Literacy volunteer roles

Action Tutoring is a national education charity that offers free maths and English tutoring to pupils facing disadvantage. 

By volunteering as a tutor at a local school or online, you'll be supporting children to build their confidence and help ensure they leave school with the grades needed to build a bright future.

What will I be doing?

• Tutoring 1-3 pupils in Year 5 or 6, or Year 7, 10 or 11.

• Commit to one hour a week, for up to 20 weeks. You choose the day and time to sign up to.

• Use our tutor workbooks to guide your pupils through activities that will boost their confidence and grades.

What you'll gain:

• Receive induction training, tutor workbooks and ongoing support.

• Develop skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving.

• Meet like-minded people in our volunteer community.

• Travel expense reimbursement (up to £5 per session).

• Free DBS check.

This volunteer role is perfect for you if you:

• Are passionate about making a difference and helping young people succeed, particularly those facing disadvantage.

• Seek valuable experience working with children and are eager to hone essential skills such as communication, mentorship, and leadership – all highly valued in any career path.

• Have a busy schedule but are keen to contribute to your community, as this flexible role requires just one hour a week, either in-person or conveniently online.

We look for volunteers with:

• Solid subject knowledge in the area they wish to tutor, which may be demonstrated by a degree or grade B at A-level qualification (or equivalent) or relevant experience.

• The ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently.

• A commitment to supporting pupils’ academic progress.

We recognise that valuable experience can be gained through diverse routes, so if your qualifications differ from those mentioned - we still encourage you to apply! Please highlight any relevant experience or skills in your application.

We welcome applications from volunteers across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. (Please note: this is a volunteer, unpaid position.)

Our volunteers say:

" The Action Tutoring team has been fabulous in their support: timely updates, always available, closely following progress, and ready to intervene where needed, very professional indeed!"

"Volunteering is very rewarding. I would say the skills that one develops from teaching the pupils are transferable to any walk of life and make you a better person. I would highly recommend it."

THE OPPORTUNITY

Do you have accountancy or finance skills and experience that you could use to support a charity? Would you like to help make sure people have the right information and support to make informed decisions about their health, wellbeing and care?

Patient Information Forum is looking for a new Trustee with finance skills to join our Board. You could play an important role in shaping our future and strengthening our work.

WHO IS PATIENT INFORMATION FORUM?

The Patient Information Forum (PIF) is the membership body for people working in health information and support. We are the independent voice of UK health information. PIF runs the only quality mark for print and digital health information – the PIF TICK.

WHAT MATTERS TO US

Access for everyone to personalised health information and support so that people feel enabled to make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing.

We believe high-quality information is key to reducing inequalities in health literacy, and we are strongly committed to inclusion. We also tackle misinformation, helping people to recognise trusted, credible sources and tell them apart from misleading or false information.

IF YOU JOIN US…

You'll play an important role in overseeing PIF’s financial health and ensuring that the Board and senior team can make informed, responsible decisions.

The Treasurer’s role is to provide financial leadership and oversight for the charity. This includes reviewing, approving, and presenting budgets, accounts, and financial statements, as well as preparing and delivering clear financial reports to the Board.

You’ll have the opportunity to work with a team of fellow Trustees who bring a wide range of professional experience.

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

We are looking for individuals with an accountancy qualification or equivalent finance knowledge gained by experience. You’ll have high levels of integrity and an eye for detail.

Previous trustee experience isn’t required, and you will be supported into the role through an onboarding and induction process.

We are particularly seeking someone to:

○ guide and advise the Board on the approval of budgets and annual accounts within current legislation

○ keep the Board informed of its statutory financial duties and responsibilities

○ commit to PIF’s, vision and goals. Honesty, integrity, and a commitment to transparency.

Please make sure you read our Candidate Information Pack before applying. It contains important details about the role and our organisation.

Don’t think you quite meet all the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out. We’d still love to learn more about your interest in joining Patient Information Forum!

WHAT’S NEXT?

Eastside People is supporting Patient Information Forum in the recruitment of this role. You can apply today by submitting your CV and Cover Letter.

The closing date for applications is Fri 20 February.

Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with PIF during the week beginning 9 March.

PIF is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the population and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We acknowledge every application. You’ll always hear from us after taking the time to apply - we look forward to hearing from you!

