Support volunteer roles

Could you coordinate local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background, just basic I.T and admin skills, the ability to get on with people and good written and spoken English. If so, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Secretary?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a secretary to organise day-to-day activities. This is a key role involving administration and coordinating people. As the first point of contact for SSAFA in the area you will play a crucial part in promoting SSAFA locally, organising local events and ensuring the smooth running of SSAFA across the divisions in your branch.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can match clients to volunteers and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about coordination and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment each week. You would also need to organise and attend a number of regular meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

• Managing the branch office (if applicable) and providing support to all volunteers, especially new ones
• Work with the branch Chairperson, treasurer, and others to ensure smooth running of the branch.
• Accepting referrals and coordinating SSAFA caseworkers, visitors, and helpers accordingly
• Oversee all SSAFA casework across the branch ensuring clients get support that is effective and timely.
• Monitor volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruit new volunteers as needed
• Working with the local training officer to ensure all volunteers are kept up to date with the training and information they need.
• Build relationships with regional and central office staff to ensure an effective flow of information.
• Maintaining accurate records of volunteers and cases, submit accurate data to Central Office
• Providing administration for an annual programme of meetings including an AGM, recording, and implementing decisions
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers, volunteer management – case management and quality. This training would take approx. 4 days.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.
• Support from the Chair of the branch
• Access to the Welfare Team and Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Good written and spoken English.
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to coordinate a team of people volunteering.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to reporting any safety concerns etc
• Reliable attitude, contact clients and volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings, events etc.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a crimanal record check required? No

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a Shop Volunteer you’ll be joining a friendly, welcoming team of volunteers and staff who support each other and have a lot of fun along the way. We value every volunteer and the unique perspective, skills and energy you bring. 

Whether you’re sorting donations, creating beautiful displays, or chatting to customers, every task you take on helps to build a more inclusive world. 

We value volunteer development, and as part of this role your can develop your skills further by training to become a till user alongside your regular shop volunteer responsibilities, or progressing into a Key volunteer, a role which includes opening, running, and closing the shop in the absence of the manager.

No matter your reason for volunteering – whether it’s to meet new people, build new skills or support Sense’s cause – there’s a place for you in one of our shops. 

Due to the nature of the role, we require all applicants to be aged 16 or over. You must have a UK address to volunteer with Sense.

Key responsibilities: Shop volunteer 

You’ll spend time doing a range of activities, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service, helping create a wonderful shopping experience.
• Receiving donated items from the public, thanking them for their support.
• Sorting, steaming and preparing donations for sale.
• Helping to display stock in eye-catching and exciting ways.
• Keeping the shop floor clean, safe and tidy.
• Talking to customers about Sense and the work we do.

Key responsibilities: Till volunteer

Being a till volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop volunteer, however, when you’re ready, we’ll provide you with additional training to:

• Serve customers on the till in a warm and friendly way.
• Put sales through the till, packing them and thanking the customer for shopping with us.
• Talk to customers about Gift Aid and other fundraising initiatives.

If you are interested in becoming a till volunteer straight away, please select ‘Till volunteer’, as well as ‘Shop volunteer’, when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Key responsibilities: Key volunteer 

Being a Key volunteer includes all the same responsibilities as a shop and till volunteer. However, if you’re interested in taking on additional responsibilities, you can train to become a Key Volunteer, helping the shop manager by:

• Helping supervise the shop and other volunteers.
• Supporting the shop manager to make sure customers have a great experience.
• Opening and closing the shop when needed.
• Cashing up at the end of the day. 

If you are interested in becoming a Key volunteer straight away, please select ‘Key volunteer’ when asked which volunteer role/s you are interested in during your application.

Skills and qualities:

This role would suit you if you’re:

• Passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs.
• Calm, kind and have a friendly personality.
• A team player who enjoys working with others.
• Enthusiastic, motivated and someone with a positive attitude.
• Respectful of others. 

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

Solihull Area ONLY - An Independent Visitor is a positive adult role model who provides support and friendship to a young person in care. You will enjoy fun activities together which will give the young person unforgettable memories and experiences. Your consistent friendship will help the young person raise their aspirations, learn new skills, build self-esteem, confidence, and resilience.

