249 Social care development volunteer roles

Do you want to use your financial expertise to make a real difference to people’s lives?

Mental health affects all of us — yet for too many people, financial circumstances can stand between them and the support they need. At FreshStart, we believe everyone should have access to safe, professional and affordable therapy, whatever their circumstances.

FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C. is seeking a Treasurer and Director to join our Board and help guide the financial sustainability and growth of our organisation. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in a passionate, community-focused organisation with a simple but powerful mission: to make high-quality psychotherapy available to people on low incomes who might otherwise be unable to afford it.

Treasurer Role Description

Purpose of the Role

To maintain effective financial oversight of FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C., ensuring financial sustainability, sound governance, and compliance with all relevant financial and regulatory requirements.

The Treasurer will provide financial leadership to the Board and support informed decision-making that enables the organisation to achieve its mission and strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership

• Contribute actively to the development and implementation of the organisation's strategy.
• Advise the Board on the financial implications of strategic decisions.
• Support sustainable growth and long-term financial planning.
• Help identify opportunities for funding diversification and organisational development.

2. Financial Oversight

• Ensure the Board receives clear, accurate, and timely financial information.
• Monitor the financial health and sustainability of the organisation.
• Review management accounts, budgets, cash flow forecasts, and annual financial statements.
• Ensure appropriate financial controls, policies, and procedures are in place and regularly reviewed.
• Oversee the preparation and filing of statutory accounts and financial returns.
• Support the development and monitoring of reserves and risk management policies.
• Work closely with any external accountants, auditors, or financial advisers as required.

3. Governance and Compliance

• Ensure the Board understands and fulfils its financial responsibilities.
• Support compliance with relevant regulatory, legal, and reporting requirements.
• Promote good governance and transparency across the organisation.
• Contribute to risk management and financial decision-making.

General Responsibilities of a Director

In addition to the Treasurer responsibilities, all Directors are expected to:

• Contribute actively to setting the organisation's strategic direction.
• Ensure the organisation remains focused on its mission and objectives.
• Safeguard the organisation's reputation, values, and resources.
• Monitor organisational performance and impact.
• Ensure resources are used effectively and responsibly.
• Act in the best interests of FreshStart Psychotherapy C.I.C. and its beneficiaries.
• Declare and manage any conflicts of interest.
• Participate in Board meetings and relevant working groups.
• Stay informed about developments affecting mental health services, the voluntary sector, and community wellbeing.

Person Specification

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who have:

Essential

• A recognised accountancy qualification or equivalent financial expertise.
• Experience in financial management, accounting, audit, or financial governance.
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills.
• The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial colleagues.
• A commitment to the mission of improving access to mental health support.

Desirable

• Experience of charity, CIC, voluntary sector, or healthcare governance.
• Knowledge of fundraising, grant funding, or social enterprise finance.
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• An interest in mental health, wellbeing, and reducing barriers to accessing support.

We are looking for a Community Connector (Volunteer) to help bring people together, raise awareness, and help grow local autism support across Wales. This role will help strengthen existing branches and support the development of new groups where there is currently no provision.

What you will be doing

• Deliver “Understanding Autism” talks PowerPoint presentations to community organisations, local services, schools ,and local businesses.
• Share clear, accessible information about autism and the work of the National Autistic Society
• Help communities understand how they can better support autistic people and their families
• Encourage connection between individuals, families, schools, businesses, and local services
• Identify areas where there is little or no support and help explore opportunities to develop new branches or community groups
• Provide brief feedback SBVEO after each session, including attendance numbers and key themes and questions raised
• Distribute surveys with QR codes after each session
• Please note: All organisations hosting talks will be expected to provide their own IT equipment (such as a laptop, projector, and speakers where needed).
• Work with branch volunteers and the national team to strengthen local engagement across Wales

Volunteer Gym Buddy

 About the Role

As a Volunteer Gym Buddy, you will support people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities to attend and enjoy gym sessions. You will provide encouragement, help build confidence, and support people to achieve their fitness goals.

No gym expertise is required – just a positive attitude and a willingness to support others.