Are you passionate about harnessing digital platforms and social media to educate, empower and inspire communities? 

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a visionary Social & Digital Media Education Lead to join our founding volunteer team. This role is central to designing and delivering educational programmes that equip members with the knowledge, skills and confidence to use social media and digital tools safely, creatively and impactfully.

Purpose of the role:

The Volunteer Social & Digital Media Education Lead is responsible for designing, developing and delivering educational programmes focused on social and digital media skills. This role supports the organisation’s mission by empowering volunteers, staff and community members with the knowledge and tools to effectively use digital platforms for communication, outreach and engagement. 

About the role:

As Social & Digital Media Education Lead, you will develop and lead training, workshops, and resources for community members, volunteers, and staff. You will work closely with the Instructional Designer, Membership Director, and Technical Systems Liaison to ensure digital learning aligns with our anti-capitalist, survivor-led, and community-driven mission. This is a strategic and hands-on role where your expertise directly enables communities to navigate and leverage digital spaces safely and effectively.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential Technical Competencies:

• Experience managing social media platforms, including content creation, scheduling and audience engagement.
• Experience designing and delivering digital education programmes or training courses.
• Skilled in facilitating online workshops, webinars or interactive learning sessions.
• Ability to create multimedia learning materials such as videos, presentations and guides.
• Ability to support learners in building practical digital skills.
• Knowledge of major social media platforms, digital tools and safe online practices.
• Strong communication skills for clear instruction and guidance.
• Ability to design, deliver and evaluate digital learning content effectively.
• Formal qualifications in digital media, communications or a related field or equivalent professional/volunteer experience.
• Practical experience demonstrating digital content creation, online facilitation or programme management. 

Desirable / Can Be Developed:

• Experience or strong interest in social media, digital content creation or online community engagement. 
• Strong interest in community education, inclusion and positive digital participation.
• Developing skills in creating educational or informative digital content (posts, short videos, guides or campaigns). 

Qualifications:

• Formal qualifications are not required but desirable.
• Relevant study, training or experience in social media, digital communication, education, marketing or community engagement is valued.

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Design and deliver educational programmes, workshops and learning resources on social media literacy.
• Develop training on digital safety and responsible online behaviour.
• Monitor digital trends, tools and risks to ensure training content is relevant, current and safe.
• Develop engaging, practical learning experiences for diverse audiences.
• Update and adapt learning materials to reflect changes in social media platforms and digital practices.
• Align digital media training with organisational goals and programme objectives.
• Provide practical guidance to ensure learners can apply digital skills confidently.
• Support members and volunteers in applying digital skills, including content creation, online communication and platform navigation.
• Develop assessment tools, guides and documentation to track learning progress and measure outcomes.
• Maintain records of learning activities and progress to inform programme improvements.
• Foster confidence and competence among learners and staff in applying digital skills responsibly and effectively.
• Monitor compliance and provide feedback to continuously improve digital education programmes in line with organisational standards.
• Ensure all digital education activities comply with safeguarding policies, protecting vulnerable participants and maintaining a safe learning environment.
• Apply best practices in data-driven decision-making to ensure digital education initiatives are learner-focused, inclusive and aligned with organisational objectives.

What This Role Offers You:

• Leadership experience in designing and delivering digital literacy and media education programmes.
•  Personal and professional growth through hands-on engagement with diverse community members.
• Opportunity to shape the digital literacy and empowerment framework within a pioneering, values-led CIC.
• The satisfaction of enabling members to confidently navigate digital spaces, share their stories and amplify community impact.

What This Role Is Not For:

• Individuals seeking purely administrative or technical work without engagement or training responsibilities.
• Those unwilling to uphold safeguarding, data protection and ethical online practice standards.
• People expecting pre-set, rigid curricula—this role requires creativity, adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to

• A values-led conversation.
• If you are ready to educate, empower, and guide communities through digital spaces while fostering meaningful social impact, we want to hear from you. 
• Apply now and become a key driver of transformative digital education.

A Final Word

Data is about people, not numbers. Trust is built through care and accuracy.

If you know that: Respect keeps relationships strong.

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives. 

We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework. 

About the CARAS Adult Team: 

In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

CARAS is looking for Digital Skills Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.

