Social work volunteer volunteer roles

Become a Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people 

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Trustee. 

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and the National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year. 

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education. 

Role Snapshot 

• Shape Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitor performance 
• Ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document 
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity 
• Oversee effective use of resources and long-term sustainability 
• Support and advise the CEO, ensuring delivery against agreed objectives 
• Act as an ambassador, promoting Young Citizens and building relationships with partners, funders, and supporters 

Why join as a Young Citizens Trustee? 

Being a Young Citizens trustee is a strategic and deeply rewarding opportunity. You will: 

• Help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education and democracy 
• Collaborate with fellow trustees bringing expertise in education, law, finance, communications, governance, and public affairs 
• See our impact first-hand by attending key events such as programme launches and the National Finals of our competitions 
• Support a small but highly skilled staff team (around 13 colleagues across the UK) and a network of 1500+ professional volunteers 
• Contribute to decisions on resource investment, digital development, programme growth, and deepening impact 

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society. 

What We Are Looking For 

We’re seeking two trustees who can help Young Citizens expand our reach, influence, and financial resilience. You don’t need prior trustee experience, we provide a full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support.

We’re especially interested in those with expertise in one or more of the following areas: 

• Citizenship teaching or school leadership – understanding how schools work and how to embed civic learning and active citizenship across the curriculum. 
• Marketing, communications and influencing – building brands, running campaigns, shifting perceptions and engaging educators, young people and supporters. 
• Business growth, strategic partnerships and business development – scaling organisations, securing strategic partnerships and growing mission-aligned income streams. 
• Digital transformation or innovation – using digital tools, products or platforms to grow impact. 
• Fundraising and income generation – philanthropy, trusts and foundations, corporate fundraising or individual giving. 

We continue to welcome applications from those experienced in leadership, public service, law, finance, policy or youth engagement.

If you’re ready to help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education, influence strategy and strengthen UK democracy through education, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Requirements 

The role requires around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings. Trustees attend four board meetings a year at our St Paul's office (usually weekday evenings), monthly online finance updates, and an annual Away Day. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential renewal. While day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and senior team, trustees hold ultimate responsibility for governance and compliance.

To learn more about the role and the application process, please refer to the job pack for full details. 

Do you have a passion for African and Diaspora history and a vision for empowering communities through knowledge? Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is seeking a dynamic Book Club Coordinator (African & Diaspora History Lead) to join our founding volunteer team. This role is central to curating, facilitating, and promoting a transformative learning space that nurtures understanding, critical thinking, and cultural pride for survivors, young people, and community members.

As Book Club Coordinator, you will design, manage, and facilitate a structured book club programme focused on African and Diaspora history, literature, and thought leadership. You will work closely with the Membership Director and Community Engagement Manager to ensure the club fosters critical reflection, inclusive discussion, and actionable learning. This role combines operational coordination, educational facilitation, and community engagement, offering a unique opportunity to impact knowledge sharing and collective empowerment.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Strong knowledge of African and Diaspora history, literature, political thought, and cultural movements
• Experience in facilitation, teaching, programme coordination, or group learning environments
• Excellent communication, storytelling, and group leadership skills
• Ability to engage diverse participants in respectful, inclusive, and meaningful dialogue
• Confidence holding complex conversations around history, power, identity, and resistance
• Ability to motivate participation and sustain group energy over time
• Strong organisational skills, including session planning and follow-up
• Ability to document discussions and translate insights into learning outcomes
• Experience working in community, grassroots, or culturally rooted spaces
• Commitment to collective learning, cultural integrity, and community-centred education
• Reliability, consistency, and a collaborative approach to programme delivery

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Competence with digital tools for scheduling, virtual engagement, and content sharing (e.g. video platforms, shared documents, community spaces)

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications in history, education, cultural studies, or related fields are welcome but not required; equivalent professional or lived experience is equally valued

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Curate reading lists and learning materials: Develop thoughtful, accessible reading lists focused on African and Diaspora history, literature, political thought, and cultural movements. Select texts that reflect diverse geographies, time periods, and perspectives, balancing academic depth with community accessibility.
• Plan and facilitate book club sessions: Organise, schedule, and lead regular book club sessions in both online and in-person formats. Design session structures that support preparation, discussion flow, and inclusive participation. Create a welcoming environment that encourages shared learning rather than hierarchical instruction.
• Lead critical discussion and reflection: Facilitate informed, respectful, and challenging conversations that encourage participants to analyse texts critically, reflect on historical and contemporary relevance, and apply learning to personal, collective, or organisational contexts.
• Participant engagement and learning tracking: Monitor attendance, participation levels, and learning outcomes to assess engagement and identify opportunities for improvement. Adapt facilitation approaches based on participant feedback and group dynamics.
• Coordinate guest contributors: Identify, invite, and coordinate guest speakers, authors, historians, or subject matter experts whose lived experience or expertise enhances discussion and deepens understanding of selected themes.
• Digital collaboration and engagement: Work with digital teams to support virtual sessions, share reading materials, discussion prompts, and supplementary content. Encourage ongoing dialogue through online platforms between sessions.
• Documentation and programme development: Capture key discussion points, insights, and participant feedback. Contribute to reflective summaries and recommendations that inform future reading selections and programme development.
• Link to wider CIC initiatives: Align book club themes with broader CIC educational goals, membership programming, and community initiatives. Support the integration of learning into collective practice, leadership development, and cultural programming.

