Research and policy officer volunteer roles in Edinburgh
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Rainbow Migration, the longest-running UK charity dedicated to supporting LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system, is seeking a trustee who is or has been a refugee due to persecution as an LGBTQI+ person. This is part of an ongoing commitment to increase leadership in the organisation by people with lived experience of the issues we work on.
We are looking for someone who is passionate about our vision that LGBTQI+ people can settle in the UK and lead fulfilling lives, and our mission to support LGBTQI+ people through the asylum and immigration system and influence policy and practice.
At Rainbow Migration, we don’t just accept difference – we celebrate it, we support it, and we thrive on it. We particularly encourage applications from people who have sought asylum on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.
More information on Rainbow Migration is in appendix 1 of the application pack.
If you would like to find out more before applying, you can attend a webinar on Friday 17 April 2026 from 1 to 2pm. This is an opportunity to meet Rainbow Migration’s Executive Director and a trustee and ask us any questions. It is not part of the application or selection process. Please register using the form linked in the application pack and a Zoom link will be sent to you. If you cannot attend, you can still fill out the form and request a recording afterwards.
If you would prefer to have a one-to-one conversation, or have any questions about the role, the webinar or how to apply, please contact us using the email address in the application pack.
The role of trustees
Trustees are volunteers who bring their skills and experience to shape our strategic direction. They have legal responsibility for the charity, ensure good governance, and make sure our finances and resources are used well to implement our mission. Trustees also play a role as ambassadors for the organisation and our work.
Trustees do not get involved in operational decision-making. For example, decisions on which social media platforms we use or what group activities we run for service users are taken by staff.
Because trustees are volunteers, they do not receive payment for their time. Rainbow Migration can pay your costs when incurred solely for fulfilling trustee duties (e.g. travel, phone top-ups if needed exclusively for trustee work).
You can find out more information about what being a trustee involves at the links available in the application pack.
Time commitment
We are looking for people who can commit to being a trustee for at least three years. Trustees can then be re-elected for another three years. The maximum term limit for our trustees is nine years (in line with Charity Commission guidance).
Trustees meet on a weekday evening, from 6 to 9 pm, five times per year. There may be additional meetings in 2026 as part of our work on anti-oppression and to develop our next organisational strategy.
Meetings are usually held on Zoom except in December when we meet in-person in London, with an informal dinner first. For in-person meetings, travel costs (and meals and accommodation if relevant) can be covered.
You will need to spend two to four hours reading 8 to 30 papers before each meeting. Papers are provided a few days in advance of meetings. The “Board Buddy” (see below under Support for Trustees) can help with understanding them. You can also ask to meet with the Executive Director or Chair to explain them.
You can see examples of topics of discussion at board meetings in appendix 2 of the application pack.
You will also need to give some time between meetings. This includes, for example:
- Spending 10 to 30 minutes reviewing and correcting the minutes (written record) of the last board meeting
- Spending 30 to 60 minutes reviewing and giving feedback on documents, such as a new or updated draft organisational policy (e.g. data protection, safeguarding, health and safety)
- Reading and responding to emails within one or two days.
The board has two subcommittees: one on HR and one on finance. You may be asked to join one of these a few months after you become a trustee. If you do, there will be up to four more meetings a year and there will be papers to read for each of these meetings.
Support for trustees
We provide numerous resources for trustees. Below are some examples but they are not exhaustive and we are open to suggestions. Support can be accessed throughout the time someone is a trustee.
Training:
- We can pay for trustees to access training on good governance, the duties of a trustee, and charity finance.
- We give access to webinars and online training e.g. on safeguarding and cyber-security.
- We provide internal training (by staff) on areas such as safeguarding and data protection.
One-to-one support:
- New trustees have induction meetings with Rainbow Migration staff.
- An existing trustee can act as a “Board Buddy” for new trustees, which includes formal and informal meetings and support around board meetings and papers.
- We can help you to find a mentor e.g. The Experts by Experience Employment Initiative can provide mentoring for people with lived experience of migration.
- We can discuss accommodations that are needed for disabled people and other ways to ensure trustees feel fully included and able to participate
Equality, diversity, inclusion and anti-oppression
We are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and we know this is ongoing work. We are also reviewing what we do and how we do it through an anti-oppression and anti-racism lens, as well as investing in being more informed and led by LGBTQI+ people who have sought asylum. We want our organisation — including our trustee board — to be increasingly shaped and led by LGBTQI+ people who have sought asylum. That is why this trustee position is specifically for someone who has been granted refugee status in the UK as an LGBTQI+ person.
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of backgrounds, identities and experiences – including from people who are trans (including non-binary, genderqueer, genderfluid, gender non-conforming and agender) and intersex. We recognise that people have different journeys, strengths and access needs, and we are committed to removing barriers wherever we can. If you share our vision, mission and values, we encourage you to apply and let us know how we can support you through the process.
To support candidates during the interview process, we send some of the questions in advance to give applicants more thinking time. You are welcome to bring notes with you and also take notes in interviews to help process information. Please let us know if we can make other adjustments to support you through the application and selection process.
Once appointed, trustees can continue to access a range of support options throughout their time on the board.
Person specification
Essential
For this role, we are looking for someone who has been awarded refugee status in the UK on the basis of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics. At this time, we are not accepting applications from people who still in the process of applying for asylum, or who have leave to remain in the UK on other grounds (e.g. work, human rights, marriage) as these experiences are already represented on our board.
We welcome applications from people who have used our services as well as those who have never interacted with us before.
