Public policy volunteer roles

Use your experience to help improve health and social care services across the UK 

HSR UK is a small but ambitious charity dedicated to strengthening the role of health and social care research in policy and practice. We bring together researchers, service leaders, clinicians, policymakers, patient partners and others, helping research to drive real improvement in the NHS and social care. 

We are now seeking three new Trustees to join our friendly and committed Board and help shape the next phase of our development. 

About HSR UK 

HSR UK is the collective voice for health services and social care research in the UK. 
We: 

• Connect and convene researchers, policymakers, managers, clinicians, and lived‑experience partners.
• Support the use of high‑quality research in practice and policy. 
• Influence national agendas to help health and social care research thrive. 

We have around 40 organisational members, run an annual conference attracting 350+ delegates, and lead work on mentoring, special interest groups, and major thematic projects such as equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and workforce research. We are hosted by the Nuffield Trust but we are a separate organisation. 

Why join us? 

This is an exciting moment in HSR UK’s growth. As a Trustee, you will help shape strategy, guide organisational development, and contribute to a mission that genuinely improves health and care for people and communities. 

Our Board is welcoming, collaborative and curious. We particularly encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, from outside the research community, and from people with lived experience of health or care services. 

We welcome applications from anyone regardless of disability, ethnicity, heritage, gender, sexuality, religion or socio‑economic background. We are committed to inclusive practices and will make reasonable adjustments throughout the process. 

Who we’re looking for 

You do not need to be an academic or professional researcher. We welcome a wide range of expertise, including people newer to board roles.With the board meeting mainly online, we also welcome candidates from all over the UK. 

We’re especially interested in candidates with skills or experience in: 

• Business development or income generation (e.g., grants, commissioning, fundraising, third sector) 
• Health or social care delivery, including clinical, managerial or lived‑experience backgrounds 
• Public involvement, co‑production or inclusive research 
• Finance or governance 

You will also bring: 

• An interest in how research can improve health and care 
• Good listening skills and openness to diverse perspectives 
• A willingness to constructively challenge and be challenged 
• Enthusiasm for our aims and values, including a commitment to EDI 

What the role involves 

As a Trustee, you will contribute to: 

• Setting and monitoring HSR UK’s strategic direction 
• Ensuring strong governance and compliance 
• Approving major decisions, policies, and annual accounts 
• Considering and managing organisational risk 
• Actively participating in board meetings and reading papers in advance 
• Leading on a specific area of work (e.g., finance, conferences, events, governance), depending on your interests and skills 

Practical details 

Time commitment 

• Around ½–1 day per month 
• Five 90‑minute board meetings per year (online) plus our AGM in the autumn
• Option to join sub‑committees (1–2 meetings per year) 
• Opportunity to help shape our annual conference and attend the conference in person

Location 

• Meetings are online (MS Teams); our annual conference rotates around UK universities (2026: University of Manchester) 

Remuneration 

• This is a voluntary role.  We reimburse trustee out of pocket expenses, including travel to meetings and conference attendance 

Term 

• Three years, renewable for up to three consecutive terms 

How to apply 

To apply for one of our three trustee vacancies, please click the Apply Now button below. If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Cat Chatfield using the contact details on our website.

Closing date: Tuesday 17th February at 5pm 

Timetable

We will let you know if you have been shortlisted or not by Friday 20th February. Interviews will be held online via Microsoft Teams on Monday 23rd and Wednesday 25th February. We will let you know if you have been appointed as a Trustee by the end of February. 

The Reading for fun charity 

Chair of Trustees of World Book Day

Location: London (hybrid)

Remuneration: Voluntary role, reasonable expenses reimbursed

Time commitment: One day per week

Term: 3 years (may be appointed for a second term, maximum 6 years)

Closing Date for applications: 6th March 2026

About World Book Day

World Book Day (WBD) is a small national charity with significant reach and profile, consistently punching above our weight.  WBD champions reading for fun because it seriously improves lives.  In fact, it is the biggest indicator that a child will grow up to enjoy a happier and more successful future.  With the spotlight in this National Year of Reading on reversing the decline in children's reading, now is an exciting time to join us. 