 The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help people to:

• Improve their health and wellbeing.
• Build confidence and independence.
• Access fitness opportunities in their community.
• Achieve personal goals in a supportive environment.

 What You Will Do

• Attend gym sessions with the person you support.
• Provide encouragement and motivation.
• Help people feel comfortable and confident in the gym.
• Promote independence and choice.
• Follow SeeAbility's safeguarding and health and safety procedures.
• Report any concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Friendly and reliable.
• Patient and supportive.
• Good communicators.
• Enthusiastic about helping others.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Experience of autism, sight loss, or learning disabilities is helpful but not essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Complete volunteer training and induction.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and procedures.

Interested?

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

Enjoy driving? Make a Real Difference as a Volunteer Driver!

Are you someone who loves to drive and enjoys the freedom of the open road? Here’s an opportunity to use your driving skills to help others while making a positive impact in your local community. At Together Trust, we champion the rights, needs, and ambitions of children, young people, and adults with disabilities, autism, and mental health differences – and we need volunteers like you to make a difference.

What You’ll Be Doing:

As a Volunteer Driver, you’ll help transport people to a variety of destinations, including social activities, school, work placements, day trips, and more from our Inscape School in Cheadle. Your time and kindness will help enrich lives, giving those we support greater independence and opportunities to thrive. The role is flexible, and you’ll find it just as fulfilling as the people you support.

Why You’ll Love Volunteering with Us:

Use Your Driving Skills for Good: If you love driving, this is the perfect way to make the most of that passion. No need to worry about the wear and tear on your own vehicle – we provide the cars, minibuses, and MPVs.

No Cost to You: We cover all the running costs of the vehicle, including fuel, and we’ll reimburse your travel expenses to and from the vehicle collection point. All you need to do is bring your enthusiasm!

Flexibility & Structure: Whether you have a few spare hours each week or you’d like to volunteer more frequently, you can choose the journeys and schedule that suit you. Build your week around your volunteering, it’s that simple!

A Sense of Purpose & Fulfillment: There’s nothing quite like knowing that what you’re doing matters. In this role, you’ll experience the satisfaction that comes from knowing you’re making a real difference to someone’s life.

Gain Experience in Social Care: Depending on the services you want to be involved in, you could be helping students from special education, young people from residential homes, or adults with disabilities. It’s a wonderful way to be part of a caring, supportive community.

Meet New People: Volunteering is a great way to connect with others, both the people you’re helping and fellow volunteers. It’s a wonderful way to socialise, and you’ll find that making these connections will uplift your spirits, too.

What You’ll Need:

• A full UK driving licence (held for at least two years) or a D1 entitlement.
• A few hours a week (or more, if you prefer) to give.
• A calm, patient, and friendly attitude.
• Confidence driving larger vehicles (minibuses or MPVs) is ideal, but if you prefer to drive cars, we have those opportunities too.
• For this role, enhanced DBS and background checks are required, including references.

What You’ll Receive:

• Full training and support to help you feel confident in your role.
• Ongoing guidance from our friendly team.
• All expenses fully reimbursed, including travel and fuel costs.
• Access to our fleet of vehicles – no need for your own car.
• A meal allowance if you volunteer for 4 hours or more during a mealtime.
• References upon request to support your future endeavours.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you can drive and want to help others, we’d love to hear from you! This is a wonderful opportunity to stay active, connected, and engaged, all while making a lasting impact in your local community.

Volunteer Driver (Inscape School, Cheadle) | The Together Trust Volunteering

Our next volunteer induction will be held in September 2026, so please apply ASAP to be able to join.

Action for Refugees in Lewisham works to relieve poverty and isolation amongst refugees, asylum seekers and other vulnerable migrants in Lewisham. At the Rainbow Club Saturday Supplementary School we aim to help children between the ages of 4 and 11 to improve their literacy, numeracy and social skills in a friendly and supportive environment.  We need your skills and enthusiasm to assist the teacher in the delivery of a literacy and numeracy class and work with other volunteers to develop a programme of recreational activities. The Rainbow Club runs on Saturday mornings during term-time.

