Policy research officer volunteer roles in Home based

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

• Identify gaps where training is required and create content

• Create and deliver training content and training plans for the organisation

• Arranging set training sessions with volunteers

• Arranging new training sessions with volunteers

• Finding topics that is relevant to the organisation that can increase development

• Finding and distributing information on free webinars

Requirements

• Excellent writing and speaking skills.

• IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

• Ability to work well independently and in a team.

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Interest in HR and the non-profit sector.

• Experience not required, but any previous experience in HR or administrative roles is a plus.

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

What You’ll Gain
•Recognition 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

We look forward to hearing from you!

Vision Action is a unique organisation that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 5.

The role of the board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its constitution. The board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

Terms of service

For Vision Action the trustees are members who have been elected to serve on the board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years.  Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the trustees are its legal directors. The trustee role is voluntary, although relevant expenses incurred in the course of fulfilling trustee responsibilities are reimbursable in line with organisational policy.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action board of trustees annually at the board meeting following the Annual General Meeting (AGM). The time commitment involved in being a trustee includes attendance at four board meetings per year, one of which is an all-day strategy session. Board meetings are typically held for half a day on a weekday afternoon, with at least half the meetings taking place online.  Board papers are circulated in advance for review and preparation.

In addition, trustees are expected to attend the AGM, which is usually held on a weekend, as well as occasional members’ forums or other Vision Action events, which are often arranged alongside board meetings in the evening. Trustees may also be asked to participate in ad hoc meetings or online discussions relating to specific topics. Sub-committee meetings are also held in advance of board meetings, and trustees are also expected to participate in one or more of these groups depending on their expertise and responsibilities. Trustees will also be expected to commit time to undertake a full induction process.

Main tasks

Charity trustees have ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each trustee will be expected to join one of the two sub-committees (Programmes and Research; Fundraising and Finance).  The committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings. 

General responsibilities

• Ensure th[JT1] at Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its constitution[JT2]  and byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on harassment and misconduct, safeguarding, recruitment of ex-offenders, and anti- bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support key leadership and monitor their performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each trustee should attend board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board reach sound decisions.  This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

Treasurer specific responsibilities

Hold specific responsibilities relevant to the role:

• Chair the fundraising and finance sub-committee, overseeing and advising on the financial risks, challenges, health and resilience of the charity, reporting back to the full board.
• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity, including the financial risks. This should include regular monitoring of cost recovery.
• Advise the board on the financial implications of its plans and policies.
• Monitor the preparation of budgets, accounts and financial statements and their presentation to the board.

Ensure policies and practices are in keeping with aims:

• Oversee the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost‐recovery and investment policies.
• Annually review the financial control framework to identify any changes, gaps and potential areas of exposure.
• Oversee the development and review of other policies and procedures as delegated to the fundraising and finance sub-committee by the board.

Ensure best practice:

• Support the Co-CEO (finance & operations) in preparing and presenting the budgets, management accounts and annual financial statements to the board, ensuring it receives a fully informed picture of the charity’s financial performance, position and effectiveness.
• Liaise with the Co-Chief Executive Officers and, as appropriate, with the investment advisors and auditors on matters relating to the organisation’s financial activities.
• Provide board‐level liaison with the external auditors on specific issues such as the auditors’ management letter, auditor remuneration and related board representations.
• Lead on recommending the appointment of new auditors to members of the organisation.
• Work with the Finance and Operations Manager to ensure that proper accounts and records are maintained, and that financial resources are spent and invested in line with good governance and legal and regulatory requirements.
• With the Finance & Operations Manager and the Joint Chief Executive Officers, closely monitor the reserves and investment plan, providing assurance to the board on the organisation’s future financial stability.
• Review all management accounts before they are placed before the board.

Personal specification

All our trustees are expected to have:

• A commitment to Vision Action’s vision and mission.
• A commitment to our values: being evidence-based, being inclusive, having integrity, sustainable programmes and being collaborative.
• Willingness to devote the time and effort needed to fulfil the role.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak their mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Vision Action.

The treasurer will have:

• Experience as a director of finance (or equivalent) and/or in a treasurer role, with extensive experience of overseeing financial and management accounting, financial reporting, monitoring and controls, and external audit.
• An understanding of charity accounting and reporting standards (Charities SORP 2026), or a willingness to develop this through personal learning and development.
• A recognised accountancy qualification (CAAB) and
• Experience in international development would be an advantage.