What This Role Offers You:

• Leadership experience in designing and facilitating an educational programme with social impact.
• Personal growth through engagement with communities, critical reflection, and cultural education.
• Opportunity to shape a flagship learning initiative within a pioneering, values-led CIC.
• The satisfaction of empowering participants to connect with their history, identity, and collective culture.

What This Role Is Not For:

• Individuals seeking purely administrative tasks or content curation without engagement.
• Those unwilling to guide discussions that challenge assumptions and promote accountability.
• People expecting rigid, pre-defined responsibilities—this role requires creativity, facilitation skills, and adaptive problem-solving.

If you are ready to lead learning, inspire critical engagement, and strengthen community knowledge of African and Diaspora history, we want to hear from you. Apply now and become a key driver of transformative cultural education.

A Final Word

Learning is about people, not just books.

If you know that:

• Trust is built through thoughtful facilitation, care, and intellectual honesty
• Respectful handling of stories, histories, and lived experiences is a safeguarding responsibility
• Listening deeply and honouring diverse voices keeps learning communities strong

 …then you understand the heart of leading a book club rooted in African and Diaspora history.

Are you interested in giving back to your local community?

Can you bring the relevant experience to help us extend our reach and enable us to reach more young people and sustain our growth?

We are currently recruiting for Chair, Treasurer and Trustee Board Members. 

What will you be doing?

Welcome to YMCA Thames Gateway and thank you for taking the time to look into our voluntary leadership roles. This is an exciting time to get involved in our YMCA. We work across a number of geographical locations, including East London, Essex and Kent, with a commitment to making a positive difference within the communities in which we work.

To help us in the next chapter of our journey, we are looking to recruit Trustees who can help us shape our new strategy and develop the strength; depth and resilience of our charity’s work, helping more people belong, contribute and thrive.

We have a strong and vibrant Trustee Board and we are looking to extend its diversity and skills base so that we are well prepared for the future.

Though we actively encourage people of all faiths and world views to work, volunteer and become members of our Association, it is a requirement that two thirds of those who sit on our Board are Christian in order to maintain the Christian purposes of the Association. We recognise that faith is a deeply personal part of our lives and that part of the great mystery is the uniqueness by which our faith lives and breathes in our lives and actions. There is no test or specific criteria for how an individual makes manifest their Christian commitment, rather we ask Board colleagues to self-identify on their faith basis and agree to live out and champion the Christian values that underpin the work of our YMCA in their service.

We would particularly like to hear from people who self identify as Christian and who have experience and expertise in one or more of the following areas:-

• Capital Developments
• Social Housing Management
• Fundraising
• Working with Children & Young People
• ICT
• Governance
• Finance

Our trustees are required to attend 8 evening meetings per year.  8 of those are Board meetings and usually in Dartford, the other 8 will be for an agreed board sub-committee.

In addition, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Trustee Board reach sound decisions. These may involve scrutinising board and committee papers, contributing to discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

If you believe you have the experience and skills to help us on our journey, we would like to hear from you.

What are we looking for?

• To develop and agree the long-term vision, mission and strategic plan for the Association
• To ensure the Association acts within the aims and purposes of the Association and the wider Movement and to ensure the board expresses the Christian mission of the Association within its work
• To ensure plans and annual budget reflect the agreed strategic direction and are appropriate
• To monitor progress against key outcomes from the plan and against budget and to hold the Chief Executive and Executive team accountable for these
• To contribute actively to the work of committees and task groups
• To pro-actively review the level of risk annually
• To agree the Association’s key policies and ensure they contribute to the achievement of the Association’s intended outcomes
• To ensure the Association has effective and appropriate financial control systems and procedures
• To ensure the Association complies with the requirements of its multiple regulators
• To ensure governance is of the highest possible standard
• To work in partnership with board, committees, Chief Executive and staff
• To reflect annually on the Board’s performance, collectively and individually
• To appoint the Chief Executive, and to set their terms and conditions
• To play a part in representing YMCA Thames Gateway on a regional, national and international level
• To promote and develop the role of the Association in the community and with its stakeholders

What difference will you make?

YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by, and faithful to, our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive and energising communities, where young people can truly belong, contribute and thrive.

Before you apply

To express an interest in becoming a trustee, please send an up to date CV together with a supporting statement via Reach explaining how you believe your experience and skills are relevant and what you are able to bring to the role.

Trustee of Sandhurst Day Centre Association, with a focus on strategic oversight of facilities & building management 

Do you want to support and improve the running of our services for older people, with an oversight of our building?

You could be a trustee for Sandhurst Day Centre Association, our charity that provides activities and social time for local older people, in our bespoke Centre.

Developed in the 1970s and first Registered in 1983, the charity is an unincorporated Association, with work in progress to become a Charitable Incorporated Organisation.

In 2024, the Centre turned over ~£300k, an increase from previous years, with a small surplus made. The Centre Manager, employees and volunteers are responsible for day-to-day running, while trustees offer strategic oversight of operations, planning for the future.

The role and what we are looking for in a new trustee

Trustees are the people who make the top-level decisions for our charity. Our Board includes people with experience in services for older people, and we’d expect all trustees to have empathy with our cause and our beneficiaries. 

We are looking for a new trustee to add additional professional input to the running of the building and its facilities. The role will aid the Centre Manager by offering analyses of Health & Safety, building management and the physical environment. You will bring relevant knowledge, skills and experience in these and associated areas.

You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as full induction to our organisation will be provided, plus specialist support as a new trustee including access to external training.

If you can think strategically and plan long-term, you have the primary skills needed by our trustees; you’ll also need to be able to work collectively with other Board members. Support from our paid employees is always available, as they will be dealing with the day-to-day running of the organisation.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for people from a variety of backgrounds to join our charity. We want to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups. 

The focus of a trustee role is strategic, and trustees will not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, contact and liaison with other trustees, volunteers and employees is expected.   

We ask for about five hours per month, which includes all meetings, discussions, etc.  You will need access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

How to apply  

A detailed Role Description and Skills Specification is attached to this advert, with more further information and application to Brian Wilson, SDCA trustee, via Apply Now, below.

Your CV (or similar) and Cover Letter will be read by our existing trustees, and an interview offered as soon as mutually convenient.

Trustees - Parkrun

We’re pleased to announce an exciting opportunity for two trustees.

Parkrun is a health and wellbeing charity and our vision is to create a healthier and happier planet.

Since our conception in 2004, parkrun has evolved into a global social movement with a vibrant and inclusive community at its core. As of 2025, we have recorded over 120-million instances of walking, jogging, running, and volunteering.

Our mission is to transform lives by empowering people to be active, together, outdoors in their local community; and to protect parkrun for the generations to come. Each and every weekend, we deliver free, weekly timed events that people of all ages and backgrounds can join in. By tackling barriers to participation, we encourage communities to come together and embrace regular physical activity.

Now in its 22nd year, parkrun spans over 2,800 locations in 23 countries with more than 11 million people registered, and counting. And we have really only just begun.

The role

We are excited to announce that we are now recruiting two new trustees for parkrun’s Global Board. The new trustees will bring their diverse perspectives to provide valuable support to the parkrun charity in making the world a happier and healthier place and deliver on our global objectives.

Our trustees and committee members are a vital part of our volunteering community. While the role is unpaid, reasonable expenses will be reimbursed

What is it?

This is an opportunity to work with a diverse, passionate board and leadership team where you can play a pivotal role in helping us to achieve our ambitious five-year global strategy. By becoming a trustee on parkrun’s Global Board, you will help to shape the future of the world’s largest health and wellbeing movement.

Being a trustee is more than simply attending board meetings; it offers you the chance to be part of something that really matters and brings all types of people together. In this position, you will bring your unique expertise to help break down barriers to physical activities, and you will see the positive effects of your work in the wider parkrun community, every weekend.

Who are we looking for?

Our Trustees bring a range of skills and experience to the charity. As we expand further across the world, we are specifically looking for global experience and with one of these two skill sets and experiences:

• Knowledge of sports governance, whether in a National Governing Body or other similar entity, and safeguarding.

AND / OR

• Significant experience as an Ambassador and/or Event Director at parkrun. We are open to applications from our international volunteers.

Knowledge and experience of digital, charity governance or fundraising within a charity would also be preferred. One of the two profiles could also have the ability and experience to fulfil the role of Welfare and Safety Lead for the Board.