The Digital Skills group is in Streatham and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education. The timings of the digital skills sessions is as follows: 

• Tuesday evenings 4pm to 6pm 

Volunteers are required to attend one session per week. They are also welcome to come early and support ESOL classes before the Digital Skills sessions, where appropriate. 

The Tuesday Digital skills sessions focus on practical, accessible digital skills, such as, but not limited to: 

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones confidently 

• Keyboard and navigation skills 

• Using email and online communication tools 

• Accessing learning platforms and online resources 

• Online safety and digital wellbeing 

• Using digital tools to support English learning, homework and study skills 

The aim of the Digital Skills sessions is to build independence, confidence, and digital inclusion, supporting young people to engage more fully with formal education and everyday life in the UK. Enrolments to the programme are based on rolling admissions, requiring adaptability to the changing digital skills needs of the group through participatory enquiry led by the ESOL teacher. 

The ESOL teacher will provide guidance, session plans, and tips for supporting learners with emerging English, including how to explain digital concepts in clear, accessible ways. 

Volunteers will typically work with 1–5 students, offering one-to-one or small group support and adapting tasks to different ability levels. 

Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates.

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing one-to-one or small group support during Digital Skills sessions 

• Supporting young people to use digital devices and software confidently 

• Helping to set up the classroom and digital equipment 

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session 

• Sharing observations on learners’ progress, challenges, and successes 

• Making use of any community languages if any, to support learners’ understanding 

• Working collaboratively as part of a team and helping to shape the project 

• Supporting young people to recognise and celebrate their achievements 

• Showing flexibility to a wide range of ability levels and confidence with technology 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management, and all other relevant policies 

Requirements: 

Essential: 

• Aged 18 years or older 

• An interest in education, digital inclusion, and supporting young people 

• Confident using computers, smartphones, or tablets 

• Currently resident in the UK or has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses and willing to undergo a DBS check 

• DBS and proof of residency are not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK 

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to starting 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed) 

• Non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds 

• Reliable and punctual, with a commitment of at least one session per week for a minimum of 4 months 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English 

• Willingness to explain digital concepts patiently and clearly 

• Ability to volunteer during Wandsworth term time 

Desirable 

• Experience supporting young people with digital skills or IT (formal or informal) 

• Knowledge of community languages such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali, or Spanish 

• Experience working with young people, refugees, or learners of English in a work or volunteer capacity 

• Interest in using digital tools to support language learning 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

To Apply: 

Successful applicants will be invited to a taster session at CARAS, following which they will have an informal interview with a staff member of the CARAS ESOL team and a community member. All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role. These meetings and the induction training will be on a rolling basis, so apply ASAP!

We’re looking for someone who believes deeply in the power of creativity and who can help steward the organisation with care, imagination and strategic oversight. It’s a voluntary role, but a hugely meaningful one and a chance to make a lasting difference to the future of the Super Power Agency.

I’ve attached our Chair of Trustees recruitment pack, which gives more detail about the role, the moment we’re in as an organisation and the kind of person we’re hoping to find . You might know someone brilliant who would be a great fit – or you might even feel curious yourself, please get in touchle

Target Housing is a resilient, responsive, purpose-driven organisation working at the heart of our communities. As a regional charity, registered provider, and registered care provider, we provide safety, support and hope to some of the most vulnerable people in society, including entrenched rough sleepers, survivors of domestic abuse, people with multiple and complex needs, women who have had children removed into care, and individuals living with mental ill health or learning disabilities.

Following significant growth over the past 5 years, we now own 160 homes and manage a further 800 across the region, with services shaped around human connection, trauma-informed care, and long-term recovery.

We’re looking for a qualified accountant with capacity to give back, to step into the role of Treasurer of our Board.

About the Role

As Treasurer, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight of our finances, helping us stay sustainable while delivering maximum social impact.
• Support the board in understanding our financial position, risks and opportunities.
• Work closely with our Finance Director and CEO to review budgets and ensure compliance.
• Attend bi-monthly board meetings (in-person in Rotherham), and occasional sub-group discussions as needed.

This is a voluntary position with expenses reimbursed, and a chance to be part of a passionate, mission-driven leadership team making a real difference every day.

