Programme leader volunteer roles

King’s Trust International and University of East Anglia Collaborative PhD Opportunity

King’s Trust International (KTI) and the University of East Anglia (UEA) are delighted to offer a unique PhD opportunity focused on strengthening the evidence base for ‘what works’ in transforming the lives of NEET ( Not in Education, Employment or Training) and at risk young people in Barbados.

This fully funded PhD will be based at UEA, with joint supervision from leading academics in behavioural economics and international development, and will include a secondment within KTI’s Impact Team. We are seeking an exceptional candidate to lead the design and delivery of high-quality research on the long-term impact of our flagship Team Programme, delivered by our partner the Barbados Police Service since 2016.

Team is a full-time, 12-week personal development and employability programme for young people facing challenges such as low confidence, limited motivation, and a lack of employability skills. The programme combines outdoor and community projects with classroom-based learning, fostering teamwork and progressively building essential core skills such as communication, reliability, confidence, motivation, and resilience.

This post will be based in the UK and is open to national and international applicants.

For more information on KTI’s activities including Team Barbados please visit our website at Kings Trust International

As a PhD student on this project, you will:

· Contribute to global evidence on effective interventions for ‘at risk’ and NEET youth in the Caribbean.

· Travel to Barbados to work directly with partners and young people.

· Gain visibility as a thought leader on youth development, employability, and crime reduction.

· Have the opportunity to share your work and engage with policymakers at the highest level, including the UN, World Bank, and national governments.

· Develop versatile skills in data analysis, research design, and policy influence.

This is an ideal pathway for candidates aspiring to careers in:

· International Development

· Advocacy & Public Policy

· Consulting & Organisational Development

Data Analytics

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  29/12/2025

Closing date for these opportunities is: 07/12/2026

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of healthy citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, and self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/12/2026

To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of healthy citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, and self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/01/2026

To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of healthy citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, and self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 30/04/2026.

To apply for this opportunity, please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  19/05/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 24/02/2026

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  19/05/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 24/02/2026

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  04/01/26

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026.

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - 05/04/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 01/02/2026

***Please note that this is an opportunity based in Nottingham in the United Kingdom and we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

What is the purpose of this role?

To support people aged 18+ in the community by leading a series of guided walks around open spaces in Nottingham city (and Nottinghamshire).

Walk Leaders can make a difference by creating safe, enjoyable, and accessible walking opportunities that enhance health, wellbeing, and social connection.

What impact does this role have?

Provides accessible, guided health walks across Nottingham’s parks and open spaces. The walks encourage a healthy lifestyle by combining exercise with opportunities to socialise, helping people stay active, build friendships, and explore their local community.

What activities might you be involved in?

· Offering a friendly welcome to all walkers, especially those joining for the first time

· Providing a short briefing before the walk to ensure all participants are prepared

· Making sure the walk is safe and accessible for participants on the day of the walk

· Taking the lead in walks and ensuring they are safe, friendly and enjoyable and well managed

· Addressing and resolving issues that arise during walks, following guidance from your Line Manager, and promptly reporting any incidents or concerns to them.

· Providing information about other Age UK Notts services and other walks offered by the scheme, and basic information about how to keep active

· Ensuring all required paperwork is properly completed

· Attending occasional walk leaders’ meetings, one-to-one meetings and relevant training

What are we looking for?

Ø  A genuine interest in the wellbeing of people and community engagement

Ø  Friendly, welcoming and empowering with good communication skills

Ø  Knowledgeable about the basics of the benefits of walking and physical activity

Ø  Reliable, punctual, honest and well-organised

Ø  Able to volunteer independently but with guidance and support

Ø  Confident at speaking in front of small groups

Ø  Able to take control and be assertive when needed

Ø  Ability to complete basic paperwork punctually and accurately

Ø  Willing to observe and learn from an experienced leader before taking on independent leadership

When would you be needed to volunteer?

The role can be flexible around your availability. Most volunteers lead walks weekly or monthly, with walks lasting 20–60 minutes. These may be starter/easy walks or wellbeing-focused walks. At times, we may request your support to provide cover at short notice if required.

 While we are looking to expand, our current walks in the New Year will take place on Monday mornings at the Arboretum, Wednesday mornings at Highfields Park/Lakeside and Thursday mornings in Sneinton.

What training will you be given?

You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role. This will include a one-day Ramblers Wellbeing Walks, Walk Leader Course, risk assessment guidance and a thorough departmental induction to provide you with further information about your role. 

What can you gain from this opportunity?

· The chance to make a difference to a person’s life

· Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one

· A comprehensive training programme including the opportunity for further training (e.g. First Aid)

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· Experience to add to your CV

· The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends

· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook

Additional Information

Please note a Basic DBS (Disclosure and Barring check) is required for this role which will be undertaken by the Charity at no cost to the volunteer, after being offered the role.

We are looking for volunteers who have availability to support our walks across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 

We are looking for volunteers who can support a minimum of one walk per week, every week (time and days tbc)

***Please note that we don’t offer sponsorship or accept overseas applicants***

Our Second Home is a youth movement that empowers migrants and refugees to flourish in the place that they call home. Our overnight activity camp for young people aged 14-18 is a chance for young people to come together and have five days of fun and excitement, supported by a dynamic and dedicated team of leaders and staff.

