Social research volunteer roles

Legal Assistant

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. 

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace. 

To learn more about our impactful work at Quilombo UK, we encourage you to explore our website and YouTube channel. 

Join us in leading positive change!

About the position

Quilombo UK is looking for Legal Assistant, who would love to join a growing organization. Quilombo UK works with the objective to promote different arts, sports and cultures to encourage an intercultural understanding between different communities and societies; To promote cultural awareness in the community and educate, regardless of nationality or origin, about race diversity and mutual respect; To promote good health and wellbeing; and run a community organisation with a strong focus on individuals, the community and society as a whole.

Quilombo UK is looking to recruit a Legal Assistant who helps organization in various legal matters.

This role offers a great opportunity for the right person who is looking to; gain experience in the Third Sector; develop their skills and management experience; or just simply 'give something back to their community'. The role provides you flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• We are looking for an experienced lawyer to assist the organisation in overlooking projects, ensuring they are compliant with relevant and up to date legislation and regulations.

• The legal assistant will be responsible for making sure all contracts, legislations and documents are treated within correct legal standards. They are to make sure that all activities are being performed in line with contracts and the law. 

• The Legal Assistant will work closely with the HR department in overlooking the volunteer forms, legislations and documents. They should also assist the different departments within the organisation(Marketing, Funding, HR, Finance) in upholding the legal requirements needed to run the tasks that they do. 

• Provide written reports as and when required. To undertake additional duties as required for the role.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• Well-organized, proactive and able to deliver tasks efficiently.

• Excellent researching skills

• Reading and report writing skills

• You will need to be an experienced lawyer or have a good legal understanding. 

• You will be respectful of the confidentiality of the organisation.

• You will need to help deliver work that adheres to the key objectives of the organisation. 

• Able to speak confidently with a variety of stakeholders.

• Good time-management & communication skills.

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed.

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

• Can work without much supervision

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Help us make sure no one faces suicidal thoughts alone.

Samaritans is looking for an enthusiastic and proactive Fundraising Events Admin Volunteer to support our busy Community and Events Team. Your support will help us raise the vital funds needed to ensure people can access emotional support whenever they need it most.

What is the role?

As a Fundraising Events Admin Volunteer, you will play a key role in helping our team focus on delivering successful fundraising events and supporting our incredible fundraisers. From managing enquiries to sending out fundraising materials, you’ll help keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience in events, fundraising, marketing, and supporter stewardship while making a meaningful difference.

This role will give you the opportunity to:

• Experience volunteering within a busy events team within a large UK charity.
• Develop strong communication skills working within a diverse network.
• Gain an insight into event marketing
• Support our Third-Party Events (TPE) fundraisers, taking part in events like London Marathon, Great North Run and Paris Marathon as well as fundraisers who take part in primarily virtual events, such as Dawn Walk and our Dog Walking Challenge.

Key responsibilities

• Support the Community and Events team to help us deliver our successful fundraising events and stewardship.
• Support our do your own thing (DYOT) and events fundraisers.
• Support with moderation and creating content to make our Stream for Samaritans, Discord server a warm and welcoming place.

Qualities and experience

• Enthusiasm and passion for community and events fundraising
• Excellent organisation skills and attention to detail
• Personable, approachable and able to develop relationships with a wide range of individuals

Please see the role description below for more details about this role.

Time commitment

Ideally we would like the successful candidate to support us one day a week, but we can be flexible with this depending on the work required within the team and the needs of the candidate

Applications

Applications will be reviewed as they are submitted with video interviews offered to the right candidates as soon as possible. 

Community Liaison Officer

Challenge Adventure Group (“CAG” for short and the operating name of CAG Trust) is a voluntary youth organisation for Knowle, Dorridge and beyond aimed at boys aged 10 and above.

As our name suggests, we provide challenging, adventurous and fun activities and the D of E Award for young people in their leisure time. Taking part in fun experiential activities enables members to develop their physical and mental skills and capacities and reach their full potential of becoming positive, active and happy citizens.

Summary

CAG was formed in 2009 and became a charity, CAG Trust, in 2019. We are looking for an individual who embodies the spirit of CAG and continually keeps the integrity and goals of the organisation at the forefront of every decision that they make as part of their role.  To ensure we meet our goal of improving the well-being of young people and being a part of our local community we need to increase our reach. We’re looking for a volunteer Community Ambassador to play a vital role in helping us reach new audiences, form new partnerships and maintain current arrangements, raise awareness and generate income.

You will seek out opportunities to speak to and build relationships with community groups, organisations and businesses, raising awareness of our work and encouraging action through giving, campaigning and volunteering.

In addition to public speaking opportunities, you may attend events on our behalf, such as business networking meetings, fundraising events, community fetes, galas and more.

You will work closely with the CAG Management Committee for support and help mapping out opportunities within the local community and beyond.

Description

Responsibilities:

• Communicating and building relationships with current and potential community contacts.

• Promoting CAG in the local area.

• Attending meetings and events.

• Delivering talks about CAG’s aims and activities.

• Contacting existing supporters to encourage continued support.

• Researching new opportunities to build relationships in the local area, for instance: local places of worship, the Round Table, the Lions, local businesses.

• Working in close conjunction with our Social Media Volunteer and our Fundraising Volunteer.

• Communicating frequently with CAG Management Committee to keep them up to date.

We are looking for a volunteer who ideally should have / be:

• Commitment to CAG and its ethos.

• Organised, self-motivated, proactive and good at managing your own time.

• Someone who enjoys meeting new people and networking, and is comfortable with public speaking.

• The ability to build and maintain relationships. 

• A proactive attitude, drive and enthusiasm to carry out projects to conclusion. 

• The ability to influence others using excellent communication skills. 

• The ability to motivate others and work as part of a team. 

• Resilience, particularly when faced with setbacks.

• A willingness to carry out a range of administrative tasks. 

• Strategic vision and an ability to think creatively.

• A car driver or have ability to travel to attend events and meetings.

• The post holder must be able to provide a satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Check.

Making a difference - what impact will the opportunity have?

Your input is key to the day to day running of CAG as well as securing its future.  You will have a big impact because this role is essential to ensuring that CAG remains healthy and sustainable and able to navigate changing times and economic climates.

What's in it for the volunteer? 

You would become part of our small, friendly team and you have the opportunity to use your time, skills and experience to make a real difference to CAG and the community in which we operate.  Additionally we can offer you:

• The chance to be part of a charity at an exciting time in its development.

• The opportunity to make a difference to young people’s lives through outdoor trips, activities and adventures.

• Expenses, so you are not out of pocket.

About the location

Where will the volunteer be working?

The volunteer will work from home and will be required to attend meetings within the Solihull area.

Travel Limit

This role is partly remote but ideally the candidate should be available for face to face Committee and other meetings.

When will the volunteer be working?

Volunteer availability

• Flexible to suit you.

• You would need to be available to attend Committee meetings which normally take place in the evening.

• Occasional weekends and evenings to attend events.

Estimate of time commitment

• 0 - 3 hours / week – the candidate will be able to offer further time as they wish.

Details

The volunteering could be long term. 

Application details

Successful applicants will require an enhanced DBS and two references.

About Us

The Women & Families Resource Centre (WFRC) is a registered charity based in Wolverhampton dedicated to empowering women and families facing challenging situations. Through services like our Baby Bank, charity shop, and community support programmes, we help provide essential care, dignity, and stability to those in need.

We are now looking for a committed Volunteer HR Admin Support to help strengthen our recruitment and onboarding processes and ensure we continue delivering consistent, high-quality support to our community.

Role Overview

As a Human Resource Admin, you will support the Operations Manager in managing recruitment and onboarding activities for volunteers and team members. This is a great opportunity to gain hands-on HR and admin experience in a meaningful charity environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Post volunteer and team role advertisements
• Screen applications and shortlist suitable candidates
• Coordinate interview schedules with hiring managers
• Conduct initial screening calls (if assigned)
• Maintain applicant tracking sheets and recruitment records
• Support onboarding of new volunteers (documents, SOPs, system access)
• Follow structured recruitment workflows
• Provide weekly recruitment updates to the Operations Manager

What We’re Looking For

• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Attention to detail and ability to follow structured processes
• Basic experience or interest in HR, admin, or recruitment (preferred but not essential)
• Comfortable using Google Drive, Sheets, and online tools
• Professional, reliable, and confident working independently

Volunteer Benefits

• Valuable experience in HR and recruitment
• Opportunity to support a meaningful cause
• Develop administrative and coordination skills
• Gain experience working in a structured charity environment

Important Volunteer Expectations

• Minimum 12 hours per week commitment
• Consistent attendance for agreed shifts
• Professionalism and confidentiality at all times
• Clear communication about availability
• Team collaboration and safeguarding awareness

Make a Real Impact

Your support will directly help us recruit and onboard volunteers who deliver essential services to women and families in need.