Your duties will include:

• Arriving punctually for the 9am briefing by the Rainbow Club Headteacher;
• Working in a team with other volunteers and teachers to deliver literacy, numeracy, arts, sport activities – this includes ensuring children remain engaged throughout the lesson and carry out set tasks as instructed by the teacher;
• Working one-to-one with specific children if and when required;
• Filing classroom work and homework in children’s individual files and keeping all materials and resources tidy and properly stored;
• Liaising with parents as and when required for example distributing leaflets and news about future meetings and events and also assisting with parents' day;
• Following the teacher’s policies on discipline and classroom management;
• Supervising the children during break times;
• Supporting the children during class trips;
• Ensuring classrooms are clean and tidy at the end of each day – this may include being part of a regular team rota;
• Providing feedback and comments to the Rainbow Club Headteacher when required.

Join Addiction Family Support

Addiction Family Support is the leading UK registered charity supporting adults affected or bereaved by a loved one's harmful use of alcohol, drugs, or gambling.

The Role: Helpline Call Taker (Family Support Volunteer)

As a Helpline Call Taker at Addiction Family Support, you will play a key role in offering emotional and practical support to individuals impacted by a loved one's addiction. You will provide a compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear, helping individuals navigate challenging circumstances.

This is a flexible role that is delivered remotely. Family Support Volunteers work within a flexible rota system to accommodate their availability and commitments while ensuring ongoing support for those who need it most.

Responsibilities:

• Offer empathetic and non-judgmental emotional support to individuals impacted by a loved one’s addiction.
• Provide relevant information, literature, and resources to help clients or group members cope with their situations.
• Offer structured emotional support adhering to guidelines and safeguarding measures.
• Maintain accurate records in line with GDPR and the charity’s policies.
• Participate in ongoing training, mentoring, and support sessions to enhance your skills and knowledge.
• Handle any potential safeguarding concerns and signpost clients to additional services when necessary.

Training and Development:

All Family Support Volunteers undergo a comprehensive three half day training programme covering addiction, core counselling skills, the 5-Step Method, bereavement, safeguarding, and self-care. Ongoing supervision, mentoring, and further learning and development opportunities are available to support volunteers in their roles.

Join Our Team of Change-Makers

Are you ready to make a difference? We're on the lookout for vibrant, enthusiastic, proactive and collaborative individuals with the right skills and experience to become part of our incredible charity.

Be Part of Something Special

Our clients' continuous positive feedback speaks volumes about the impact of our work, and we take immense pride in it. Emilia Fox, one of our dedicated Patrons, stands with us in our mission.

Join an Award-Winning Journey

This is your chance to become part of an award-winning charity where every day is an opportunity to contribute to the greater good. If you're seeking a dynamic environment filled with compassionate individuals dedicated to creating positive change, we invite you to apply or reach out with any enquiries.

Read Easy provides free, confidential, one to-one reading coaching for adults who struggle with reading, through a network of volunteer groups. Read Easy groups are changing the lives of individual adults across the country by providing them with the support they need to learn to read, and in turn opening doors for them to all sorts of new opportunities in life. You can read about the difference Read Easy makes here on our website.

Outline of the Coordinator role

The Coordinator is the first point of contact for those who want to learn to read. Using a simple assessment, the Coordinator will explain to a potential new ‘Reader’ how Read Easy may be able to help them. The Coordinator pairs up new Coaches with those who want to learn to read and provides ongoing support to these reading pairs. They visit reading sessions occasionally and maintain support through regular calls with both Reader and Coach to check all is going well, calling on the group’s Literacy Specialist to respond to any literacy related difficulties a pair may be having. Being a Read Easy Coordinator is very flexible. You decide how much time you have to offer, and this will determine the number of reading pairs you look after. The role provides lots of variety, is home-based and can work well around other commitments.

How we will support you

You will be provided with the Coordinator Handbook, training, induction, policies, resources and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser. In addition, the Coordinator Supporter will meet with you regularly to provide support and find out how your Reading Pairs are getting on. You will be invited to Read Easy UK’s volunteer forums and National Conference which gives volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.