We are looking for fun, reliable, and enthusiastic volunteers from all different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences. You do not need any formal qualifications to become a volunteer, but it is helpful if you have some knowledge and practical experience of involvement with children and young people.

Children and young people who are looked after need an adult who has time to spend with them, take them on activities and be someone they can talk to and trust. You can fit your visits in around your own time and work commitments. We only ask that you can commit to a few hours once per month for a minimum of 2 years. 

We urgently require volunteers as an Independent Visitor for children and young people in care. As a volunteer you will:

• Have fun, take young people on outings and maybe share a hobby, sport or interest.
• Offer support and a listening ear and be a positive influence in a young person's life and help build self-esteem and confidence.

You do not need any special qualifications

We are looking for reliable and dependable people from all walks of life

We will provide training and on going support.

Job Type: Volunteer

Pay: £30.00 expenses limit per visit 

Schedule:

• Weekdays in school holidays
• Weekend availability needed

Age: 18 years and over?

As part of the recruitment process you will need to complete an application form, interview, enhanced DBS check, references and digital risk assessment.

We offer a full support package including induction training, online mandatory training and one to one support by your IV Coordinator throughout your volunteer journey.

Volunteer Head of Fundraising – The Lysene Cultural Foundation

Approx. 4–8 hours per month • Flexible • Founding Leadership Role• REMOTE

Ladies and Gentlemen, lovers of classical beauty,

As we prepare to launch The Lysene Cultural Foundation, we are seeking a dedicated, imaginative, and relationship‑driven volunteer Head of Fundraising to join our founding team and lead the development of the Foundation’s philanthropic strategy.

The Foundation exists to advance public understanding of Renaissance, Beaux‑Arts, and classical artistic traditions. We believe that beauty is a public good, something that enriches lives, strengthens communities, and connects us to our shared cultural heritage. Inspired by the artistic world of the Principality of Lys, the Foundation brings this vision to the public through exhibitions, educational programmes, research, and artistic support.

To bring this mission to life, we are seeking a fundraising leader who can help build the financial foundations that will sustain our work and allow classical beauty to flourish in the modern age.

About the Role

We are seeking a volunteer Head of Fundraising who will:

• Lead the creation of the Foundation’s fundraising and development strategy.

• Identify and pursue opportunities across grants, philanthropy, sponsorship, and partnerships.

• Build and nurture relationships with donors, patrons, cultural institutions, and funding bodies.

• Develop compelling cases for support that communicate the value of classical beauty as a public good.

• Support the promotion of fundraising campaigns and public engagement initiatives.

• Work collaboratively with trustees and advisors to ensure sustainable, diverse income streams.

• Dedicate approximately 4–8 hours per month, with full flexibility around schedule and involvement.

• Bring creativity, confidence, and a passion for connecting people with meaningful cultural work.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the philanthropic heart of a new cultural institution from its earliest days.

Our Vision

The Foundation seeks to preserve the elegance of the past, celebrate the creativity of the present, and inspire the artists of the future. Through exhibitions, learning initiatives, and public engagement, we aim to make classical beauty a shared public resource.

Your work as Head of Fundraising will help ensure that this vision is supported by strong, sustainable, and inspiring financial support.

An Invitation

If you believe in the enduring power of beauty and wish to contribute your fundraising expertise to a meaningful cultural mission, we would be delighted to speak with you.

Together, we can build a living legacy of art, architecture, and craftsmanship—one that will flourish for generations.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public.

Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported. Activities include:

· Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers

· Planning fundraising events and activities with your team

· Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events

· Keeping financial records from fundraising events

· Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 

· Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers. You will be supported and guided from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

We're looking for someone with the following:

· Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others

· Excellent organisational skills

· The ability to prioritise and delegate

· An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly

· Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community

· Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided

· Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Many of the men we support experience isolation, low confidence, and barriers to engaging with community life. As a befriender volunteer, you’ll build a consistent, trust based relationship that encourages social connection, helps set and pursue personal goals, and supports wellbeing and independence.