Apply now and become part of a mission-driven team making a real difference in the community.

Job Description:

Services Sales Specialist (Commission-Only)

Programme Association: Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) /

International Personal Development Programme (iPDP)

Role Type: Part-time | Self-Employed Contractor | Commission-Only (Uncapped) | Remote

Commitment: 12 hours/week (Structured as two 6-hour shifts) | 16-week programme duration

Role Summary

Quilombo UK is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Services Sales Specialist to join our team as a self-employed contractor. This is a crucial, target-driven, commission-only role focused on generating revenue by converting prospective service users into paying clients.The successful candidate will gain direct, high-impact sales experience that mirrors the standards and performance expectations of a paid sales position, with the added benefit of earning commission on all confirmed deals.

Compensation Structure

● Payment Basis: This is a commission-only, self-employed contractor position. There is no fixed salary or hourly wage. The specialist is responsible for invoicing Quilombo UK monthly for earned commission.

● Commission: Commission is earned per converted sale, payable only after the customer’s second monthly payment is successfully processed.

○ Standard £200 ePDP Sale: £25 commission

○ Subsidized £100 Sale: £10 commission

○ 2-Month Rolling Sale: £65 commission

● Payment Schedule: Commission earned is paid monthly, 30 days after receipt of the monthly invoice from the specialist, following the trigger (receipt of the customer's second payment) being confirmed.

Main Responsibilities

This is a target-driven, client-facing role responsible for the full sales cycle:

● Lead Generation: Proactively research and identify prospective clients aligned with Quilombo UK’s mission and services.

● Outreach & Pitching: Initiate direct outreach (calls, emails, online meetings) with clients directly.

● Closing Deals: Deliver compelling sales pitches and presentations, handle end-to-end sales processes, and secure contracts for services.

● Pipeline Management: Develop and maintain a strong client pipeline, updating CRM or tracking systems regularly.

● Performance: Consistently meet or exceed weekly/monthly Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to outreach, meetings, and revenue conversions.

● Strategy: Collaborate with the Director to refine messaging and sales strategy for maximum impact. Services to be Sold

The successful candidate will primarily sell Quilombo UK’s core offerings:

● ePDP (Enhanced Professional Development Programme)

● iPDP (International Personal Development Programme)

● Quilombo UK Departments as a Service

● Workshops

● Essential: Demonstrated experience in a sales, business development, or account management role, with a proven track record of generating leads and closing deals.

● Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, strong presentation and negotiation abilities, and confidence to work independently.

● Alignment: Passion for social justice, community engagement, and inclusion.

What We Offer

● Income Potential: Uncapped commission earning potential based entirely on performance.

● Experience: Real-world, results-driven sales experience with clear KPIs and performance feedback.

● Mentorship: Coaching and mentoring from experienced directors and leadership.

● Certification: Certificate of completion and reference upon successful 16-week programme completion.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Work Location: Remote

Cardinal Hume Centre is looking for two new trustees to help break the cycle of homelessness for children, young people and families.

Based in Westminster, we support more than 1,400 children, young people and families each year who are facing homelessness and poverty. Through personalised, wraparound services, we work alongside people to build stability, confidence and the foundations for longterm independence — tackling homelessness now to prevent it in the future. 

We are recruiting for two complementary trustee roles: 

• A trustee with lived experience. 
  We are looking for another trustee whose personal experience of challenges such as homelessness or insecure housing, migration, poverty or longterm unemployment can help ground our decisions in what truly works. Your insight will strengthen the voice of past, present and future clients at Board level and help us become a more inclusive, responsive organisation. 

• A trustee with senior estates, building or facilities expertise. 
  The Centre owns a large site in central London and is developing a longterm vision for how it can best support our mission over the next 10–15 years. We are seeking someone who can guide, support and challenge our thinking as we plan for the future of our buildings and facilities. 