The time commitment is estimated at 1-2 days per month. This includes attending usually four board meetings a year, as well sub-committee meetings as required (sub-committees are usually virtual), and any annual gatherings. Trustees usually join one or two sub-committees.

The deadline for applications is 1 February 2026.

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

Overview of the role: Trustees are responsible for providing appropriate governance and leadership to the charity in the pursuit of its strategies, to fulfil its charitable purposes.

A trustee may also lead on a specific area of responsibility dependant on personal skills and experience.

Key tasks

Trustee Responsibilities:

• Attend and actively take part in each trustee meeting.
• Update the trustee board on the progress of any specific area of responsibility.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• Develop a long-term strategy for the foodbank with clear objectives which can be monitored and adapted.
• Ensure the organisation’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined and made publicly available when necessary.
• Ensure the charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law. 
• Ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as looking after contractual agreements with external partners that award money for core costs and additional projects.
• Help promote the organisation to a wider audience of potential funders and beneficiaries.
• Ensure the foodbank has appropriate procedures to: comply with current legislation and good practice; including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding and GDPR compliance/data protection etc.
• Act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role.
• Serve as an additional promoter of the foodbank in the community.

About you

• Respectful of the Christian values the foodbank was founded on.
• A willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning the operation and future development of Clay Cross Foodbank.
• An abiliity to demonstrate sound, independent judgement and an ability to think creatively
• Enthusiastic to be involved in the development of Clay Cross Foodbank.
• Understand the role of a foodbank.

Benefits of volunteering

• Using your existing skills to make a difference.
• Gain new skills/experiences as you work with fellow trustees.
• Meet new people who share your passion to eradicate poverty in the local community.
• Make a real difference to the running of the foodbank.

Impact of your role

By supporting the foodbank operation, you are ensuring that Clay Cross Foodbank can provide vital holistic support in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or in contact with the foodbank.

Trustee (Digital Engagement)
Help shape the future of UK safety policy

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

To deliver this ambition, we are refreshing our Trustee Board and seeking a Digital Engagement Trustee to modernise our outreach and expand our influence beyond our traditional membership.

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

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

About The Hazards Forum

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

Strategic Focus (to 2030):

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

2.Developing collaborative partnerships with government, industry and academia

3.Improving industry connectivity by breaking down sector silos

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

The Role: Trustee for Digital Engagement

To influence society, we must reach beyond our traditional membership. We are seeking a digital strategist to help us adopt a digital-first approach, ensuring our work reaches younger professionals and contributes to wider public debate.

You will provide strategic oversight of our digital presence, helping to grow audiences, improve engagement, and helping us to translate complex technical content into accessible, compelling narratives. 

Key Responsibilities:
• Provide strategic direction on digital engagement and audience growth
• Advise on lowering barriers to participation for younger and more diverse professionals
• Guide the development of clear, engaging digital content from technical material
• Support the use of analytics to focus effort on high-impact digital activity

The Ideal Candidate:
• Experience in digital marketing, strategic communications, or content strategy
• Strong understanding of community building, social media, and data analytics
• Strategic, outcome-focused mindset
• Charity sector or trustee experience desirable but not essential

Practicalities

 Time Commitment:

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

Terms:

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

Diversity & Inclusion:

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

We are looking for a finance professional to join our engaged and friendly board as Treasurer, with specific oversight of the charity’s financial management. While day-to-day financial administration is carried out by employees or external providers, the Treasurer works closely with them and the Board to ensure sound financial governance. The Treasurer provides financial leadership, helps trustees understand the organisation’s finances, and ensures that the charity meets its financial and statutory obligations.

You will have a qualification in Financial Management, Accounting, or Audit, or perhaps be a senior Finance Manager or Director in a charity. We welcome applications from people for whom this is their first Treasurer role, but we are seeking candiates who have some understanding and/or experience of the charity sector.  We are willing to provide access to training around the treasurer role, but a basic knowledge of charity accounting and financial management would be a strong advantage.

You will have the ability to communicate financial information clearly to those without financial expertise and be a strategic thinker, with the ability to balance financial scrutiny with broader trustee responsibilities.

Our board meet once a month (either virtually or in person in London) for around 90 minutes. We aim to have strategy days twice a year. You will meet with the CEO and Finance Manager once a month, and be available for ad hoc emails, advice. Trustees are usually appointed for a three-year term, which can usually be extended. 

You will also bring a commitment to the values, aims, and objectives of the charity, and a desire to help children and young people who have experienced grief.

Make a real difference for young people in Greater Manchester!
Join the board of Change The Youth NW, a youth-focused charity empowering 5–18-year-olds through mentoring, life skills programs, and exciting activities. Shape the future of our charity, help young people thrive, and gain valuable governance experience.