The position is supported by the CEO who is an accountant and a part time bookkeeper.

The Next Step

We welcome questions and a discussion on our current financial circumstances with our treasurer and chair. Our treasurer retires in 2026, and we would like to involve any new appointment in our committees and board meeting in the last part of this year.

Role- Head of Governance and Legal (Voluntary)

Reporting- CEO/CPO

Location- Remote, UK-based

Commitment: We estimate this role requires 4–6 hours per week, with flexibility to manage your own time. All meetings are remote and scheduled in advance.

Compensation: Voluntary role (non-paid)

About YouthAdvantage UK

YouthAdvantage UK is a volunteer-led, research-based organisation championing the rights and wellbeing of young people aged 11 to 25 across the UK. We influence national policy, deliver grassroots projects, and elevate youth voice in key debates; from education to mental health, climate action to justice reform.

We are seeking a passionate, committed Head of Governance & Legal to join our senior leadership team and help shape the strategic foundations that support our work.

About the role

As Head of Governance & Legal, you will lead a small team focused on risk, compliance, and governance excellence. You will ensure our work is rooted in sound legal and ethical frameworks and will support our growth with robust, transparent policies and guidance. You’ll also provide strategic support to our Board of Trustees and act as the senior point of contact for all legal matters.

This is an ideal opportunity for a governance, legal, or compliance professional looking to gain sector leadership experience while supporting a values-driven youth organisation.

 What you’ll gain

• Strategic leadership experience in a national charity
• A portfolio of governance and legal work with social impact
• Board-level exposure and public recognition of your contribution
• A flexible and supportive remote-first culture
• Testimonials, references, and public acknowledgment upon completion
• A chance to help shape youth policy at a systemic level

What you’ll do

• Lead and support the Governance & Legal Support Manager and team
• Design, update, and implement governance frameworks and organisational policies
• Maintain regulatory compliance across charity law, safeguarding, and data protection
• Liaise with the Board of Trustees - prepare agendas, minutes, and reports
• Oversee legal documentation and contracts
• Maintain and review the organisation’s risk register
• Build relationships with regulators and external legal advisors
• Embed a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical practice

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from a broad range of professional backgrounds. You might be:

• An experienced lawyer, company secretary, or governance lead
• A compliance or legal professional seeking strategic exposure
• A postgraduate in law or non-profit management looking for leadership experience
• Returning to work and keen to rebuild your senior-level skillset
• Recently semi-retired and passionate about giving back

 Essential:

• Experience in governance, legal, or compliance leadership (minimum 12 months)
• Familiarity with UK charity law and regulatory frameworks
• Ability to lead and support others with tact and clarity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and ethical standards

To Apply

If you’re interested, just send us your CV and a few lines about why the role appeals to you — this can be a short paragraph in your email or a separate note. If you'd prefer an informal chat before applying, we’d love to hear from you. Just drop us a message and we’ll arrange a time.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Although this is a volunteer role, we’re committed to recognising your contribution. Upon successful completion of your commitment, you can request:

• A LinkedIn testimonial or written reference
• A public thank-you post on our social media
• Permission to list your role with YouthAdvantage UK on your CV and LinkedIn

The National Flood Forum (NFF) supports and empowers people and communities at risk of flooding and helps those who flood to recover from the material and emotional trauma that flooding causes. With 24 years on the ground experience, we are the only national charity dedicated to supporting flood risk communities.

At the NFF, we give emotional and practical help and creating the right package of support for the long-term. Flooding can be a devastating experience with lasting economic, practical and emotional consequences and for many people the recovery process is as traumatic, or even more stressful, than the flood itself.

We pride ourselves on being there at every stage of the flood recovery process, working hand in hand with the people and communities we help. We also provide a powerful and independent voice for these communities, advocating for them with local and national government as well as the insurance industry and other corporate sectors.

We are seeking new Trustees to bring new insights, experience and skills to our Board. As a Trustee, you’ll help ensure the financial sustainability and governance of NFF.

As a Trustee you will have a commitment to supporting our values and approach to supporting communities at risk or who have flooded and you will advocate and be an ambassador for our work.

We’re especially interested in applications from you if you have:

· Experienced flooding or live with the threat of flooding.

· Fundraising, marketing or communications skills or experience

We particularly welcome applications from women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, and residents of the North of England, East Anglia, or Wales, who are currently under-represented on our Board.