An OSH Leader is a supportive adult, a role model, and someone young people can feel safe being themselves around. It’s about creating a warm, fun, and consistent presence during residentials — helping young people with refugee and migrant backgrounds feel welcomed, included, and at home.

Youth Leaders for this project will be responsible for facilitating the camp, and will be directly in contact with, and responsible for, the participants. During the camp they will be ‘on duty’ full-time, meaning that they will spend the whole time with the participants, including at meals.

THIS ROLE IS ONLY FOR PEOPLE LIVING IN THE UK. We will arrange Zoom interviews with applicants separately.

Responsibilities:

• Interacting and forming a bond with the participants
• Creating and running fun and engaging activities for the participants
• Looking after the participants’ welfare, and ensuring that they feel cared for and secure
• Managing the participants’ behaviour and setting clear boundaries

Expectations and requirements:

• All applicants must be interviewed and be willing to provide references on request.
• Youth Leaders must set a positive example of behaviour and involvement for all participants, and adhere to the volunteer guidelines.
• Youth Leaders may be required to prepare activities for participants at the camp. If asked, this must be completed in plenty of time to allow any materials or equipment to be sourced.
• Applicants should be aged 20 or above.
• Applicants must be eligible for DBS clearance (no criminal record that prevents applicants from working with children)
• Youth Leaders must raise any safeguarding concerns swiftly and follow safeguarding procedures
• Youth Leaders must follow all Our Second Home policies and procedures of (which will be explained at the Camp training days).
• Anyone attending an OSH residential must test negative for COVID-19 prior to attending the programme, regardless of whether they have received a vaccine or not.

Essential skills:

• Flexibility, adaptability and ability to improvise
• Ability to build connection quickly with peers and young people
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively
• High level of organisation
• High levels of empathy and patience
• Awareness and sensitivity that some participants might be suffering from trauma

Additional desired skills:

• Experience working with and/or caring for young people aged 14-18
• Experience working with refugees and/or asylum seekers
• Experience working with young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities
• Language skills: Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Tigrinya, Somali
• First Aid training
• Creative or artistic abilities
• Sports leadership
• Ability to prepare fun and engaging activities for young people

We particularly encourage applications from those who have lived experience of being a refugee.

Please ensure you are available to come to all the following events - specific dates can be found on the application form:

• Training
• Pre-Residential Prep Day (on site)
• Residential, in full
• Feedback & thank you afternoon

QUOTES:

• “Having the professional [welfare] support made me feel very support and more comfortable with the work” – BT
• “The atmosphere of fun, respect, care, and community is what made the young people so comfortable and connected” – BT
• “The leaders were all awesome – it was incredible to work in a team so full of hard working, intelligent, experienced people” – BT
• “Seeing the kids bursting out of their shells and that being the norm rather than just exceptions was just incredible.” – CA
• “It honestly surpassed anything I could have hoped for” – LK

Structure:

Youth Leaders will be supported by the Welfare Support Lead(s), who will be their main contact in the build to and throughout the camp. The Welfare Support Lead(s) will run team meetings at the end of each day and be on hand to advise and manage the Youth Leaders.

Our Second Home (OSH) is the UK’s youth movement of people with refugee backgrounds. We have welcomed over 600 young people from 50 countries to our activities in London, Essex and Bristol.

Mission

For young people with refugee experience to build community, become leaders and flourish into adulthood in the place they call home. Through transformative activities, our members take control of their lives and create meaningful change for themselves and their wider community.

About This Role

OSH is at a pivotal point in its development.

Over the past few years, OSH has grown from a small, founder-led organisation into a national movement with increasing reach, complexity, and ambition. Our income has risen from £250,000 to £500,000, our staff and volunteer base is expanding, and our programmes are reaching more young people than ever before.

OSH now needs confident, experienced, and future-focused governance that can support scaling while protecting the culture, values, and relational way of working that make the organisation distinctive.

Your role will involve 4 main areas:

1. Board Leadership and Governance
2. Strategy and Organisational Leadership
3. CEO Support, Appraisal, and Accountability
4. External Representation and Engagement

More information is in the recruitment pack attached.

About You

Essential

• Significant experience in organisational and strategic leadership, ideally including guiding a charity or mission-driven organisation from small to medium scale
• A proactive and forward-thinking mindset, demonstrating the ability to anticipate potential issues and risks while identifying opportunities.
• Strong understanding of good governance, with the confidence to lead a board and hold senior executives to account
• Experience of or exposure to fundraising, financial sustainability, and organisational development
• The ability to balance support and challenge, particularly in a Chair - CEO relationship
• Commitment to OSH’s mission and values, including a genuine willingness to engage with and be guided by those with lived experience of the asylum system
• Highly organised and dynamic, with the ability to prioritise the effective use of Board time, facilitate the timely and focused distribution of information, and ensure appropriate follow-up to Board decisions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the emotional intelligence to lead inclusively, collaboratively, and sensitively

Desirable

• Lived experience of asylum or forced migration
• Previous experience as a Chair or Vice-Chair of a charity or similar organisation
• Experience working with youth-led or lived-experience-led organisations
• Familiarity with safeguarding in youth or community settings

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

This role is assisting in leading a youth unit in the Dacorum St John Network

Pursuing the role.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 20th July 2026.

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below: