Policy volunteer roles in Wales, united kingdom

Join the Board of the Early Education and Childcare Coalition 

Are you interested in creating an early education and childcare system that delivers for all? Can you help the Early Education and Childcare Coalition move to the next phase of its development? 

We are seeking new non-executive board members to help shape our strategic direction, ensure robust governance, and contribute to the Coalition's collective expertise.
 

About us 

The Early Education and Childcare Coalition is a policy and advocacy partnership working to transform the system for families. We unite the voices of all those with a stake in the future of early education and childcare – children, parents, providers, the early years workforce and the business community. Founded by more than 30 organisations, our members are parent campaign groups, child advocacy organisations, early childhood experts, antipoverty campaigners, provider membership bodies, trade unions and business lobbying groups. 

Our vision is of a high-quality, inclusive system of early education and childcare that is accessible to all children, affordable for parents, fairly funded for providers, and offers decent pay and conditions for the workforce. Our mission is to rescue and reform the system by combining urgent policy measures to stabilise the sector with long-term transformation. 

About us

The Coalition was co-designed throughout 2022 by more than 30 organisations and launched publicly in 2023. Since then, we have gone from strength to strength, concluding a successful hosting relationship and becoming an independent organisation in the summer of 2025, with a team of eight staff influencing policymaking and connecting families, providers and decision-makers through advocacy, co-production and convening. 

Please note that the Coalition is in the process of registering as a charity; therefore, it is expected that board members will transition to become trustees within the next year.

About you

We are looking to grow our new board and strengthen our succession planning. Therefore, board membership could include taking on senior roles within the Board following a familiarisation period and supported development.

We would therefore welcome applications from those who have held board officer roles in the past, including experienced Chairs. We are also particularly interested in applications from people who have experience in one or more of the following areas: 

• Fundraising 

• Policy analysis and research 

• Campaigning/influencing 

• Legal and compliance 

• HR 

• Experience of working on issues related to children and families 

• Experience of working in other coalitions/alliances or movement building 

In order to maintain balance and equity across our membership and manage conflicts of interest, applicants should not have a current direct link to the Coalition. For example, we cannot accept applications from individuals who are currently working for a member or supporter organisation.

About the role

Board members will work closely with the Coalition’s Executive Director, staff team and Advisory Group to ensure the success of the organisation to meet its aim to transform early education and childcare in England. 

Board members are legally responsible for running the company, making sure information is sent to Companies House on time, setting the strategic direction of the organisation, monitoring progress, ensuring good governance and supporting the staff team in their work. 

Board members must follow the rules set out in the company’s Articles of Association, agree to act in the best interests of the organisation and raise any conflicts of interests throughout their term. 

Responsibilities: 

• Provide financial oversight of the organisation including overseeing budgeting, monitoring performance, signing off accounts, financial reporting and fundraising. (The Board Treasurer will lead on financial management and assessing financial risk, but financial oversight is a duty of all board members). 

• Work with other board members to continue growing the Board, identifying skill gaps, organisational needs and participating in the recruitment and onboarding of new board members. 

• Work with other board members to implement the strategic plan, contributing ideas and proposals. 

• Monitor progress on strategy through Board and other meetings. 

• Provide support to the Executive Director on operational matters, including but not limited to HR, legal compliance, communications and membership matters and where appropriate, policy developments. 

• Attend Board meetings, or when unable to attend, communicate ideas and comments to the Coalition’s Executive Director/Board Chair in advance of the meeting. 

• Work with other board members to identify and manage potential risks and opportunities to the company’s operations, finances and reputation. 

• Proactively promote the work of the Coalition through personal and professional networks. 

In addition, Board members may be invited to:  

• Represent the Coalition at appropriate meetings and events. 

• Participate in the work of the Coalition as appropriate (e.g. working groups, projects or recruitment panels). 

Further information 

• Board members are appointed for a term of three years, and they may be reappointed for a further three-year period. 

• All directors will be members (guarantors) of the company and all members (guarantors) will be directors, with a personal liability of £1 and listed on documents filed at Companies House. 

• Board members must be at least 18 years old, a UK resident and not disqualified from acting as a company director. 

• Find out more about the general duties of a company director here. 

Time commitment 

Board members will be required to attend up to five board meetings per year for approximately two hours each (with up to 4 hours preparation time). These are usually held on Zoom, with one away day in London expected per year with the staff team. Any travel and other related and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. 

Papers will be shared ahead of time and reading and preparation is expected ahead of each meeting.

Board members may also be asked between meetings to act as signatories, give time to contribute to reports, applications and accounts, and provide advice and guidance to the Executive Director and wider staff team on specific topics and/ or issues. 

