s strategic goals. Review and input into annual draft budget with CEO and finance committee members
• Provide advice and guidance to the Board on financial matters, helping trustees to understand financial reports and implications of financial decisions. Input into finance sub-committee meeting and report back to Board
• Review and approve the budget and financial forecasts, ensuring they align with the charity’s priorities and objectives and financial position. Review performance against budget through the year via monthly financial reports

3. Financial Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of regular financial reports ensuring they are accurate, timely, and in line with the charity’s financial policy.  Review financial reports presented by CEO before discussing at the Finance Committee meeting and presenting a summary report to the trustees
• Present financial updates to the Board of Trustees, highlighting any concerns or issues that need attention.

4. Audit and Compliance

• Monitor cash flow, income, and expenditure, ensuring that the charity remains financially solvent and sustainable.
• Oversee Quick Books access  Treasurer has administrator level access and approves users and their access
• Oversee bank reconciliationsCEO completes reconciliation after end of month and informs Treasurer for their sign off
• Oversee the payroll process to ensure staff payments, PAYE and pension are processed and reported as required CEO will report by exception as payments generally do not change save for contract or pay change, minimal overtime. Treasurer has access to BrightPay and TPT Pension portal and can view any documents there.  
• Oversee the annual audit process, liaising with external auditors when required and ensuring the charity’s financial statements are audited in a timely and accurate manner.  A shared mailbox is used for all audit communications to keep Finance Committee in loop of any queries. Any meeting with auditor, Treasurer to attend.
• Review the audited financial statements for accuracy and recommend their approval to the Board at the Annual General Meeting. Draw attention to important points in an easily understandable way and sign off when audit is completed by the external auditors
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including charity law, tax law, and Charity SORP financial reporting standards, including charity accounts being kept up to date on Charities Commission website. Review and keep up to date with Charity SORP requirements

5. Risk Management

• Identify financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.Review Financial risks on risk register quarterly and as part of finance sub committee
• Ensure that the charity has appropriate insurance and other safeguards in place to protect its assets. Review insurance requirements with the CEO a month before renewal date to ensure we have adequate cover in place and to obtain alternative quotes if appropriate
• Advise the Board on the management of financial risks and any significant financial challenges facing the charity.
• Review any substantial or complex grant terms

6. Fundraising and Income Generation

• Input into and provide financial oversight of fundraising activities and income generation strategies, ensuring they align with the charity’s financial goals. Input into and review fundraising strategy and review effectiveness on quarterly basis
• Advise on the viability of fundraising campaigns and the allocation of resources to maximise financial returns. 
• Assist in ensuring that fundraising activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

7. Financial Strategy and Sustainability

• Contribute to the long-term financial strategy of the charity, helping to ensure its financial sustainability.
• Ensure the charity has an appropriate reserves policy Review reserves policy and reserves calculation annually
• Advise on diversification of income streams and opportunities to strengthen the charity’s financial position. Review income streams quarterly to highlight opportunities or risks e.g. individual / corporate / grants
• Help develop investment strategies and manage assets in line with the charity’s financial objectives, legal responsibilities and values. Review bank interest rates annually. CEO to notify on changes to interest rates or bank charges as received

8. Chair the Finance Sub-Committee

• Act as the Chair of the Finance Sub-Committee, leading agenda, discussions and decision-making on financial matters. A pre-meeting with the CEO and treasurer is required so fully informed in advance of committee meeting.
• Ensure that the Finance Sub-Committee operates effectively, reporting regularly to the full Board.

Family Advice Line Volunteer

This is a volunteer opportunity supporting families through our advice line. As a volunteer, you’ll contribute your time to help us offer reliable information and a listening ear. Volunteers are a valued part of our mission, and we aim to make the experience supportive, enjoyable, and meaningful.

Role Overview:

Are you looking for an opportunity to use your speech and language therapy expertise in a voluntary capacity to support children and families?

As an Advice Line Volunteer, you will contribute to our mission by sharing information about typical development and guidance on how families can support their child’s speech and language needs. You will help families by offering clear information, resources and a listening ear as they navigate concerns around speech and language challenges.

How do our Volunteers help?

• Helping to provide evidence‑based information and resources to address families’ concerns.
• Listening empathetically to families and offering supportive guidance.
• Taking part in volunteer training and learning sessions to stay updated on best practice

What we are looking for:

We welcome volunteers who are:

• Passionate: Committed to supporting children and families facing speech and language challenges.
• Empathetic Communicators: Able to actively listen and respond sensitively to callers' needs.
• Reliable: Volunteers take part in a shared rota to ensure the line is covered.
• Team Players: Comfortable volunteering alongside others in a supportive environment.
• Learners: Open to volunteer training and opportunities to develop confidence as a Speech and Language UK volunteer.