What you will be doing:

● Help interview new Coaches when recruited and shortlisted by the Volunteer Recruiter.

● Enrol and assess new Readers, using the simple resources provided.

● Match Readers with Coaches, make introductions, and help them organise their reading sessions (which will take place in an approved venue or online).

● Visit your reading pairs to provide encouragement, presenting certificates on occasion.

● Work collaboratively with any other Coordinators in the group.

● Contribute to Coach meetings where volunteers discuss their experiences and receive further support. (Run by the Management Team typically every 8 weeks.)

● Attend Management Team meetings when invited, typically every 6-8 weeks either in person or remotely.

● Record progress of your reading pairs using resources provided, sharing these with the Management Team to keep them fully informed and submit expenses for payment egularly.

The skills you will need:

● A passion for supporting others achieve either their reading or coaching goals;

● A willingness to become familiar with the methods of the phonics based Turning Pages coaching manuals, so that you can confidently guide others;

● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Strong organisational, time management and record keeping skills;

● Self-awareness, personal responsibility and a professional approach;

● Reasonable confidence in using IT(accessing documents, completing electronic forms and records, email, Teams/Zoom meetings);

● The ability to use initiative and willingness to work independently and as part of a team;

● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures;

● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for support from the Management Team;

● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included;

● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of 2-3 hours a week to commit to the role.

What's in it for you? You will:

● receive outstanding Reading Coach Training;

● meet and work collaboratively with new people, and

● be active and engaged, adding value to your local community.

“It’s been a life-changing experience. Last week I read a book to my grandson. I never read to my children because I couldn’t.” Peter, from Read Easy Poole Witnessing these transformations are one of your greatest rewards as Coordinator.

Interested?

If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, often described as ‘the best role in Read Easy’ because it is so rewarding, please contact the person who sent you this role description.

Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references. This role also requires an Enhanced without barring DBS Check (in line with DBS Code of Practice)

About the Role

As a Maintenance Volunteer, you will help maintain and improve the homes and environments of people with autism, sight loss, and learning disabilities. Your support will help create safe, comfortable, and welcoming spaces where people can thrive.

This role involves practical tasks such as painting, decorating, gardening, and general DIY. Please note that electrical, plumbing, and gas work are not included in this volunteer role.

The Difference You Will Make

By volunteering, you will help to:

• Improve the appearance and comfort of people's homes.
• Create safe and welcoming environments.
• Support people to feel proud of where they live.
• Enhance the wellbeing of the people we support.

What You Will Do

• Assist with painting and decorating projects.
• Conduct basic DIY tasks and minor repairs.
• Help with gardening and outdoor maintenance.
• Support with assembling furniture and equipment.
• Follow health and safety guidance at all times.
• Report any maintenance concerns to SeeAbility staff.

What We Are Looking For

We are looking for volunteers who are:

• Practical and dependable.
• Friendly and approachable.
• Happy to work as part of a team.
• Enthusiastic about making a difference.
• Committed to inclusion and equality.

Previous DIY or maintenance experience is essential.

Requirements

• Aged 18 or over.
• Live close to Aylesbury
• Complete volunteer induction and training.
• Provide references.
• Complete a DBS check if required.
• Follow SeeAbility policies and health and safety procedures.

About SeeAbility

SeeAbility is a charity that supports people with learning disabilities, autism, and sight loss to live ambitious and fulfilling lives. We help people develop skills, build independence, and achieve their goals through specialist support, services, and volunteering opportunities.

By volunteering with SeeAbility, you can help create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered.

Could you be the reason a family feels supported and less alone during their toughest days?

Families staying in our homes are facing the unimaginable, and the skills and compassion of our volunteers can make all the difference. We’re looking for people who want to give their time and be part of something truly meaningful.

By volunteering in our homes, you’ll help create a place of calm, care and belonging for children, young people and families affected by cancer.

What you give as a volunteer goes far beyond practical support — it brings hope, humanity and kindness, and leaves a lasting impact on the families we support.