We are deeply committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity, experience and strength of the community we serve.Around 85% of our clients are from Black and minority ethnic backgrounds, and many live with disabilities — perspectives that are not yet fully represented on our Board.We strongly encourage applications from people whose experiences or backgrounds are underrepresented in charity leadership. 

Trustees receive a full induction, training and ongoing support. We cover all reasonable expenses — including travel and caring costs — and can learn and make adjustments so every trustee can participate fully, confidently and on an equal basis. 

If you share our belief in dignity, welcome and potential- and want to help shape a compassionate, inclusive Centre - we would love to hear from you. 

The role closes on Monday 11 May 2026. For further information, please read the job pack.You can contact the CEO for an informal conversation

Asylum Aid (previously merged with Migrants Resource Centre under Consonant) is, and has long been, a leader in the Immigration and NGO sector: providing high-level legal support to ensure the protection of vulnerable refugees, asylum seekers and migrants. Now, in its 30th year of providing high quality legal and welfare support - our services are needed more than ever.

Through our Westminster Advice Services Partnership (WASP), with Westminster Citizens Advice, Age UK Westminster, DeafPlus and Groundwork London, we are able to provide vital support for the most vulnerable people living in Westminster who are struggling to meet their needs. This partnership allows us to provide important support to those for whom English is not their first language. These individuals often find themselves destitute with money problems, no employment, problems with immigration and housing. The focus of Asylum Aid’s welfare advice team is on migrant and vulnerable communities.  Our assistance can be transformative for individuals, and we are determined to do more to reach and support vulnerable people seeking safety.

Asylum Aid runs a drop-in information hub every Monday, as well as an advice phoneline on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, where Westminster residents can get support and advice in a range of areas, such as employment, housing and immigration. We are looking for a volunteer to support us at the information hub, specifically in carrying out client interviews and gateway sessions for clients seeking immigration advice. There we will also be the opportunity to work closely with and shadow solicitors. We particularly encourage residents of Westminster borough and surrounding boroughs to apply.

Volunteers will be trained on the job and will have to opportunity to attend thematic training, as well as receiving on-going support and supervision.

Main tasks and activities

• Gateway Assessor and Advice:
  • Conducting initial client assessments.
  • Conducting client interviews (by telephone and in person) to understand client problems and identify key information such as time limits.
  • Signposting/Referral; Referring and signposting clients appropriately (both internally and externally) following agreed protocols, including making appointments and informing clients of what they can expect.
  • Input data in excel and Advice pro.
  • Assisting immigration solicitors with sending letters to clients, contact clients, etc.
  • Assisting clients with general form filling, making phone call to agencies to resolve simple problems with benefit, housing, employers etc.
• Case Recording:
  • All clients’ cases are recorded for quality assurance purposes, and to ensure that the client can be offered an efficient service if the client requires further advice or the case becomes more complex. Your supervisor will discuss case recording with you.

Skills and experience needed

• Fluent in English
• Strong Teamwork and ability to communicate effectively in writing, in person and over the telephone
• Ability to manage time effectively
• Ability to research, analyse and explain complex information
• Basic numeracy skills and ability to use IT to carry out basic keyboard and data entry work
• Confident when dealing with people
• Friendly and approachable
• Remain calm in stressful situations
• Sensitive to the needs of others
• Open minded and non-judgmental 
• Punctuality and regular attendance
• Willingness to develop, learn new skills and embrace change
• You must be willing to develop a clear understanding of, and commitment to, Equality and Diversity, incorporating this into all aspects of your work
• Desirable, not essential: some experience or understanding of immigration and asylum systems
• Desirable, not essential: ability to speak fluently in a community language (Arabic, Kurdish, Bengali, Tigrinya, Farsi)
• Westminster residents are particularly encouraged to apply.

You will welcome clients and visitors, and support the smooth running of our local office at our drop in sessions on Mondays or Thursdays (or both)

Commitment: 6 hours/week (flexible)

Receptionists are the first point of contact for clients, welcoming visitors. You’ll record client details on our computer system, explain waiting times, and help ensure the service runs smoothly. The role builds communication, IT, and teamwork skills while making a real difference in the community. Full training and expense reimbursement are provided.

What you gain: Communication skills, admin experience, confidence using IT, and full training.