What you will be doing

• Offer regular one-to-one befriending - meeting for a walk, coffee, or a planned activity to reduce isolation and build confidence.
• Provide light, goal focused mentoring - agree simple goals (e.g., joining a group, practicing a routine, building life skills) and check progress together.
• Encourage safe community participation - libraries, local groups, leisure activities, volunteering, or learning opportunities.
• Share clear information and signpost to staff or local services where appropriate
• Accompany to non clinical community appointments, help read/understand letters, complete wellbeing “welfare check ins,” and promote general engagement in the community.
• Keep brief session notes or a simple check in with your supervisor and escalate any concerns immediately in line with safeguarding guidance.

The skills you need

• Warm, patient and non judgemental approach; able to build rapport with adult men from diverse backgrounds.
• Good listening, clear communication and reliability
• Respect for confidentiality and professional boundaries; comfortable following guidance and asking for support.

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.
 

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

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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.

Are you inspired by creativity and the power of stories? Do you want to shape the future of a nationally significant cultural charity? If so, you could become a trustee at the Roald Dahl Museum & Story Centre!

Why this role matters

Our Board of Trustees plays a vital role in ensuring the Museum fulfils its charitable purpose, uses resources wisely, and remains sustainable for future generations. Trustees provide strategic oversight, ensure good governance, and support the long-term vision of the organisation.

We are at the start of an exciting five-year transformation programme to strengthen our impact, grow visitor engagement, and deliver a major capital redevelopment project: “Unlocking Stories at the Roald Dahl Museum”. Trustees will play a pivotal role in guiding the Museum through this important period of change, growth, and opportunity.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking people who want to make a meaningful, strategic contribution and help shape the future direction of the Museum. Trustees work collaboratively to guide strategy, support ambitious plans, and ensure the organisation thrives creatively, financially, and operationally.

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Human Resources – to shape our people strategy, leadership development, and organisational culture.
• Finance – to shape our financial strategy through a major capital project and to ensure the museum thrives long-term (ideally this trustee will be a qualified accountant).
• Fundraising – to grow income and support the delivery of our redevelopment and future sustainability.
• Partnerships – to encourage the development of strategic partnerships nationally and internationally.

You do not need previous trustee experience, nor do you need to have worked in a museum or cultural organisation. We welcome first-time trustees and are looking for people with good judgement, strategic thinking skills, and a collaborative approach. All reasonable expenses are covered.

Time commitment and terms

• Trustees typically contribute around one working day per month, including Board meetings and participation in at least one committee (Finance, Governance, Fundraising, or Capital Project Committee).
• Trustees are appointed for an initial three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for a second term.
• This is a voluntary, unpaid role, but all reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed, including childcare.

Trustees receive a full induction, mentoring, and clear briefing materials, allowing them to focus on strategic oversight rather than operational detail. The Museum encourages and covers the cost of relevant training to support Trustees in their role

Serving as a trustee offers the opportunity to:

• Shape the future of a unique cultural institution with national significance.
• Contribute to an ambitious capital redevelopment and transformation programme.
• Apply your professional expertise in a high-impact, generative leadership role.
• Collaborate with motivated colleagues who share a passion for creativity, heritage, and learning.

Application timeline

• Application closing date = Noon, 20 April 2026
• Interviews at the Museum = 21 May 2026
• Board meeting observation for preferred candidates: Board meeting anticipated to be on 18 June 2026 at the Museum

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

We are delighted to be partnering with Activate Performing Arts (Activate), a 35-year-old arts charity that brings contemporary performance to communities and landscapes across Dorset, the UK, and Europe. Activate is known for its free-to-access outdoor arts, festivals, and touring work, driven by a belief in creativity as a public good, connecting people, place and artistic expression. Keen to continue its evolution while staying true to Activate’s core values, the organisation stands at a pivotal moment for growth and development.

Activate is now seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the Board and support the Artistic & Executive Director in guiding the organisation through the next phase of its development. In this role you will play a key role in shaping the upcoming 3–5-year strategy, supporting Activate prepare for its next Arts Council England National Portfolio application. As Chair, you will also act as an ambassador for Activate through opening networks, championing its work, and supporting the organisation to enhance its visibility and impact.