About Us:

We are Speech and Language UK – we want every child to face the future with confidence. For 2 million children in the UK, learning to talk and understand words feel like an impossible hurdle. Without the right help, this can destroy their world. They feel disconnected from their family. Unable to make friends. Unfairly punished for not following instructions they don’t understand. What does the future hold for them?

Why Us?

Speech and Language UK is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for children and young people with speech and language challenges. If you’re ready to make a difference in a supportive, mission-driven environment, we’d love to hear from you.

What can you gain from volunteering with us?

• The chance to apply your existing skills in a new way
• You’ll receive regular support and contact from our Advice Line team.

What we’re looking for in a volunteer

Skills and Experience

• Qualified speech and language therapists with 3 years experience and direct clinical practice in the last 12 months
• Qualified speech and language therapist aware of current practice in their area of experience
• Experience across two or more of the following age ranges – Early Years, Primary, Secondary, FE
• RCSLT registration
• HCPC registration is welcome for practising clinicians.
• Experience offering supportive advice to families or practitioners
• Comfortable volunteering independently from home.

Technology

• Comfortable using email and Word.
• Able to follow simple digital instructions.
• Familiarity with other Microsoft tools is helpful.

Other

• Available to take part in a shared rota to ensure the line is covered. We ask for a commitment of 4 hours per week or fortnight.
• Interest in ongoing learning is welcome.
• Ability to volunteer from a quiet, confidential space.

Practical considerations and time commitment:

You’ll receive a full induction, role specific training and ongoing support from your named contact. All regular volunteers are asked to provide references and complete internal training.

We ask for most volunteers to offer around 4 hours a week or fortnight. We rely on volunteers giving regular time so families know when we’ll be there for them. All volunteers take part in a shared schedule of volunteer time.

How to Apply:

Please submit your up-to-date CV and a supporting statement of no more than two pages, addressing how you meet the criteria outlined in this advert.

Due to the nature of this post, the successful candidate will be required to undertake a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)

Closing date for applications: 9am on Monday, 2nd March 2026 with interviews being held via Teams w/c 2nd March and 9th March

Accessibility Support:
We are committed to ensuring that our recruitment process is accessible to everyone. If you require any adjustments or need to apply in a different format, please contact our People Team and we will be happy to assist you.

We are Disability Confident Committed under the Disability Confident Scheme.

This is an unpaid voluntary role intended for individuals who want to contribute their professional expertise to support families. It is not an employed position.

The D D McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO (DDMCS), charity number 1197598, is an active grant making
Charitable Incorporated Organisation. It has succeeded the D.D. McPhail Charitable Settlement, charity
number 267588, which was founded in 1973 and operational till 2023.

DDMCS aims to support 2 or 3 major multi-year grant projects each year, which are actively sought by the
Trustees to enable small / medium sized charities to make a significant or step change in their activities. The
original trust deed and now the CIO constitution specifies three key areas of preference in the UK around:

• Furtherance of medical research,
• Care of the disabled particularly disabled children, and
• Care of the aged and infirm

The Trustees have wide discretion to support other charitable activities in the UK. There is more detail in
the annual report available via the Charity Commission website and the charity’s own website that outlines
the activities of the charity. Within these broad areas the Trustees recently agreed, following a strategic
review, to focus for the next grant making cycle on charities supporting care for the physical and mental
wellbeing of children living in poverty.

Further information can be found in the recruitment pack (attached).

We are seeking a Chair Designate to join our board, with a view to taking over as Chair in 2027. The Chair provides inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction for the charity. They act as an ambassador for the organisation, working closely with the Director and fellow Trustees to maximise impact for beneficiaries.

Key Responsibilities: 

Strategic Leadership
• Lead the Board in setting and reviewing the charity’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives.
• Ensure decisions align with charitable objectives and long-term sustainability.
• Promote diversity and inclusion within the Board and wider organisation.

Governance
• Ensure compliance with the charity’s governing document, Charity Commission guidance, and relevant
legislation.
• Maintain high standards of governance, risk management, and financial oversight.
• Facilitate annual Board and Trustee performance reviews

Board Management
• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring impartiality and open debate.
• Provide guidance and constructive challenge to trustees.
• Foster strong relationships among Trustees and between the Board and Executive Director.
• Drive Trustee recruitment and succession planning.

External Representation
• Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the charity.
• Represent the organisation at external events and with grantees and key stakeholders
• Support advocacy through personal networks where appropriate.

Support to Director
• Maintain a clear distinction between governance and management roles.
• Ensure regular communication and a strong, collaborative working relationship.
• Provide guidance and support to the Director.