In addition to having been granted asylum in the UK as an LGBTQI+ person, the following are necessary:
- Commitment to Rainbow Migration’s mission, vision and values
- Ability to work constructively with other trustees and staff
- Good English (so you can understand spoken conversations in meetings and contribute)
- Ability to read and understand long documents (e.g. trustees must be familiar with our policies, such as our safeguarding policy, and the key points in our publications such as Still Falling Short)
- Courage and enthusiasm to learn, encourage, challenge, influence and support other people and the organisation
- Confidence to ask questions (this helps everyone learn and improve) or request training or support
- Ability to analyse and scrutinise information provided by staff and trustees (the Board Buddy and other trustees can assist you in this)
- Ability to use independent judgement and share your thoughts with trustees and the Executive Director
- Willingness to share your opinion and give guidance to the board in areas where you have knowledge or experience
- Commitment to speak well about the organisation to others (e.g. funders, other charities)
- Regular access to a secure, private email account and a quiet, private space for joining online meetings and telephone calls
- Be living in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland)
- Aged 16 or over
- Not be previously disqualified as a trustee or company director, have an undischarged bankruptcy or have unspent criminal convictions for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (such as fraud).
Desirable
It would be beneficial if you have work or volunteer experience in an area relevant to Rainbow Migration’s work (e.g. service delivery, communications, campaigning, lobbying, fundraising, HR, IT) but this is not a requirement.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Title: Treasurer of the Board of Trustees
Salary: Unpaid & Voluntary (Reasonable expenses related to the role will be reimbursed in accordance with the charity's expenses policy).
Time commitment: Approx. 1.5 – 2 days per month.
Terms of Office: Three years with possibility to extend by another three years. Applicants must be eligible to serve as Trustees of a UK-based Charity.
Location: Flexible – however we require that all trustees would be able to attend at least one ‘in person’ meeting in London each year.
Unlimit Health
Unlimit Health is an international organisation working to end parasitic disease. We work closely with affected countries, sharing evidence and expertise to eliminate preventable infections. Our purpose is to support people to live healthy lives, free from limiting disease.
Our vision is for resilient systems that sustain good health, so everyone everywhere can reach their full potential. We achieve this by working across multiple sectors in numerous countries to deliver effective and robust health programmes that have a lasting impact.
We were founded in 2002 with a £20m grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and started life as a research group, the Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, within Imperial College London. Consistently ranked globally as one of the most cost-effective nonprofit initiatives, we have received significant funding since our inception including from the UK Department of International Development (DFID), USAID and philanthropic investors.
What we do
Our work includes:
- Evidence-based disease elimination support
- Cross-sectoral health systems strengthening
- Building collaborative partnerships
Our main area of focus is the elimination of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases (intestinal worms). Endemic infections of these parasitic worms are found in some of the world’s most marginalised communities, and they can have a hugely detrimental effect on individuals, including:
- Reduced productivity
- Internal organ damage
- Impaired child development
- Reduced school attendance
- Increased risk of HIV in women
- Infertility
The Role
Unlimit Health is looking for a Treasurer of the Board of Trustees to be responsible for: leadership and governance, strategic planning and implementation, sustainability, compliance & financial oversight and advocacy, stakeholder engagement and fundraising.
This role requires a candidate with demonstratable experience in senior financial leadership, ideally as a trustee, CFO, or finance director within a charity, international development organisation, or public health institution. It is key that the successful candidate has a strong understanding of UK charity finance, governance and regulatory frameworks, as well as internationally.
Applicants must be eligible to serve as trustees of a UK-based charity (see Charity Commission).
Time commitment
Board meetings are held four times a year during the working day. We welcome applications from people based outside the UK who can join meetings online but require that all trustees would be able to attend at least one ‘in person’ meeting in London each year. Unlimit Health is committed to creating a diverse board and will work to facilitate specific needs of individuals if required. The time commitment is approx. 1.5 – 2 days per month.
Diversity Statement
We particularly welcome applications from candidates from under-represented groups to better reflect our mission and work to improve health equity. Research has shown that women and people from marginalised groups are less likely to apply for a role if they do not meet 100% of the job criteria. Please consider applying even if you do not fully meet our essential criteria. We are happy to schedule an informal chat to discuss the role further prior to submitting an application.
Unlimit Health is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate differences in age, race, ethnicity, national origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, religious beliefs, and socio-economic background. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member is valued, respected, and has equal opportunities to thrive.
Closing date: 29 April 2026.
Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our online applicant portal to complete your application for this position.
No agencies please.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Join the Board of the Early Education and Childcare Coalition
Are you interested in creating an early education and childcare system that delivers for all? Can you help the Early Education and Childcare Coalition move to the next phase of its development?
We are seeking new non-executive board members to help shape our strategic direction, ensure robust governance, and contribute to the Coalition's collective expertise.
About us
The Early Education and Childcare Coalition is a policy and advocacy partnership working to transform the system for families. We unite the voices of all those with a stake in the future of early education and childcare – children, parents, providers, the early years workforce and the business community. Founded by more than 30 organisations, our members are parent campaign groups, child advocacy organisations, early childhood experts, antipoverty campaigners, provider membership bodies, trade unions and business lobbying groups.
Our vision is of a high-quality, inclusive system of early education and childcare that is accessible to all children, affordable for parents, fairly funded for providers, and offers decent pay and conditions for the workforce. Our mission is to rescue and reform the system by combining urgent policy measures to stabilise the sector with long-term transformation.
About us
The Coalition was co-designed throughout 2022 by more than 30 organisations and launched publicly in 2023. Since then, we have gone from strength to strength, concluding a successful hosting relationship and becoming an independent organisation in the summer of 2025, with a team of eight staff influencing policymaking and connecting families, providers and decision-makers through advocacy, co-production and convening.
Please note that the Coalition is in the process of registering as a charity; therefore, it is expected that board members will transition to become trustees within the next year.
About you
We are looking to grow our new board and strengthen our succession planning. Therefore, board membership could include taking on senior roles within the Board following a familiarisation period and supported development.
