428 Information management volunteer roles

Fundraising Project Coordinator (Volunteer) 

The Owen Smith Charitable Trust 

Location: Ealing, London / Hybrid 

Salary: Unpaid role 

Expenses: Agreed travel expenses may be reimbursed for attendance at the Ealing location, by prior agreement. 

Contract: Voluntary 

Time commitment: Up to 5 hours per week 

This voluntary role would suit someone who enjoys research, organisation and coordination, and wants to help a small charity build a more consistent approach to fundraising. You will help identify suitable funders, track opportunities and support applications that strengthen the Trust's opportunities to secure funding for environmental, community and wellbeing projects. 

Working arrangements 

• We currently meet in Ealing weekly, you are welcome to join also on a weekly or fortnightly or monthly basis, depending on project needs, to collaborate, review progress, coordinate activities and contribute to a supportive team environment. 

• Remote working is also available, with regular communication with the Project Director and wider volunteer team. 

• Specific meeting arrangements can be discussed with the successful volunteer. 

Help us turn environmental and community projects into reality 

The Owen Smith Charitable Trust is looking for an organised, proactive Fundraising Project Coordinator to identify funding opportunities, develop our funding pipeline and coordinate grant applications for our environmental, community and well-being work. 

You will collaborate closely with the Project Director and wider volunteer team to build a more structured and sustainable approach to fundraising for our Wild Magic project and wider charitable activities. 

We welcome applicants with strong transferable skills, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.We welcome applicants with strong transferable skills, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn. 

Key responsibilities 

• Research and identify suitable grant, trust, foundation, corporate and community funding opportunities. 

• Assess funding criteria and maintain a simple pipeline of opportunities, deadlines, applications and outcomes. 

• Coordinate information, evidence and supporting documents required for funding applications. 

• Support the development of project proposals, outcomes, budgets and business cases. 

• Support the preparation and submission of grant applications, provide regular updates and review on application progress, outcomes and follow-up actions. 

• Work with the Project Director to align funding opportunities with project priorities, to help shape the Trust’s fundraising approach. 

• Identify potential fundraising, partnership and community opportunities that could support the Trust’s work. 

• Suggest improvements to the Trust’s approach to funding research, applications and coordination. 

Essential skills and experience

• Project Management: Ability to coordinate multiple activities, manage deadlines, track progress and ensure agreed actions are followed through, and deliver high-quality results. 

• Research Skills: Ability to research information, assess funding opportunities and identify those that are relevant to the Trust’s projects and priorities. 

• Time Management: Ability to prioritise tasks, manage competing deadlines and work effectively within an agreed time commitment. 

• Initiative & Reliability: Proactive and dependable, with the confidence to work independently, identify opportunities and keep others informed of progress. 

• Organisation & Attention to Detail: Strong organisational, written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to keep information, actions, deadlines and supporting documents accurately and up to date. 

• Digital Skills: Comfortable using everyday digital tools such as Microsoft Office, Google Workspace or similar platforms. 

Desirable skills and experience

We are interested in your transferable skills, what you can contribute and your willingness to develop. 

Experience in one or more of the following would be an advantage: 

• Grant writing: Experience researching funding opportunities and supporting the preparation of clear, compelling grant applications that help secure funding for environmental, community and wellbeing projects. 

• Fundraising experience: Experience planning, managing or supporting fundraising activity, such as trust and foundation fundraising, corporate fundraising, community fundraising or digital campaigns to attract donors and increase awareness. 

• Project Management: Previous experience coordinating projects, workstreams or activities, including managing actions, stakeholders, deadlines and deliverables. 

• Business Case Development: Experience preparing project proposals, budgets, business cases, outcomes or supporting documentation for funding or project approval. 

• Funding Pipeline Management: Experience tracking funding opportunities, application deadlines, submissions, outcomes and reporting requirements. 

• Monitoring & Reporting: Experience supporting funding monitoring, evaluation or reporting, including gathering evidence of project outcomes and impact. 

• Relationship Building: Experience developing and maintaining relationships with funders, corporate partners, community organisations or other stakeholders with the ability to communicate clearly. 

• Partnership Development: Experience identifying opportunities for collaboration with businesses, community groups, schools or other organisations. 

Initial trial and review

The role will begin with an initial one-month trial period to establish whether the role and ways of working are a good fit for both the volunteer and the Trust. 