Person Specification:

Essential Skills and Experience
• Proven leadership experience at Board or senior executive level.
• Strong understanding of charity governance and the legal duties of Trustees.
• Strategic thinker with ability to balance long-term vision and short-term priorities.
• Financial literacy and ability to oversee budgets and risk management.
• Excellent communication, with ability to build consensus
• Experience in grant-making or philanthropic sector

Desirable
• Knowledge of charity law and regulatory frameworks.
• Established networks within relevant sectors (e.g., philanthropy, corporate, public).

Personal Attributes
• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Integrity, impartiality, and sound judgment.
• Ability to dedicate sufficient time and energy to the role.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Innovative thinker with ability to bring forward fresh ideas.

If, after reading the applicant pack, you feel you have the skills and experience we are looking for then please apply through CharityJobs, providing a CV and cover letter (2 pages max) detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for preliminary interviews in March (dates to be confirmed). Initial interviews will take place via Teams. 

The Trustees of DD McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, particularly those underrepresented in leadership roles within the charity sector.

Please use the following contact details for any questions or queries you may have about the role or the charity:

info at ddmcphail dot org

Support Dudley residents with long-term health conditions or disabilities by providing information regarding welfare benefit applications and delivering structured self-management group programmes.

Role Responsibilities:

• Facilitate small group Welfare Benefit Guider sessions (up to 6 residents) to those who need assistance to complete their own welfare benefits application forms (e.g. Personal Independence Payments (PIP) application forms).

• Deliver 6-week Long Term Health & Wellbeing Programmes (2.5 hours per week) to groups of up to 12 residents per group with long term health conditions or disabilities to help improve their quality of life.

• Create supportive, inclusive group environments and record participant information accurately.

About You:

• Lived or caring experience of long-term physical or mental health conditions is preferred but not essential 

• Ability to empathise with clients is essential. 

• Confident speaking in group settings (in person and online) with good communication and basic IT skills.

• Able to handle sensitive information with tact.

Commitment:

• Deliver sessions at community venues across Dudley (and potentially Wolverhampton), including some evenings/weekends. 

• Deliver 3 x 6 weeks Long-term Health & Wellbeing Programmes per year

• Deliver 2 x 3-hour Welfare Benefits Guider Sessions per month

• An enhanced DBS check is required (arranged and paid for by the organisation).

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED, FULL TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED

Plus, we'll reimburse your travel expenses (fuel or bus fares, car parking), so volunteering won't cost you anything but your time.

Why Volunteer with Us? 

✨ Valuable Experience: Gain practical skills and a sense of fulfilment with a trusted charity that has over 80 years of experience.

✨ Training and Support: Enjoy comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you succeed.

✨ Social Connection: Meet like-minded individuals and become part of our wonderful team.

✨ Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy of making a real difference in someone's life.

✨ Flexible Hours: We offer flexible volunteering hours to suit your lifestyle.

✨ Health and Wellbeing: We prioritise the wellness of our volunteers, contributing to professional   success.

✨ Professional Development: We're committed to continuous development and growth opportunities.

✨ Diversity and Inclusion: We embrace individuals from all walks of life and encourage authenticity.

�� What Our Volunteers Say:

"Now that I am retired, volunteering at Citizens Advice gives me a purpose in life. I feel I can serve my community and make a difference to local people who are in difficulty. I learn a lot, use my skills and discover new skills as well as having new and varied experiences every day."

-Volunteer Generalist Advisor

"I now feel braver when looking at new job opportunities. I can utilise my skills and experience from volunteering in the hubs."

-Cost of Living Support Hub Volunteer

Ready to make a difference?

�� For further information about the individual roles, please visit our website:

Please download and complete the application form

If you require any of the information in an alternative accessible format, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.

Help deliver library books to people across Wolverhampton who are unable to access library services.

Role Responsibilities:

• Collect library materials from a designated library and deliver them safely to clients’ homes.

• Follow a set delivery route one day per week, with each session lasting a maximum of approximately three hours.

• Report any concerns about a client’s wellbeing to the Coordinator for further assessment.

About You:

• Hold a full, current UK driving licence (maximum 6 penalty points) and have access to your own car (mileage expenses covered).

• Be friendly, approachable, positive, reliable, and punctual.

• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Commitment:

• Volunteer 1 day per week (hours agreed) for a minimum of 3 months.

• An enhanced DBS check is required (arranged and paid for by the organisation).

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED, FULL TRAINING WILL BE PROVIDED
Plus, we'll reimburse your travel expenses (fuel or bus fares, car parking), so volunteering won't cost you anything but your time.