We would therefore welcome applications from those who have held board officer roles in the past, including experienced Chairs. We are also particularly interested in applications from people who have experience in one or more of the following areas:
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Fundraising
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Policy analysis and research
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Campaigning/influencing
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Legal and compliance
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HR
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Experience of working on issues related to children and families
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Experience of working in other coalitions/alliances or movement building
In order to maintain balance and equity across our membership and manage conflicts of interest, applicants should not have a current direct link to the Coalition. For example, we cannot accept applications from individuals who are currently working for a member or supporter organisation.
About the role
Board members will work closely with the Coalition’s Executive Director, staff team and Advisory Group to ensure the success of the organisation to meet its aim to transform early education and childcare in England.
Board members are legally responsible for running the company, making sure information is sent to Companies House on time, setting the strategic direction of the organisation, monitoring progress, ensuring good governance and supporting the staff team in their work.
Board members must follow the rules set out in the company’s Articles of Association, agree to act in the best interests of the organisation and raise any conflicts of interests throughout their term.
Responsibilities:
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Provide financial oversight of the organisation including overseeing budgeting, monitoring performance, signing off accounts, financial reporting and fundraising. (The Board Treasurer will lead on financial management and assessing financial risk, but financial oversight is a duty of all board members).
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Work with other board members to continue growing the Board, identifying skill gaps, organisational needs and participating in the recruitment and onboarding of new board members.
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Work with other board members to implement the strategic plan, contributing ideas and proposals.
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Monitor progress on strategy through Board and other meetings.
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Provide support to the Executive Director on operational matters, including but not limited to HR, legal compliance, communications and membership matters and where appropriate, policy developments.
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Attend Board meetings, or when unable to attend, communicate ideas and comments to the Coalition’s Executive Director/Board Chair in advance of the meeting.
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Work with other board members to identify and manage potential risks and opportunities to the company’s operations, finances and reputation.
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Proactively promote the work of the Coalition through personal and professional networks.
In addition, Board members may be invited to:
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Represent the Coalition at appropriate meetings and events.
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Participate in the work of the Coalition as appropriate (e.g. working groups, projects or recruitment panels).
Further information
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Board members are appointed for a term of three years, and they may be reappointed for a further three-year period.
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All directors will be members (guarantors) of the company and all members (guarantors) will be directors, with a personal liability of £1 and listed on documents filed at Companies House.
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Board members must be at least 18 years old, a UK resident and not disqualified from acting as a company director.
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Find out more about the general duties of a company director here.
Time commitment
Board members will be required to attend up to five board meetings per year for approximately two hours each (with up to 4 hours preparation time). These are usually held on Zoom, with one away day in London expected per year with the staff team. Any travel and other related and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.
Papers will be shared ahead of time and reading and preparation is expected ahead of each meeting.
Board members may also be asked between meetings to act as signatories, give time to contribute to reports, applications and accounts, and provide advice and guidance to the Executive Director and wider staff team on specific topics and/ or issues.
The predicted time commitment for the Board members is estimated at 2-4 hours per month depending on Board role with one away day.
Remuneration
This is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses for in-person meetings paid in advance or reimbursed.
The Coalition’s vision, mission and values:
Our vision is to build a world-class early education and childcare system that supports children, parents and our economy to thrive, rooted in the following principles:
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High quality provision for all children, especially those who benefit the most
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Sustainable provision that works for all kinds of working parents and their employers
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Good pay, terms and conditions for the professionals who deliver it
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Accessible and affordable options for all parents, in all communities
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Locally shaped options that respond to local circumstances
Our mission is to drive reform through coordinated advocacy among all stakeholders. Our mission recognises that transforming early education and childcare requires both immediate action and long-term reform. Our experience since launch has taught us valuable lessons about managing urgent needs while building toward systemic change.
Our shared values are:
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Fairness: as much as we believe in an equitable and fair early education and childcare system, we hold the same to be true in how we work as a Coalition. We do this by ensuring members' interests are represented equally through our internal systems and governance, and by committing to embodying co-production principles in our work.
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Integrity: we act in the best interests of the Coalition, its members and beneficiaries avoiding alliances or projects which may bring the EECC or its members into disrepute. When faced with difficult decisions, we prioritise the interests of the most disadvantaged child. Integrity is critical to an enduring sense of goodwill and thus the future sustainability and efficacy of the Coalition.
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Respect: the diversity of our membership is a strength, but we recognise that diversity can lead to different perspectives. Respect for that difference is essential in finding consensus that can be built on to secure change. We do not knowingly undermine each other or other stakeholders publicly or privately.
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Collaboration: transforming the early education system is a complex task that no single organisation can do alone. We believe that progress lies in partnership and that the best route to reform is through broad-based, powerful alliances with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. We don’t believe in collaboration for its own sake. We think partnerships must be smart, strategic, and creative in order to be effective, but as far as possible, they must also be broad-based.
Application and interview process
- Please apply with CV and statement of suitability/cover letter by 6pm on Friday 24th April.
- We will aim to respond to all applicants by Friday 1st May.
- Interviews will take place on 13th May and 22nd May.
Working together for an early education and childcare sector that delivers for our children, for parents, and for the economy.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Key details
Application closing date: Sunday 26 April 2026 (2359 UK time)
Start date: To be co-opted at the May Board meeting
Hours: Attendance at Board meetings once a quarter, finance subcommittee meetings that take place before Board meetings and other ad-hoc meetings and internal events as required
Salary: Unpaid (with reimbursement for expenses incurred in line with our policy)
Location: Board and finance subcommittee meetings are generally held virtually with some in -person meetings. For administrative purposes, the treasurer should be based in the UK.
