Reading volunteer roles

We’re looking for an outstanding trustee who is a bold and visionary leader in their field to join our Board of Trustees. You will help us achieve our vision of making sure our members have an outstanding experience during their time at UCL and at one of the best student unions in the world.

We’re looking for an inspirational leader in a field related to one of our services or values to join us in our mission. That mission is to build a vibrant and empowered student community with real influence in UCL and beyond, that enables students to enjoy their time at university; pursue their interests and passions; see the world in new ways; and develop the skills and experience to change the world for better.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for setting the mission, vision and values of the Students’ Union and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose through our 2025-2030 Strategy, Making More Happen. The Trustees ensure development of, and agree, a long-term strategy and approve and monitor plans and budgets to deliver the strategy. There are five meetings a year, and as an External Trustee you will work with our Board and Senior Management Team to affect change and ensure everything we do for our 50,000 members is led by our values to be Community Building, Empowering, Inclusive, Democratic, Bold, Sustainable and Fun.

To apply please send a CV and cover letter by email no later than 17.00 on Tuesday 5 May 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview on Tuesday 19 or Thursday 21 May 2026 and will join our Board for a four-year term beginning in June 2026.

Please note that this position is only open to candidates who are neither a student, alumnus or employee of UCL.

At St John Ambulance, we are looking to develop our volunteering offer and become an even more integral part of our communities through delivering community first aid and education. 

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference. Through volunteering as an Emergency Responder, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering essential first aid and lifesaving clinical care at community and major events in your areas, including at sporting events, concerts, community festivals.

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

People can support their local community in Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire or Oxfordshire. The local St John team will be in touch upon application. 

Courses will run over the year: 
April - Aylesbury, Canterbury, Crawley 

May - Reading, Maidstone

June - Kidlington, Winchester 

July- Southampton

September - Guildford 

October - Brighton 

November - Basingstoke

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/08/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

We are looking for 3 trustees.  One from the global majority, one with an interest in the management of risk and one with skills in marketing, communications or PR.     

Background to Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust

Mosaic’s vision is to build a proud, strong and cohesive LGBT+ community that is safe from abuse, free from prejudice, healthy and making a positive contribution to society. Over more than 25 years, we have supported, educated and inspired thousands of young persons.

We have two distinct services: for 12 – 18 year olds and for 18 – 25 year olds.

Services for 12 – 18 year olds

- weekly youth group (Wednesday evening or Sunday night but you come to only one):  20 -25 young people, in our dedicated facility in Camden.  Adult mentors available to discuss issues, lots of games and chat and music and then settle down to that week's workshop. Coined by our members as ‘Mosaic’, the Youth Club has been regularly referred to as being ‘home’ or ‘like family.’ We are supported by a dedicated team of LGBT+ volunteer staff role models who run workshops and forums on a range of matters from sexual health to Queer literature.

- schools mentoring: for anyone in London, usually arranged via school, our mentor goes into school. Aimed at those who cannot make youth group

- culture club: around 6 times every month there is something we are doing cultural, be it going to a show, or a gallery or a museum.  We raise the funds so these trips are free and often there is a meal before or after

- book club, film club, homework club, yoga club:  regular sessions where the name is self explanatory

- drama therapy: team from RADA running a series of sessions a few times a year 

- counselling: we have a group of fully qualified psychotherapists offering one on one, group and family therapy

- big events:Homoween, Garden Party, Pride Prom, Clothes swap - big events which we advertise widely and attract up to 100 people to

- summer camp and winter retreat: residentials, the first focused on outdoor activity and the second focused on calmer activities

- Discord group: around 200 members in our moderated Discord space 

Services for 18 – 25 year olds

- month young adults group: similar format to youth group but less often so that they organise their own activities too

- Mosaic Works: CV, and interview advice, mentored paid work experience.  This is a huge focus for this group 

- outdoor group: meet every few weeks to go kayaking, hiking, cycling etc

- counselling: same as for youth group

- culture club: a monthly trip out, usually to theatre

- summer residential: usually at Pride Youth Games

What we are looking for

● A trustee from the Global Majority

● A trustee with an interest in the management of risk

● A Trustee with skills in marketing, communications or PR

We have spent several years developing a firm foundation, with strong finances and clear policies. We now want to grow our services and programmes even more.