About Us

Change The Youth NW is a non-profit providing meaningful opportunities, activities, and support for young people aged 5–18. We remove barriers like cost, travel, and accessibility, helping young people develop skills, confidence, and leadership to succeed in education, employment, and life.

Our projects include:​

• Youth development projects

• Sports & physical activities

• Residentials and day trips (e.g., Blackpool, Lake District, planned international trips)

• 1–2–1 mentoring and support

• Seasonal events and workshops

Our culture: Relaxed, supportive, flexible, with opportunities to shape new programs, attend social events, and gain hands-on experience in charity work.

Role Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic trustees to guide our charity’s strategy and governance. This is a chance to make a real impact, gain trustee experience, and contribute to a growing, energetic organisation.

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure the charity delivers its mission and operates legally and effectively

• Set long-term strategy and monitor progress

• Oversee finances, policies, and safeguarding

• Promote the charity’s values and reputation

• Offer advice, specialist knowledge, and support for new initiatives

Person Specification

Essential:

• Commitment to our mission and values

• Willingness to devote time and effort

• Confidence to share ideas and work collaboratively

• Understanding (or willingness to learn) trusteeship responsibilities

• Respect for safeguarding, confidentiality, and professionalism

• Commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, leadership)

Desirable:

• Experience with young people

• Skills in finance, safeguarding, youth work, administration, project planning, marketing, fundraising, or community engagement

Time Commitment

• Quarterly meetings (online or in person)

• Occasional involvement in policies, decisions, or events

• Optional involvement in programs or fundraising

Benefits

• Make a lasting impact on young people’s lives

• Gain trustee and governance experience

• Flexible hours and online participation

• Learn about charity management, safeguarding, and youth work

• Shape innovative programs and initiatives

How to Apply

Submit a short CV and covering statement explaining your interest and relevant skills or experience.

We are looking to recruit a Youth Programme Coordinator, for a minimum commitment of 6 months, to manage our Youth Programme. The Youth Programme works with young refugees and asylum seekers in the Epirus region of Northern Greece, providing them with a sense of community and experiences that they wouldn’t otherwise receive!

In this role,  you would be coordinating the daily planning and delivery of activities for young refugees in the sites in which we're operating in the Epirus region of Northern Greece.

The programme usually consists of English classes, thematic and social and emotional learning workshops and excursions. The programme engages children between the ages of 8 and 16.

For this role, you would initially work as a Youth Programme team member so that you could develop an understanding of the programme, the people involved, and the organisation as a whole.

Your role would include:

• Coordinating, delegating, and managing a team of 2-5 team members in the daily operations of the Youth Programme

• Directly supervising and supporting team members, providing feedback to ensure the quality of the programme remains high

• Delivering effective inductions to transfer key skills/knowledge to team members

• Developing the current programme in coordination with the Education Manager and Youth Programme team members

• Assessing the impact and effectiveness of the programme in line with its objectives

• Planning and delivering effective and dynamic educational and outdoor activities, within a theme-based curriculum

• Training new team members in appropriate behavioural management techniques

• Capturing data and compiling evaluation reports on the programme

You should be able to:

• Prioritise and delegate tasks effectively

• Manage a wide range of tasks and intense workload effectively and efficiently 

• Manage individuals effectively to create a positive team environment in which shared problem solving is encouraged

• Oversee the delivery of programme activities and the completion of vital administrative and logistical tasks

• Be honest and transparent; be able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way

• Communicate in English, both written and orally

• Learn quickly, managing a wide-ranging and intense workload

• Understand what is required to work and effectively communicate in complex and volatile contexts

• Care for people: the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working with children specifically in the refugee context

• Experience in leadership roles and have knowledge in how to effectively manage a team

• Knowledge of pedagogical tools and programmes suitable to children in the refugee context 

What do we offer?

• A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow; investing in personal and professional development.

• Accommodation in a shared house

• Transportation to/from work

• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Looking for an internship?

If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.

Location: UK - Wide (meetings mainly in person, some virtual)
Contract Type: Volunteer
Term: 3 years (with potential renewal)
Campaign Closes:19th February 2026

Interviews: W/C 9th March & 16th March 2026 – Trustee/SLT interviews
                    W/C 16th March or 23th March 2026 – STARboard interviews
                  31st March 2026 (approximately) – Recommendation expected
                  6th May 2026 – Final Board approval

Join Our Board as a Trustee – Make-A-Wish UK
At Make‑A‑Wish UK, we create joy, hope and life‑changing moments for children facing critical illness. We are seeking an inspiring Chair of the Board to provide strategic leadership, champion our mission and ensure strong governance as we work towards our vision: a wish for every eligible child.