As our current strategy enters its final phase and our 30th anniversary approaches, a new Chair would work with our board and executive team to develop and lead our new strategy and to leverage our existing strengths to realise the potential for growth in our impact. The new Chair will also support WBD's income generation activities, through attending events and philanthropy meetings and supporting corporate partnership opportunities, promoting WBD through their networks and championing donations.

This is a rare opportunity to help more children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, develop a lifelong habit of reading for fun and access the improved life chances this brings them.

What we are looking for

World Book Day's new Chair may come from a commercial, educational, public service or other background. In addition to the qualities required for a trustee, they should have the following qualities:

· A commitment to World Book Day's vision and values

Knowledge and experience:

· of senior strategic leadership (e.g. as a Chair or Committee Chair, trustee, non-executive director or senior executive)

· of charity governance and financial oversight

· of supporting, line managing and evaluating the performance of a senior leader

· to support our plans to increase and diversify WBD's income

· to work effectively with WBD's varied stakeholder landscape

· complementary or adjacent to WBD's activities, purpose and strategy

The ability to:

· lead by example

· communicate skilfully and effectively

· be an influential, inspirational and supportive leader who builds confidence and consensus

· develop partnerships and strategic alliances

· act impartially, fairly, with tact and diplomacy and respect confidences.

World Book Day welcomes candidates drawn from a range of backgrounds, experiences and characteristics.  We would like our trustees to be reflective of our society and WBD's beneficiaries.  We actively encourage applications from those currently under-represented on our board: non-binary, all ethnic groups other than white British and LGBTQ+.

For a full role description and details of how to apply, please see the recruitment pack below.  The deadline for applications is 6th March 2026.

Trustee (Public Affairs)
Help shape the future of UK safety policy

The Hazards Forum is at a pivotal point in its 35-year history. Long respected as a convenor of expert debate on safety and risk, we are now implementing our Strategy to 2030. In addition to hosting discussions, we aim to actively influence national policy and societal outcomes that make people safer.

To deliver this ambition, we are refreshing our Trustee Board and seeking a Public Affairs Trustee to strengthen our political engagement and policy influence.

We operate a “player-coach” model. With no full-time staff, Trustees provide both governance and hands-on leadership, working closely with a small team of contractors and high-calibre volunteers to turn strategy into action.

If you want a governance role with real strategic and societal impact, we would welcome your application.

About The Hazards Forum
Mission: To be the UK’s trusted facilitator of vital conversations on hazard and risk management, driving a safer and more prosperous society.

Strategic Focus (to 2030):

1.Influencing national policy through engagement with MPs and Civil Servants

2.Developing collaborative partnerships with government, industry and academia

3.Improving industry connectivity by breaking down sector silos

Operating Model:
We are a lean, agile, unincorporated charitable association, supported by a Head of Membership & Operations (contractor) and an engaged volunteer community.

The Role: Trustee for Public Affairs

Influencing national policy is a core pillar of our Strategy to 2030. While we have strong technical expertise, we are seeking to strengthen our capability in political engagement to ensure our voice is heard consistently and effectively across Whitehall and Westminster.

You will help guide our public affairs approach, supporting constructive, neutral engagement with policymakers and regulators.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Support high-level engagement with Civil Servants, MPs, and Select Committees
• Advise on translating complex technical issues into clear, persuasive policy briefings
• Act as a guardian of political neutrality and organisational independence

 The Ideal Candidate:

• Professional background in public affairs, government relations, or policy advocacy
• Experience drafting consultation responses and navigating parliamentary processes
• Established contacts within relevant government or regulatory bodies
• Charity sector or trustee experience desirable but not essential

 Practicalities

 Time Commitment:

• 4 Board meetings per year (hybrid, usually London)
• 1 annual in-person strategy day
• Around 1–2 days per month supporting strategic delivery

 Terms:

• Three-year term, renewable once (maximum six years)
• Voluntary, unpaid role

Diversity & Inclusion:

We are committed to broadening the diversity of our Board and strongly encourage applications from people of different backgrounds, ages, professions, and communities.