What you’ll be doing

• Develop activities that follow an inclusive programme of events, according to needs of region and service user demographic, remaining mindful of families that are observing religious holidays/customs

• In conjunction with our local fundraising team, approach local sources to donate to events, e.g. supermarkets to provide snacks for event

• Complete necessary administrative tasks associated with the event, e.g. creating and sending out posters.

Are you looking for a new opportunity to make a real difference, change lives, and help create a positive, supportive environment?

Hidayah is a volunteer-led organisation supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims through community support, advocacy, education, and wellbeing initiatives. It creates safe, inclusive spaces where people can connect, feel empowered, and have their voices heard, while promoting equality and positive change across the UK and beyond.

The Wellbeing Officer Trustee provides guidance, support, and signposting on mental health and wellbeing to volunteers and service users.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop and implement proactive wellbeing strategies to reduce harm and support volunteers in public-facing roles. 

• Manage and respond to wellbeing queries via the designated inbox, including triage and signposting. 

• Create and maintain wellbeing resources for service users and volunteers. 

• Use feedback and data to identify wellbeing needs and improve support provision. 

• Build and maintain relationships with external mental health and wellbeing services. 

• Attend Trustee Board meetings and provide regular updates. 

• Support planning, events, and organisational activities where possible. 

• Assist with fundraising and promotion of Hidayah initiatives. 

• Participate in internal communications and maintain shared systems (e.g., Google Drive). 

• Contribute to the Annual Report. 

• Respond to communications promptly. 

• Uphold Hidayah’s values and mission. 

• Serve until the next AGM (subject to a 6-month probation period).

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Understanding of mental health, wellbeing, or emotional support in a community or voluntary setting. 

• Experience supporting individuals through advice, signposting, mentoring, or similar roles. 

• Awareness of safeguarding, confidentiality, and boundaries when working with vulnerable people. 

• Experience working or volunteering in collaborative or community-based environments. 

Essential Skills & Abilities

• Strong listening, communication, and empathy skills. 

• Ability to respond calmly and appropriately to sensitive or emotional situations. 

• Good organisational skills and ability to manage inboxes, queries, or tasks efficiently. 

• Ability to work independently and take initiative with minimal supervision. 

• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills. 

• Basic IT skills (email, Google Workspace, or similar tools). 

Personal Qualities

• Compassionate, approachable, and non-judgmental. 

• Reliable, responsible, and consistent in availability. 

• Committed to equality, inclusion, and supporting LGBTQ+ Muslim communities. 

• Able to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and emotional boundaries. 

• Passionate about improving wellbeing and community support

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 18+ and based in the UK. 

• Willingness to commit to a voluntary trustee role (approximately 4–5 hours per week minimum, with flexibility for additional time when required).

WHAT BENEFITS DO I GET FROM THIS ROLE?

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in LGBTQ+ Muslim wellbeing. 

• Governance and leadership experience. 

• Opportunity to shape wellbeing support services within the community.

• Training and development

Childcare Volunteer – Make a Lasting Difference in Ghana

Help children learn, grow and thrive

At SFLIG Volunteers, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, feel safe and reach their full potential. Since 2011, we have partnered with schools, childcare centres and community organisations across Ghana to provide educational support, care and encouragement to children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Are you passionate about working with children and looking for a meaningful international volunteering experience? Join our team and become part of a programme that creates lasting change while allowing you to experience the rich culture and hospitality of Ghana.

About the role

As a Childcare Volunteer, you will work alongside experienced local staff in a childcare centre, supporting children's learning, development and wellbeing. Your encouragement, creativity and enthusiasm can have a positive impact on the lives of young children while giving you a rewarding international experience.

No two days are the same. You will build relationships with the children, assist with educational and recreational activities and help create a fun, safe and engaging environment where children can flourish.

What you'll be doing

You will:

• Support children with reading, writing and basic learning activities.
• Organise games, arts and crafts, music and educational activities.
• Help supervise indoor and outdoor play.
• Encourage children's confidence, creativity and social development.
• Assist local staff with daily childcare routines.
• Share your culture while learning about Ghanaian traditions and community life.
• Work respectfully within the local community and follow safeguarding procedures at all times.