Why join us?

• Shape the strategic direction of a national charity transforming the lives of children with critical illness.
• Lead a purpose‑driven, inclusive board, ensuring diverse voices including young people influence decision‑making.
• Use your experience where it matters most, providing governance, stewardship and support to an ambitious executive team.
• Be part of a deeply rewarding mission, helping ensure every eligible child can experience the power of a wish.

If you are ready to make a lasting impact and lead with purpose, we would love to hear from you. 

For the full recruitment pack, and to apply for this role, please visit our website.

Requirments 

Essential Criteria

• Leadership Experience: Demonstrable experience of chairing boards, committees, or senior leadership teams, ideally within the charity or non-profit sector.
• Governance Knowledge: Strong understanding of charity governance, legal responsibilities of Trustees, and regulatory environment in the UK.
• Strategic Thinking: Proven ability to drive organisational strategies and build commitment to a collective vision.
• Communication Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to facilitate balanced discussions and consensus.
• Commitment to Diversity: Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s work.
• Passion for Mission: a deep commitment to Make-A-Wish UK’s vision, values and behaviours.
• Integrity: Highest standards of integrity, probity, and professionalism

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience of leading transformational change to significantly increase reach and scale in operations
• Strong personal networks that can benefit the charity
• Understanding of the challenges facing children with critical illnesses and their families

Personal Attributes 

• A child focused approach always
• A consultative, inclusive, and collaborative style of leadership with the ability to listen and engage effectively 
• Strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities, including empathy and sensitivity, especially when interacting with wish families and children
• Sound judgement and decision-making ability.
• Ability to commit time to the role, including travel and attending events out of office hours

Eligibility
The successful candidate must be eligible to act as a Trustee under UK charity law and willing to undertake an Enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.

Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Governance: Provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring effective governance practices and compliance with statutory responsibilities.
• Board Meetings: Chair Board meetings, ensuring clear agendas, productive discussions, and timely decision-making.
• Strategic Direction: Work collaboratively with the Chief Executive and Trustees to set and review the charity’s strategic objectives and performance.
• Support and Supervision: Provide guidance and support to the Chief Executive, undertaking annual appraisals and ensuring their continued development as an effective leader.
• Board Development: Lead on Trustee recruitment, induction, and ongoing development, reviewing board effectiveness and taking actions for continuous improvement
• Promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all the charity’s activities and ensuring that diverse voices, including those of young people and lived experience, are heard by the Board.
• Risk and Compliance: Oversee the charity’s risk management, ensuring that policies and procedures are robust and regularly reviewed.
• Financial Oversight: Ensure the Board fulfils its duties regarding financial stewardship, budgeting, and monitoring performance against objectives
• Advocacy: Champion the charity’s values and mission, advocating for Make-A-Wish UK within the sector and the wider community. Represent Make-A-Wish UK externally, fostering relationships with stakeholders, donors, and partners.

The Chapter constitutes the board of charity trustees of Worcester Cathedral (registered charity: 1207427). The Chapter comprises members who are lay and ordained, executive and non-executive as set out in the Cathedral’s Constitution. The non-executive members provide constructive challenge, input and support to the Cathedral’s strategic direction and operational implementation.

Commitment

Meetings: The Chapter currently meets formally 8 times per year (including two away days), usually for four hours on a weekday morning. Papers are received in advance and all members of the Chapter are expected to have read papers and be prepared to contribute as needed to discussion.

The Chapter does not normally meet in August. Expenses can be claimed for attendance at meetings or carrying out functions on behalf of the Chapter. Non-executive members of the Chapter will serve as lay canons of the Cathedral (or honorary canons if ordained), having the right to the title of ‘Canon’ and of being assigned a stall in the Cathedral’s 14th Quire. Non-executive members of the Chapter are required to adhere to the Chapter Member / Trustee Code of Conduct

Responsibilities of the Chapter:

A non-executive member of the Chapter shall take a full part in the discussions and decision-making of the Chapter as it fulfils its statutory responsibilities:

• to order the worship and promote the mission of the Cathedral;
• to formulate proposals in connection with the strategic direction and mission of the Cathedral;
• to manage all property vested in the Cathedral and the income accruing from it;
• to ensure that necessary repairs and maintenance of the Cathedral and its contents and other buildings and monuments are carried out;
• to attend to all matters concerning the appointment of staff to the Cathedral;
• ​to prepare an annual budget for the Cathedral;
• to prepare an annual report and accounts;
• to keep under review the Constitution and Statutes of the Cathedral;
• to ensure legal and regulatory compliance;
• to meet safeguarding requirements and ensure best practice; 
• to exercise the power if necessary to provide for the incorporation of limited companies for the better management of the Cathedral.