Hours: Attendance at Board meetings once a quarter plus regular meetings with Head of Finance ahead of each Board meeting, meeting with auditors during audit process and other ad-hoc meetings and internal events as required. TJN is also considering setting up Finance Sub-Committee with the Treasurer expected to be involved with the Sub-Committee. Estimated hours commitment 60 hours per year/ 5h per month.
About the Tax Justice Network
The Tax Justice Network believes our tax and financial systems are powerful tools for creating a just society that gives equal weight to the needs of everyone. Launched in 2003 we are dedicated to high-level research, analysis, campaigning and advocacy in the area of international tax and financial regulation and work to inspire and equip people and governments everywhere to reprogramme their tax systems to work for everyone. We are clear that we must take a rights-based approach in all our work and one that challenges inequalities head-on.
Our approach combines a range of interventions that are designed to be mutually reinforcing, by acting in alignment through different channels and targeting different but overlapping audiences. We contribute t building the movement; the evidence base; the set of policy tools and options available; and the public narratives that support concrete changes. The Tax Justice Network is not a narrowly technical body. While we conduct high-level research, including publication in internationally peer-reviewed journals, our work is rooted in the political realities we face and consistently aimed at achieving political change. Our role in the global tax justice movement is based on the recognition that ultimately. Progress depends on the global movement, in which we are only one actor.
We are a virtual organisation, with staff working remotely across multiple countries and continents. With a cooperative ethos, out board is elected by the members of our company, who are formed of members of staff that have worked at the Tax Justice Network for at least one year. We are supporting by grants and donations from a range of donors including NORAD and the Open Society Foundation.
Role description
The directors of the Tax Justice Network are responsible for the oversight and governance of its work, with executive and management action delegated to a chief executive (and a senior management team).
We are seeking to recruit a Treasurer to bring their skills and expertise and offer strategic guidance, constructive and supportive challenge, specialist advice and their independent thinking.
The Treasurer provides financial oversight, guidance and strategic advice to ensure our organisation’s financial stability and integrity. The Treasurer will be responsible for monitoring financial performance and supporting long term-term financial planning in line with our organisations mission.
Key responsibilities
- Act as a Director ensuring the organisation meet its statutory duties under Companies Act 2006 and the Articles of Association
- Provide strategic financial oversight and constructive challenge at Board level and as part of the relevant Committees established to support the Board
- Reviews budget, management accounts and annual statutory accounts
- Ensure the organisation’s financial management, controls and reporting are robust and transparent
- Support the Board in maintaining financial sustainability and advising Board and Senior Management Team on financial risks and opportunities
- Assist with statutory reporting and regulatory compliance
- Liaise with external auditors as required
- Work collaboratively with fellow non-executive directors contributing to Board effectiveness and continuous improvement
- Work closely with the Head of Finance as requested
Person Specification
Skills and Experience
Essential
- Proven experience in finance and accounting or related fields
- Experience of the workings of a finance department of charities or not for profit organisations
- Acts with integrity, honesty, and accountability at all times
- Provides constructive challenge and sound financial judgement
- Takes a strategic, long-term view of financial sustainability and risk
- Works collaboratively and respectfully with fellow Non-Executive Directors
- A strong commitment to good governance, transparency, and best practice
Desirable
- Professional accounting qualifications CCAB or CIMA
- Prior experience as a Trustee or non-executive Director
To contribute to creating the conditions for achieving tax justice by challenging false narratives, and normalising bold, progressive proposals.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
About Youth Advantage UK
Youth Advantage UK is a growing organisation working to improve outcomes for young people across England and Wales. Our England & Wales Local Operations Department leads local policy and research projects across counties, regions, cities and towns — identifying local challenges and developing evidence‑based recommendations that support young people to thrive.
As a young organisation, we are still building our systems and ways of working. This is a great opportunity to help shape a department at an early stage and contribute to meaningful, place‑based change.
Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role, with no financial compensation or future paid opportunities attached. We encourage you to apply if you have relevant or transferable skills. YAUK is currently an unregistered charity, working towards gaining the registered status.
About the Role
We are seeking a Senior Research & Policy Officer to support the delivery and coordination of local research and policy projects across England and Wales. You will supervise and support Officers, Researchers and Advisors, helping to delegate tasks, resolve issues, and ensure high‑quality outputs.
Working closely with the department’s management team, you will contribute to planning, decision‑making, and the development of effective ways of working. This role is ideal for someone with strong research skills who enjoys supporting others and thrives in a collaborative, evolving environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Delegate tasks and oversee the work of Officers, Researchers and Advisors.
- Provide day‑to‑day supervision, guidance and support to team members.
- Help resolve issues, remove barriers and maintain smooth project delivery.
- Lead or contribute to local research and policy projects across England and Wales.
- Ensure research is rigorous, ethical and relevant to local contexts.
- Support the development of team members through feedback and coaching.
- Build positive working relationships with internal teams, volunteers and external partners.
- Work alongside the management team to support planning and decision‑making.
About You
You will have:
- Experience in research, evaluation or policy analysis.
- Strong analytical and writing skills.
- Ability to supervise or support others in a project or team setting.
- Experience volunteering and/or managing volunteers in a charity or community environment.
- Confidence working in ambiguity and helping build structure where needed.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
- A collaborative, supportive approach to teamwork.
- Commitment to improving outcomes for young people.
Why Volunteer With Us
- Play a key role in shaping a new department at a formative stage.
- Use your research and leadership skills to support real, local impact.
- Gain supervisory and project‑coordination experience in a supportive environment.
- Join a mission‑driven team passionate about youth opportunity.
Apply Now
If you’re passionate about evidence‑based change and want to help shape a growing organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Join Youth Advantage UK as we build our Local Operations Department and create better opportunities for young people across England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Purpose
Senior Policy Advisors provide leadership, analytical expertise, and strategic oversight within Youth Advantage UK’s policy function. Whether placed in Policy Planning or Impact Development, you will help shape the direction of our national and local policy projects, ensure high‑quality decision‑making, and support volunteers to produce work capable of achieving real impact for young people.