About You

We’re looking for someone pragmatic, with sound judgement and a good heart. You will:

• Be a qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent).
• Bring strong financial literacy, but be just as comfortable with conversations about people, purpose and impact.
• Understand the nuances of working in a charity, housing, or regulated care environment, or be keen to learn.
• Be values-driven, collaborative, and believe in second chances and lasting change.

Why Join Us?

Because what we do matters, and how we do it matters even more. We work flexibly, with purpose and compassion. You’ll be joining a charity that’s grown fast, but kept its soul, and you’ll be helping guide us into a financially resilient and impactful future.

Ready to Make a Difference in 2026? Then come and Volunteer with Us.........

We are thrilled to be opening a brand-new Charity Shop in Langney Road, Eastbourne – and we are looking for volunteers to come and join our Team.

Our shops are a hive of activity and the heart of the local community. They raise funds to support our vital work and provide a place to find out more about how we help older people in the local area.

Our Stock Preparation Volunteers always enjoy being part of our shop teams; making new friends and helping the charity to maximise the income from the amazing items people donate to us.

In this role you will usually be working in our donation sorting area, which is off the shop floor. Here you will help the team process, prepare and price the items people donate.

We receive hundreds of bags of clothing, bric-a-brac, toys, games and all sorts of items every week. You will help us to turn these into vital funds to support our work.

After full training you will be part of our processing team; sorting through the donated items, identifying those which we should sell, preparing them and pricing before they are put onto the shop floor.

You may have a particular area of experience, such as clothing, books or antiques. Your skills and knowledge will help us to gain the best value for each item and some of our volunteers even coordinate entire sections, such as a book rooms within our stores.

When people come in to donate their items you will be helping to thank them for their support. Many items are Gift Aided so when processing the items you will ensure that Gift Aid labels are attached so that we can gain this additional vital income.

You will help to make our products look amazing; steaming clothes (if this is your area) and helping to clean and make every item look great and ready for sale.

It would be ideal if you could volunteer at least one shift a week, which is about three hours but we're also happy to have more flexible times. No special skills are needed as we will show you what to do and will provide all the training you need.

It’s really easy to get your volunteering started, if you're over 16 years old please apply now!

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Manage a small team of remote, part time volunteers

• Develop, review and maintain HR policies & volunteer handbook

• Ensure compliance with employment laws, regulations and GDPR.

• Partner with the wider HR team to ensure alignment and compliance with policies, processes and training.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of UK employment laws and practices and its relevance in a volunteer led organisation.

• Excellent writing and communication skills.

• IT literacy with own equipment (laptop and phone)

• Ability to work well in a team.

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Passionate for personal development

• Previous volunteering experience or experience in any kind of start up desirable

• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.

• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.

• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our volunteers and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations. We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience.

Your contribution will be recognized through:
oLinkedIn testimonial and reference
oA public thank you post
oPermission to list YouthAdvantage UK as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn
oA written reference upon completion of your commitment

If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

We are looking for a passionate and conscientious individual to join our board of trustees as the trustee dedicated to strengthening and diversifying our financial sustainability for the future. As a valued member of the Board, the role will join the team of trustees to ensure that Equality in Tourism International fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries and delivers on our vision, mission and values.

This new trustee role will assist in strengthening our financial sustainability in the forthcoming growth period.This role will combine donor development and business development expertise. The Trustee will work alongside our Operations Manager to:

• Leverage personal and professional contacts to open doors for new opportunities.
• Cultivate and manage existing and potential donor relationships, including trusts, foundations, companies, high-net-worth individuals, and institutional/EU funders.
• Identify and explore new, sustainable income streams such as consultancy opportunities, training, corporate partnerships, etc.
• Develop a strategy to grow and diversify income.This will provide financial insight to support EiT’s strategic and budget planning.This will include identifying budgeting for restricted and unrestricted funding.
• Attend relevant networking events and represent EiT at conferences, webinars, trade shows etc with the aim of cultivating financial opportunities.
• Work closely with the Co-Directors and Trustees to align fundraising and business development with EiT’s strategic goals.

Person Specification

Essential

· Relevant Business experience and Donor Development

· Commitment to Equality in Tourism’s mission and values

• Proven track record in fundraising and donor development, with success across income streams, for instance:Trusts/foundations, Corporates, HNWIs, institutional/EU funding.
• Excellent relationship-building and networking abilities, ideally with existing donor or business contacts.
• Business development skills, with experience linking fundraising to long-term financial sustainability.
• Ability to think strategically and translate ideas into action.
• Strong written communication skills.