You'll gain valuable transferable skills in communication, problem solving, teamwork.

Whether you are starting out, changing career, retired, or returning to work, volunteering strengthens your CV and provides practical experience.

We are looking for a  Volunteer & Recruitment Manager who will be a proactive, outgoing and organised person with a passion for volunteering and who understands the difference that volunteers can make to the community. In this role you will help to recruit Trustees, Committee Members, activity leaders and other volunteers to build and maintain a robust infrastructure around our current team members enabling the organisation to grow and prosper.

Volunteers are a critical part of the Charity’s foundation, providing the organisation’s services and supporting the fundraising goals. The Volunteer & Recruitment Manager role is to recruit, maintain and manage the Charity’s volunteers as well as raising awareness of volunteer opportunities within the community through various engagement initiatives.

You will help develop and grow our team by increasing the number of volunteers, meeting internal demand and enabling growth in new areas. 

We would like you to:

• Write job descriptions for current vacant roles
• Source relevant websites / organisations which specialise in recruiting volunteers
• Advertise vacancies through specialist volunteer websites and other outlets
• Research websites / sources to find and contact suitable candidates for CAG vacancies
• Review covering letters and CVs and shortlist potential candidates
• Regularly communicate with and feed back to the Committee on progress made
• Interview candidates along with another member of the Committee
• Process relevant paperwork for successful and unsuccessful candidates
• Maintain relevant records in a confidential manner as per GDPR
• Maintain a close working relationship with current team members to ensure the aims of the organisation and individual are being met

Ideally you should have:

• Experience of managing a volunteer function 
• The ability to attract, motivate and retain volunteers
• An understanding of the legislation and best practice for volunteering
• Knowledge and experience of other relevant agencies working with volunteers
• Be able to communicate effectively and clearly to a range of internal and external customers
• Be creative in the ability to attract and retain volunteers
• Good time management and organisational skills
• A flexible team player
• Ability to engage and build a rapport with a wide range of people
• Ability to build and maintain good working relationships
• The post holder must be able to provide a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Check

The volunteer should also have/be:

• IT competent and confident
• A car driver or have ability to travel to attend events & meetings
• Experience of working within HR or Recruitment

Making a difference – what impact will the opportunity have?

Your input is key to the day to day running of CAG as well as securing its future.  We want you to help us find the right people to fill roles such as Treasurer, Program Manager, Secretary as well as recruiting new Leaders to help run our weekly activities and to take our members on exciting weekends away.  You will be helping us build a team of volunteers who can support both the administrative side of CAG as well as those running our termly program.  Our volunteers are the lifeblood of CAG and you will play a crucial part in keeping that heart beating.

What’s in it for the volunteer? 

You would become part of our small, friendly team and you have the opportunity to use your time, skills and experience to make a real difference to CAG and the community in which we operate.   This is a new role so you have the flexibility to make it your own under the guidance of CAG Committee.

About the location

Where will the volunteer be working?

The volunteer will work from home will be required to attend meetings within the Solihull area.

Travel Limit

This role is partly remote but ideally the candidate should be available for face to face Committee and other meetings.

When will the volunteer be working?

Volunteer availability

• Flexible so during office hours if necessary for certain events but evenings if preferred
• You would need to be available to attend Committee meetings which normally take place in the evening
• Occasional weekends to attend recruitment events

Estimate of time commitment

• 0 – 3 hours / week – the candidate will be able to offer further time as they wish

Details

The volunteering could be long term. 

Want to help your community? We are seeking up to 10 new Volunteer Generalist Advisers with Citizens Advice South Gloucestershire?

The rewarding role would involve training to help with a vast range of problems. These include but are not limited to benefits, debt, housing and employment.

The charity is particularly keen to encourage applications from people with a diverse range of backgrounds. This is especially the case for people from BAME backgrounds who are currently under-represented.

The role would involve giving advice to clients both face-to-face and over the telephone.