Programme details

Location: Accra, Kasoa, Senya Breku, Kumas (All in Ghana)

Placement Type: Onsite international volunteer placement

Duration: Flexible placements available throughout the year

Accommodation: Volunteer accommodation provided from the program cost

Meals: Three meals per day included from the program cost

Support: Airport pickup, orientation, local SIM card, ongoing in-country support and a certificate upon successful completion.

This placement is for you if...

• You enjoy working with children.
• You are caring, patient and adaptable.
• You are enthusiastic about learning a new culture.
• You work well as part of a team.
• You are willing to contribute positively to the local community.
• Previous childcare, teaching or youth work experience is welcome but not essential.

Important information

This is an onsite, self-funded international volunteer programme in Ghana. Volunteers are responsible for their programme fee, international flights, visa, travel insurance and personal expenses.

Applicants must answer the screening questions as part of the application process. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with further information about the placement and the next steps.

If you're ready to make a meaningful difference while experiencing the warmth, culture and beauty of Ghana, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and become part of the SFLIG Volunteers family.

Chair of Trustees – Mary Frances Trust

Location: Surrey/Hybrid

Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Term: Three-year term, with potential for reappointment for up to two further terms.

We are open to reasonable adjustments and flexible approaches to the role.

About Mary Frances Trust

Mary Frances Trust (MFT) is a mental health and emotional wellbeing charity that works alongside people experiencing any kind of emotional or mental health issues, supporting them for as long as needed to restore and maintain their wellbeing. We provide a range of community-based services, co-produced with people with lived experience of mental health issues. We work closely with partners across the health sector (including NHS), local authority and the voluntary sector.

We believe that anyone experiencing mental or emotional health issues should feel confident to ask for help and receive appropriate support for as long as needed, to live a fulfilling life.

Our values are: Inspiring, Inclusive, Agile and Respectful.

We are a charitable company limited by guarantee with a Board of Trustees responsible for our overall governance, strategy and compliance.

Board culture: Our Board is friendly, established and committed, working collaboratively to provide strong governance and support MFT’s mission.

Please note, Mary Frances Trust reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role.

The Role

We’re seeking a Chair of Trustees to provide leadership to the Board as MFT embarks on its next phase of growth and development. This is an exciting strategic role offering the opportunity to drive meaningful change and shape the future of our organisation. You will work closely with a committed team of Trustees, staff and volunteers to set direction, provide governance and ensure MFT continues to deliver real impact for the Surrey community.

The Chair will:

• Lead the Board and support the organisation to fulfil its charitable purpose.
• Ensure effective working relationships between the Board and staff, volunteers, the Advisory Group, Members and key external stakeholders.
• Act as spokesperson and figurehead for the charity where appropriate.
• Supervise and support the Chief Executive, including an annual performance review.
• Plan and prepare Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) with the Chief Executive and other staff members as appropriate.
• Chair Board meetings effectively ensuring balanced discussion, clear decisions and actions are assigned and followed through.
• Lead regular reviews of Board effectiveness and support good succession planning for the Chair role.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive and fellow Trustees to ensure MFT meets its legal, regulatory and constitutional duties while staying true to its vision and values.

Person Specification

In addition to the skills and experience required of all MFT Trustees, the Chair will bring:

• Strong governance and leadership capability.
• The ability to chair meetings well and enable inclusive, balanced discussion and clear decisions.
• Sound judgement, and the ability to support and constructively challenge the Chief Executive.
• Tact, diplomacy and strong interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of the mental health and wellbeing sector and/or the wider voluntary sector context.
• The time and capacity to commit to around 1–2 days per month.
• Commitment to MFT’s values and to improving mental health and wellbeing in the Surrey community.

Previous experience as a Chair or Vice Chair (in a charity, public, or non-profit setting) is desirable, but we also welcome applications from candidates who can demonstrate strong governance and leadership experience and the ability to step into this role.