We are a small charity. We employ full time our Executive Director, Services Manager and Business Development Manager.  We have a part time Marketing Officer. We also have a great group of volunteers who dedicate time to the Youth Clubs and the other activities. Our Trustees should be very keen to be involved. We want you to be passionate about improving the lives of LGBT+ young persons. We also want you to be able to commit time to getting involved in our Trustee Board, picking up some of the tasks from there and working on them between meetings. We would also expect you to want to attend the Youth Club or some of the special events we run at least a few times a year.

How to apply

You will find the job descriptions and person specifications for each role below. To apply please send a CV along with a short email on why you wish to be a Trustee at Mosaic.  Please explain why you think you are a good fit if your CV doesn’t make it clear.  If you would like an informal chat before deciding whether to apply please drop Ken a note and he will be happy to set this up.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 19th April however we will process applications as they arrive so please send us your application as soon as you are ready.

All of our roles have an initial common job description

As a member of Mosaic LGBT+ Young Persons’ Trust board (the “Board”) you help provide overall direction and leadership for the organisation’s strategy, with accountability for the organisation: sound management; financial health and quality of programme delivery.

General responsibilities (common to all Trustees)

In carrying out the collective responsibilities of the Board, individual Trustees should:

●Be an active participant, making relevant skills, experience and knowledge available to the organisation. This includes sitting on the Board and one of the Board subcommittees, occasionally attending events we are holding, and using personal networks to develop connections for the organisation

●Regularly attend Board meetings and prepare fully for those meetings including reading papers in advance, identifying key issues for discussion and providing advice and guidance on areas of expertise.  Board meetings are held 5 times a year.

●Regularly attend the meetings of the subcommittee of which you are a member and prepare fully for those meetings including reading papers in advance, identifying key issues for discussion and providing advice and guidance on areas of expertise. Committee meetings are held 5 times a year.

●Have prior knowledge of, or take time to familiarise themselves with, best practices of Charity governance and operations including financial management. (We will provide guidance and training on this)

●Develop and maintain a sound and up-to-date knowledge of the organisation’s activities and any wider issues that affect its work

●Actively contribute towards the effectiveness of the Trustee Board, engaging in discussion, debate and voting in a considered and constructive way, participating in induction and training as required, and sharing ideas for how the Board can be improved

●Act in the best interests of Mosaic, including contributing to fundraising efforts, e.g. through personal contributions, introductions to potential supports and attending fundraising events

●Undertake an annual performance self-assessment, which will be reviewed in discussion with the Chair and Vice Chair.

●Act as brand ambassador when talking to other professionals raising profile and need for LGBT+ young persons’ services and placing Mosaic as a key provider of such services.

Specific to these jobs: 

A trustee from the global majority

We need a Trustee from the global majority who will be able to provide us with insight and perspectives that are not fully represented at our Board meetings.  We do have a diverse Board, but we are conscious that our membership, particularly in the young adults group, draws heavily from the global majority.  We think we would benefit from another Trustee from this background.  We are passionate about having diverse voices in our leadership because it helps us make better decisions. We also think we need to be sure we are hearing from people who have similar experiences to those we work with.

This Trustee position is open to those with a range of skills or specialisms, including but not limited to the provision of frontline services (for example safeguarding, working with young people, working with or knowledge of the challenges faced by LGBT+ refugees), marketing and fundraising (for example working in PR, having a knowledge of fundraising or events management) or charity management (for example financial skills - maybe gained outside the charity sector, governance or risk management).

We don’t need you to have been a Trustee before – we are committed to providing the training and support for anyone where this is their first Trustee role. Many of our current Trustees took this on as their first role and would now be regarded as experienced Trustees with a good knowledge of what is required to make the role a success..

Person Specification

Essential 

● Lived experience of LGBT+ young people and the LGBT+ community. 

● Lived experience of being from the global majority

● Commitment to Mosaic’s vision and mission.

● Understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a Trustee; or a willingness to get that understanding very early in the role 

● Good communication skills and creative thinking 

● Sound, independent judgment and strategic vision 

● A willingness to speak their mind persuasively but diplomatically

● Confidence to take decisions for the good of the organisation

● Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of a Trustee 

Desirable

● Experience managing a team

A Trustee with an interest in management of risk

We need a Trustee with an interest in the management of risk. For us that means keeping the risk register (we already have one, and its up to date and in good shape), and working with the chairs of the committees to ensure that their committee reviews the risks that they own (our experience is that they need a bit of a push to do it, but when they do it, it is done well).  It also means saying “have we considered the risks here” when we discuss things at Board and making sure we keep that as a focus.

You don’t actually need to have done this before because it is relatively easy to understand and the role is keeping the organisation focused on risk rather than actually doing the risk management yourself.

We have a robust risk register and in the last 12 months we have spent half a day thinking specifically about our risk posture. We are losing the trustee who led this area and we need to replace them. If you have experience in governance of risk that would be great, but if you are simply interested in working with us and happy to pick up this area that is fine too.  You don’t have to have been a trustee before, but if you have been that would be good.

Responsibilities specific to this role

● To work with the members of the Finance, Risk and Governance committee to maintain a register of the critical risks that the Charity faces.

● To work with the chairs of the Board Committees to ensure that the committees are regularly assessing their risks, and regularly taking action to mitigate those risks

● To be responsible for the keeping the risk register up to date

Person Specification

Essential 

● Lived experience of LGBT+ young people and the LGBT+ community. 

● Knowledge of risk, or willingness to learn, in relation to a charity for young persons and vulnerable adults.

● Commitment to Mosaic’s vision and mission.

● Understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a Trustee; or a willingness to get that understanding very early in the role 

● Good communication skills and creative thinking 

● Sound, independent judgment and strategic vision 

● An ability to work with others

● A willingness to speak their mind persuasively but diplomatically

● Confidence to take decisions for the good of the organisation

● Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of a Trustee 

Desirable

● Have managed a team of people

● Have an interest in corporate governance

A Trustee with skills in marketing, communications or PR

We need a Trustee with experience in marketing to join our Board and also our Marketing and Fundraising committee.  We have a part time staff member who creates our material and posts it.  We need ideas on how we might do better, reaching out to those who would benefit from what we do. You may have ideas about how we can improve our messaging, or where we could start to advertise and talk about what we do. We don’t need specific marketing skills but rather someone who is familiar with the way marketing works, who understands messaging and who has ideas on what we could do better.  If you are familiar with new trends and technologies we could be making better use of that would be great.

Responsibilities specific to this role

● To work with the members of the Marketing and Fundraising committee to improve awareness of what Mosaic does among our target audiences.

Person Specification

Essential 

● Lived experience of LGBT+ young people and the LGBT+ community. 

● At least 2 years in a marketing role

● Commitment to Mosaic’s vision and mission.

● Understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a Trustee; or a willingness to get that understanding very early in the role 

● Good communication skills and creative thinking 

● Sound, independent judgment and strategic vision 

● An ability to work with others

● A willingness to speak their mind persuasively but diplomatically

● Confidence to take decisions for the good of the organisation

● Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of a Trustee 

The Festival faces challenges to increase tickets sales and deliver a sustainable  Festival in an increasingly competitive marketplace.  We seek to engage with the community and reach larger and more diverse audiences. We now need 2 Trustees with expertise and enthusiasm  in one of two main areas. 

Firstly to strengthen our capacity in areas including marketing, fundraising/income generation projects

Secondly, we rely on a wonderful team of Volunteers and need a Trustee to become a central point of contact

Ideally, candidates will have experience and contacts in the publishing industry but thisd is not essential

According to the UNESCO Institute of Statistics, in parts of sub-Saharan Africa, only 62% of primary school teachers have the minimum teaching qualifications.

In 2023, only 9% of young people in lower secondary education in Zambia reached the minimum level of proficiency in reading. Lifelong learning opportunities and economic growth are being stunted. 

All children deserve a quality education from a transformative and supportive teacher. The Commonwealth Education Trust (CET) invests in teachers in low- and middle-income settings by providing accessible teacher professional development including via its flagship programme, Teach2030. 

The Role 

To aid the growth of CET, an exciting Social Media Volunteer opportunity has been introduced to take responsibilty of the charity’s social media channels. The role will report to the Marketing Lead and will be responsible for managing all social media accounts across CET and Teach2030 with the aims of improving engagement and follower growth. 

What you’ll do 

• Provide advice to the Marketing Lead in creating a new social media strategy and KPIs

• Plan and maintain the social media calendar 

• Using our content library and Canva to produce creative, create and schedule posts, stories, and reels across Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and LinkedIn 

• Monitor performance and provide top-line feedback and actions to Marketing Lead monthly 

What we’re looking for 

You might be a marketing professional looking to support a charitable cause or simply a social media savvy individual who wants to put their skills in practice. 

• Passionate about social media

• Working knowledge of social media platforms and trends 

• Proficiency with a graphic design tool such as Canva

• Reliability and organisation 

• Able to work independently and carry out tasks remotely 

• Ability to commit regular time to ensure social media accounts are active and engaging 

Volunteer Opportunity: Say Aphasia Bromsgrove Support Group!

Help us make a difference in Bromsgrove for people living with aphasia.

Say Aphasia is launching a brand new support group in Bromsgrove and we are looking for enthusiastic, compassionate volunteers to help run it.

About the Group

Aphasia is a communication disability, usually caused by a stroke or brain injury, that affects a person's ability to speak, read, write, and understand language.

The Say Aphasia Bromsgrove Group provides a safe, welcoming, and relaxed environment where people with aphasia can meet others, practise their communication skills, rebuild confidence, and reduce the isolation that can often accompany aphasia. It is a vital lifeline for our members.

Group Details

• Location: Bromsgrove, Worcs, B61 0EP (Exact venue details available upon application)
• Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
• When: The 1st and 3rd Friday of the month
• Starting Date: Friday, 16th January 2026

What We Need from You

We are seeking reliable and friendly individuals who are:

• Excellent Listeners: Patient, supportive, and keen to facilitate communication with individuals who have aphasia.
• Sociable and Enthusiastic: Ready to engage with group members and help foster a positive atmosphere.
• Committed: Able to commit to attending the group sessions regularly (1st and 3rd Friday mornings).
• No prior experience with aphasia is necessary—full training and ongoing support will be provided by Say Aphasia

Volunteer Opportunity: Say Aphasia Bromsgrove Support Group!

Help us make a difference in Bromsgrove for people living with aphasia.

Say Aphasia is launching a brand new support group in Bromsgrove and we are looking for enthusiastic, compassionate volunteers to help run it.

About the Group

Aphasia is a communication disability, usually caused by a stroke or brain injury, that affects a person's ability to speak, read, write, and understand language.

The Say Aphasia Bromsgrove Group provides a safe, welcoming, and relaxed environment where people with aphasia can meet others, practise their communication skills, rebuild confidence, and reduce the isolation that can often accompany aphasia. It is a vital lifeline for our members.

Group Details

• Location: Bromsgrove, Worcs, B61 0EP (Exact venue details available upon application)
• Time: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
• When: The 1st and 3rd Friday of the month
• Starting Date: Friday, 16th January 2026

What We Need from You

We are seeking reliable and friendly individuals who are:

• Excellent Listeners: Patient, supportive, and keen to facilitate communication with individuals who have aphasia.
• Sociable and Enthusiastic: Ready to engage with group members and help foster a positive atmosphere.
• Committed: Able to commit to attending the group sessions regularly (1st and 3rd Friday mornings).
• No prior experience with aphasia is necessary—full training and ongoing support will be provided by Say Aphasia!

❓ Interested in Volunteering? Click to apply

The Trustees of NCEPOD are empowered to manage the business of the charity/company and to oversee and approve the strategy of the Enquiry. They also have a duty to scrutinise the financial affairs of the organisation and to act as its directors. In addition, they are responsible for appointing the members of the company, that is the members of the Steering Group, the Chief Executive and the Lead Clinical Co-ordinator.

The objects of the company that they have to manage are broadly defined as being to improve standards of healthcare for the benefit of the public.

The purpose of NCEPOD is to improve standards of healthcare for the benefit of the public by undertaking confidential reviews into patient care. Since 1988 the organisation has published over 50 reports which have resulted in significant, positive changes across all aspects of healthcare.

As a registered charity and company limited by guarantee NCEPOD has a board of Trustees to oversee the governance of the organisation.

An exciting opportunity has arisen to appoint new Trustees.

Applications are invited from anyone with an interest in NCEPOD; however, applications would be particularly welcome from those with a background in one of the following:

§  Law

§  Finance

§  Fundraising

The appointed Trustees will work with the existing Board to advise the Chief Executive on ways to develop the organisation whilst maximising the financial income to the charity.

This friendship group was started to provide opportunities for people with learning disabilities to make friends, go on monthly trips and overall have a lot of fun. You can help us make that happen!

An opportunity is available to volunteer at a friendship group for adults with learning disabilities No prior experience is required. Enthusiasm, willingness to learn, and a supportive attitude are what matter most.

Projects You May Support

Volunteers can choose to help with one or both projects:

1. Friendship Group

• When: Every Tuesday during term time, 1:30pm–4:30pm
• Where: Canning Town Library

Key Responsibilities:

• Supporting participants during various activities (e.g., reading tasks).
• Encouraging communication and helping build friendships.
• Boosting confidence through positive interaction.
• Assisting with setting up and packing away activities.
• Helping individuals get refreshments.
• Building trust through calm, kind engagement.
• Reporting any concerns, incidents, or disclosures to staff.

2. Joy Hub

• When: Usually the last Tuesday of each month during term time (timings may vary; activities announced up to 4 months in advance).
• Purpose: Monthly free outings planned by the Friendship Group—examples include bowling, cinema, theatre, and museum visits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensuring everyone feels included.
• Encouraging individuals to participate and build confidence.
• Helping with practical tasks such as navigating meeting points, refreshments, and transitions between activities.
• Building rapport through supportive, calm interactions.
• Reporting any concerns or incidents to staff.

Skills You’ll Develop

• Communication: Adapting language, using non-verbal cues, and practising active listening.
• Empathy & Patience: Understanding diverse needs and responding calmly.
• Teamwork: Working collaboratively with staff and volunteers.
• Leadership: Taking initiative while supporting individuals with varying needs.
• Problem-Solving: Managing challenges in a person-centred environment.
• Composure: Staying calm in potentially challenging situations.

Useful Experience (Not Essential)

• Disability awareness
• Knowledge of safeguarding, confidentiality, and disclosure
• Experience supporting vulnerable individuals
• Understanding of neurodiversity and person-centred approaches

Enthusiastic learners are encouraged to apply even without direct experience!

DBS will be provided!

RSPCA Middlesbrough, Teesside & District Branch

We are looking for a Branch Trustee to help us manage the Middlesbrough, Teesside and District Branch. As a Trustee you will be a full and equal member of our leadership team, making strategies, decisions deciding what we focus on, how we raise and spend money, organising events, working as a team to improve animal welfare in our community.

WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING?

Trustees manage the charity. Like any organisation we get involved in people, finance and legal topics, making strategies and assessing which projects to support, tracking progress on animal welfare programs, working with local vets to offer more support out of hours, or making sure our volunteers are well managed and motivated. More importantly, we focus on raising funds, managing volunteers and spending money where it is needed to support animals in our community - YOUR community. So, whatever your background or skills there is a role you can play.

You will hold the organisation accountable, ensure compliance and be an ambassador, promoting the good work we do and encouraging our teams to continue their efforts to support animal welfare.

You may be an experienced Trustee or new to the role (we can help with training). You will have leadership experience gained in any sector and a passion for animal welfare. You will bring the ability to lead people, motivate teams and manage change. You will be able to understand complex topics, ask logical questions and be willing to hold an organisation accountable for fulfilling its responsibilities. You will be willing to roll up your sleeves and get stuck into the details, make decisions and speak up.

You will be a full part of the team leading this charity. Your voice will be heard and you will help guide the charity and decide its direction. You’ll have the opportunity to be part of a dynamic team, build something new and really make your mark. Together we can make a huge impact on animal welfare in our community.

Benefits to becoming a RSPCA Branch Trustee

• Using your existing skills to do something useful and learning new ones.
• Delivering a real leadership experience.
• Creating real opportunities to improve animal welfare in our community.
• You’ll have access to the RSPCA Learning Hub and a wide range of training materials
• You’ll be a leader, not a follower - you’ll shape our future direction and make your mark.

Please note that Trustees must be at least 18 years of age. This is a volunteer role (reasonable expenses will be reimbursed).

How to find out more about being a Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee and to ensure it is the right decision for you, we recommend reading the Charity Commission's guidance on the role of the trustee and the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees.

We have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

How to Apply:

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

Please visit our website to learn more about what we do.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for the Middlesbrough, Teesside & District Branch!

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

We’re looking for a patient and kind volunteer to support an active and energetic man in Streatham. He’ll take some time to get to know you, so you’re first few visits will likely be spent going for walks around the local area with a member of his support team. This gentleman is non-verbal and will communicate with you through sounds, gestures and movements.

He takes a little while to warm up to new people, so you will need to be patient while he takes his time becoming comfortable with you. It would be great if his new volunteer had some experience with people with learning disabilities, though this isn’t at all necessary as long as you have a positive attitude. It’s important to know that his care team would always be on hand, and that his not-so-secret kryptonite is chocolate!

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year to create a 1-2-1 connection, offer companionship, encourage people to do the things they enjoy and check-in on their wellbeing. In many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is a Stop and Stay visit role, meaning that the person you’ll be visiting might have some verbal communication skills or they use sounds and/or facial/body expressions to communicate with you. The person you visit might choose to take part in simple activities or watch you doing the activities. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions for things you can do. Visits will vary in length but tend to be around half an hour to an hour long.

In this role you will spend quality time with the person you visit and could do a range of different activities like:

• Sitting and having a chat
• Checking in on their well- being
• A craft activity at home
• Reading a book/magazine together

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

Cadet Force Adult Volunteers (CFAVs) are at the heart of the cadet experience. As a CFAV, you will guide and support young people, lead or assist in training sessions, and help create a safe, supportive and rewarding environment. You can volunteer as a uniformed or non-uniformed instructor - no military experience is required, all training will be provided.

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

• Support, mentor and encourage cadets, helping them build confidence and life skills
• Assist with planning and delivering training sessions, including subjects such as; first aid, map reading and navigation, fieldcraft, drill and turnout, expedition and adventure training, leadership tasks and teamwork
• Participate in community events, remembrance parades, competitions and weekend activities and residential camps.
• Help with cadet development, assessments and progression as set out in the Army Cadet Syllabus.
• Promote safeguarding, inclusion and wellbeing.
• Work collaboratively with other volunteers and staff to deliver a varied and engaging programme

Skills & Experience (Not Essential):

• Experience of working with young people (youth work, teaching, coaching or similar)
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Leadership, organisation or teamwork abilities
• Enthusiasm, patience and willingness to learn

If you have none of the above - don’t worry. We provide full training, support and mentoring.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Full training, including opportunities for accredited qualifications.
• Leadership, instructional and youth-development experience
• Improved confidence, teamwork and communication skills
• Social events, outdoor experiences and personal development
• Uniform provided, and reasonable volunteer expenses covered
• The reward of seeing young people grow, achieve and overcome challenges

Practical Information:

• You must be 18 or over.
• A DBS check and safeguarding training are required (provided).
• We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and levels of experience.
• Commitment is flexible - most detachments meet once or twice a week.
• There are no specific nationality requirements, but volunteers must have leave to remain and be eligible to work in the UK.

About the Army Cadets

The Army Cadet Force is a national, community-based youth organisation that provides young people aged 12–18 with opportunities to challenge themselves, learn new skills and grow in confidence. Through a variety of activities, both military-themed and non-military-themed adventurous activities, teamwork, leadership training and community engagement, cadets develop resilience and skills that last a lifetime. None of this would be possible without the dedication of our amazing adult volunteers.

We're currently recruiting volunteers at the following detachments: 25 Heathfield Pl

To apply, please enter your postcode into the Find a Detachment box and click Join as a Volunteer to complete the form.

Branch Trustee (MILTON KEYNES & NORTH BUCKS BRANCH)

Help Us Make a Real Difference for Animals in Milton Keynes

Do you care deeply about animal welfare and want to use your skills to create lasting change? Do you have corporate business experience that you’d like to use to give back to your community? At RSPCA Milton Keynes, every decision we make, every pound we raise, and every hour we give is about one thing: helping animals in need.

Overview of the Branch Trustee opportunity

We are looking for enthusiastic and passionate people who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long terms aims.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA MILTON KEYNES & NORTH BUCKS Branch

We’re a small independent charity, run by passionate volunteers and supported by a dedicated team. Every year, we rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals who deserve a second chance. But we can only do this because of the funds we raise locally through our charity shops, fundraising events, grants, and public donations. We’re now at a pivotal moment, transitioning to Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) status, and we need strong leadership and fresh ideas to secure our future. We have two retail outlets, a growing online presence, and funds ready to invest in sustainable revenue streams. What we need is your business expertise and drive to make it happen.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds who can

• Make a real impact on animal lives: Every idea you bring helps us rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome more animals.
• Use your skills for good: Apply your business experience to strategy, fundraising, and growth that truly matters.
• Join a passionate team: Work alongside people who share your love for animals and commitment to making a difference.
• Feel proud and fulfilled: Experience the satisfaction of doing something good—every decision you help shape creates a positive change in our community and gives animals the second chance they deserve.

We’re asking for

• Up to 6 hours per week (flexible).
• Help us structure volunteering, drive fundraising, and develop revenue ideas.
• Bring your corporate experience, creativity, drive, and enthusiasm to a small team that’s ready to grow.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

How to find out more about being a Branch Trustee

For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee and to ensure it is the right decision for you, we recommend reading the Charity Commission's guidance on the role of the trustee and the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees.

We have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve.

How to Apply:

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you! Please visit our website to learn more about what we do.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

This position is a Trustee role, sitting on and managing Hidayah's Board of Trustees. The Chair of Hidayah provides strategic leadership to Hidayah, ensuring the organization remains aligned with its mission to support and advocate for LGBTQ+ Muslims. The Chair will guide the Board of Trustees in effective governance and act as an ambassador for the charity within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities.

What are the key responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

Leadership and Governance:

· Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity.

· Oversee the Board of Trustees’ operation, ensuring its members work collaboratively and effectively.

· Ensure the charity complies with its constitution, governing documents, charity law, and other relevant legislation/regulations.

Strategy and Planning:

· Lead the development and implementation of the charity’s annual strategic plan, ensuring alignment with the needs of LGBTQ+ Muslims.

· Liaise with the Secretary in writing the annual report outlining Hidayah’s impact and achievements

· Work with the Board of Trustees to ensure that strategic objectives are effectively executed and serve the community

· Liaising with the HR & Recruitment Trustee regarding a portfolio of policies to ensure the smooth running of Hidayah

Risk Management:

· Ensure appropriate risk management policies and procedures are in place and adhered to.

· Regularly review and address potential risks to the charity’s operations and reputation.

Board of Trustees Management:

· Chair monthly Board meetings effectively, ensuring decisions are taken in a timely manner and that actions are followed up.

· Facilitate a positive and inclusive Board culture where diverse viewpoints are encouraged and respected.

· Manage all Trustees at Hidayah

Advocacy and Representation:

· Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work within both the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and to a wider audience.

· Represent the charity at key events, meetings, and functions, and develop relationships with key stakeholders and partners.

Financial Oversight:

· Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring it operates within its means and maintains proper financial control and accountability.

· Work with the Treasurer and the finance team to ensure the Board of Trustees receives accurate and timely financial information.

· Act as a signatory for Hidayah’s bank account and financial operations.

· To seek out partnerships, sponsors and endorsements from individuals and organisations.

What do we expect from the Chair of Hidayah?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Essential:

· Demonstrable experience in a leadership role within a charity, non-profit, or similar organization.

· Strong understanding of governance best practices and charity law.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster a collaborative and inclusive culture.

· Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.

· Strong financial acumen and experience overseeing budgets and financial planning.

· Passion for the charity’s mission and commitment to its values, with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ Muslims.

Desirable:

· Previous experience as a Chair or in a senior non-executive role.

· Experience in fundraising and development activities.

· Established network within the Muslim and LGBTQ+ communities and among relevant stakeholders.

Terms of Appointment:

· The Chair will be appointed for an initial term of 3 years, which may be renewed for a further term(s).

· This is a voluntary position; however, expenses incurred in fulfilling the role will be reimbursed as approved by the Board of Trustees in line with Hidayah’s policies.

All volunteers are expected to join Hidayah's Membership and Hidayah Discord server, read all Hidayah policies read, understand and agree with the constitution of Hidayah (available on our website).

Please ensure you do not have a conflict of interest with your current role and check this prior to applying for this role.

How much commitment is required?

The hours are flexible around your schedule. All Trustees volunteers are expected to:

· Attend monthly meetings to update on tasks, progress etc.

· Aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary

· Attend Hidayah events where geographically possible

· Add to and maintain the administration of our file-sharing system ‘Google Drive’ to ensure it’s up to date with clear records, templates and forms

· Check and respond to emails in a timely manner

· Contribute to the communications group (via Discord) and stay up to date with Hidayah developments

· Keep up to date with Hidayah communication and organisational developments