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

About YAUK

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

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

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

Responsibilities

• Manage a small team of remote, part time volunteers

• Develop, review and maintain HR policies & volunteer handbook

• Ensure compliance with employment laws, regulations and GDPR.

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

Requirements

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

• Excellent writing and communication skills.

• IT literacy with own equipment (laptop and phone)

• Ability to work well in a team.

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Passionate for personal development

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

• Right to volunteer in the UK

Benefits

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

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

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

Why Volunteer with Us?

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

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

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

We look forward to hearing from you!

Transform is looking for a new Treasurer to join our board of Trustees!

We are looking for a qualified accountant, preferably with experience in the charity sector; knowledge and experience of the drug sector an advantage.

As we are a small organisation this is quite a hands-on role. You will need:

 To work collaboratively with the CEO, our book-keepers and the auditors to produce annual accounts
and regular financial statements
 Proven accountancy qualifications, budgeting and understanding the finance of small
charities including a working knowledge of xero 
 Ability to translate finances in an easy-to-understand manner for different
stakeholders with less financial knowledge
 Good knowledge of charity governance rules and procedures
 To be passionate about the values and mission of the charity

You will also work closely with the Chair and the Board to ensure we are meeting our
financial objectives
You will be willing to bring experience, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and be
willing to broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

About Transform
Transform Drug Policy Foundation is a global leader in developing, and advocating for, more
humane drug policies. Our vision is a world where drug policy contributes to safer and
healthier societies. We want to recruit a treasurer, to oversee income and expenditure of the
organisation, to help drive forward our work.

This is an exciting time in drug policy. Rapid changes in approach are occurring in the UK and
internationally. Transform has a long history of shaping these changes and seeking to ensure
that reform reduces harm, improves social justice and protects public health. Our Anyone’s
Child campaign is a highly effective family-led movement that has had a significant impact
here and abroad. But like so many charities, we are feeling the strain from the cost of giving
crisis and gaining longer-term sustainable funding is essential for the continuation of our
important work. 

We welcome applications from all candidates with the skills and commitment to support the
work of Transform. We especially welcome applications from Black and minority ethnic
candidates as part of our commitment to ensuring a full diversity of experience is reflected in
our work. We are also interested to hear from candidates with personal lived experience
which informs their understanding of the need for drug policy reform.

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring Glasgow South West Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the management and administration of the charity and ensuring that the foodbank has a clear strategy in line with our vision and goals.

What will you be doing?

We are seeking new trustees to become members of our board. Trustees ensure that the food bank acts in conformity with its purpose and with charity legislation, and that good governance, best practice policies and rigorous financial supervision are in place. They will be required to work collaboratively, with other trustees and with the staff and volunteers of the foodbank, and other external agencies.

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Clear commitment to supporting the delivery of the best possible compassionate and non-judgmental service to some of the most disadvantaged people in Glasgow.
• Some understanding of issues around poverty, even if not in depth, and willingness to extend that.
• Experience at a management, senior or professional level within the third, public or private sectors.

• (Ideally, but not essentially) experience of involvement in non-executive boards in the third, public or private sector.

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 Glasgow South West Foodbank.

We are seeking a chair in waiting to join our board. If you have management or professional experience in the third, public or private sector, want to make a difference to people at risk of hunger or destitution, and share our values, we might have a role for you. 

What will you be doing?

We are seeking someone with experience working at a senior level within the voluntary, public or private sectors and experience of being on a board of trustees i to succeed the current chair who is retiring from the role in 2026. 