The predicted time commitment for the Board members is estimated at 2-4 hours per month depending on Board role with one away day.

Remuneration 

This is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses for in-person meetings paid in advance or reimbursed. 

The Coalition’s vision, mission and values: 

Our vision is to build a world-class early education and childcare system that supports children, parents and our economy to thrive, rooted in the following principles:

• High quality provision for all children, especially those who benefit the most

• Sustainable provision that works for all kinds of working parents and their employers

• Good pay, terms and conditions for the professionals who deliver it

• Accessible and affordable options for all parents, in all communities

• Locally shaped options that respond to local circumstances 

Our mission is to drive reform through coordinated advocacy among all stakeholders. Our mission recognises that transforming early education and childcare requires both immediate action and long-term reform. Our experience since launch has taught us valuable lessons about managing urgent needs while building toward systemic change. 

Our shared values are: 

• Fairness: as much as we believe in an equitable and fair early education and childcare system, we hold the same to be true in how we work as a Coalition. We do this by ensuring members' interests are represented equally through our internal systems and governance, and by committing to embodying co-production principles in our work.

• Integrity: we act in the best interests of the Coalition, its members and beneficiaries avoiding alliances or projects which may bring the EECC or its members into disrepute. When faced with difficult decisions, we prioritise the interests of the most disadvantaged child. Integrity is critical to an enduring sense of goodwill and thus the future sustainability and efficacy of the Coalition.

• Respect: the diversity of our membership is a strength, but we recognise that diversity can lead to different perspectives. Respect for that difference is essential in finding consensus that can be built on to secure change. We do not knowingly undermine each other or other stakeholders publicly or privately.

• Collaboration: transforming the early education system is a complex task that no single organisation can do alone. We believe that progress lies in partnership and that the best route to reform is through broad-based, powerful alliances with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. We don’t believe in collaboration for its own sake. We think partnerships must be smart, strategic, and creative in order to be effective, but as far as possible, they must also be broad-based. 

Application and interview process

• Please apply with CV and statement of suitability/cover letter by 6pm on Friday 24th April.
• We will aim to respond to all applicants by Friday 1st May.
• Interviews will take place on 13th May and 22nd May. 

Why we want you

As branch chair you and your branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.

What you will be doing

• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising activities so that potential beneficiaries, volunteers and supporters are aware of SSAFA as first in mind for support.
• Building relationships with the regional and national SSAFA team, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA serving community teams, local military establishments, etc.
• Attending events as a key SSAFA representative.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s central office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Working with other volunteers, regional and national team members to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Work closely with the community engagement co-ordinator to recruit, welcome, induct, support, and manage volunteers in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.

The skills you need

• Motivating leadership with an ability lead a team of volunteers.
• Friendly and approachable
• Great written and verbal communication skills
• Basic IT skills

What's in it for you

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community.
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
• Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.

IKWRO is a registered charity which provides advice and support to Middle Eastern, North African and Afghan women and girls living in the UK, who have experienced, or are at risk of all forms of “honour” based abuse, including; forced marriage, child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM), or domestic abuse.

We work with women and girls of all ages, including lesbian women, bisexual women and trans women. We offer services in Kurdish, Farsi, Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Turkish and English.

The overall role of a treasurer is to:

• Maintain an overview of the organisations’ affairs
• Ensuring its financial viability
• Ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

General responsibilities

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects (the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are).
• To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity's funds.
• If the charity employs staff, to appoint the chief executive officer and monitor his/her performance.

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve:

• Scrutinizing board papers
• Leading discussions
• Focusing on key issues
• Providing guidance on new initiatives
• Other issues in which the trustee has special expertise

Additional duties of the treasurer

• Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements
• Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy
• The preparation and presentation of financial reports to the board
• Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
• Liaising with any paid staff and volunteers about financial matters
• Advising on the financial implications of the organisation's strategic plans
• Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy
• Ensuring that there is no conflict between any investment held and the aims and objects of the charity
• Monitoring the organisation's investment activity and ensuring its consistency with the organisation's policies and legal responsibilities
• Ensuring equipment and assets are adequately maintained and insured
• Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies, e.g. The charity commission and/or the registrar of companies
• If external scrutiny of accounts is required, ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised in the manner required (independent examination or audit) and any recommendations are implemented
• Keeping the board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
• Contributing to the fundraising strategy of the organisation
• Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the annual general meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way
• Sitting on appraisal, recruitment and disciplinary panels as required

Treasurer person specification

• Commitment to the organisation
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgment
• Ability to think creatively
• Willingness to speak their mind
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Nolan's seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership
• Financial qualifications and experience
• Some experience of charity finance, fundraising and pension schemes
• The skills to analyses proposals and examine their financial consequences
• Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the board
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

Title: Treasurer of the Board of Trustees
Salary: Unpaid & Voluntary (Reasonable expenses related to the role will be reimbursed in accordance with the charity's expenses policy).
Time commitment: Approx. 1.5 – 2 days per month.
Terms of Office: Three years with possibility to extend by another three years. Applicants must be eligible to serve as Trustees of a UK-based Charity.
Location: Flexible – however we require that all trustees would be able to attend at least one ‘in person’ meeting in London each year.

