Policy volunteer roles

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Unfortunately, thousands of cats each year are abandoned or have strayed and rely on charities like Cats Protection for help. Becoming a trap, neuter and return (TNR) volunteer is one way you can make a real difference to cats in your local area. Our TNR volunteers help reduce the number of feral cats by raising awareness of our TNR programmes, setting humane traps to safely capture cats, taking them to local vets to be neutered, and hopefully returning them back to their territory. Local TNR programmes are crucial, as feral and abandoned cats present a huge challenge for communities across the UK.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Trapping cats using humane methods
• Taking cats to local vets to be neutered 
• Returning cats to their territory or finding a suitable alternative

The role might also include:

• Regular feeding of feral colonies
• Promoting neutering by building relationships with farmers, land owners and local businesses
• Liaising with vets to promote and arrange neutering 

Time expectation 

This is a flexible role and the hours will vary depending on the number of cats identified for specific TNR campaigns. Our current TNR volunteers spend about 2 to 3 hours per week in this role which can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats each year and the majority of these success stories are thanks to the dedication and effort of our passionate volunteers. Our recruitment support volunteers help local volunteer groups and teams by promoting volunteer roles, matching passionate cat loving volunteers to roles and informing potential volunteers about the variety of volunteer roles available at Cats Protection.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Identifying opportunities for volunteer involvement
• Planning volunteer recruitment campaigns
• Managing volunteer recruitment by advertising and promoting roles
• Overseeing the volunteer application process
• Meeting potential volunteers and providing information about roles
• Matching potential volunteers with suitable roles
• Promoting a culture of volunteering best practice

Time expectation 

Our recruitment support volunteers usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups and teams, all of which help our cats in different ways. Our treasurer volunteers maintain the finances of local groups and teams, ensuring they hold the funds needed to continue their vital work. Cats Protection relies solely on donations from generous members of the public, and our treasurer volunteers help make sure these funds are spent in the most effective way. 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

•  Preparing budgets
• Keeping accurate financial records
• Reporting financial records via ‘Cashlog’ (Cats Protection supplied software)
• Paying invoices and volunteer expenses
• Being part of a team which ensures there are sufficient funds to meet expenditure
• Updating and advising others on income received, expenditure and available funds
• Managing and monitoring donations made to the group
• Following financial procedures e.g. Gift Aid returns and VAT claims

Time expectation

Our current volunteer treasurers usually spend between 2 to 4 hours per week in this role. More hours may be required at certain times, such as towards the end of the financial year but support is always available. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Treasures Foundation supports vulnerable women recovering from addiction, trauma, mental health and the criminal justice system. We are looking for a committed and enthusiastic Trustee Treasurer to join our board of Trustees.

Role summary

•    To ensure that Treasures Foundation works in line with its governing documents and ethos, putting the needs of the beneficiaries at the forefront.
• To safeguard the good name and values of Treasures.
•  To promote decisions and take action to help support the financial stability of Treasures.
• Committed to ensuring highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and recognition as well as staff and trustee development.
• Ensure long-term strategic oversight of the organisation’s personnel and staffing requirements in relation to the overarching goals of the charity.

Main responsibilities

• Present financial reports to the board in a format that helps the board understand the charity’s financial position
• Advise the board on how to carry out its financial responsibilities
• Work with professional advisors
• Oversee the preparation and scrutiny of annual accounts
• Spot check finances

Time commitment and location

The board meet once, every three months for 2 hours. Any other involvement would add up to about 8 hours per month. The meetings take place virtually on zoom. In addition to the minimum commitment you may like to be part of working groups that look at particular areas for example budgeting. There is always opportunity for you to work more intimately with the charity too.

What impact will you have?

We are an ambitious, growing organisation. Helping women change their lives is at the heart of what we do and are successful at. You will be contributing to

It’s a very exciting time to be a trustee of Treasures; everything the trustees do or get involved in will have a great impact on the organisation and everyone’s contribution makes a difference to our beneficiaries. You will also have the opportunity to attend courses, join networking events and meet our funders.

This group is a chance for blind and partially sighted people with Charles Bonnet Syndrome to come together and socialise. In the role of facilitator, you will ensure the group runs smoothly and that everybody has a chance to contribute to the group conversation. You don’t need to have any experience or knowledge of Charles Bonnet Syndrome as you won’t be asked to give out any information about the condition and no medical information is exchanged.

You will:
Listen to the group conversation, ensure it flows and that all conversations are appropriate;
Make appropriate contributions as and when required to stimulate conversation;
Create a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging all participants to feel comfortable taking part;
Be the link between the group participants and the RNIB Talk and Support team;
Report any Safeguarding concerns or data breaches to the Talk & Support staff team.