Our intention is that the person recruited spends some time shadowing the work of the chair and familiarising themselves with every aspect of the organisation before taking over the reins before the end of the calendar year. 

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidate would demonstrate: 

• An understanding of, and commitment to, the work of foodbanks and tackling poverty.
• Senior management experience in the voluntary, public or private sectors, including the development, implementation and review of strategies/business plans.

• Experience of being a trustee within a voluntary or community organisation.

What difference will you make?

By supporting the governance of the food bank, you are part of a team that provides a vital service in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience for people in financial crisis and facing hunger.

The Institute of Conservation (Icon) is seeking an enterprising and passionate supporter of cultural heritage to chair our Board of Trustees through an ambitious period of growth and change.

This fulfilling role will appeal to a people focused individual, who will welcome the opportunity to actively engage with Icon's membership and the wider heritage sector. We are looking for the skills and ambition to support us as we establish a new strategy to champion conservation and deliver sustainable financial growth to support our charitable objectives.

About the Role 

The Chair’s responsibilities include those of all Icon Trustees, with the additional operational responsibilities:

• Providing leadership to the Board in its strategic and policy role
• Chairing the Board and other meetings to facilitate positive discussion and development
• Ensuring the Board fulfils its legal and charitable responsibilities for the governance of Icon
• Establishing a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive
• Appraising the performance of the Chief Executive and the Trustees
• Advocating for Icon and conservation via public speaking appointments at Icon events and within the wider heritage sector
• Supporting Icon’s petition for Royal Charter through stakeholder engagement activity

For the full list of responsibilities and information on Icon including its mission and values, please refer to the Chair of the Board of Trustees Recruitment Pack

About You

You will be:

• Committed to Icon’s values and the conservation of cultural heritage
• Committed to the professional ethos that defines Icon and its members
• Able to direct the business of the Board efficiently and effectively
• Skilled in developing and nurturing productive working relationships
• Willing to challenge us and introduce new ways of thinking

You will have experience in:

• Charity or corporate governance
• High level advocacy across a range of media, including public speaking, interviewing and written commentary
•  Successful fundraising and/or entrepreneurial activities
• Delivering organisational growth and future resilience
• Problem solving, building understanding, and fostering collaboration

All trustees must agree to comply with the Trustees’ Code of Conduct. You can find more information about being a Trustee on Icon’s website.

How to Apply

If you would like to be considered for a position on our Board of Trustees, please submit a brief covering letter (no more than one side of A4) explaining why you are interested in the role and highlighting your relevant skills and experience. Please also provide your CV, covering no more than two sides of A4. 

Detailed application instructions can be found on Icon's website.

Applications close on Wednesday 11 February 2026 at 5PM.

Join the non-executive Board of Governors of the University of Wolverhampton and help shape the future of an inclusive, values-driven university through strategic leadership, independent challenge, and a shared commitment to the transformative power of higher education.

Who we are

Independent Governors are non-executive members of the University’s Board of Governors. They bring independent judgement, strategic insight, and professional expertise to support the University’s long-term success, financial sustainability, and compliance with an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

The Board operates through a constructive partnership between Governors and the Executive, underpinned by mutual respect, clarity of roles, and a shared commitment to the University’s mission. Governors are responsible for strategic oversight, assurance, and governance, while the Executive team retains accountability for operational leadership and delivery.

Independent Governors are expected to work collaboratively, valuing strong relationships, open dialogue, and collective responsibility. The role requires a genuine commitment of time and attention, including engagement in discussions and workshops that support informed decision-making and long-term stability.

About the role

Setting direction and providing strategic oversight:

• Contribute to the definition, approval, and review of the University’s mission, values, and strategic priorities.
• Support the Board in maintaining a clear long-term strategic direction that is responsive to a volatile external environment.
• Provide assurance on institutional performance and future strategic positioning.