Initial priorities will be agreed with the Project Director and may include becoming familiar with our projects and funding priorities, researching opportunities and developing the funding pipeline. 

Following the first-month review, the role may continue by mutual agreement, with the volunteers’ contribution and progress reviewed over the first three months. 

The review will consider the quality of funding research and application support, as well as organisation, reliability, communication, initiative and collaboration. It will not be based solely on whether funding has been secured, as funding decisions are outside the volunteer’s control.as well as organisation, reliability, communication, initiative and collaboration. It will not be based solely on whether funding has been secured, as funding decisions are outside the volunteer’s control. 

What you will gain 

This is an opportunity to gain practical experience in charity fundraising, grant development, and project coordination, while contributing to environmental and community projects to help shape the Trust’s fundraising approach. 

How to apply

We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds and experiences, and we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments or flexible arrangements where possible. 

Please send a short CV and a brief explanation of why you are interested in the role and what skills or experience you could bring. 

If you do not meet every requirement but believe you could make a valuable contribution, we would still encourage you to get in touch. 

Who are we?

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We work to increase inclusion and representation across society for the disability community.We have several different services including inclusive characters, sensory workshops, resources, events, advocacy and more.

What are we looking for?

Are you looking for a volunteering opportunity that gives you just that little bit more of challenge? Are you interested in graphic design? Or have an artistic flair?

Our Creative Team are looking for 3 creative team leads to manage creative projects and tasks. Such as our activity packs, social media and campaigns. 

What do we expect?

• Be willing to undertake our training programme which will be done virtually and at a time to suit you.

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it please do discuss it with us and we will be happy to have a conversation and make small changes if appropriate).

• A positive attitude to disability and illness. We are happy to answer questions on this.

What can you expect?

• A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Youdon’t have to regularly commit your time.

• A kind, caring, nurturing company who cares about people, staff and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work.

• A very positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations will be made that you require. If there is anything you wish to discuss in private please email us and we will arrange a confidential chat.

Benefits to Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles CIC

• Gaining valuable experience and improving your confidence

• Allows you to explore potentially different areas of interest.

• Make a difference to community

• Develop your current skill set and gain new skills.

• Displays your level of commitment to future employers.

• Displays your ability to balance and schedule your time effectively when seeking future employment.

For further information or to apply email us and we will be more than happy to have a chat. 

Please note we are looking for volunteers who are based in the UK. 

At RSPCA Buckinghamshire South Branch, our charity shops are looking for friendly, local volunteers to join our team and help make our shops in Chesham and Burnham a huge success. Make new friends, have fun, and help us help more animals!

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare. 

Why Volunteer With Us?

As a volunteer charity shop assistant, you will:

• Support a worthwhile cause and help improve animal welfare.
• Be part of a friendly and dedicated team.
• Enjoy a fun and fulfilling role at the heart of the local community.
• Training and development opportunities, including induction and ongoing support.
• Learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.
• Access to the RSPCA Learning Hub with a wide range of training materials.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.
• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid. (Training is provided but if you are not comfortable using the till, please get in touch because we have plenty of other tasks that do not involve the till).
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging items.
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.
• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, local volunteers who are confident talking to people.
• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.
• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment, preferably 8 hours per week.
• Good communication skills and numeracy skills. 
• You will need to be aged 16 or over to volunteer in our Chesham shop, and aged 18 or over to volunteer in our Burnham shop.

What’s in It for You?

• Meet new people and make new friends.
• Learn new skills to enhance your CV.
• A comprehensive induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of your local community.
• Know that your time and effort is making a real difference to the welfare of animals.

Practical Considerations:

• Online induction - you’ll need to complete an online induction, you will need basic IT skills and access to a computer. If you are not able to use IT, we do have a paper-based induction as an alternative.

Disclaimer:

Our voluntary roles are subject to:

• An informal interview and trial period.
• Submission of two referees’ contact details.
• Completion of relevant training and assessments for the role.

Overview

Position Title: Advisory Board member

Company: Well Adapt

Location: Online (with occasional optional in-person meetings)

Duration: 1 year initial term from Monday 19 October. Term to be extended if both parties agree.

Board Meetings: The first Advisory Board meeting is pencilled in to take place on Wednesday 28 October at 5pm.