This is a telephone-based role that you can do from home. You’ll need access to a landline and/or mobile phone.

How often will I be needed?

• 2 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• 2 references

Location

Region

• South West, Scotland, East Midlands, North East, Yorkshire and the Humber, East of England, Wales, North West, Greater London, West Midlands, Northern Ireland, South East

Home based

• This role is home based

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• Good listening skills and verbal communication skills
• Able to use the telephone confidently for an hour long call up to 3 times per week
• Able to work with a wide range of people from across the UK
• Demonstrate empathy and understanding of the issues faced by visually impaired people
• Ability to follow internal policy and procedures
• Willingness to undertake and remain compliant with mandatory safeguarding training and attend other training and development opportunities when required.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to help, we’d love to hear from you!

About us

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development.

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and Cyprus. Each squadron is supported by a committee of trustees who oversee governance, fundraising, and community engagement, helping ensure incredible opportunities for young people.

What’s involved

Being a trustee is a simple but highly impactful way to support your local squadron:

• Attend quarterly meetings (around two hours each)
• Discuss finances, fundraising, priorities, and squadron activities
• Take part in decisions, especially financial and strategic matters
• Support events, networking, or community initiatives

Typical commitment: 8-12 hours per year.

Who we’re looking for

Trustees come from all walks of life. No military, youth work, or charity experience is required. Trustees actively participate in meetings and decisions – there’s no obligation to take on an elected role.

Eligibility:

• Must be 20 years or older.
• Must have lived in the UK for 3 or more years.

Useful skills (optional but welcomed):

• Finance, budgeting, or business management
• Fundraising or grant writing
• Event planning or project management
• Governance, committee, or leadership experience
• Local networks or community connections

We particularly welcome:

• Applicants from under-represented communities.
• Younger adults. Only 1% of trustees in the UK are under 30 (Charity Commission and Pro Bono Economics 2025), and we particularly encourage applications from people wanting to grow their skills while making a real impact.
• People who are motivated to learn and contribute, not just bring experience.

What you’ll gain

• Experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising.
• Expanded professional and personal networks.
• Access to training and support.
• A chance to make a real difference in your community.

There are also opportunities to grow if you want to take on more responsibility:

• Take on leadership roles within your committee
• Support other squadrons
• Get involved in regional or even nationally
• Transition into civilian or uniformed volunteer roles working directly with cadets

Support you’ll receive

You will be fully supported, with guidance and resources at every level, so you can contribute confidently:

• Locally, you’ll work with your squadron Chair, Treasurer and Commander.
• At Wing level, the Wing Chair, Treasurer and Secretary provide guidance, templates and advice.
• Nationally, RAF Air Cadets trustees are part of a broader governance community with access to resources and information.

How to join

1. Submit an expression of interest via this CharityJob listing.
2. Attend an informal virtual meeting with the Wing Chair and Wing Treasurer.
3. Visit a local squadron and meet the team.
4. Apply to become a trustee if invited.
5. Complete required DBS and background checks.

Read to make a difference? Apply now

Please take a note of your preferred squadron in this area then apply via this listing:

• 124 (Hereford City) Squadron, Suvla Barracks Army Reserve Centre, Harold Street, Hereford, Herefordshire, HR1 2QX
• 1002 (Ross-on-Wye) Squadron, Alton Lane, Ross on Wye, Herefordshire, HR9 5NB 
• 151 (Leominster) Squadron, 115 Bridge Street, Leominster, Herefordshire, HR6 8DZ

Our Linked Minds Befriending Project supports people who are socially isolated in Ealing and Hounslow due to a diagnosed mental health problem.

This is an opportunity to become a Befriender.

On successful completion of specialist mental health training, the Befriender is matched with someone suitable, by a Co-ordinator who then acts as a (non-clinical) supervisor for the befriending period, which is limited to a year.

Befriender, client and supervisor make a plan together with a goal to work towards, and the Befriender makes a weekly 1-2 hour visit to the client's home, where they might stay in and chat over a cup of tea, go out for a walk together, visit a café or undertake a local activity. 

These visits make such a difference for the client, increasing their confidence and helping them explore and work towards getting a job, joining a club, meeting other people or whatever their goal may be.

The aim is that, by the end of the year, clients feel better about themselves, more valued, resilient, empowered, more linked to their community and better equipped for their journeys in recovery.

But volunteering with BEfriend not only enriches the lives of those who are isolated, it also offers immense personal rewards.

As a Befriender, you’ll get to know inspirational people with fascinating stories, develop new skills and be part of a supportive team that values compassion and connection.