Main duties and responsibilities may include:

• Interviewing clients, both face-to-face and on the telephone, letting the client explain their enquiry and helping the client to set priorities
• Finding, interpreting and communicating the relevant information and exploring options and implications in order that the client can come to a decision
• Acting, where necessary, on behalf of the client, negotiating, drafting or writing letters or making appropriate referrals
• Completing clear and accurate case records
• Recognising the root causes of problems and participating in taking appropriate action
• Keeping up to date on important issues by attending the appropriate training and by essential reading
• Attending team meetings

Personal skills and qualities needed to become a Volunteer Generalist Adviser:

• A commitment to the aims and principles of the service
• Excellent communication skills
• Being open and approachable
• Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing
• Ability to sift through information and extract what is relevant
• Basic mathematical skills, including percentages
• Respect for views, values and cultures that are different to their own
• An understanding of why confidentiality is important
• Being open to using computers on a regular basis
• A positive attitude to self-development and assessment
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Ability to recognise their own limits and boundaries in the role
• Good IT skills essential – ability to use websites/ databases/ research information

Applicants should be IT competent and able to commit to two sessions per week for at least two years.

Training will be held over a full day – probably a Wednesday – each week starting in May/June 2026. There will be additional training time when new recruits can observe experienced advisers.

There will be opportunities to help out for a few sessions prior to training starting so that applicants can check the role is right for them.

African Development Choices (ADC) is a UK-registered charity on a mission to reduce poverty by empowering communities to make more informed choices in the management of public resources.

ADC’s purpose is to enable communities to independently meet their needs for essential services, such as clean water and safe sanitation, and improve lives in Africa.

At ADC we encourage a working culture of seeking and giving input, showing and taking initiative, and commitment to the organisation and its purpose.

We now have an exciting opportunity for a volunteer Senior AI Agent Architect to join ADC and help build a live prototype of MajiGuard AI.

Main purpose of job:

To lead the technical design and hands-on development of MajiGuard AI, an agentic AI prototype that helps ADC identify underused WASH resources, structure recovery and reallocation cases, and verify that recovered value reaches facility upgrades and operations and maintenance.

Division: Technology / AI Innovation

Department: Product & Engineering

Position reports to: Head of AI Innovation

Direct reports for the position: Volunteer AI engineers, developers and technical contributors

Main Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead the end-to-end architecture of MajiGuard AI, including the selection and integration of models, agent workflows, orchestration tools, retrieval systems, data structures and human-in-the-loop controls appropriate for a live prototype.

• Translate ADC’s operational goals into practical AI workflows, especially for identifying underused WASH resources, standardising evidence and case preparation, supporting recovery and reallocation decisions, and verifying delivery of value to facility improvements and ongoing operations and maintenance.

• Build and iterate a live prototype using pragmatic, cost-effective tooling, with strong attention to reliability, traceability, security, maintainability and ease of future scaling.

• Design structured inputs, prompts, evaluation criteria and decision logic so that outputs are useful to non-technical ADC teams working across programmes, research, partnerships and leadership.

• Establish a technical roadmap for the prototype, including architecture choices, milestone planning, testing priorities, deployment options and documentation for future funders, partners and developers.

• Work closely with ADC leadership to shape the product vision and ensure the prototype aligns with ADC’s wider governance and public service innovation model.

• Advise on suitable approaches for data governance, privacy, model risk, hallucination control, auditability and responsible AI use in the context of public-resource management and service delivery.

• Define and monitor prototype success metrics, including usefulness, accuracy, turnaround time, workflow fit, and operational learning that can strengthen grant applications, partnerships and future product development.

• Support the transition from local experimentation to a live prototype environment, including basic cloud or hosted deployment thinking, version control practices and engineering handover readiness.

• Mentor and coordinate other volunteer technical contributors where relevant, helping ADC build a small but high-quality AI capability around MajiGuard AI.

Knowledge, skills, and experience:

Essential

• 8+ years of relevant experience in AI, machine learning, applied NLP, intelligent automation, agentic systems, or modern software engineering for production-grade data or AI products

• Strong hands-on experience designing and building AI systems, including LLM-based applications, retrieval-augmented generation, agent workflows, orchestration frameworks, evaluation pipelines and API integrations

• Experience taking ideas from concept or prototype stage into a usable live product, pilot or production-like environment

• Excellent technical judgement on model selection, system design trade-offs, latency, reliability, observability and cost-conscious engineering

• Strong programming ability, ideally including Python and modern backend tooling, with the ability to work across architecture, implementation and troubleshooting