Application Deadline: Monday 5 October, 23:59

Pay: Voluntary

About Well Adapt

Well Adapt is a disabled led social enterprise that aims to transform the health system so that it better serves disabled and chronically ill people. 

Disabled and chronically ill people face disproportionate inequalities in healthcare with many of us feeling completely disillusioned with and abandoned by the system that is supposed to support us. The inequality gets worse for those of us with intersecting marginalisations such as race, gender, class, and sexuality.

Well Adapt works with policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to build health and social care systems co-produced by disabled and chronically ill people and grounded in disability justice.

We are in the process of changing our governance structure from Company Limited by Shares to Community Interest Company.

We are forming our first ever advisory board to help us chart our course forward so that we can make a greater impact on healthcare policy. 

Role details

The Advisory Board as a collective will be responsible for:

• Attending online board meetings every three months (there may be optional in person meetings)

• Helping guide the strategic direction of the organisation

• Setting and maintaining vision, mission, and values

• Maintaining financial oversight of the organisation

• Championing our work and helping build relationships that strengthen our work

Essential criteria

We’re looking for a passionate and principled person who has:

• Lived experience of disability
• Professional experience within the NHS
• A passion for improving healthcare for marginalised groups

Application Process

1st stage: Initial Application (Deadline Monday 5 October, 11:59pm).

Please send a CV and covering letter or voice note by email that covers the following:

• Why you think disability advocacy is important (we want to know what you think, not what a generative AI thinks here)

• Why you would like to be a founding member of Well Adapt’s Advisory Board

• Any experience or skills not present on your CV (please don’t repeat information that is already on your CV)

You will find the email address to ask questions to on the Well Adapt webpage that opens when you click "redirect to recruiter".

We will assess your initial application as follows:

• We will score candidates based on the essential criteria to choose 3-5 candidates to invite to the next stage.

• If you are shortlisted for interview, you will be notified on Wednesday 7 October.

2nd Stage: Interview on Monday 12 between 3 and 5pm or Tuesday 13 October between 2 and 4.30pm. 

If you are successful at the 2nd stage, you will be notified by Wednesday 14 October.

Start date of role: Wednesday 21st October 2026

The first advisory board meeting is pencilled in for Wednesday 28 October 2026, 5pm, online.

Accessibility

As an organisation run for and by disabled people, we are committed to meeting the accessibility needs of applicants and employees. Please let us know if there’s anything you need to be able to engage with the recruitment process to the best of your ability by emailing us.

You will find the email address to ask questions to on the Well Adapt webpage that opens when you click "redirect to recruiter".

We’re excited to offer a new, rewarding volunteer opportunity in our Day Patient Unit (DPU) at the Hospice in Winsley, Bradford on Avon. If you’re caring, compassionate, and love connecting with people, we’d love to hear from you!

As a Nursing Support Volunteer, you’ll bring comfort and companionship to patients in our Friday respite group. You’ll help create a welcoming space where patients can enjoy activities, laughter, and support.

No two shifts are the same! You’ll be part of a friendly, dedicated team, helping with a variety of tasks and making a real difference to patients and their families. Respect, dignity, and compassion are at the heart of everything we do.

We’ll give you a full induction, top-quality training, and ongoing support. All we ask is your energy, kindness, and commitment to person-centred care.

Why we need you

To assist the team in providing nursing and personal care to our patients and support to their families and friends.

What you will be doing

• To provide personal care for the patients as required
• To prepare and serve refreshments and meals during your shift and assist with eating as needed
• Connect and chat to patients and families – led by them
• To inform the nurses of care you have provided and handover at the end of your volunteer shift

The skills you need

• Good communication skills and ability to be led by the patient
• Empathy & understanding
• Friendly and approachable
• Ability to work in a team
• Reliability
• Awareness of you own support needs
• Experience of caring / nursing 
• Volunteers must be over 18 years of age for this role

What's in it for you

• Help a local charity and give something back
• Learn new skills
• Gain more confidence
• Make new friends
• All training and induction to Dorothy House provided
• Out of pocket expenses reimbursed

Please note

This role will requires a DBS check

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of the issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sport. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to sports clubs, sporting venues and facilities and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a sporting world without barriers.