Additional experience that would strengthen the Board (desirable):

• HR / people governance experience.
• Capacity to support Board‑level oversight of complaints or appeals (staff or client related) where matters are escalated.
• Experience of Co‑production, lived‑experience‑led work, or collaborative approaches to service design and governance.
• Lived experience of mental health issues and/or caring experience (we value lived experience alongside governance and leadership skills).

Time Commitment

The Chair is expected to commit approximately around 1–2 days per month.

These include:

• Preparing for and chairing approximately six Board meetings a year.
• Attending the Annual General Meeting (in the autumn).
• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive.
• Occasional representation at external meetings and events.

Eligibility

You must be eligible to serve as a Charity Trustee and Company Director under UK law and be willing to complete the necessary eligibility and declaration checks.

All successful candidates will be required to undertake Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks as well as reference checks. These will be a condition of any offer of volunteering post being made.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly encourage applications from people with lived experience of mental health issues.

We welcome applications from people under‑represented in charity governance (including disabled people, people from minoritised ethnic communities, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges).
 

SEL Mind’s Benefits Support Service is making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing mental health challenges in the boroughs of Bromley, Lewisham, Greenwich, Lambeth and Southwark. We empower people by providing compassionate guidance and practical assistance as they navigate the often-complex process of applying for disability benefits.

We are looking for a thoughtful, motivated and committed volunteer with good listening and communication skills to join our Benefits Support Service. You will have experience of working with people with mental health issues, either through work, volunteering or lived experience, and some knowledge of welfare benefits gained through work, volunteering or personal experience. Comprehensive training will also be provided.

The role will involve:

• Supporting clients on a one-to-one basis, either in person or over the phone, to complete Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Work Capability Assessment (WCA) forms
• Helping clients to articulate how their mental health and any related conditions impact their daily lives
• Helping clients prepare for health assessments and, where required, attending assessments with them to provide emotional support and help ensure their needs and challenges are fully heard
• Maintaining organised and up-to-date casework records and documentation
• Maintaining confidentiality and appropriate boundaries
• Keeping the Benefits Support Volunteer Manager and/or Advice Project Coordinator updated about client interactions and your location, in line with safeguarding and health and safety best practices
• Participating in regular support sessions and meetings as part of a collaborative and supportive volunteer team

Successful applicants will be expected to undergo an Enhanced Level Disclosure and Barring Service check.

How to apply:

Please visit our website for instructions on how to apply for this role.

Volunteer Opportunity – Treasurer Trustee
Independent Arts Isle of Wight

Do you have financial skills and experience that could help strengthen creativity, wellbeing, and
community connections across the Isle of Wight?

Independent Arts is seeking a Treasurer Trustee to join our Board and help support the charity’s
continued growth and sustainability.

Independent Arts works with people of all ages and backgrounds, using creativity and
participation in the arts to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation, build confidence, and
strengthen communities. We believe that creativity can have a positive impact on people’s lives,
and we are looking for someone who shares our values and wants to make a meaningful
contribution.

As Treasurer Trustee, you will play an important role in helping the Board oversee the charity’s financial affairs, ensuring strong financial governance and supporting informed decision-making. You will work alongside fellow trustees and staff to help ensure the organisation remains financially sustainable and able to continue delivering its valuable work across the Isle of Wight.

We are looking for someone who can offer:
• Experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, business planning, or financial
management
• The ability to understand and explain financial information clearly
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to Board discussions
• Commitment to good governance and the aims of Independent Arts
Previous charity trustee experience or a professional accounting qualification would be
welcome but is not essential. We encourage applications from people with relevant skills and
practical experience from a range of professional and personal backgrounds.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• The opportunity to make a meaningful impact within the local community
• Experience of charity leadership and governance
• The chance to use your professional skills for social good
• The opportunity to work alongside a passionate and committed Board and team
• A chance to support creativity, wellbeing, and inclusive community development across
the Isle of Wight

Time commitment
This is a voluntary role. The Treasurer Trustee will be expected to attend quarterly Board and
finance committee meetings and review papers in advance, with additional time required to
support the CEO in financial planning, Board and annual reporting activities.
Independent Arts is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications
from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and communities.