To succeed in this role, you’ll bring:

• Prior experience as a charity trustee, ideally as Chair, Vice-Chair or committee Chair, with a solid grasp of good governance and Boards.
• Alignment with Activate’s values around free and low-cost access, landscape and nature, equity, diversity and inclusion, and environmental responsibility, with enthusiasm for thoughtful values-led innovation rather than pure commercialisation.
• Fundraising mentality with an understanding of the funding landscape
• A passion and affinity to the arts and culture sector, ideally including performing arts, festivals, arts within landscape or environmental contexts, including nature-based creativity, outdoor arts.
• Confident, inclusive chairing skills, able to bring out quieter voices, hold respectful but robust discussions, and ensure meaningful contribution from all trustees.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your expression of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and a supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, or any other category protected by law.

Contract & Hours: 3-year term (renewable)

Remuneration: Voluntary (expenses reimbursed)

Location: Hybrid, with some travel to Dorset for key meetings and events

Closing date: 29th April 2026

Charisma vetting interviews will be completed on an ongoing basis, so please do apply without delay.

Interviews with Activate: TBC

We are committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment processes. If you have any reasonable adjustments, please confirm in your application, or contact our Operations Teams separately

Empowering Young Women to Lead Change

TuWezeshe is a transformative, year-long fellowship for Black, African and minoritised women aged 18–30. Build your voice, your network, and your power to end gender-based violence.

A Fellowship Rooted in Feminist Solidarity

TuWezeshe Akina Dada is a year-long, OCN-accredited leadership programme designed to equip young Black, African and minoritised women with the skills, confidence, and networks to drive real social change.

Rooted in survivor-led, anti-racist, and community-driven principles, the fellowship nurtures bold, politically conscious leaders ready to challenge inequalities across the UK, Africa, and Europe. Led by FORWARD and Home Girls Unite, TuWezeshe is a unique bridge for collective feminist advocacy against Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG).

A collaborative initiative involving FORWARD, Home Girls Unite, and a strategic network of partners across the UK, Africa, and Europe.

Everything You Need to Lead

As a fellow, you receive structured support, real funding, and a sisterhood that stays with you long after the programme ends.

Leadership Training: 

• 10 weeks of comprehensive training, including a fully funded residential weekend, Built around feminist leadership principles and practical advocacy skills. 

Dedicated Mentorship: 

• Paired with a dedicated mentor who understands your lived experience and supports you throughout your fellowship journey and beyond. 

Social Action Grant: 

• Receive £250 to fund your own social action project tackling gender inequality. Additional fundraising support is available for larger projects. 

Policy Influence: 

• A platform to influence national and international policy. Fellows gain access to spaces where their voices shape the systems that affect their communities. 

Pan-African Network: 

• Join a cross-continental sisterhood of advocates united in feminist solidarity–connections that span the UK, Europe, and across Africa. 

OCN Accreditation: 

• Earn a formally accredited qualification from the Open College Network, recognising your leadership development and skills. 

How the Fellowship Works

A full year of learning, action, and community–here's everything you need to know before you apply.

Commitment & Structure 

• Duration: 1-year programme

• Training: 10 weeks, including a residential weekend and in-person final session

• Residential: 24–26 July 2026 (fully funded, in London)

• Online training: September – December 2026 (dates TBC)

• Social action project: Implementation until September 2027

Financial Support

• Social action grant: £250 per fellow to fund your project

• Fundraising support: Fellows are supported to raise additional funds if their project requires more

• Refundable deposit: £100, returned on completion of the residential

  • If you need an exemption, please email us!

• Travel & expenses: Concessionary reimbursements available for travel and out-of-pocket costs

Are You Ready to Be a Changemaker?

We're looking for bold, driven young women who are passionate about ending gender inequality, and ready to do something about it.