What you’ll be doing
1. Talks to sports and physical activity providers to support and encourage them to consider the needs of blind and partially sighted people by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local leisure centres, sporting venues and sports clubs.
2. Delivering talks to raise awareness of existing sporting and physical activity opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
3. Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service.

What you’ll gain from the role
1. A chance to give something back in an area you are passionate about.
2. A chance to make a difference with a sense of achievement.
3. A chance to build a strong community of sports people with sight loss.
4. A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people, increasing your confidence and skills to talk to groups of people with impact, with an opportunity to develop your role into delivering independently over time.
5. Opportunity to explore different roles within our organisation including our internal recruitment vacancies

In return for donating your time we will support you with:
1. A rewarding role
2. A great Induction and Training, in particular training in public speaking and story telling will be given.
3. A supportive Manager
4. Regular catch-ups
5. Expenses
6. An opportunity to connect with other volunteers

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Month

Key requirements

• This role requires 1 reference.

Location

Region

• Scotland

Who this opportunity will suit

• This role is reserved for blind and partially sighted applicants

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• You’ll ideally have 1. Lived experience in playing, spectating, or delivering sport or physical activity sessions as a blind or partially sighted person. 2. Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sports and physical activity. 3. Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your sporting story, or a willingness to try with our support. 4. Have effective communication skills. 5. An outgoing friendly approach to meeting new people

Chair of Trustees – Hackney Playbus

Are you passionate about giving every child the best start in life?

Hackney Playbus has supported children and families across Hackney for more than 50 years through free, inclusive play sessions, family support and community outreach. We are now looking for an inspiring and collaborative Chair of Trustees to help lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced Board and Co-Directors to shape the strategic direction of a well-established local charity with a strong reputation and growing ambition.

As Chair, you will provide leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, thoughtful decision-making and a clear focus on our charitable mission. You will support and challenge the Co-Directors, help build an engaged and diverse Board, and act as an ambassador for Hackney Playbus with partners, funders and the wider community.

We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach. Previous Chair experience is welcome but not essential; we’d also love to hear from people with senior leadership, governance or committee experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

This is a voluntary position requiring approximately 1–2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, regular meetings with the Co-Directors and occasional attendance at events and partnership meetings.

Alongside recruiting our new Chair, we are also seeking trustees with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Corporate partnerships and employee volunteering
• Communications and marketing
• Advocacy and influencing

By joining Hackney Playbus, you’ll help ensure that children can play, families feel supported, and communities continue to thrive.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences and are particularly keen to hear from people who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Could you spare just 1 hour a week to make a real difference in Sandwell?

Age UK Sandwell is looking for a friendly Activity Group Volunteer to help run a weekly social group for older people at Hamstead Library, Great Barr.

• Tuesdays, 2–3pm
• Help people stay active, connected and supported
• Training and support provided

Bring your listening ear, positive attitude and a caring approach then we’ll help with the rest.

For more detailed information, please see below:

About the Service

The Wellbeing Team at Age UK Sandwell supports people aged 50+ to improve their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing through social, physical and community activities. The service helps reduce loneliness and isolation by encouraging community connections, offering one-to-one support, befriending and signposting, and working with volunteers and local partners to help older people stay active, independent and connected.

About the Role

The volunteer for this social group will be responsible for facilitating weekly activity groups for older people. Specific tasks may include:

• To keep a record of attendance
• To facilitate the session on a weekly basis
• To prepare any resources and equipment required to deliver the group
• To report any concerns to your line manager
• To attend team meetings/supervision when required
• To help promote the group and encourage attendance from older people in the community

You will be supported by a staff member in the initial weeks to prepare you to run the group.

Personal qualities and skills most suited to this role

· Good listening and communication skills

· Patient, caring and non-judgemental approach

· Relevant skills, knowledge or interest in the activity

· Commitment to supporting the wellbeing of older people

· Reliable, flexible and positive attitude

Training

· Core training (including Safeguarding, GDPR, Health & Safety, and Equality & Diversity) will be provided digitally or in print as part of your volunteer registration pack.

· Role-specific training will be agreed with your line manager and delivered through a mix of digital and face-to-face sessions.

· You will also complete the Age UK Sandwell induction programme and any additional training relevant to your role.

Join a charity where your expertise can make a life-changing difference.