Unlimit Health

Unlimit Health is an international organisation working to end parasitic disease. We work closely with affected countries, sharing evidence and expertise to eliminate preventable infections. Our purpose is to support people to live healthy lives, free from limiting disease.

Our vision is for resilient systems that sustain good health, so everyone everywhere can reach their full potential. We achieve this by working across multiple sectors in numerous countries to deliver effective and robust health programmes that have a lasting impact.

We were founded in 2002 with a £20m grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and started life as a research group, the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, within Imperial College London. Consistently ranked globally as one of the most cost-effective nonprofit initiatives, we have received significant funding since our inception including from the UK Department of International Development (DFID), USAID and philanthropic investors.

What we do

Our work includes:

• Evidence-based disease elimination support
• Cross-sectoral health systems strengthening
• Building collaborative partnerships

Our main area of focus is the elimination of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (intestinal worms). Endemic infections of these parasitic worms are found in some of the world’s most marginalised communities, and they can have a hugely detrimental effect on individuals, including:

• Reduced productivity
• Internal organ damage
• Impaired child development
• Reduced school attendance
• Increased risk of HIV in women
• Infertility

The Role

Unlimit Health is looking for a Treasurer of the Board of Trustees to be responsible for: leadership and governance, strategic planning and implementation, sustainability, compliance & financial oversight and advocacy, stakeholder engagement and fundraising.

This role requires a candidate with demonstratable experience in senior financial leadership, ideally as a trustee, CFO, or finance director within a charity, international development organisation, or public health institution. It is key that the successful candidate has a strong understanding of UK charity finance, governance and regulatory frameworks, as well as internationally.

Applicants must be eligible to serve as trustees of a UK-based charity (see Charity Commission).

Time commitment

Board meetings are held four times a year during the working day. We welcome applications from people based outside the UK who can join meetings online but require that all trustees would be able to attend at least one ‘in person’ meeting in London each year. Unlimit Health is committed to creating a diverse board and will work to facilitate specific needs of individuals if required. The time commitment is approx. 1.5 – 2 days per month.

Diversity Statement

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from under-represented groups to better reflect our mission and work to improve health equity. Research has shown that women and people from marginalised groups are less likely to apply for a role if they do not meet 100% of the job criteria. Please consider applying even if you do not fully meet our essential criteria. We are happy to schedule an informal chat to discuss the role further prior to submitting an application.

Unlimit Health is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate differences in age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, religious beliefs, and socio-economic background. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member is valued, respected, and has equal opportunities to thrive.

Closing date: 29 April 2026.

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our online applicant portal to complete your application for this position.

No agencies please.

Trustee Opportunities

Hodan  is a small but long-established voluntary organisation in North Kensington, focusing on advice, support and wellbeing for the Somali community and other racially minoritised groups in West London. It is a registered charity operated as a company limited by guarantee.

We are looking for two new Trustees who can help us increase our reach, attract new funding, and continue to develop our services. We are particularly keen to recruit members of the local community in West London who have one or more of the following:

· Lived experience of issues faced by our service users, e.g., economic disadvantage, unemployment or unstable employment, migration, racism / discrimination, digital exclusion, and/or social isolation

· Experience in marketing, PR, or event management

· Experience in fundraising, especially non-grant approaches (e.g., corporate social responsibility, individual philanthropy, or building a supporter base)

· Experience of working with children and young people from racially minoritised backgrounds and/or in disadvantaged neighbourhoods.

· Experience in charity leadership and governance

Board meetings are held every three months at Canalside House, Ladbroke Grove. The Board is responsible for setting the strategy and policies of Hodan, and guides and supports the Executive Director and staff.

Role Purpose

Senior Policy Advisors provide leadership, analytical expertise, and strategic oversight within Youth Advantage UK’s policy function. Whether placed in Policy Planning or Impact Development, you will help shape the direction of our national and local policy projects, ensure high‑quality decision‑making, and support volunteers to produce work capable of achieving real impact for young people.