Ensuring financial sustainability and effective governance:

• Monitoring financial performance, long-term sustainability, and the effective management of risk.
• Overseeing governance frameworks and ensuring regulatory compliance, including with the Office for Students Conditions of Registration.
• Ensuring adherence to the University’s Instrument and Articles of Government, Board Regulations, and the Committee of University Chairs Code of Governance.

Providing constructive challenge and assurance:

• Offer informed questioning and constructive challenge, supporting robust decision-making.
• Recognise and respect the professional expertise and leadership of the Executive team, providing oversight without encroaching on operational management.
• Receive and evaluate assurance on delivery, outcomes, and the effectiveness of strategic execution.

Working in partnership with Board leadership and the Executive:

• Effective governance depends on strong relationships and clear communication. Independent Governors are expected to:
• Adopt a collaborative, relationship-based approach that supports Board cohesion and effectiveness.
• Maintain a ‘no surprises’ approach, keeping the Chair appropriately informed and supported.
• Be prepared to adapt thinking and support changes in strategic direction where required.
• Commitment, engagement, and ambassadorship.

The role requires:

• A meaningful commitment of time, including attendance at Board and committee meetings, strategy sessions, and workshops.
• Ongoing development of knowledge of higher education governance, policy, and regulation.
• A willingness to act as an ambassador for the University, representing and promoting it at key events and formal occasions, including graduations

Governors are expected to act in line with the Nolan Principles of Public Life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

Appointments are typically for a three-year term, renewable up to nine years, with a 12-month probationary period. The time commitment averages a minimum of 5 hours per month, plus preparation, briefings, and 2 annual strategic away days.

Who we are looking for

We welcome and encourage interest from experienced, values-driven individuals who can bring independent, strategic thinking and senior professional expertise to the University of Wolverhampton’s Board of Governors.

Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee

We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded leader with either direct experience of leading audit and risk services for large and complex public institutions as clients, or as an experienced non-executive with prior service on an audit & risk committee. The successful candidate will have an excellent understanding of the business cycle of an audit & risk committee, including its critical oversight role in financial management, risk, and regulatory compliance, and the importance of audit in ensuring the long-term sustainability and governance of a higher education institution.

Independent Governor – Digital Transformation

We are seeking an individual with extensive experience leading major programmes of IT and digital change, linked to infrastructure planning, capital development, and investment to support organisational growth. This role requires the ability to bring strategic insight into how technology and digital initiatives can transform operations, enhance student and staff (customer) experience, and deliver long-term institutional impact.

Independent Governor – Higher Education Policy & Regulation

We are seeking a candidate with significant experience in higher education policy, regulation, or governance, gained either through work in government, advising government, or supporting the sector through professional and membership organisations.

Candidates could also come from think tanks or policy organisations with expertise in shaping higher education strategy, regulation, and compliance. This role requires an understanding of the wider higher education landscape and the ability to contribute insight into regulatory, policy, and sector developments that affect the University’s strategic objectives.

All Independent Governors

Successful candidates for all roles will demonstrate:

• Independent judgement, integrity, and the ability to act impartially
• Strong analytical, interpersonal, and collaborative skills
• The ability to provide constructive challenge while supporting collective decision-making
• A commitment to preparation, attendance at meetings, and ongoing development
• Alignment with fairness, inclusion, public service, and the University’s values
• A passion for the transformative impact of higher education and the University of Wolverhampton

We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Diversity of experience and thought strengthens the Board and reflects the inclusive values of our university.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 23 February. 

Join us and help promote the highest standards in the practice of urology for the benefit of patients, by fostering education, research and clinical excellence.

Applications close: 9 a.m. Monday 23rd February 2026

Location: Virtual / London

Who we are

The British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) is the professional membership organisation for urologists and urological teams in the UK. We are a registered charity representing over 2,500 members, including consultants, trainees and allied health professionals, all committed to improving the care and outcomes of people with urological conditions.

BAUS delivers education and professional development through national conferences, specialist training and clinical audit, playing a key role in setting professional standards and sharing best practice across the UK and internationally.