Why Volunteer with Us? 
✨ Valuable Experience: Gain practical skills and a sense of fulfilment with a trusted charity that has over 80 years of experience.
✨ Training and Support: Enjoy comprehensive training and ongoing support to help you succeed.
✨ Social Connection: Meet like-minded individuals and become part of our wonderful team.
✨ Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy of making a real difference in someone's life.
✨ Flexible Hours: We offer flexible volunteering hours to suit your lifestyle.
✨ Health and Wellbeing: We prioritise the wellness of our volunteers, contributing to professional   success.
✨ Professional Development: We're committed to continuous development and growth opportunities.
✨ Diversity and Inclusion: We embrace individuals from all walks of life and encourage authenticity.

�� What Our Volunteers Say:
"Now that I am retired, volunteering at Citizens Advice gives me a purpose in life. I feel I can serve my community and make a difference to local people who are in difficulty. I learn a lot, use my skills and discover new skills as well as having new and varied experiences every day."
-Volunteer Generalist Advisor

"I now feel braver when looking at new job opportunities. I can utilise my skills and experience from volunteering in the hubs."
-Cost of Living Support Hub Volunteer

Ready to make a difference?
�� For further information about the individual roles, please visit our website:
Please download and complete the application form

If you require any of the information in an alternative accessible format, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.

City of Chelmsford Mencap is a small independent charity providing support and structured classes for adults with a learning disability across mid-Essex. We have recently converted the charity's structure and are now embarking on an exciting period of strategic growth. We are seeking energetic and passionate new trustees who can contribute to our plans and help us deliver the next phase of our operating model. 

We would welcome potential trustees from any professional background. However, the following attributes are very important:

• A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information
• A keen and respectful listener who is able to empathise and respectfully challenge
• Commitment to the charity and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.
• Strategic vision
• Sound, independent judgement
• Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to coach staff where required
• The ability to read and understand management reports
• Skills to analyse proposals and their consequence
• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board
• General competence with IT
• Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis
• Capacity to represent the charity to external parties and at local events

Much more information is available in our recruitment pack which is available on the apply page..

Please note that appointment to our Board is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and a clean enhanced DBS certificate (which we will arrange). 

Role

Help clients understand and act on problems with debt, benefits, housing, or employment.

Support clients with forms, budgeting, and calls to service providers

Research solutions for clients’ problems and explain options clearly.

Our volunteer advisers talk to clients over the phone, face to face and

online to explore what issues they’ve come for help with and find

information about possible options. Advisers then help clients to

understand the information, and support them to take action.

You’ll also record case details on our computer system and spot common issues. The role offers full training and the chance to develop useful skills while making a difference in your community.

Commitment: 8 hours/week (flexible)

What you gain: Communication skills, hands-on experience and full training and support provided.

.

Lead Volunteer Role Description

• To update the Volunteers’ Rota from the Court diary and ensure that each Volunteer in the team and the CCSS office has a copy. Wherever possible, the Rota should be kept on a computer for updating and emailed to the rest of the team and the office. 

• Ensure sufficient numbers of Volunteers are on duty for effective and appropriate support for bereaved families and witnesses who attend the Inquests.

• To arrange and re-arrange the Rota between the Volunteers, noting any holiday or leave of absence dates.

• Ensure a finalised Rota is sent to the office at the end of each month in order for volunteer expenses to be checked and processed.

• To ensure that all the Volunteers have each other’s contact details and the Volunteer emergency contact details are included in the court file and updated when changes occur.

• To ensure monthly and yearly statistics are kept up to date and to send the Monthly Statistics to the Volunteer who collates the stats at the end of each month.

• To ensure there are sufficient Report Forms for the Volunteers’ use if collecting stats in paper format.  If alternative methods of collecting stats are used, to ensure that the team are all using the same method.

• To inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office of the need for more Volunteers or of any leavers.

• To assist with the recruitment interviews and induction of new Volunteers.

• Responsible for the support of new Volunteers and their final sign off.  Where the Lead Volunteer has concerns about the level of support required or the competency of a new Volunteer, they should refer those concerns to the Operations & Training Manager.

• To organise Volunteer team meetings (minimum of 3 meetings per year) and to inform the Operations & Training Manager and the CCSS office via email of the dates of these so they can attend if necessary/appropriate.

• To immediately refer any serious concerns raised by the Coroner or Coroner’s Officers to the CEO.

• To inform the CEO immediately of any issues or concerns that arises at the Court that might impact on the CCSS.

• To provide local information for the Helpline Court Information Sheet when requested.

• To ensure the team follow the practices of the court and work in partnership with the court staff.
• To forward any testimonials about the support provided by our volunteers to the CCSS office.

• Responsibility for maintaining the stock of CCSS leaflets.

• Organise cover for themselves when they are on holiday or need to take time off.