Contributing to the Cathedral's Life, Worship and Mission:

A non-executive member of the Chapter shall contribute the skills and experience they bring to the Cathedral as opportunity allows, for example:

• by serving on such incorporated limited companies as the Chapter may establish, on sub-committees of the Chapter and on any working groups of the Chapter as may be created;
• by attending and contributing to worship at the Cathedral;
• by contributing to the ministry of hospitality offered at the Cathedral and to such other Cathedral activity as may be appropriate;
• by acting as an advocate for the Chapter of Worcester Cathedral within and beyond the Church of England, across the city, the Deanery and the Diocese of Worcester and the wider region;
• by serving as a Canon of the Cathedral, being seen and present as such, as may be appropriate; 
• by providing critical friendship and constructive challenge to Chapter colleagues, the Chief Officers and the wider Senior Executive Team.

In general:

• to ensure their own compliance with the Chapter’s policies and procedures, and contribute to the review and development of policy and practice;
• to promote and uphold the Cathedral’s reputation and good standing at all times.

Person specification

Essential

1. Communicant member of the Church of England (within the meaning given in Rule 83(2) of the Church Representation Rules), or a communicant member of a Church which is not in communion with the Church of England but subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity
2. Committed to the Cathedral’s Christian vision, values, mission and ministry.
3. Able to carry out legal duties as set out in the Charity Commission’s ‘CC3 - The Essential Trustee’ and make decisions in accordance with the guidance provided in ‘CC27 – Decision-making for charity trustees’.
4. Willing to follow the Chapter’s Code of Conduct and to uphold all of the Chapter’s safeguarding responsibilities.
5. Willing to complete appropriate safeguarding training and DBS checking.
6. Demonstrable strategic leadership and governance skills; previous experience volunteering as a trustee is welcome but not essential.
7. Willingness to attend to professional personal development including undertaking training.
8. Able to commit a minimum of eight hours a month to attending Chapter meetings (or other business on behalf of the Chapter) including preparation for meetings.

Desirable

1. A professional background or significant experience of working in one (or more) of the following areas:
   •  strategic human resources management
   • property management / development
   • strategic planning

ELIGIBILITY

The Chapter members must be eligible to be trustees under the Charities Act. The Chapter members may not act as a trustee if they are disqualified unless authorised to do so by a waiver from the Commission. The reasons for disqualification, issued by the Commission include:

• being bankrupt or having an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA);
• having an unspent conviction for certain offences;
• being on the Sex Offenders Register

Here at Youth4Youth, we have grown a strong, tight-knit community of individuals who are passionate about making a difference and improving the lives of young people across the UK. Our growing team of volunteers all contribute, significantly, to the impact that we have as a charity on our direct beneficiaries, regardless of the department that they work in of the level of time that they are able to commit. Our services primarily offer a peer-support network to young people right across the UK, allowing them to access a peer mentor who is of a similar age to them and somebody that they feel more comfortable speaking with.

If successful, you will be joining a growing team of diverse, but likeminded individuals, collaborating to increase the reach of the Charity and improve support provisions available to young people. All of our volunteers and employees are remote workers, but that doesn't stop us keeping in touch and maintaining a strong positive culture amongst our whole team. 

About the role

Our Peer Mentors are at the forefront of our Youth Services delivery, tackling head on the issues that young people are facing everyday. As a Peer Mentor, you will engage with young people who reach out to Youth4Youth for support, taking time to coach and guide them through the difficulties that they are facing. This exciting opportunity, targeted at individuals who are between the ages of 16 and 25, provides young people with the space to directly impact and transform the lives of young people, significantly improving their overall wellbeing.

Ideal candidates are those who are able to commit to regular volunteering activity of at least 2 hours per week (on average) and who are able to comfortably communicate via written e-mail and other remote chat functionalities.

Responsibilities:

Your core responsibilities as a Peer Mentor at Youth4Youth include:

• Building strong, professional relationships with young people seeking mentoring support.
• Demonstrating commitment to the charity by regular volunteer engagement to maintain ongoing communication with young people (which includes responding to young people within an agreed and reasonable time frame).
• Providing light support, advice and guidance to young people in relation to the troubles that they are facing, in line with the resources provided to you by the charity.
• Maintaining professional boundaries with young people and not seeking to offer support beyond your capability that may put a young person at risk.
• Maintaining regular contact with your Youth4Youth supervisor, with the expectation that you will meet at least once per month for a supervision session that involves reflective practice and a focus on your development as a mentor.
• Providing support as part of our Peer Mentor network to colleagues across the Charity who are also directly supporting young people.
• Maintaining compliance with all policies. Most importantly this means maintaining the right level of confidentiality around your conversations with young people and recognising your safeguarding responsibilities in raising concerns as they arise to keep young people safe.