Proxy by IWI Overview

Proxy by IWI is dedicated to fostering thoughtful and engaged feminist responses to mainstream media, popular culture, legal issues, and advocacy.

Published daily, Proxy is committed to delivering ambitious and distinctive journalism. The publication covers topics that are of greatest significance to women’s human rights, focusing on people, ideas, laws and institutions from a feminist viewpoint and extending beyond. Proxy features original investigative reporting, insightful analysis, compelling arguments, and personal reflections, all designed to offer a multifaceted feminist take on current affairs.

Principal Responsibilities

· Maintain a thorough understanding of global trends and developments concerning women's human rights.

· Submit two articles per month for publication, each typically between 600 and 800 words in length.

· Ensure accuracy by obtaining supplementary material and further information from archives, reference libraries, and                  interviews with informed individuals.

· Conduct interviews in a variety of circumstances as required.

· Establish and maintain contacts to facilitate news gathering, including relationships with the police, emergency services,            local councils, community groups, health trusts, press officers from various organisations, and members of the public as            needed.

· Work collaboratively with the IWI and Proxy team to produce clear and precise content in accordance with house style              guidelines.

· Undertake research and write feature articles, occasionally contributing to subsidiary publications and supplements.

Requirements

· A minimum of four years’ experience in research and/or reporting.

· Proven interpersonal and collaborative abilities, able to work independently as well as part of a team.

· Flexibility, initiative, and robust problem-solving skills.

· Experience within multicultural settings and an awareness of cross-cultural differences.

· Dedication to promoting women’s human rights.

· Strong listening skills.

· Outstanding writing skills, including adaptability in writing styles and responsiveness to editorial guidance.

· Excellent analytical capabilities for precise understanding of subject matter.

· Superb organisational skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects and adhere to tight deadlines.

· Creative thinking in conveying messages innovatively.

· Rigorous attention to detail, including proficiency in proofreading one’s own work.

· Exceptional written English skills.

About Charity Right

Charity Right is an international food charity - Registered Charity No. 1163944 in England & Wales

The Objects of the Charity are

1. To relieve poverty worldwide by
   • Providing food supplies, items, grants and services to individuals in need and other groups or organisations that are working to prevent and relieve hunger and poverty
   • Providing or assisting in the provision of education, training, healthcare projects and all the necessary support designed to enable individuals to generate a sustainable income and be self-sufficient
   • Undertaking and supporting research into factors that contribute to poverty and the most appropriate ways to mitigate these
   • The provision of grants to enable young people to participate in healthy recreational activities that they could not otherwise afford
2. The relief of financial need and suffering among victims of natural or other kinds of disaster in the form of money (or other means deemed suitable) for persons, bodies, organisations and/or countries affected.

Our work centres on breaking the cycle of poverty through sustainable school meals programmes. We currently provide daily school meals in displaced communities affected by extreme food insecurity. Our programme has helped save thousands of young peoples’ lives by freeing them to get an education, develop new skills into adulthood and lift themselves out of poverty.

With millions still going hungry worldwide, our vital work is needed now more than ever. We are at an exciting stage of growth and seek a trustee who can help us deepen our impact, strengthen our strategic direction, and ensure our programmes continue to transform lives for decades to come. As we enter this next phase, we are particularly keen to strengthen the financial expertise and oversight on our board, and would especially welcome interest from candidates with experience of charity finance. This is one of several skill sets we value, however, and we encourage applications from people of all professional backgrounds.

Our Commitment to Diverse Leadership

We strongly encourage applications from women and younger Muslim professionals who can bring fresh perspectives, sectoral expertise, and a long-term strategic vision to our board. We recognise that diverse leadership strengthens our governance, deepens our understanding of the communities we serve, and ensures our programmes remain relevant and impactful.

Age, gender and background diversity is not just important to us in principle, but it is essential to fulfilling our mission effectively. We actively seek to build a board that reflects the breadth of our supporter base and the communities we serve.
 