This role is ideal for someone with professional policy exposure, strong research capability, and sound judgment in reviewing decisions and guiding project direction.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Supervision

• Delegate tasks to Officers/Researchers/Advisors based on project needs and volunteer strengths.

• Provide direct supervision, support, and quality assurance for team outputs.

• Help resolve issues, remove barriers, and maintain a supportive team environment.

• Contribute to volunteer development through coaching, feedback, and skills support.

• Build strong working relationships across the department and collaborate closely with the manager.

2. Policy Planning or Impact Development (depending on placement)

If in Policy Planning

• Review and assess project ideas identified through horizon scanning or other approved channels.

• Apply the organisation’s project assessment checklist to determine whether proposals should progress to initial research or local project development.

• Work with other departments to plan early‑stage projects and ensure effective collaboration.

• Ensure that proposed work is strategically aligned, feasible, and likely to generate meaningful outcomes.

If in Impact Development

• Review findings from initial research or early‑stage projects to determine next steps.

• Provide guidance to relevant teams on strengthening impact, refining recommendations, or redirecting work where necessary.

• Support the preparation of materials for meetings with decision‑makers or external stakeholders.

• Ensure that all progressing work remains capable of achieving real, measurable impact.

3. Strategic Input & Decision Support

• Support the manager in planning, prioritisation, and decision‑making.

• Identify risks, opportunities, and resource considerations within ongoing projects.

• Contribute to the development of internal processes, frameworks, and best‑practice guidance.

• Uphold high standards of clarity, evidence, and organisational alignment.

Role Requirements

Essential

1. At least 2 years of progressive professional exposure to government policy, public administration, or related policy environments.

2. Academic or research background with the ability to understand organisational resourcing, capacity constraints, and feasibility considerations.

3. Experience reviewing decisions and exercising sound judgment, particularly in assessing project viability, strategic alignment, and potential impact.

4. Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills.

5. Excellent written communication and ability to synthesise complex information.

6. Ability to supervise and support volunteers with empathy and clarity.

About Youth Advantage UK

Youth Advantage UK is a growing organisation  working to improve outcomes for young people across England and Wales. Our England & Wales Local Operations Department leads local policy and research projects across counties, regions, cities and towns — identifying local challenges and developing evidence‑based recommendations that support young people to thrive.

As a young organisation, we are still building our systems and ways of working. This is a great opportunity to help shape a department at an early stage and contribute to meaningful, place‑based change.

Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant or transferable skills. YAUK is currently an unregistered charity, working towards gaining the registered status.

About the Role

We are seeking a Senior Research & Policy Officer to support the delivery and coordination of local research and policy projects across England and Wales. You will supervise and support Officers, Researchers and Advisors, helping to delegate tasks, resolve issues, and ensure high‑quality outputs.

Working closely with the department’s management team, you will contribute to planning, decision‑making, and the development of effective ways of working. This role is ideal for someone with strong research skills who enjoys supporting others and thrives in a collaborative, evolving environment.

Key Responsibilities

- Delegate tasks and oversee the work of Officers, Researchers and Advisors.

- Provide day‑to‑day supervision, guidance and support to team members.

- Help resolve issues, remove barriers and maintain smooth project delivery.

- Lead or contribute to local research and policy projects across England and Wales.

- Ensure research is rigorous, ethical and relevant to local contexts.

- Support the development of team members through feedback and coaching.

- Build positive working relationships with internal teams, volunteers and external partners.

- Work alongside the management team to support planning and decision‑making.

About You

You will have:

- Experience in research, evaluation or policy analysis.

- Strong analytical and writing skills.

- Ability to supervise or support others in a project or team setting.

- Experience volunteering and/or managing volunteers in a charity or community environment.

- Confidence working in ambiguity and helping build structure where needed.

- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

- A collaborative, supportive approach to teamwork.

- Commitment to improving outcomes for young people.

Why Volunteer With Us

- Play a key role in shaping a new department at a formative stage.

- Use your research and leadership skills to support real, local impact.

- Gain supervisory and project‑coordination experience in a supportive environment.

- Join a mission‑driven team passionate about youth opportunity.

Apply Now

If you’re passionate about evidence‑based change and want to help shape a growing organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Join Youth Advantage UK as we build our Local Operations Department and create better opportunities for young people across England and Wales.

The Bevan Foundation is seeking new trustees to join its Board.

Could you support the Bevan Foundation in its mission to end poverty and inequality in Wales?

About the Bevan Foundation

The Bevan Foundation is Wales's most influential think tank. We create insights, ideas and impact that help to end poverty and inequality. Over recent years the Foundation has helped secure real and lasting change for people across Wales, from universal free school meals for primary pupils to increases in Education Maintenance Allowance. We’ve built a reputation for trusted, evidence-based insights and ideas that influence decision-makers and improve lives.