Perinatal Support Volunteers provide one-to-one support to parents during pregnancy and up to nine months after the birth. These parents either have mental health issues or are at risk of developing them.

Perinatal Support Volunteers visit these families once a week (usually weekdays during working hours) for 2-3 hours, providing emotional support and practical help in the family’s home or local community. Support is aimed at empowering parents and building resilience beyond the support period.

The type of support Perinatal Support Volunteers provide to parents may include:

• An empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear
• Support to prepare for parenthood
• Support to build confidence in parenting skills
• Support to develop a positive relationship with their infant
• Support to establish daily and weekly routines
• Support to take time for self-care
• Support to manage the things that are causing stress
• Support to access relevant services
• Support to access local green spaces
• Support to make connections with other parents

No special qualifications are necessary to become a Perinatal Support Volunteer, but Home-Start volunteers are usually either parents or grandparents themselves, or people with experience of young children and family life. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges.

Do you have experience in the legal sector and a passion for making a difference? We are seeking a new Trustee with legal expertise to help guide our strategy.

Key responsibilities

Governance and strategic leadership

• Actively participate in Board meetings and relevant Board committee meetings (e.g. Governance), providing objective advice on strategic direction, performance and resources.
• Work with the Chair, Chief Executive and other trustees to ensure the charity maintains the highest standards of governance, complies with all relevant laws and regulations and delivers on its mission.
• Contribute to the development, scrutiny and approval of organisational strategies, major projects and investment decisions, ensuring alignment with long-term goals.
• Champion the charity’s values, diversity and inclusion and ethical standards at all times.

Legal oversight and stewardship

• Support the organisation in complying with its governing documents, charity law, and other relevant legislation.
• Safeguard the organisation’s assets and ensure they are applied exclusively for charitable purposes.
• Support the Board in understanding legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities.
• Contribute to setting and reviewing the organisation’s strategic direction.
• Monitor performance and ensure accountability across all areas of operation.
• Ensure financial stability and integrity, approving budgets and monitoring expenditure.
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation, promoting its mission and values.

Person specification

• Qualified solicitor or barrister or significant experience in legal practice
• Strong understanding of charity law, company law, compliance and governance frameworks
• Commitment to the organisation’s values and objectives
• Experience and understanding of the role of Company Secretary
• Experience at senior leadership level
• Exceptional communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Strategic thinker, capable of balancing detail with the bigger picture, and exercising sound independent judgement
• Deep commitment to the mission, vision and values of the charity, including principles of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Time commitment

This appointment requires a commitment to Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care to attend quarterly early evening meetings of the Board of Trustees and serve on at least one Board committee (Governance Committee), with additional meetings as required.

In addition to attending meetings, trustees will need to make time to read and evaluate papers. All our trustees are encouraged to actively participate and engage in external events and networking to represent and promote the charity, where requested.

Appointments are usually for a term of three years with the possibility of two further three-year extensions by mutual agreement up to a maximum term of nine years.

Remuneration

This is a voluntary, unpaid trustee role. Reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed in line with the charity’s policy.

The benefits of joining our Board of Trustees include:

• Professional recognition
• Networking opportunities with fellow trustees as well as access to forums and communities of likeminded trustees at other organisations.
• Training and support to get the best out of the role.
• Career development: Diversify your experience and demonstrate leadership, governance expertise and commitment to public service.

Application process

Please submit a covering letter outlining how your skills and experience would contribute to Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care in your role as Trustee, together with a recent CV.

The supporting statement should demonstrate why you want to join our charity, your suitability for this role and specifically address the key elements of this role specification.

If your skills and experience fit, you will be shortlisted and final selection will be via a two-stage formal interview process with the Chair of Trustees, Chief Executive and one or two other Trustees.

Deadline for applications: 5pm on Friday 13 February

Interview dates: 26 February and 11 March

Our Cat Fosterers play a vital role by providing a temporary, loving home for cats that are in the care of the RSPCA.

Why we want you 

We are the RSPCA South Bucks Branch and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteer fosterers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work by caring for cats and enabling them to be rehomed. 

You could be fostering an animal for just a few weeks, or it could be a longer term placement for several months and in a few cases it can be longer. 

What you will be doing 

Providing care and suitable housing in a safe environment for cats while they are in foster care in accordance with Society policies and guidelines.

Feeding, watering, providing enrichment, socialising and grooming cats (as appropriate).

Liaising with your Cat Co-ordinator regularly. For cats ready for rehoming: sharing photos and videos to the cat coordinator to enable them to raise awareness and rehoming. 