• Experience designing structured workflows where AI outputs must be reviewable, auditable and useful for operational decision-making
• Ability to simplify complex technical concepts for non-technical stakeholders and translate mission goals into practical product choices
• Interest in using AI to strengthen public service delivery, accountability, governance, resource allocation, or adjacent social impact problems
• Ability to actively take initiative and help set things up in a start-up environment
• Ability to actively seek and give input in a collaborative team environment
• A committed team player with good communication skills
• Available to volunteer at least 8-12 hours a week

Desirable

• Experience with agentic AI products involving workflow automation, task routing, multi-step reasoning, document intelligence or evidence-based case management
• Experience with cloud deployment, containerisation, CI/CD, databases, vector stores, authentication and production monitoring for AI systems
• Experience working on civic tech, govtech, development, WASH, infrastructure, audit, compliance or public-finance-related products
• Experience working in an early-stage start-up or mission-driven organisation and comfortable operating with ambiguity
• Experience mentoring engineers or leading small technical teams across different locations and time zones

What ADC Offers You

This is a volunteer, remote and unpaid position with the following benefits:

• A chance to play a foundational role in shaping MajiGuard AI from concept into a live prototype with real strategic relevance to ADC’s mission
• An opportunity to apply advanced AI and product-building skills to a meaningful public-interest challenge connected to WASH, accountability and service delivery in Africa
• An opportunity to work with a diverse global team and contribute to an organisation seeking systemic social change
• Professional learning, leadership and portfolio-building opportunities through high-ownership work
• Work reference provided

This job description is a written statement of the essential characteristics of the job, with its principal accountabilities, incorporating a note of the skills, knowledge and experience required for a satisfactory level of performance. This is not intended to be a complete, detailed account of all aspects of the duties involved.

Here at African Development Choices, we celebrate diversity, equity, and inclusion. Our teams are made up of people from all over the world and we welcome all applications. If you are disabled or have a long-term health condition, and you require any reasonable adjustments for your application with us, please let us know by contacting recruitment(at)africandevelopmentchoices(dot)org.

As a Volunteer Fundraiser for unpaid carers, you will play a key part in helping Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing secure funding that enables us to continue and expand our vital services for unpaid carers across the borough.

Working alongside senior managers, you will help identify and apply for funding opportunities, assist with administrative and community-based fundraising activities, and represent the charity in local events. Your support will directly contribute to improving the quality of life for carers by enabling new services, resources, and opportunities.

This role is ideal for someone with good communication and organisational skills who enjoys building connections and making a tangible difference in the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Research and help identify funding opportunities relevant to our work with carers.

• Support senior managers with administrative tasks linked to grant applications and fundraising.

• Keep accurate records of fundraising activity, donations, and outcomes.

• Attend and help organise fundraising events that support our mission.

• Assist or lead in writing small grant applications

• Collect and log donated items for our range of services.

• Monitor when key funding streams renew or reopen, ensuring timely applications.

• Carry out any other agreed tasks related to fundraising and community engagement.

• To carry out the above tasks in accordance with the policies of Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing, including our Equal Opportunities, Safeguarding, Confidentiality and Health & Safety.

Preferred Skills and Qualities

• Good understanding of marketing and community engagement.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.

• Experience writing small or medium, funding applications.

• Willingness to travel across the borough to attend events (expenses reimbursed).

• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

• Able to understand and work within resource and role boundaries.

• Passionate about achieving a high-quality service for unpaid carers in Hillingdon.

• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

What You Will Gain

• Purpose and fulfilment: Contribute directly to sustaining and growing services that support unpaid carers.

• Professional experience: Gain valuable insight into charity fundraising, marketing, and community partnerships.

• Skill development: Strengthen your communication, writing, and organisational

skills.

• Confidence building: Engage with funders, local businesses, and the public in meaningful ways.

• Training and support: Receive full induction and ongoing training and guidance from experienced staff.

• Recognition: Be part of a supportive team, attend volunteer celebrations, and receive references or certificates for your contribution.

Additional Notes / Special Requirements

• Flexible working hours and days.

• An enhanced DBS check and references will be required before commencing the role.

• Travel expenses reimbursed in line with Carers Trust Hillingdon & Ealing’s volunteer policy.

Do you want to take part in vegan volunteering around your local area?

You can do that – right here at The Vegan Society. 