Action Duchenne is seeking new Trustees to help guide the organisation through an exciting period of growth and development. Whether you're an experienced board member or considering your first trustee appointment, this is an opportunity to use your skills to support families affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy and help shape the charity's future. 

We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience in:

• Finance, reserves, audit or financial control
• Fundraising, income generation or grant accountability
• Impact measurement or community support
• Communications, public affairs or stakeholder engagement 

Is this you?

• With or without trustee experience
• A strategic thinker with sound judgement
• Able to provide support and constructive challenge
• Passionate about improving lives
• Committed to strong governance and accountability 

What's in it for you?

• Help shape the future of a national charity
• Develop your governance and leadership experience
• Work alongside a passionate and committed Board
• Make a meaningful difference to families affected by Duchenne
• Most meetings are held remotely, with quarterly in-person meetings in London.

If you want to use your professional skills to create lasting impact, we'd love to hear from you. These unremunerated roles are open to all.

This role is subject to a DBS check, which will be carried out by the employer.

To apply for these exceptional opportunities, please submit your CV and supporting statement via the Charisma website. For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Charisma Charity Recruitment.

Key dates

• Closing date for applications: 4th November 2026
• First Interview date: w/c 16th November 2026
• Second Interview date: w/c 23rd November 2026

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

China Plate are looking for new Trustees to join our friendly and dynamic Board. If you are interested in the ways arts and culture can have a positive impact on the world, we’d love to hear from you.

China Plate is an arts charity based in Birmingham and working across the West Midlands, the UK and internationally. We’re producers: we work with people to make creative projects happen. Our projects include theatre shows, training programmes, audio anthologies, short films and bus stop galleries.

Our artistic programme is underpinned by our four core values: creativity, optimism, integrity and inclusivity. We’re now looking for new Trustees who share these values and who, like us, are interested in bringing communities together to produce creative projects that fire the imagination, make positive change and are open to all.

Our Trustees meet four times a year to discuss the company’s strategy and progress, and to ensure we are meeting all our legal requirements. These Board meetings are hybrid: you can join us online or in our Birmingham office.

Trustees are not paid: they are volunteers who give their time to support charities. However, at China Plate we can cover costs like travel expenses for meetings and events. If Trustees have access requirements – for example if you require BSL interpretation, captioning, or information provided in particular formats – we will also put these into place.

You do not need to have been part of a Board before to join. You could be based in the West Midlands or elsewhere in the UK. We are looking to recruit new Trustees from either inside or outside the arts sector, including those who may not yet be familiar with our work. We’re interested in hearing from anyone who shares our values, is excited by what we’re doing and is keen to support, question and challenge us.

We would particularly like to recruit one Trustee who is a young person (18-30) who has previously taken part in one of China Plate’s Training & Development programmes – such as The Optimists, Young Producers, or our internships and placements.

Deadline to apply is 12pm (midday) on Wednesday 30th September 2026.

If you’d like to find out more, please visit our website to download the Trustee Recruitment pack.

If you’d like to have a conversation about the role prior to applying, please email our Executive Director Chloe. 

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer Deputy Head of Policy to support the Head of Policy in leading and developing its Policy Team and delivering an ambitious programme of policy work aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities. The successful candidate will contribute to identifying and developing key policy priorities, supporting the design and delivery of impactful policy projects, and helping to shape the organisation’s wider strategic direction.

Working closely with the Head of Policy, Senior Leadership Team and Heads of the Initial Research Team, the Deputy Head of Policy will support the development of evidence-based policy initiatives, monitor emerging policy developments and opportunities, and contribute to building effective relationships with relevant external stakeholders. The role will also involve supporting the development, engagement and training of Policy Team volunteers, strengthening collaboration across the organisation, and contributing to policy-related research, publications and communications.