If the animal has specific needs you will be supported by your local team of fosterers to enable you to provide the care needed.

Offering a separate room to keep the cat/s in and separate from your own animals.

Some cats may have had surgery and will need a period of cage rest. This will be provided.

Your family/household must be fully supportive (and checked/confirmed that there are no cat allergies within the household).

All members of the household should have an up-to-date tetanus injection.

Transporting your foster cat safely for vet appointments.

Allowing a potential adopter to enter your home to view a cat up for adoption after they have been assessed by the cat co-ordinator, a volunteer can support you in this. 

Completing the local branch paperwork relating to the cats in your care.

The skills you need 

Volunteers must be aged 18 or over. 

Previous experience of fostering would be beneficial, and experience caring for cats is essential. 

If you have existing cats, they must be spayed/neutered and vaccinated. 

If in rented accommodation, permission from the landlord must be obtained. 

You must live in South Buckinghamshire or close to Chesham.

Volunteers must complete an online induction, you will need to have basic IT skills and access to a PC or laptop, or have someone who can help you carry out the induction. 

What's in it for you 

Meet like-minded people and get to know more about the work of the RSPCA South Bucks Branch.

Add an important animal welfare role to your CV.

A great induction and training relevant to your role. 

Support from our local and national teams.

You’ll be making a huge difference to the welfare of animals. 

What we provide you

We provide all the food, litter, medication and equipment needed to foster cats in our branch. Any other expenses must be agreed in advance with the Finance Manager.

A community of local fosterers to draw support and information.

Regular contact with your cat coordinator to support you.

Disclaimer 

Our fosterers are subject to an informal interview, home assessment visit, two satisfactory references and completion of online induction training including Health and Safety. 

White Ribbon Alliance UK are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join as Trustees. In this role, you will be instrumental in governing our charity and ensuring we achieve our mission to promote maternal health and rights. Trustees serve for a term of three years, with the possibility of renewal at the end of the term. We are looking to fill the positions of General Trustees, Board Chair, Treasurer, and Compliance Officer. Your strategic vision, commitment, and ambassadorial efforts will be vital in driving our organisation forward and making a significant impact on the communities we serve. Below is the role description and instructions on how to apply.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Statutory Duties of a Trustee 

Trustees share ultimate responsibility for governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run. This includes: 

• Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy. 

• Ensuring compliance with the governing document (constitution or articles of association), charity law, company law and other relevant legislation or regulations. 

• Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects, for the benefit of the public. 

• Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets. 

• Safeguarding the good name, reputation, and values of the organisation. 

• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including appropriate policies and procedures. 

• Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation. 

• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of its funds. 

• Following proper arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of senior staff. 

• Scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, and providing independent, creative judgement on key issues.

• Offering advice and guidance on new initiatives, risks, or opportunities. 

Ambassadorial Contributions 

In addition to their statutory duties, Trustees are requested to use their specific skills, knowledge, networks, or experience to strengthen the board’s work according to their skills, capabilities, interests and available time. This includes: 

• Promoting the charity's mission and values: Trustees should consistently advocate for the charity's goals and principles in various settings, ensuring that the organisation's message is clearly communicated. 

• Representing the charity at external events: Trustees should attend and participate in meetings, conferences, and other events on behalf of the charity, acting as its official representatives. 

• Engaging with media: Trustees should be prepared to speak to the media about the charity's work, providing insights and information that highlight the organisation's impact and importance. 

• Leveraging personal and professional networks: Trustees should use their connections to support the charity's objectives, whether by opening doors to potential supporters, funders, collaborators, or influencers. 

• Cultivating strategic partnerships: Trustees should engage with stakeholders across healthcare, academia, government, and civil society to build and maintain relationships that benefit the charity. 

• Supporting fundraising efforts: Trustees should actively participate in fundraising activities, helping to secure the resources needed for the charity to achieve its mission. 

By fulfilling these responsibilities, trustees play a crucial role in enhancing the visibility and impact of the charity, ensuring its continued success and growth. 

 Skills and Capabilities Requirements 

Trustees are expected to bring both governance capability and a willingness to champion the charity externally. Essential qualities include: 

• A commitment to the organisation’s mission and values. 

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. 

• Strategic vision and the ability to see the “big picture.” 

• Good, independent judgement and the confidence to speak one’s mind. 

• Ability to think creatively and contribute fresh ideas. 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship. 

• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team. 

• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. 

Desirable (but not essential): 

• Strong personal and professional networks, with the willingness to leverage them on behalf of the charity. 

• Experience in advocacy, fundraising, or public speaking. 

• Understanding of the wider charity, health, or social justice sectors in which White Ribbon Alliance UK operates. 