Desirable

· Trustee experience in a previous role

· Experience in gender equality, women’s rights, international development, or sustainable tourism.

• Financial literacy, including experience with budgets, restricted/unrestricted funding, and financial planning.
• Experience of innovative or entrepreneurial approaches to income generation.

Overview

This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated and enthusiastic volunteer to join our Communications and Marketing team of volunteer professionals.

We are looking to appoint someone who has 7 or more years of professional experience in either Communications and Marketing and who has some experience of leading or / and managing a team in a Communications and Marketing environment.

Reports to: Head of Communications & Marketing 

Core duties and responsibilities

• To take part in department wide management and leadership activities
• To provide practical assistance to the Head of Department
• To support the planning of department activities
• To take on line management roles as assigned
• To provide effective supervision and guidance to other volunteers as delegated
• To work with the Head of Department to support progress and performance in relation to departmental activities to be undertaken
• To oversee departmental tasks
• To provide support and additional capacity with regards to progress of departmental relevant tasks

Requirements

• At least 7 or more years of relevant experience.
• Some experience (ideally 2 or more years) of managing or leading a team.
• To have some understanding of managing volunteers.
• Excellent writing and communication skills.
• IT literacy with own equipment (laptop and phone)
• Ability to work well in a team.
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.
• Previous volunteering experience or experience in any kind of start up desirable
• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.
• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.
• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

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

Join Room to Heal as a Trustee with financial expertise to support the Board in safeguarding the charity’s financial health, guiding strategy, and ensure its mission of healing and community continues to transform lives.

About Room to Heal

Room to Heal is a healing community for asylum seekers and refugees who have suffered torture and gross human rights violations. Our mission is to use the restorative power of community to help people heal from torture and organised violence and build meaningful lives.

What will you be doing?

Background

• Room to Heal is strengthening its financial resilience as it adapts to a more competitive funding environment. The charity’s finances are stable but closely managed, requiring careful cashflow oversight and strategic risk assessment
• The current Treasurer brings strong financial expertise, though the Board sees the benefit of an additional finance-skilled trustee to enhance collective confidence in decision-making

Key Responsibilities

• Support the board in interpreting financial reports and identifying trends or risks
• Advise on reserves, cashflow management, and funding diversification
• Contribute to financial planning and sustainability discussions
• Sit on the finance subcommittee and provide informed challenge and reassurance
• Act as a critical friend to staff on financial matters, without undertaking day-to-day delivery

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a Trustee with financial experience. We welcome candidates at different career stages - from senior finance professionals to those seeking their first board role.

• Strong financial literacy and confidence interpreting financial data
• Ability to assess financial risk and support sound decision-making
• Commitment to good governance and the mission of Room to Heal
• Collaborative approach with clear communication and analytical thinking

Room to Heal was founded on principles of equality, respect, and justice, and these values continue to guide every aspect of our work. Our community includes people from many countries, languages, and faiths, and our strength lies in our diversity. We welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity.

What difference will you make?

By joining Room to Heal as a Trustee, you will help secure the long-term sustainability of a life-changing service.

• Make a tangible difference - helping ensure the charity’s finances remain robust and resilient
• Shape strategy - contributing to decisions that directly affect survivors’ access to healing and justice
• Build your own experience - developing governance skills in a complex, purpose-driven environment
• Join a diverse and compassionate board - committed to integrity, inclusion, and impact

Your insights will help Room to Heal continue offering sanctuary and support to people rebuilding their lives after trauma.

Time commitment

The time commitment averages around 3-6 hours per month.

4 Board meetings a year - usually hybrid, allowing trustees to join remotely or in person.

Also attend the finance subcommittee - online approximately every six weeks.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 3 May 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 4 May and 15 May 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 27 May 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 3 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 10 June 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 1 July 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Disclaimer

In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.

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! 

Support Session Volunteer

You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities.  Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis.  The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual. 

As a support session volunteer, you might: 

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• help people to make complaints and use local services 

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening. 

Safeguarding Commitment Statement 

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice. 

ED&I Statement 

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential. 

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options. 

To find out more click “Apply Now”.