The successful candidate should have excellent writing, communication and analytical skills, strong IT literacy, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They should demonstrate a strong interest in policy development, research and evidence-based change, together with the ability to manage delegated projects, provide constructive leadership and translate complex policy developments into clear and actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities:

• Support the Head of Policy in leading the Policy Team in designing, developing and implementing impactful project objectives in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Assist the Head of Policy in identifying and developing key policy priorities and contributing to the organisation’s wider strategic direction.
• Support the management and development of relationships with relevant external stakeholders, helping to enhance the organisation’s visibility, reach and impact.
• Work closely with the Head of Policy and other members of the Senior Leadership Team in identifying and responding to emerging strategic priorities and opportunities.
• Monitor and analyse relevant external trends, developments and policy changes, providing the Head of Policy and wider organisation with timely information and recommendations where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and HR in developing a strong and effective Policy Team, including contributing to the identification of appropriate skills, expertise and development needs.
• Assist in ensuring that Policy Team volunteers are appropriately supported, engaged and trained throughout their period of service.
• Support the Heads of the Initial Research Team in developing and implementing frameworks for initial research that enable effective and efficient research aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with the Communications Team to support the development and implementation of strategies that increase the organisation’s profile, visibility and impact.
• Contribute to the creation of policy-related blogs, articles, reports and other written materials, and support the development of academic articles and research outputs where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and Chief Executive Officer in preparing policy strategies, recommendations and relevant materials for presentation to the organisation’s Trustees.
• Assist in delivering training and knowledge-sharing sessions for other teams within the organisation, helping members understand the policy process, how policy can be influenced and how they can contribute to policy-related work.
• Identify, collate and distribute relevant policy information, research, publications and external developments that may be of interest or value to members across the organisation.
• Take responsibility for delegated policy projects and initiatives, ensuring that agreed objectives and timelines are effectively managed and delivered.
• Provide leadership and support to members of the Policy Team in the absence of the Head of Policy or when delegated to do so.
• Promote effective collaboration between the Policy Team and other teams across the organisation, ensuring that policy considerations are appropriately incorporated into relevant organisational activities.
• Undertake any other policy-related duties or projects reasonably required by the Head of Policy or Senior Leadership Team.

Requirements:

• Experience in policy work, leading key campaigns or programmes
• High-level understanding of policy and practice, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities
• Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members
• Excellent writing and speaking skills
• IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite
• Ability to work well independently and in a team
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in leading a policy team
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team
• Flexible working hours

Chair of Trustees – Mary Frances Trust

Location: Surrey/Hybrid

Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Term: Three-year term, with potential for reappointment for up to two further terms.

We are open to reasonable adjustments and flexible approaches to the role.

About Mary Frances Trust

Mary Frances Trust (MFT) is a mental health and emotional wellbeing charity that works alongside people experiencing any kind of emotional or mental health issues, supporting them for as long as needed to restore and maintain their wellbeing. We provide a range of community-based services, co-produced with people with lived experience of mental health issues. We work closely with partners across the health sector (including NHS), local authority and the voluntary sector.

We believe that anyone experiencing mental or emotional health issues should feel confident to ask for help and receive appropriate support for as long as needed, to live a fulfilling life.

Our values are: Inspiring, Inclusive, Agile and Respectful.

We are a charitable company limited by guarantee with a Board of Trustees responsible for our overall governance, strategy and compliance.

Board culture: Our Board is friendly, established and committed, working collaboratively to provide strong governance and support MFT’s mission.

Please note, Mary Frances Trust reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

The Role

We’re seeking a Chair of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board as MFT embarks on its next phase of growth and development. This is an exciting strategic role offering the opportunity to drive meaningful change and shape the future of our organisation. You will work closely with a committed team of Trustees, staff and volunteers to set direction, provide governance and ensure MFT continues to deliver real impact for the Surrey community.

The Chair will:

• Lead the Board and support the organisation to fulfil its charitable purpose.
• Ensure effective working relationships between the Board and staff, volunteers, the Advisory Group, Members and key external stakeholders.
• Act as spokesperson and figurehead for the charity where appropriate.
• Supervise and support the Chief Executive, including an annual performance review.
• Plan and prepare Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) with the Chief Executive and other staff members as appropriate.
• Chair Board meetings effectively ensuring balanced discussion, clear decisions and actions are assigned and followed through.
• Lead regular reviews of Board effectiveness and support good succession planning for the Chair role.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive and fellow Trustees to ensure MFT meets its legal, regulatory and constitutional duties while staying true to its vision and values.

Person Specification

In addition to the skills and experience required of all MFT Trustees, the Chair will bring:

• Strong governance and leadership capability.
• The ability to chair meetings well and enable inclusive, balanced discussion and clear decisions.
• Sound judgement, and the ability to support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive.
• Tact, diplomacy and strong interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the mental health and wellbeing sector and/or the wider voluntary sector context.
• The time and capacity to commit to around 1–2 days per month.
• Commitment to MFT’s values and to improving mental health and wellbeing in the Surrey community.

Previous experience as a Chair or Vice Chair (in a charity, public, or non-profit setting) is desirable, but we also welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate strong governance and leadership experience and the ability to step into this role.

Additional experience that would strengthen the Board (desirable):

• HR / people governance experience.
• Capacity to support Board‑level oversight of complaints or appeals (staff or client related) where matters are escalated.
• Experience of Co‑production, lived‑experience‑led work, or collaborative approaches to service design and governance.
• Lived experience of mental health issues and/or caring experience (we value lived experience alongside governance and leadership skills).

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to commit approximately around 1–2 days per month.

These include:

• Preparing for and chairing approximately six Board meetings a year.
• Attending the Annual General Meeting (in the autumn).
• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive.
• Occasional representation at external meetings and events.

Eligibility

You must be eligible to serve as a Charity Trustee and Company Director under UK law and be willing to complete the necessary eligibility and declaration checks.

All successful candidates will be required to undertake Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks as well as reference checks. These will be a condition of any offer of volunteering post being made.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues.

We welcome applications from people under‑represented in charity governance (including disabled people, people from minoritised ethnic communities, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges).
 

The Shenanigans Club is looking for four reliable and enthusiastic volunteers to support Cup of Kindness 2026, delivered through TSC Impact, our community initiative.

Cup of Kindness is our annual winter initiative, created to offer a simple moment of warmth and care to people experiencing homelessness and others in need during the colder months.

Date: Saturday 5 December 2026

Volunteer time: 11:15am–5:00pm

Location: East London – exact location to be confirmed

Commitment: One-day volunteer opportunity; volunteers should be available for the full session

Pay: Unpaid volunteer role

Travel: Volunteers are responsible for their own travel to and from the confirmed location

What you’ll be doing

This is a practical, outdoor volunteering opportunity. Volunteers will work alongside the TSC Impact team throughout the day and will be involved in:

• Setting up and packing down
• Preparing and handing out hot drinks and refreshments
• Welcoming and interacting respectfully with members of the public
• Supporting the team and getting involved where needed

Volunteers should be comfortable being on their feet for approximately 4–5 hours across the day, with reasonable breaks where needed, and prepared for normal December weather.

If severe weather makes it unsafe or impractical for Cup of Kindness to go ahead, volunteers will be contacted as soon as possible.

Who we’re looking for

Previous volunteering experience is not required.

We’re looking for people who are:

• Reliable and punctual
• Friendly, compassionate, and approachable
• Confident communicating with different people
• Comfortable working as part of a team
• Willing to use their initiative
• Happy to get stuck in and support where needed

Whether you’re looking to give something back, gain experience, meet new people or spend your time doing something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.

Application and selection

A CV is required as part of our selection process.

Applications will be reviewed, and shortlisted applicants will be invited to a 15–30 minute Zoom interview. This gives us an opportunity to get to know you, discuss the volunteer role and answer any questions you may have.

Successful applicants will receive further information about Cup of Kindness, their allocated role and what to expect on the day.

About TSC Impact

TSC Impact is The Shenanigans Club’s community initiative, created to turn kindness into practical action.

TSC Impact is an initiative of The Shenanigans Club and is not a registered charity.

Use your skills to shape strategy, support leaders, and improve outcomes for children and young people. 

Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your skills and experience in your community? 

By becoming a school governor, you can help shape the future of education and support better outcomes for learners. 

What will you be doing? 

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and make decisions about a wide range of issues. 

The core responsibilities involved are: 

• Ensuring accountability 

• Acting as a critical friend to the head teacher 

• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress 

• Budgetary allocation and control 

• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation 

• Setting the school’s aims and values 

• Appointing senior members of staff, including the head teacher 

The governing body is usually split into a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting. 

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority, and the local community. 

What are we looking for? 

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs. 

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management is useful to a school. Soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions. 

What difference will you make? 

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9 in 10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers for governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

With more than 25 years’ experience and a national network of partners, we connect schools, academy trusts, colleges, and education charities across England and Wales with skilled, independent volunteers. 

Before you apply 

You will need to complete an application form and have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be carried out.