About this role

We are looking for new trustees to join our board to fill vacancies. 

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved with our high impact team. You’ll help the organisation to increase understanding of the challenges facing people in Wales, help to develop effective solutions and keep the charity on course.

The usual term of office of trustees is four years, with the possibility of another four-year term thereafter.

Trustees do not get paid, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.

About you

We are looking for people who are passionate about improving the lives of the people of Wales, and who want to make a difference by generating insights that help to change public policy and practice.

Trustees come from all walks of life – there are no specific qualifications or experiences we require. However, applications from people with fundraising or senior leadership experience, or from people fluent in the Welsh language, would be particularly welcome.

We want our board to reflect the breadth of Wales’ population. We welcome applications from everyone, but would particularly like to hear from younger people, people from diverse ethnic backgrounds, and people in north and west Wales. We’d also welcome applications from people working in front-line roles with people on low-incomes.

Don’t worry if you haven’t had experience of being a trustee or board member before. We will offer you support and training to help you to undertake your role, and in addition we’re aiming to partner with external board training programmes.

Download the information pack to find out how to apply or how to contact us with any questions. 

Letter from our Chair - Lucy Thomas

We are seeking a passionate and strategic individual to join our Board of Trustees, someone who brings strong commercial insight, business acumen, and ideally experience in fundraising and income generation.  This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a respected national charity that continues to grow its reach and impact.

As a Trustee, you will also sit on our Commercial Advisory Group (CAG) a dynamic sub-group that advises on the Trust's commercial strategy, innovation, and sustainability.  You'll help us strengthen our commercial performance, explore new opportunities for growth and diversification, and ensure we remain on strong financial footing to deliver our vital mission.

We welcome applicants from all sectors and backgrounds.  Experience in marketing, partnerships, or charity leadership would be an advantage, but what matters most is your ability to bring fresh thinking, sound judgement, and a commitment to using your commercial experience for social good.

Background

Suzy Lamplugh Trust was founded by Diana and Paul Lamplugh following the disappearance of their daughter Suzy, a young estate agent, in 1986. Since then, the Trust has pioneered personal safety as a life skill and a public policy priority.

Our vision is to eliminate abuse, aggression and violence, creating a society where people are safer and feel safer.

Our mission is to reduce the risk and prevalence of abuse, aggression and violence with a specific focus on stalking and harassment through education, campaigning, and support.

What we do

• Campaigning - working in partnership with other charities, private and statutory organisations; raising awareness; influencing policy makers
• Education - advice; training; guidance; workplace support; free resources, information; consultancy
• Support - National stalking helpline and advocacy service; supporting people at increased risk of violence and aggression; community projects

The Treasurer is a key officer of the Board of Trustees, providing strategic financial leadership and oversight. The role ensures the Charity’s financial sustainability, compliance with statutory and funder requirements, and effective financial governance, enabling the organisation to deliver its mission and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Contribute to the development and oversight of the Charity’s strategy, with particular focus on financial sustainability and resource planning.
• Advise the Board on financial risks, opportunities, and the implications of strategic decisions.

Financial Oversight

• Ensure the Board receives timely, accurate, and meaningful financial information, including budgets, forecasts, management accounts, and annual accounts.
• Provide assurance that financial reporting complies with regulatory, statutory, and funder requirements.
• Oversee financial controls, policies, and procedures in line with the Charity’s scheme of delegation.
• Oversee the appointment and performance of external auditors and financial advisors.
• Work in close partnership with the Director of Finance to support effective financial management.

Assets, Reserves and Investments

• Ensure appropriate reserves and investment policies are in place and reviewed regularly.
• Monitor investment performance and advise the Board accordingly.
• Ensure the Charity’s assets and equipment are properly maintained, protected, and accounted for.

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure the Board understands and fulfils its financial duties and legal responsibilities.
• Lead regular reviews of financial policies, procedures, and the scheme of delegation.
• Chair the Finance and Governance Sub-Committee and report to the Board.

General Trustee Responsibilities

• Contribute to the Board’s strategic leadership, policy setting, and performance monitoring.
• Ensure the Charity’s resources are applied solely in pursuit of its charitable objectives.
• Safeguard the Charity’s reputation, values, and financial stability.
• Act collectively and responsibly as a Trustee, including declaring and managing conflicts of interest.
• Attend and prepare for Board and sub-committee meetings and participate in additional activities as required.

Skills and Experience

• Financial or commercial expertise sufficient to provide strategic financial oversight (professional qualification desirable but not essential).
• Experience of financial management, governance, or risk oversight.
• Ability to scrutinise financial information, ask constructive challenge, and communicate clearly with both financial and non-financial colleagues.
• Commitment to the values and mission of the Charity.       

Following the success of the 2025 Council Climate Action Scorecards last year, Climate Emergency UK is looking to create the third edition of the Action Scorecards. Analysing council climate action only becomes valuable if you track the progress that has been made. Therefore, we are looking for volunteers to assist us in managing the Freedom of Information (FOI) requests we are sending to councils to answer some of the Scorecard questions.

Why are we doing this?

We’re in a climate and ecological crisis and local councils have the power and influence over around 30% of emissions in their local area. Councils are uniquely placed to make a real impact on emissions within their area. We know that councils are listening to the Scorecards results and taking more effective action. The average score in the 2025 Action Scorecards increased by 7 percent points. The Scorecards are a campaigning tool that residents can use to hold their council to account on their climate action, and lobby for specific, targeted change. We have also found evidence of 34% councils using and referencing the Scorecards in committee meetings, reports or in their own press releases and organisations across the sector are utilising the data from the Scorecards as well. Finally, this UK wide assessment will demonstrate where the UK and devolved governments need to provide more support to local authorities in order for them to take even further action.

How can you help?

We need at least 200 volunteers to pull this project off! We are sending councils a small number of FOI requests in order to answer some of the Scorecard questions. We have already written the FOI requests, and we need volunteers to manage the FOI request responses from all 400 councils and input their answers into our Scorecards. 

What experience do I need?

We will provide training so you don’t need any experience. If you have previous experience of sending FOI requests using WhatDoTheyKnow or reading responses to FOI requests that would be useful but not necessary in order to apply.

What will I gain?

This is a great opportunity if you want to work with FOI/EIR requests in the future. As you’ll be processing a variety of FOI requests from different council types across the UK, you will gain a deep understanding of the FOI request process and strengthen your analytical skills as you read and interpret the responses. By helping with this project you will be making a real contribution to the fight against the climate crisis.

What we need from you

You will need to be available to attend the following sessions:

• Volunteer induction
  You will only need to attend an induction session on either Tuesday 19th May or Thursday 21st May 2026.

• FOI Training
  You will need to attend the training session on 26th May 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm.

Scorecard FOI requests volunteers will be carrying out crucial tasks to manage the thousands of FOI responses we will be submitting. Using WhatDoTheyKnow you will be logging whether a council has responded to an FOI request and extracting the answers to create a data set of answers that will be used to mark councils in the Scorecards. Every volunteer will be trained and supported to manage the FOI responses.

Each FOI request will take between 10-30 minutes to classify and extract responses and the more you do, the quicker you will become. This can be done flexibly according to your scheduling needs. Our core FOI volunteers should be able to give 10 hours per week for 5 weeks between 25th May 2026 and 19th June 2026. You will need access to a laptop or computer with good internet for this volunteer position in order to access WhatDoTheyKnow.

Note: We will not accept current Councillors or Officers (Parish/Town councillors/officers are free to apply). 

How it works

• You will receive training on how to use WhatDoTheyKnow and manage the FOI responses.

• You will use WhatDoTheyKnow Projects to first classify and then extract information from FOI requests as we receive responses from councils across the country. 

• You will be supported through online communication with other volunteers across the country.

• You will be supported on Slack so at any point you will be able to ask questions of CE UK staff and other volunteers. There will also be an optional weekly FOI team co-working session, where you can work with CE UK staff and other volunteers, ask questions and get to know the other volunteers.

People & Planet is looking for volunteers to assist with compiling its 2026/27 People & Planet University League; the only higher education ranking that classifies based on ethics and climate justice criteria.

Universities impart skills and knowledge, form life-long beliefs and behaviours, act as centres of communities, employ, house and feed large numbers of people and promote the creation and sharing of knowledge. We believe this makes them uniquely placed to lead on environmental and ethical issues. For this reason the People & Planet University League has been running since 2007 and has been published by high-profile media partners such as The Guardian (2021, 2022. 2023, 2024, 2025), The BBC, and whose data is used in the Sunday Time Good University Guide.

Volunteers will research publicly available university documents and assess universities against our marking criteria, which cover a wide range of climate and social justice issues including decarbonisation, fossil fuel divestment, ethical banking, workers’ rights and environmental management among others. This work will help to incentivise the university sector towards taking immediate and appropriate action on the climate crisis and upholding the rights and wellbeing of all people internationally.

The role will develop and improve the following areas:

• Qualitative research skills

• Attention to detail

• Use of data collection software

• Time management and keeping to deadlines

• Working independently and remotely

• Communication skills

• Knowledge of environmental management processes and sustainability reporting.

Training is provided for the role. We believe the skills and experience gained could be valuable for a number of career paths, including working in NGOs, corporate sustainability, estates management, higher education policy making, research and campaigning among many others.

People & Planet would like to support volunteers in their future careers, so will give all volunteers an official reference letter on successful completion of their placement and will act as a referee for future positions for which you may apply. From last year’s cohort, 100% said they would recommend this position to someone who wanted to add experience to their CV.

Feedback from previous volunteers

‘I think as someone looking for relevant experience to bolster a CV, this is a helpful and not-too-time-consuming position. It had exactly the kind of flexibility that I required at this point in time.’

‘It's a really great opportunity to hone one's research skills, learn more about what our universities can do to improve their impact on the planet, and make a small but real difference.’

Person Specification -the following are essential:

• Access to a computer or laptop and internet connection.

• Familiarity with desk-based research.

• Ability to work accurately and efficiently to agreed standards.

• Reliability and commitment to completing work to deadlines.

• Able to communicate needs with staff at People & Planet and if needed, ask for appropriate support to complete tasks in time.

• Ability to search policy documents for specific information in English.

• Ability to assess information against standardised frameworks.

• Ability to work remotely and independently

The following are desirable:

• Awareness of current issues in sustainability and ethics.

• Experience of research and data collection.

• An interest in higher education policy.

Please note anyone employed by a UK university cannot volunteer as a Researcher.

You will need to commit to

• Two 25 hour weeks of remote work in July and August.

• 5 hours work per day for the two week period. Volunteers can manage their own time flexibly and will receive support from People & Planet, but must meet task deadlines on a weekly basis and attend a short daily meeting. Volunteers are free to work evenings and weekends, but please note People & Planet operates a 4 day week from 9-5.

• One induction session the week prior to your 2 week engagement.

• Completion of a self-access standardisation activity prior to the start of your engagement.

• Attending a brief meeting in the morning or afternoon each day and one individual check-in meeting in week 1.

• Checking the work chat function regularly.

Summer timetable

June 22nd-July 3rd Ethical Investment and Banking, Ethical Careers and Recruitment, Education for Sustainable Development. Induction 18th June 10am

July 13th-July 24th Sustainable Food, Staff & HR, Environmental Policy and Strategy Induction 9th July 10am

August 3rd-August 14th Managing Carbon, Workers’ Rights, Staff and Student Engagement. Induction 30th July 10am

How to Apply

Fill in this form and attach a C.V that has your full name in the filename.

Applications will be processed on a rolling basis until positions are filled, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. The deadline for applications is Wednesday the 20th May at 11:59

Candidates will need to attend a non-competitive group recruitment session and complete an online self-access task before being invited to volunteer with us.

Please let us know if you have specific access needs and what we can do to make the interview, training and volunteer experience more accessible to you, including organising a one-on-one interview. We welcome people with hearing loss, deaf and or disabled people to apply for this volunteer opportunity -unfortunately we don't use BSL so would need to make alternative support provisions for the training, unless a BSL interpreter can join you. If you have specific needs where we might support you by making this volunteering opportunity more accessible, please contact us.

People & Planet welcome applications from BAME folks and people of colour, from disabled people, from LGBTQI*people, from people who speak English as a second language, from people who identify as non-binary gender, from women, from people of different ages, from people with caring responsibilities and from people with irregular migration status, people seeking asylum in the UK or with a migrant background, folks with a working class background, and everyone else.

This role involves leading on HR within the organisation. This involves ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward, and recognition, as well as staff and trustee development.  It is the responsibility of the HR trustee to assess risks and measure the impact of HR interventions, implement organisational policies and practices in the context of furthering charitable objectives and evaluating how they impact beneficiaries and staff.  The HR trustee also needs to ensure the long-term strategic oversight of the organisation’s personnel and staffing requirements in relation to the overarching goals of the charity. 

 Key tasks:

• To review and recommend current and future strategic resourcing, training and development and annual budgets and plans to the Trustee Board 

• To actively contribute to policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives 

• To ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the organisation’s charitable objectives and complement the organisational culture 

• To ensure the Trustee Board monitors and reviews the performance of staff and identifies appropriate development opportunities 

• To monitor whether the service complies with its governing document and standards and if the needs of the beneficiaries are being met

Other responsibilities, along with the Board of Trustees, include:  

• To manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk and not over-commit the charity.

• To ensure the board regularly reviews its structures, roles, relationship to staff and implementing changes if and when necessary.