With our headquarters at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, we are an established and respected voice within the medical community — and our motto, united strength is stronger, reflects the power of collaboration across our membership and partners.

 About the roles

The board of trustees provides collective leadership, oversight and strategic guidance to ensure BAUS fulfils its charitable objectives and continues to thrive for the benefit of patients and professionals alike.

Trustees work closely with our senior team and council to oversee strategy, risk and resources, ensuring that our work reflects the evolving needs of the urological community and wider healthcare landscape.

We now seek to appoint two new lay trustees as we look to further develop and grow our impact. These key roles represent an exciting opportunity to contribute to the continued development of an organisation at the heart of advancing urological care and professional excellence.

Who we are looking for

We are particularly interested in hearing from candidates who bring skills and perspectives that complement those of our existing Board and membership. In particular, we would welcome:

• Public affairs and policy experience, ideally with an understanding of health or professional regulation, to help strengthen BAUS’s engagement with government and external stakeholders.
• Strategic communications or advocacy expertise, with the ability to help shape our voice and influence policy and patient engagement.
• Income generation expertise, ideally from the pharmaceutical industry.
• Patient Engagement, ideally with experience of patient and public engagement, advocating for those with lived experience
• Governance/legal experience, ideally with medical association experience

You do not need prior board experience to apply. We welcome expressions of interest from those new to trusteeship who share our values, are committed to public benefit and are keen to learn and contribute.

BAUS is deeply committed to inclusion and widening participation across our membership, leadership and governance. We particularly encourage applications from women, people from underrepresented backgrounds and those with lived experience of the issues we address.

Time commitment

The equivalent of approximately 1 – 2 days per month. The board meets five to six times a year, usually in London or virtually. Trustees are expected to attend our annual scientific meeting (3 days each June). Each trustee will sit on a clinical sub-committee. They are encouraged to engage in BAUS events and working groups that align with their interests and expertise.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 23rd February 2026.

Our vision for volunteering

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

The difference you will make to cats and people

Our publicity team leaders have the important role of supporting a wider team of publicity volunteers. As a team our publicity volunteers collectively keep members of the public informed of the vital and varied ways we help our cats in need. Raising awareness is crucial to us being able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us. A higher profile can help raise funds, raise awareness of adopting a cat, promote neutering and encourage as many people as possible to learn about feline welfare.

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:

• Communicating with others including newsletter, social media and website volunteers
• Advising others on the content of newsletters and web posts
• Interacting with others to make sure information is positive, accurate and consistent
• Liaising with your volunteer group and our Head Office to organise media campaigns
• Responding to local media requests if required

Lay Directors of the Governing Board (x2)
£200 - £250 per day, plus expenses
Part-time, hybrid working with occasional travel to London

 
The British Acupuncture Council​​​​​​​ is seeking to recruit two Lay Directors to join our Governing Board to replace the directors who stood down in 2025.

The ideal candidates will have previous experience as a non-executive director or trustee of a charity, company or community interest company, an understanding of regulatory compliance requirements and the experience of working with a strategic risk management structure.

The successful applicants will also have a keen interest in acupuncture and a passion for promoting it as a valid healthcare choice.

Person specification and skills:

· Clear, strategic thinker.

· Ability to think creatively.

· Strong diplomacy and listening skills.

· Ability to maintain confidentiality under the GDPR and data protection legislation.

· Ability to demonstrate integrity, objectivity, accountability, and openness.

· Good, independent judgement and willingness to speak their mind and be prepared to make unpopular recommendations to the Governing Board.

Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of being a Director:

· Ability to work effectively in a team and accept collective responsibility for decisions taken.

· Commitment to the BAcC and its objectives.

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the BAcC, with a focus on your area of expertise.

Additionally, we are seeking individuals with specific skills and expertise in one or both of the following areas:

Business development and fundraising 

· Experience in business development and income diversification especially within the health and well being sector.