This role is ideal for someone with professional policy exposure, strong research capability, and sound judgment in reviewing decisions and guiding project direction.
Key Responsibilities
1. Leadership & Supervision
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Delegate tasks to Officers/Researchers/Advisors based on project needs and volunteer strengths.
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Provide direct supervision, support, and quality assurance for team outputs.
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Help resolve issues, remove barriers, and maintain a supportive team environment.
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Contribute to volunteer development through coaching, feedback, and skills support.
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Build strong working relationships across the department and collaborate closely with the manager.
2. Policy Planning or Impact Development (depending on placement)
If in Policy Planning
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Review and assess project ideas identified through horizon scanning or other approved channels.
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Apply the organisation’s project assessment checklist to determine whether proposals should progress to initial research or local project development.
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Work with other departments to plan early‑stage projects and ensure effective collaboration.
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Ensure that proposed work is strategically aligned, feasible, and likely to generate meaningful outcomes.
If in Impact Development
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Review findings from initial research or early‑stage projects to determine next steps.
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Provide guidance to relevant teams on strengthening impact, refining recommendations, or redirecting work where necessary.
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Support the preparation of materials for meetings with decision‑makers or external stakeholders.
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Ensure that all progressing work remains capable of achieving real, measurable impact.
3. Strategic Input & Decision Support
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Support the manager in planning, prioritisation, and decision‑making.
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Identify risks, opportunities, and resource considerations within ongoing projects.
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Contribute to the development of internal processes, frameworks, and best‑practice guidance.
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Uphold high standards of clarity, evidence, and organisational alignment.
Role Requirements
Essential
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At least 2 years of progressive professional exposure to government policy, public administration, or related policy environments.
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Academic or research background with the ability to understand organisational resourcing, capacity constraints, and feasibility considerations.
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Experience reviewing decisions and exercising sound judgment, particularly in assessing project viability, strategic alignment, and potential impact.
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Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills.
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Excellent written communication and ability to synthesise complex information.
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Ability to supervise and support volunteers with empathy and clarity.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Volunteer Grant Officer
Southwark Tenants’ Federation – Grassroots Housing Advice Charity
Location: Southwark / Remote (hybrid available)
Time commitment: Flexible (approx. 4–8 hours per week)
Contract: Volunteer
About Us
We are a small grassroots charity based in Southwark and the only surviving tenants’ federation in London. For decades, we have supported tenants and residents to defend their housing rights, challenge poor conditions, and have a collective voice in decisions that affect their homes and communities.
Our social housing advice service supports people facing homelessness, disrepair, evictions, and housing management issues, with a strong focus on empowerment and tenant-led action.
The Role
We are seeking a Volunteer Grant Officer to help us secure funding to sustain and grow our vital work. This role is crucial to keeping an independent, tenant-led voice alive in London.
You will work closely with a small, committed team and help ensure our advice service remains accessible to local residents.
Key Responsibilities
- Research grant funding opportunities suitable for a grassroots, tenant-led organisation
- Draft and submit grant applications to trusts, foundations, and statutory funders
- Maintain a simple funding pipeline and track deadlines
- Work with staff and volunteers to gather service data, outcomes, and case studies
- Assist with basic funder monitoring and reporting
About You
Essential:
- Strong written communication skills
- Good organisational skills and reliability
- Commitment to social justice and housing rights
Desirable (but not essential):
- Experience of grant writing or fundraising
- Knowledge of social housing, tenant organisations, or advice services
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of social housing.
What We Offer
- Flexible volunteering hours
- Support, supervision, and guidance
- The opportunity to contribute to a unique and historic tenant-led organisation
- Experience in grant writing within the voluntary and housing sectors
- References provided where appropriate
We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of social housing. We are very flexible, so still apply even if you don't have a lived experience but can write a bid
Following the success of the 2025 Council Climate Action Scorecards last year, Climate Emergency UK is looking to create the third edition of the Action Scorecards. Analysing council climate action only becomes valuable if you track the progress that has been made. Therefore, we are looking for volunteers to assist us in managing the Freedom of Information (FOI) requests we are sending to councils to answer some of the Scorecard questions.
Why are we doing this?
We’re in a climate and ecological crisis and local councils have the power and influence over around 30% of emissions in their local area. Councils are uniquely placed to make a real impact on emissions within their area. We know that councils are listening to the Scorecards results and taking more effective action. The average score in the 2025 Action Scorecards increased by 7 percent points. The Scorecards are a campaigning tool that residents can use to hold their council to account on their climate action, and lobby for specific, targeted change. We have also found evidence of 34% councils using and referencing the Scorecards in committee meetings, reports or in their own press releases and organisations across the sector are utilising the data from the Scorecards as well. Finally, this UK wide assessment will demonstrate where the UK and devolved governments need to provide more support to local authorities in order for them to take even further action.
How can you help?
We need at least 200 volunteers to pull this project off! We are sending councils a small number of FOI requests in order to answer some of the Scorecard questions. We have already written the FOI requests, and we need volunteers to manage the FOI request responses from all 400 councils and input their answers into our Scorecards.
What experience do I need?
We will provide training so you don’t need any experience. If you have previous experience of sending FOI requests using WhatDoTheyKnow or reading responses to FOI requests that would be useful but not necessary in order to apply.
What will I gain?
This is a great opportunity if you want to work with FOI/EIR requests in the future. As you’ll be processing a variety of FOI requests from different council types across the UK, you will gain a deep understanding of the FOI request process and strengthen your analytical skills as you read and interpret the responses. By helping with this project you will be making a real contribution to the fight against the climate crisis.
What we need from you
You will need to be available to attend the following sessions:
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Volunteer induction
You will only need to attend an induction session on either Tuesday 19th May or Thursday 21st May 2026. -
FOI Training
You will need to attend the training session on 26th May 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm.
Scorecard FOI requests volunteers will be carrying out crucial tasks to manage the thousands of FOI responses we will be submitting. Using WhatDoTheyKnow you will be logging whether a council has responded to an FOI request and extracting the answers to create a data set of answers that will be used to mark councils in the Scorecards. Every volunteer will be trained and supported to manage the FOI responses.
Each FOI request will take between 10-30 minutes to classify and extract responses and the more you do, the quicker you will become. This can be done flexibly according to your scheduling needs. Our core FOI volunteers should be able to give 10 hours per week for 5 weeks between 25th May 2026 and 19th June 2026. You will need access to a laptop or computer with good internet for this volunteer position in order to access WhatDoTheyKnow.
Note: We will not accept current Councillors or Officers (Parish/Town councillors/officers are free to apply).
How it works
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You will receive training on how to use WhatDoTheyKnow and manage the FOI responses.
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You will use WhatDoTheyKnow Projects to first classify and then extract information from FOI requests as we receive responses from councils across the country.
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You will be supported through online communication with other volunteers across the country.
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You will be supported on Slack so at any point you will be able to ask questions of CE UK staff and other volunteers. There will also be an optional weekly FOI team co-working session, where you can work with CE UK staff and other volunteers, ask questions and get to know the other volunteers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The D D McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO (DDMCS), charity number 1197598, is an active grant making
Charitable Incorporated Organisation. It has succeeded the D.D. McPhail Charitable Settlement, charity
number 267588, which was founded in 1973 and operational till 2023.
DDMCS aims to support 2 or 3 major multi-year grant projects each year, which are actively sought by the
Trustees to enable small / medium sized charities to make a significant or step change in their activities. The
original trust deed and now the CIO constitution specifies three key areas of preference in the UK around:
• Furtherance of medical research,
• Care of the disabled particularly disabled children, and
• Care of the aged and infirm
The Trustees have wide discretion to support other charitable activities in the UK. There is more detail in
the annual report available via the Charity Commission website and the charity’s own website that outlines
the activities of the charity. Within these broad areas the Trustees recently agreed, following a strategic
review, to focus for the next grant making cycle on charities supporting care for the physical and mental
wellbeing of children living in poverty.
Recent grant support has enabled a number of significant multi-year projects, including:
• British Dyslexia Association - supporting the creation of Local Outreach Hubs to increase access to dyslexia advice, assessment and early intervention within communities.
• Candlelighters - funding a Family Wellbeing Practitioner to improve emotional and practical support for families affected by childhood cancer.
• IPSEA - funding a SEND Policy Manager to strengthen national policy influencing for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.
• The Myton Hospices - supporting the development of the Volunteer Service, enhancing capacity and patient experience across hospice services.
Further information can be found in the recruitment pack (attached).
We are seeking a Chair Designate to join our board, with a view to taking over as Chair in 2027. The Chair provides inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction for the charity. They act as an ambassador for the organisation, working closely with the Director and fellow Trustees to maximise impact for beneficiaries. DDMCS does not undertake any fundraising activity, as all grant making is supported through the charity’s long-established investment portfolio. As a result, there is no requirement for the Chair to have fundraising experience.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Leadership
• Lead the Board in setting and reviewing the charity’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives.
• Ensure decisions align with charitable objectives and long-term sustainability.
• Promote diversity and inclusion within the Board and wider organisation.
Governance
• Ensure compliance with the charity’s governing document, Charity Commission guidance, and relevant
legislation.
• Maintain high standards of governance, risk management, and financial oversight.
• Facilitate annual Board and Trustee performance reviews
Board Management
• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring impartiality and open debate.
• Provide guidance and constructive challenge to trustees.
• Foster strong relationships among Trustees and between the Board and Executive Director.
• Drive Trustee recruitment and succession planning.
External Representation
• Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the charity.
• Represent the organisation at external events and with grantees and key stakeholders
• Support advocacy through personal networks where appropriate.
Support to Director
• Maintain a clear distinction between governance and management roles.
• Ensure regular communication and a strong, collaborative working relationship.
• Provide guidance and support to the Director.
Person Specification:
Essential Skills and Experience
• Proven leadership experience at Board or senior executive level.
• Strong understanding of charity governance and the legal duties of Trustees.
• Strategic thinker with ability to balance long-term vision and short-term priorities.
• Financial literacy and ability to oversee budgets and risk management.
• Excellent communication, with ability to build consensus
• Experience in grant-making or philanthropic sector
Desirable
• Knowledge of charity law and regulatory frameworks.
• Established networks within relevant sectors (e.g., philanthropy, corporate, public).
Personal Attributes
• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Integrity, impartiality, and sound judgment.
• Ability to dedicate sufficient time and energy to the role.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Innovative thinker with ability to bring forward fresh ideas.
If, after reading the applicant pack, you feel you have the skills and experience we are looking for then please apply through CharityJobs, providing a CV and cover letter (2 pages max) detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for preliminary interviews in April (dates to be confirmed). Initial interviews will take place via Teams.
The Trustees of DD McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, particularly those underrepresented in leadership roles within the charity sector.
There will be an online Q&A session on Wednesday 1 April at 5pm where you will be able to find out more about DD McPhail and hear from our current Chair of Trustees. If you would like to attend that session, please drop us a line using the following details and we will forward an invitation
info at ddmcphail dot org
Please submit a CV and covering letter via the Charity Jobs platform
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about health justice? Medact is seeking a new Chair of the Board to help oversee our governance and support our work.
About Medact
Medact organises the health community to work towards a world in which everyone is able to live healthy, dignified lives, supported by political and economic systems that centre health justice. Our priority work areas are some of the most pressing threats to health and wellbeing, including ending state violence, housing & energy justice, and migrant access to healthcare. Medact seeks systemic solutions to major social problems, and is unafraid to hold decision-makers to account. We launched our new five-year strategy at the end of 2025, embedding our vision for how we win and how we grow.
We’re member-led, and our membership spans a range of people who work in health, including nurses, doctors, midwives and clinical researchers, as well as people from the wider health community.
We are now looking for a new Chair of our Board of Trustees. If you share our vision and passion, why not join our Board and help us fight for health justice?
About the role
Our Board of Trustees provides guidance, governance and final sign-off on major decisions on behalf of our membership. Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation in line with the requirements of the Charity Commission. Trustees also contribute to the development of Medact's strategy and participate in a range of other activities to support the Director and staff with our work.
There are four planned board meetings per year, which are hybrid, and it is expected that each Trustee will attend most Board meetings. Trustees are also sometimes asked to give their views or sign off on issues between Board meetings if an issue cannot wait. It is hoped that each Trustee will have the capacity to use their unique skills to support the team more broadly with Medact’s work.
As Chair, you will support the Executive Director and staff to help build on our achievements and realise Medact’s vision. You will work with fellow Trustees to make up a strong and effective Board governing the Charity.
Acting as a Trustee is a voluntary role but reasonable travel expenses can be paid.
Who we are looking for
Our current Board brings a broad range of skills, but we recognise that we do not yet reflect the diversity of the health community. There are also specific types of experience and expertise we would like more of on the Board. In particular, we are looking for potential Trustees with one or more of the following attributes:
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Lived experience of an issue that Medact campaigns on, for instance the Hostile Environment, the health impacts of economic or housing injustice, the health impacts of armed conflict or UK security policies
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Experience as a frontline health worker of any sort, preferably current
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Legal and safeguarding expertise
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Fundraising expertise, particularly individual giving or major donor fundraising
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Human resources expertise
As Chair, you will be actively networked within the health community or broader social justice movement and highly experienced in governance or strategic leadership of a charity or NGO. You will have the skills to line-manage the Executive Director. And you will have the ability to advocate on behalf of Medact’s work, as well as helping to build the membership and public image of the organisation.
We hope all Trustees will:
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Share our vision for a fairer and safer world, and our analysis of the transformational change needed to get closer to it
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Approach Board discussions and conversations with the team with an open mind, able to listen to and genuinely engage with others’ views
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Display collaborative behaviours which promote harmony and good team working which supports Medact to be an effective, well-governed organisation
Previous experience on a charity board or in another governance role is useful but by no means essential. If you are interested in becoming a Trustee but aren’t sure you have the right skills and experience, or would like an informal conversation with an existing board member before applying, please get in touch.
Timeline
Applications are open until 9am on Monday 9th March.
We aim to interview candidates in March. Please let us know when applying if you are unavailable during this period.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Position Overview
This is a dynamic and rewarding internship opportunity to play a hands-on role in shaping the voice and visual identity of SEED Madagascar. As part of a passionate and collaborative communications team, you will contribute directly to how our work is shared with global audiences—helping to tell powerful stories of community-led development and conservation in southeast Madagascar.
This role offers a unique blend of creativity and purpose. You will support social media management, develop engaging visual content, and curate impactful imagery that brings our programmes to life. It is ideally suited to a proactive and imaginative individual who is eager to build practical skills in communications while contributing to meaningful, real-world impact. Throughout the internship, you will gain valuable experience in digital storytelling, branding, and content strategy within an international development context.
Location: Remote – based anywhere in the world
Time zone: East Africa Time
Timeframe: 6 months extendable – flexible, guideline 1-2 days a week
Overview: Voluntary, unsalaried, flexible times to suit volunteer
About the organisation
SEED Madagascar is a British Charity working in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high quality community health, livelihoods, education infrastructure and conservation programmes to support sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication across all of our programmatic areas.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Please read the attached Trustee Information Pack for more detail
As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic oversight of the charity, ensuring that we operate effectively, achieve our mission, and comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are collectively responsible for safeguarding the charity’s assets, ensuring they are used exclusively to further our objectives, and overseeing the charity’s financial health, including budgets, financial controls, and reporting. Acting with integrity and in the charity’s best interests is at the heart of the role.
The Treasurer oversees the financial affairs of the charity and ensures that they are conducted legally, transparently, and in line with the charity’s governing document. Working closely with the Chair, Managing Director, Trustees, and any staff or volunteers, the Treasurer helps safeguard the charity’s financial sustainability.
We welcome candidates from professional backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting those affected by Body Dysmorphic Disorder. If your current or previous skills or experience align with this post, we encourage you to apply and join us in driving meaningful change.
Please note, this role is being advertised on an ongoing basis, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis.
To apply for this role, please submit the following documents:
- An up to date CV outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
- A cover letter of no more than 800 words explaining why you are interested in the Treasurer role, what you would bring to the board, and how your skills align with the needs of the charity.
Please note, this role is being advertised on an ongoing basis, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
About Beyond Equality
Our mission is to support men and boys to embrace positive masculinities so we can end gender-based violence, improve wellbeing, and build safer, more equitable communities across the UK.
Through transformative workshops, systemic change in key settings, and evidence-driven research, we’re reshaping how society understands and supports healthy masculinities. We don’t just work with individuals - we work to influence systems, policies, and cultures.
The Role: Chair of the Board of Trustees
You’ll lead a Board of 6–9 Trustees, working closely with our Managing Director to ensure strong governance, strategic alignment, and accountability. You’ll champion our mission, guide decision-making, and help shape our next chapter, while being a trusted sparring partner to the leadership team.