• To develop a long-term strategy for the food bank with clear objectives which can be monitored and adapted.

• To work alongside the Treasurer and the board to ensure the organisation’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined and made publicly available when necessary.

• To ensure the charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law. 

• To help promote the organisation to a wide audience of potential funders and beneficiaries and community stakeholders.

• To ensure the food bank has appropriate procedures to: comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities etc.

• To act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role.

• To prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

• To provide ad hoc support to the staff team and volunteers from time to time.

• To act at all times in accordance with the foodbank’s trustee code of conduct.

The Trustees may also undertake additional work for the charity between meetings subject to their availability and skill set.

About you: 

Warrington Foodbank are seeking to recruit Trustees with an interest in helping others, who are willing to uphold the foodbank’s values, and who can bring life experience to the board of trustees, including lived experience of hardships which led to needing emergency food provision. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate: 

• A knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of Warrington Foodbank. 

• Experience of working in a HR role.

• Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board.

• Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity. 

• Sound, independent judgement and an ability to think creatively. 

• The ability to work effectively as part of a team and demonstrate a willingness to learn and develop.

Benefits of volunteering: 

• Use your existing skills to make a difference. 

• Meet new people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community. 

• Make a real difference to the running of the food bank. 

Support

A full trustee induction is in place to support the prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary action trustee training. 

Impact of your role: 

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Warrington Foodbank. 

Please Note:

• You must be 16 or over and must not be disqualified from acting as a trustee and declare any conflict of interest while carrying out the duties of a trustee.

• Trustees are appointed for a three-year term of office.

• This is a voluntary position.

Purpose of the role

Are you passionate about health justice and human rights? Join us as our new Treasurer!

The purpose of the Board of Directors is to provide leadership, guidance, checks and balances on the structure and operation of the organisation.                                                                                                                                                                           

The Board of Directors:

• Fulfils the duties and responsibilities of Company Directors

• Advises on and approves strategic plans, annual roadmaps, and budgets, and any changes to these

• Identifies any risks to the organisation and advises on these

• Advises on and approves organisational policies and commitments, including grant and commercial agreements

• Advises on and approves organisational structure, including the structure and composition of the Board and any other Boards and Committees it deems necessary

• Provides oversight on the Executive Director, including their appointment, performance reviews, remuneration decisions, and delegated powers

Additional duties as Treasurer:

• Chair the Finance and Risk committee

• Monitor the financial sustainability of the organisation

• Take a lead in interpreting financial information to fellow Directors

• Support the team in their participatory budget setting process

• Make sure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external support are reviewed regularly 

• Provide guidance on the preparation of the annual accounts where necessary

• Provide ad-hoc support to the Senior Operations Officer who deals with the day-to-day finances (using Xero)

• Support the production of management accounts 

“Our dedicated Directors form a great team that I love being a part of. We really care about the work and staff team, and we're keen to add value through our expertise as well as being eager and open to learning. Through mutual respect and listening to each other our meetings and interactions are really fruitful. I know I get a lot out of being part of this team and the opportunity to support the great work of Just Treatment.”

Adina Claire, Chair

“We’re very excited to be adding a Treasurer to our board. As we’re launching into our next four year strategy we need to build our board to create a team that can help us meet this moment. Our financial sustainability and the stewardship of our treasurer are central to this.”

Diarmaid McDonald, Executive Director

The Practicalities

Time commitment:

We have four full board meetings per year. Three of these are online and last for two hours, and one longer full day meeting is in person (likely in London. All costs will be covered). Directors are expected to attend these, and come prepared, having read all board papers in advance.

We have additional committees such as Finance and Risk, and the Treasurer will be expected to chair this committee. There may be other events that Directors are invited to attend, and other opportunities to get involved. We also expect that Directors will provide ad hoc support based on their expertise and available time, with the Treasurer working with the Senior Ops Officer, Executive Director, and Chair to prepare and secure support for our budget and other key financial processes. We estimate the time commitment to be around one day per month (with peaks during the financial cycle). 

What qualities should our board members have?

Our Board members are diverse while all having:

• Alignment with Just Treatment’s values

• Commitment to Just Treatment's mission

In addition the Treasurer should bring:

• Significant senior-level financial background 

• Experience of risk management

• Confidence working at Board level

• Charity or non-profit experience is desirable 

Our Board includes people who have:

• lived experience of the issues we work on

• experience leading and growing non-profit organisations in the UK, including leading their strategy and planning cycles, and fundraising efforts

• experience with different organisational forms and governance structures

• experience with shaping organisational cultures, policies and processes

• knowledge of health policy and health justice

• understanding of campaigning, advocacy, and organising practice