About the Role

We are seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join our board of trustees. Our mission is to provide school meals to children in developing countries, with the goal of reducing hunger and improving educational outcomes

As a trustee, you will work collaboratively with fellow trustees to provide strategic guidance and oversight to the charity. You will help ensure our activities align with our mission and values. The trustee will work closely with other members of the board and staff to develop and implement plans and policies that support the charity's objectives and maximise the positive impact of its work.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as a member of the board of trustees, providing governance and oversight to the organisation
• Uphold Charity Commission and legal responsibilities as a trustee and company director
• Collaborate with fellow trustees and staff to develop and implement strategies, plans and policies that support the charity's objectives and values
• Champion the charity to external stakeholders and partners
• Attend and actively participate in board meetings and events
• Ensure robust compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
• Act as an ambassador for the organisation, using your network to advance our mission

Person Specification

• Genuine passion for international development and our mission to end child hunger
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: [AK1] finance, programmes, marketing, fundraising, technology, and operations
• Experience of charity finance, for example financial oversight, budgeting, or reading and interpreting charity accounts would be especially valued for this appointment, although it is not essential
• Strong analytical, strategic and critical thinking skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with ability to contribute constructively to board discussions
• Ability to work effectively as part of a diverse team
• Willingness to dedicate time and energy to the charity’s success
• Strong understanding of governance and regulatory requirements for charitable organisations, demonstrating integrity, accountability, and commitment to collective decision-making
• Demonstrates highest standards of personal integrity, honesty and ethical behaviour, avoiding conflicts of interest and prioritizing the charity's mission
• Engages respectfully and collaboratively with board members, staff and stakeholders, fostering an inclusive environment and modelling the charity's values
• Understanding of the cultural and economic contexts of the countries where the charity operates is a plus.

Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings which are scheduled to accommodate trustee’s availability. Most meetings are done via video conferencing, and on occasion we meet in person at a suitable location. Individual commitments are agreed between each trustee and the Chair of the board, but the following is a general guide.

• Board meeting – quarterly
• 2-hour meetings with reports to read one week in advance
• Telephone meetings – as required
• 30-minute conference calls occasionally required in between board meetings
• Staff away day – once yearly
• A day of in-person workshops, planning and Q&A with staff
• Events – as required
• Occasional participation in promotional events – usually early evening
• Project groups – as required
• Occasional working alongside staff to complete projects – as fits expertise and diaries 

Charity Right is an equal opportunities organisation. We are committed to building a diverse board and strongly encourage applications from individuals from all backgrounds, particularly those currently underrepresented in charity governance.

Become a Fundraisng Team Leader Volunter!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

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:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four 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.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help cats. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

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:

• planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances
• providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

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.

Fundraising Volunteer

Every year, RSPCA North West London & South Hertfordshire Branch CIO rescues, cares for and rehomes hundreds of unwanted, stray and abandoned animals.
We also support local pet owners who are struggling to afford essential veterinary treatment, helping animals get the care they need and stay with the people who love them.

We are a local RSPCA branch and we raise our own funds. The money we bring in through donations, grants, gifts in wills and local support makes a real difference to what we can do for animals in our area.

We are looking for a Fundraising Volunteer to help us find new ways to raise money and build support for our work.

This could be a lovely role for someone who has some fundraising experience and would like to use their skills for a cause they care about. You do not need to be an animal welfare expert. What matters most is that you care about animals, enjoy bringing ideas together, and can help us explain clearly why our work needs support.

You don't need to be an expert in everything listed below, but some experience in one or more of these areas would be helpful.

What you will be doing

As a Fundraising Volunteer, you may help with:

• Researching suitable grant-making trusts, foundations and local funding opportunities

• Helping to prepare information for grant applications and funding bids

• Supporting donation appeals for specific projects, such as veterinary care, animal accommodation, equipment or rehoming work

​We are looking for someone who has

• Previous fundraising experience

• An interest in animal welfare and the work of the Branch

• Good written communication skills

Time commitment

This is a flexible role and much of it can be done from home.
You are welcome to spend time in our office if you would like to work alongside the team.

Support and guidance

We want our volunteers to feel confident, supported and valued. You will receive guidance from the Branch, along with relevant information, policies and processes to help you carry out the role well.

The wellbeing of our people is important to us. We are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and everyone we come into contact with through our work.

What you will gain

By volunteering with us, you will:

• Make a direct difference to the welfare of local animals

• Help secure the funds needed to rescue, treat, rehabilitate and rehome animals

• Support pet owners who are struggling to afford essential veterinary care

• Use your fundraising skills for a cause with local impact

• Gain or build on charity fundraising experience

• Strengthen your CV

• Join a friendly, committed local team

• Help shape the future sustainability of an independent RSPCA branch

Interested?

If you care about animals and would like to use your fundraising skills to help secure vital support for their care, we would love to hear from you.