We have an ever-growing Community Network of vegans just like you, who have a passion to volunteer and promote veganism where they live. 

Every month, our Network choose from a range of outreach tasks. These could include town centre stalls, writing to a councillor or MP, sharing our campaigns on social media or contacting local businesses. You're in control of how much or how little you do. 

As an Advocate, you will have a network of other Advocates and an Organiser in your area. Your Organiser will be your main point of contact. They will send you tasks every month and ask you to feed back on what you've completed and any positive outcomes. 

Why do we need you to volunteer?

As the vegan community grows, veganism itself becomes better understood. We're finding that more people are looking to The Vegan Society to find out what being vegan is all about.

Local communities are starting to see the vegan movement as something real and something that’s happening in their area. More people are embracing a vegan lifestyle, which we welcome. From new businesses, to families, to councillors, many people need support. This could be with a range of topics: going vegan, finding correct information around a vegan diet, providing vegan options in their business, MPs listening to vegan constituents, and learning about our work.

Local issues are often unique and more varied than national issues. Our volunteers from local areas are vital! They enable us to share our messages and campaigns in an effective way. Research tells us that people are far more likely to trust information from a peer rather than an outside expert, so community volunteering vastly increases the impact of our campaigns.

Our network of committed local vegans across the country is growing! The Vegan Society organises various outreach activities to influence change in every level of society. There are a range of activities going on all the time, from general educational stalls at events to meeting with local policy influencers.

Advocates are a crucial voice in their own community. They ensure that our campaign messages are spread far and wide. They provide a strong vegan presence in local communities.

What does the Advocate role involve?

Being an Advocate for veganism with The Vegan Society will mean communicating with people in your local community. You'll share the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. You will form part of a local group, headed up by a local Organiser. The Organiser will feed back your collective efforts to staff. You will also be invited to our private Facebook group, for vegan socialising and ideas sharing.

You’ll stay in touch with the Organiser and bring your passion to tasks. Activities can range from staffing a stall to giving a talk at an employee event. It could also mean writing to a local newspaper or lobbying an MP.

Messaging can differ every month. Part of our mission statement is to ensure people can remain vegan, so you might focus on getting more vegan options available in local businesses. Or within our Live Vegan for Less campaign, you may share cheap vegan recipes to help people with the cost of living.

When acting as an Advocate, you will use The Vegan Society’s branding and messaging guidelines. Your local Organiser will guide you in doing this, as they hold physical resources and handbooks. You can report any issues and feedback you have to your Organiser. You can also contact staff if your Organiser isn't available or you have any problems.

What training and support is available?

You will be provided with a big welcome and full induction from your local Organiser. They will introduce you to the group and any actions that are ongoing. Any training and development will be provided via your Organiser, and you can also ask for specific training on any areas that you need some development in.

What skills would be useful in doing this role?

• The ability to stay motivated in order to achieve the best possible outcomes
• Good email etiquette, responding in a timely manner
• Committed to veganism and the mission of The Vegan Society
• Ability to stay calm if confronted with differing opinions or challenges
• A good communicator, with the ability to be persuasive
• Confident in communicating with people from a range of backgrounds
• Experience of campaigning
• Any experience in talking with members of the public through customer/public service would be helpful
• Awareness of current affairs, especially those that relate to veganism
• Regular availability and a willingness to stay committed to actions
• Good team player

How much time do I need to invest? 

For Advocates, we ask for people to engage in a minimum of four to six actions per year. An example of an action could be writing to an MP or holding a stall. But the more you can do, the better! On occasion, there may also be online meetings to plan for actions or provide training.

A bit about this role

As a charity we can continue to help cats and kittens in need thanks to the donations we receive at fundraising events from generous members of the public. Our fundraising event helpers have the exciting and varied role of helping at local fundraising events - such as cakes sales, barn dances, quiz nights – and everything in between!
 

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

• help set up and/or man stalls at events
• help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections
• help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances
• promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

This role is really flexible! You could choose to volunteer at one event for a couple of hours or attend multiple fundraising events.

We’ll keep you up to date with upcoming local events where volunteers are needed. You’ll then be able to choose which events you’d like to volunteer at and how many hours you’d like to give. However much time you can give, your contribution will help raise much needed funds to continue the work of Cats Protection.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.