· Experience of identifying and critically assessing strategic opportunities and threats and developing effective organisational strategies.

· Oversight to drive income generation strategy and apply objective scrutiny to complex funding initiatives within a highly regulated healthcare sector.

Healthcare management

· In-depth experience and understanding of the wider UK health and wellbeing sector.

· Senior level management experience in a complex organisation (ideally NHS).

· Extensive network and connections with stakeholders within the healthcare sector, including policy-makers.

· Experience in membership services and public relations.

Commitment

Four Governing Board meetings per year.
One additional away day and attendance at annual conference.
Ad-hoc interim meetings by agreement.
Committee participation by agreement.

For further information on the role, please see the attached candidate pack. 

In order to apply, please submit your CV along with a supporting statement outlining how you meet the person specification by 2 February 2026 via the application link.

Online interviews will take place on 17 February 2026. 

The BAcC reserves the right to close applications early depending on volume of applications.

Volunteer Researcher – Yellow Wood Project

Location: Remote (UK-based preferred)

Type: Volunteer (Flexible, ~10-20 hours/month)

Reporting to: Director/Founder

Organisation Type: Community Interest Company (CIC)

About Us

We are a mission-driven Community Interest Company dedicated to early intervention against online harms and the prevention of child sexual abuse and exploitation (CSEA) and violence against women and girls (VAWG). Rooted in a behavioural science approach combined with systems thinking, we work to understand the contemporary online context for children and young people and pathways to engaging with harmful content, develop evidence-based interventions which support healthier sexual and social development, and create safer communities through primary and secondary prevention.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate and proactive Volunteer Researcher to help us on our Insight and Understanding workstream; conducting primary and secondary research as well as providing guidance on commissioned research. This is a key voluntary role for someone with a background in social research who wants to use their skills to make a measurable difference in a sensitive but vital area of public benefit, increasingly recognised as an urgent issue and one in receipt of growing governmental attention.

Key Responsibilities

Depending on experience and availability, responsibilities may include:

• Conducting desk-based research and literature reviews (academic, policy, and grey literature)
• Contributing to the establishment of the organisation’s Research Ethics Policy
• Supporting the design of research projects, including research questions, methods, and tools
• Assisting with data collection (e.g. surveys, interviews, focus groups), where appropriate
• Supporting data analysis (qualitative and/or quantitative)
• Summarising findings into clear written outputs (briefings, reports, blogs, or presentations)
• Supporting evidence gathering for funding applications, policy submissions, or advocacy work
• Contributing to the maintenance of research logs, references, and documentation
• Adhering to the organisation’s research ethics and data protection policies at all times

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Experience in social research, public policy, or social impact
• Strong written communication skills and attention to detail Ability to work independently and manage time effectively
• Willingness to follow ethical research standards
• Alignment with the organisation’s mission and values
• Ability to work on highly sensitive topics related to issues including: pornography, violence, sexual offending, and misogyny.

Desirable

• Undergraduate or postgraduate study (completed or ongoing) in a relevant field (e.g. social sciences, psychology, criminology, education, public health, data science)
• Familiarity with research methods such as surveys, interviews, and digital ethnography
• Experience conducting literature reviews or academic research
• Thematic data analysis skills
• Understanding of issues relating to online harms, child safety, or digital wellbeing and familiarity with safeguarding  
• Familiarity with behaviour change frameworks (e.g. COM-B, Behaviour Change Wheel)

Time Commitment

• Approximately 10-20 hours per month
• Flexible schedule, with occasional online meetings
• Project-based with ability to work on discrete project or ongoing basis, as preferred

What We Offer

• A meaningful opportunity to contribute to the protection of children from online harms, as well as a CSEA and VAWG prevention mission
• Flexible, remote working with supportive leadership
• Recognition in reports and communications
• A reference or endorsement after three months of active volunteering
• The chance to shape organisation direction at an early and impactful stage of growth

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.