What We’re Looking For
You are:
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Passionate about ending gender-based violence and reimagining masculinities
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A confident, inclusive leader who can steer the Board with clarity and care
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A skilled facilitator, keeping meetings focused, collaborative, and action-oriented
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A strategic thinker who supports the Managing Director and helps the Board function as one
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Someone who values equity, evidence, and impact. You aren’t afraid to ask the hard questions
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Keen to get involved – attend Beyond Equality events and represent BE externally
In addition, you will bring:
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Significant governance experience at senior level, ideally with prior experience as a board member or chair, preferably in the charity or non-profit sector.
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Strong understanding of charity governance and regulatory frameworks in the UK.
Knowledge of or experience in areas such as education, gender equality programming, youth engagement, or community development would be an advantage.
Location Requirement
Applicants must be based in the United Kingdom and able to attend Board meetings in person when required. Preference will be given to candidates located within reasonable travel distance of London to facilitate regular engagement with the leadership team and key partners.
About the Board
Our Trustees are a friendly, engaged and diverse group – meeting quarterly (mix of in-person and online), working more deepening in sub-committees and diving deeper into BE’s work by attending sessions and events. As Chair, you’ll help shape recruitment to ensure our Board reflects the communities we serve.
Details
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3-year term (renewable once, subject to review)
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Unpaid (travel expenses covered with prior approval)
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Appointed by and accountable to the Board
Apply now, and help us build a future where everyone can thrive, free from restrictive norms.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.
Application deadline: 17 April
Interviews for shortlisted candidates: 8 May.
At Beyond Equality, we aim to disrupt the cycle of restrictive masculinity, eradicating resulting harms and improving well being for men and boys.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Project: New Member Onboarding Process Design
Volunteer, Remote
We are Bees Abroad, working to enable communities to empower themselves, through sustainable beekeeping. Together with local beekeeper trainers and organisations we educate, guide, and mentor communities in local best practices in Beekeeping, business creation, and protecting the environment.
Whilst we are a small charity, we drive a lot of impact and have great ambition. We are currently going through a growth period and are looking for a HR or UX specialist to help us improve our Onboarding process for new volunteers.
The individual will be working closely with our CEO and be responsible for designing and implementing a formal onboarding process for new Bees Abroad team members.
You should be well organised, proactive, and work well both solo and within a small, remote team.
Responsibilities:
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Process Design: Research, evaluate and design a formal onboarding process for new volunteers. This will include interviewing new and older team members, as well as understanding our complete operating structure, tools and other processes that new members need to become familiar with.
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Process Implementation: Implement tools that will help us deliver smooth and successful onboarding for new volunteers joining Bees Abroad.
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Policy Implementation: Support with updating the tools used to implement our policies efficiently and in the most user-friendly manner.
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Documentation: Collate any necessary documentation and manuals for use by Bees Abroad HR team in the future.
Skills & Experience:
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UX Design/HR Processes: Experience implementing User journeys and experiences, service design or HR Onboarding in other teams
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Technical Skills: Experience using automation tools, Microsoft Suite and Notion. Experience using AI tools is welcome.
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Collaboration: Excellent written, verbal and phone communication skills. Experience working in a team, with strong sense of autonomy and accountability towards team members.
Please only apply if you are serious about this role and have previous experience.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Description
Are you passionate about changing the way we treat animals? Do you want to help reduce environmental damage? Do you want to inspire people to enjoy healthy vegan food that both looks good and tastes great?
The Vegan Society aims to make veganism more accessible. We help people to adopt a vegan lifestyle by supporting individuals, policy- and decision-makers, caterers, manufacturers, healthcare professionals and the media.
Why do we need you?
Our nutrition team consists of two registered dietitians (we are currently recruiting for the second role). Our small team provides up-to-date nutrition and health resources on our website and evidence-based nutrition and health information for the charity’s campaigns. We also answer questions relating to vegan health and nutrition from the general public, the vegan community, caterers, and health and nutrition professionals via phone calls, email and post.
Other areas of responsibility include attending events and giving talks on the latest vegan health and nutrition topics, writing articles, and speaking to the media about vegan health and nutrition. We are also responsible for developing recipes and blogs for various projects.
We are a busy team and the support of a pharmacy volunteer would be invaluable.
What does the role involve?
We are looking for a volunteer who is a pharmacist or has a pharmaceutical background to support our nutrition team to handle medicine queries on an ad hoc basis.
The specific tasks we would like the volunteer to take on are:
- Collating and responding to medicine-related queries for a number of health conditions, including, but not limited to, osteoporosis, iron-deficiency anaemia, the menopause and thyroid disorders.
- Researching ingredients and contacting manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies to find products suitable for vegans or without animal ingredients.
- Comparing medicines suitable for vegans versus those containing animal-derived ingredients (e.g. side-effects, ingredients, costs).
What training and support are available?
The ideal candidate for this role will be someone with competency in pharmacy and responding to enquiries, so training in these areas would not be required. However, we are always willing to invite volunteers along to staff training when possible and to deliver training on specific skills inhouse, as identified throughout volunteering. This role is remote and therefore support from the Dietitian will be available through email and phone calls as required. Monthly or quarterly reviews with the Volunteering and Engagement Officer will also be conducted to ensure the volunteer is happy in their role.
What skills would be useful in doing this role?
- Trained pharmacist or pharmaceutical background
- Competency in Microsoft Office
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- An awareness and knowledge of vegan current affairs
- Confidence to communicate any training or support needs
- Ability to work independently
What does my availability need to be?
We are looking for someone who is available for one to two hours a week on a regular basis. These hours are flexible, but we would expect you to respond to public enquiries within three to five working days to meet the expectations of our supporters.
Who does this role report to?
Emily Angus, Dietitian
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