 Time Commitment 

• Statutory duties for general trustees: 8-10 days per year. 

• Statutory duties for Chair, Treasurer, and Compliance Officer: 12-14 days per year (inclusive of general trustee duties). 

Equity, diversity and inclusion

Equity and inclusion are central to White Ribbon Alliance UK’s purpose and how we work. We recognise that maternity harm, discrimination, and exclusion are produced by systems, and that governance must reflect the people most affected by those systems.

We strongly encourage applications from people who:

• Have lived experience of sexual and reproductive health and rights issues

• Are Black or from racially minoritised communities

• Are LGBTQ+, disabled, or neurodivergent or otherwise marginalised by society

• Come from communities underrepresented in charity governance

We value lived experience and community knowledge as expertise. You do not need to fit a traditional Board profile to be a strong Trustee.

We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require any adjustments to apply or to take part as a Trustee, we will work with you to put these in place.

Remuneration 

This is a volunteer position. Expenses incurred as part of fulfilling the role will be reimbursed. 

Do you want a career in the Charity Sector? Why not take part in our Virtual Career Taster Week!

The British Red Cross is offering a Career Taster week which will give you an insight into the world of work with world’s biggest humanitarian organisation and the charity sector. The week will include workshops, training and a virtual networking event at the end of the week!

Work experience placements give an opportunity to gain experience within different departments and an insight into the work of the British Red Cross.

The placement will run from the 23rd February to 27th February 2026, from 10.00 - 13.00 each day. The sessions will be online via teams.

The scheme is predominantly open to young people aged 15- 25 year olds and there are 30 places available.

The week will cover the following:

Induction to the British Red Cross: You will learn about the history of the movement, our work and fundamental principles as well as gaining First Aid skills.

Career Development Workshop: In this workshop you will learn about career opportunities, be able to develop your CV and application writing skills as well as learn interview skills.

Digital Media: You will learn about how to keep yourself safe online and what different annotations me in the social media world.

International Humanitarian Law: You will learn about humanitarian law and what it means in today’s society.

Networking Event: You will meet staff members from different teams and learn about their career journeys!

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Join us as a Cat Welfare Support volunteer and make a real difference to the lives of cats and their owners. Whether it’s taking cats to the vet, helping to maintain cat welfare standards, or supporting other volunteers to keep everything organised, your support will help us take care of more cats. Help us create a better life for cats and their families with your compassion and dedication.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

This is a really flexible role. We’ll help you choose what you’d like to get involved with, making sure it benefits both you and the team, for example: 

• supporting the team to maintain high standards of cat welfare
• transporting cats to vet appointments or to new homes
• entering records for cats and cat-related activity to track the impact of the team
• supporting with cat admissions and matching cats with prospective owners
• ordering, collecting and delivering cat-related supplies, for example, food, litter, medical supplies
• communicating with the public, offering support with cat ownership or lost and found cats
• supporting the volunteer neutering team

We are looking for a volunteer to help us identify and apply for UK government and quasi-government grant funding that corresponds to our platform activities,  including entrepreneurship support, innovation, skills, inclusion, and regional growth.

This role is ideal for someone with experience in public funding, policy programmes, innovation grants, or the third sector who wants to apply their expertise to a fast-growing, mission-driven organisation with a strong track record.

You will work closely with Unrest’s co-founders and Head of Partnerships, as well as being a part of the Unrest team and vibrant Unrest community of founders and changemakers.

Responsibilities

• Research and map relevant UK government, public sector, and arm’s-length body funding opportunities aligned with Unrest’s programmes and community work.
• Assess eligibility, competitiveness, and strategic fit of funding opportunities.
• Lead or support the drafting of grant applications, including written narratives, budgets, and supporting documentation.
• Coordinate inputs from the Unrest team and external collaborators where required.
• Track deadlines, compliance requirements, and reporting obligations for submitted or awarded grants.
• Help build institutional knowledge and reusable materials to strengthen future applications.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience with UK government or public-sector grant funding (hands-on application experience strongly preferred).
• Strong written communication skills and comfort working with structured application processes.
• High attention to detail and good organisational instincts.
• An interest in entrepreneurship, innovation, impact, or community-building.
• A collaborative, pragmatic working style suited to a small, fast-moving team.

What You’ll Get

• The opportunity to create a meaningful contribution to programmes supporting mission-driven founders across the UK.
• Close collaboration with an experienced founding team and exposure to accelerator and community design and delivery.
• Meaningful ownership over a clearly defined workstream.

Minimum Hours per Week:

4-6 hours per week

Duration:

1-2 months