Peer Mentors are also actively encouraged to get involved in fundraising, outreach and social media activities where they feel comfortable and able to.

Skills 

• Strong written communication skills, such as being able to effectively compose a written e-mail in response to a young person.
• Ability to build strong, professional relationships and maintain trust between yourself and a young person, such as through active listening and adapting to the individual needs of different young people.
• Ability to demonstrate empathy to others.
• Ability to work in a challenging environment and recognise when you may need support yourself.
• Proficient in the use of IT tools, such as Microsoft Outlook.

Our mission is to continue to grow towards becoming one of the best charities in the UK. Our aim is to do this by building a diverse team, rich with different backgrounds and perspectives. Therefore, even if you feel you only are a 75% match, we would still love to hear from you. Skills can be learned, but diversity cannot.

Skills development for you:

As a Peer Mentor at Youth4Youth, you will be required to take part and graduate our Youth Services Academy. This program requires an upfront commitment of 10 - 13 hours of training prior to taking on the role of communicating with young people. This investment in you not only equips you with the understanding of what it takes to be a successful peer mentor, and the skills that you will need, but also is an investment in you. This training will provide you with core soft skills that are transferrable to many opportunities, whether that's in everyday life for you, your education setting or your place of work. All Mentors graduating from the Youth Services Academy will be provided with an electronic certificate to demonstrate your successful completion of the program, which can be shared with potential employers.

Benefits of volunteering with Youth4Youth

We recognise that you will be joining us and giving your time as an 'in-kind' donation, but there must be benefits for you too. When joining our team, you will be open to the following benefits:

• Professional and personal development opportunities in a variety of skill areas through volunteering in real roles. This may be general development or tailored to your specific needs or ambitions
• Becoming a member of a strong network of likeminded individuals, spread across the UK, who you can connect with and collaborate with both within and outside of the Charity
• Access to bespoke discounts, specifically designed for non-profit workers and Youth4Youth volunteers
• Opportunities to truly shape the future of the Charity, having a direct influence over the impact that Youth4Youth has on its direct beneficiaries

The hiring process:

Unlike other roles at Youth4Youth, the hiring process has been simplified for peer mentors, recognising the demographic of individuals that we are seeking to fill these positions. To put you at ease, the hiring process includes:

• An initial application, stating your reasons for wishing to become a Peer Mentor
• A remote interview conducted via Microsoft Teams

Successful candidates at this stage will be invited into the final stage of the recruitment process which includes:

• Satisfactory references being received (these do not need to be employment references)
• A satisfactory DBS check being received
• Successful completion of the Youth Services Academy

Become a Young Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people!

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Young Trustee.

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year.

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Young Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education.

Role Snapshot: 

• Contribute to shaping Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitoring performance
• Help ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document (training provided)
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity
• Support effective use of resources and long-term sustainability
• Work with fellow trustees to advise and support the CEO
• Act as an ambassador for Young Citizens, promoting our mission and building connections

Why join as a Young Trustee?

• Play an important role in guiding a national charity at a critical time for civic education.
• Bring your perspective as a young person to Board discussions - your lived experience matters.
• Gain governance experience, develop leadership skills, and learn how charities operate.
• Receive full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support, including a mentor trustee.

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society.

What We Are Looking For

We’re looking for young trustees who bring fresh ideas, big-picture thinking, and a collaborative spirit. You’ll approach the role with openness and integrity, ready to learn, grow, and champion Young Citizens beyond the boardroom.

We welcome applications from young people aged 18–25 who are passionate about active citizenship and youth voice. You do not need prior board experience - training and support will be provided. We’re looking for potential, and learning as you go is part of the role. If you have experience or interest in any of the following areas, that’s great (but not essential):

• Citizenship education or youth engagement
• Marketing, communications, or influencing
• Business growth and partnerships
• Digital innovation or technology
• Fundraising and income generation

We also welcome diverse experiences or educational backgrounds, including leadership, public service, law, finance, policy, or community involvement.

If you want to play an active role in guiding strategy and making decisions that matter, ensuring hundreds of thousands of young people every year have the skills and confidence to engage fully in society, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Requirements

The role requires around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings. Trustees attend four board meetings a year (usually weekday evenings in London), monthly online finance updates, and an annual Away Day. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential renewal. While day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and senior team, trustees hold ultimate responsibility for governance and compliance. 

To learn more about the role and the application process, please refer to the job pack for full details.