You should apply if you are:

• A Black, African or minoritised woman aged 18–30 living in the UK

• Passionate about social justice and ending gender-based violence

• Committed to community change and building solidarity

• Ready to design and lead your own social action project

• Eager to grow as a leader and join a pan-African sisterhood

Applications now open: deadline May 31, 2026

Take Your First Step

Join a year-long fellowship that will equip you with everything you need to lead real change — from training and mentorship to funding and a global network.

Learn to Love to Read offers one-to-one support to children who find learning to read challenging, in schools and online via Zoom.Our In-school volunteers are asked to commit 90 minutes, one afternoon a week, usually between 1-3 pm.
Our virtual volunteers are asked to commit 30-60 minutes, one afternoon a week, usually between 4-6 pm.

Full training and ongoing support is provided for all volunteers to provide them with a framework which supports children's reading skills, while also building their self-esteem, confidence and love of reading. Our volunteers support the same children each week, providing 20 minutes of one-to-one support for the whole academic year. This ensures a consistent and rewarding experience for both the volunteer and the children.

In Wandsworth, post-COVID, 20% of Key Stage 1 and 25% of Key Stage 2 children did not reach the expected standard of reading in summer 2025. Low literacy is linked to poverty and social exclusion, limiting options in life. Early literacy intervention is crucial to break this cycle. School closures due to COVID-19 have been tough for children from disadvantaged families.
 

Please note we only work with schools in the London borough of Wandsworth and all our volunteers need to live in or within easy reach of that borough. 

In line with Safer Recruitment, all applicants are asked to complete an application form, provide references, take part in a face-to-face interview and ID check, and attend online training which includes safeguarding. All volunteers must have an enhanced DBS check which we arrange on your behalf. You will also be required to obtain checks from any country in which you've lived for more than three months from the age of 16 in line with Wandsworth's guidance. Once you have registered, we’ll send you a link to the application form.

Learn to Love to Read is committed to working without bias and offering equal opportunities for our volunteers. We are committed to valuing diversity and working inclusively across all our activities. Our aim is that everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Are you looking to get involved in the local community or perhaps have an interest in mental health? Volunteering in our mental health services is a rewarding and varied opportunity for someone who is interested in working in this field. You will support by offering a listening ear and will offer individuals tailored mental health support, alongside our team of trained workers. We are looking for a volunteer to facilitate a Men’s group. The group provides a safe, welcoming place for people to meet, share experiences and support each other’s growth.

What you will be doing

• Facilitate discussions
• Create a supportive environment for men to connect, share experiences, and empower each other
• Prepare hot drinks and snacks
• To negotiate/facilitate conflicts or disagreements that may arise during group meetings.

The skills you need

• Ability to create and maintain a safe environment where participants’ thoughts and feelings are valued, and group members are treated with fairness, equity and respect
• Experience of facilitating groups.
• Strong listening and communication skills

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

The role in a nutshell:

Age UK Cheshire's Sharing Time Reconnect Befriending service strives to reduce loneliness and isolation by matching our volunteers with older people via a meaningful befriending relationship.

Please note: You must be located within Cheshire to apply for this role

What will you be doing?

You will be working with your befreindee and the Service Coordinator to understand their goals and how you can help them to achieve them. This could involved visiting the befreindee at their home for a chat, a walk, or a coffee in town. Depending on their goals, this could also include supporting and facilitating access to local groups and physical activities e.g. craft groups, coffee mornings, lunch clubs or meeting up for a coffee with other befriendees to form their own friendship group. 

How would you be supported in this role?

Our volunteers receive an initial induction into the work and policies of our charity and then specific training on befriending, health and safety and safeguarding. You will be part of a caring and experienced team and have the support of a dedicated service coordinator. 

Why do we need volunteers in this role?

Loneliness among older people is a growing crisis. By volunteering with Age UK Cheshire’s Sharing Time Reconnect project, you will offer more than a regular visit – you will offer a lifeline to older people in your community. 

Befriending visits usually last around between 1 and 2 hours in business hours. They are typically weekly but can be flexible depending on the individual you are supporting and their circumstances. We also appreciate that volunteers may have other commitments, such as caring responsibilities so we will work with you and the individual to agree a pattern which works for everyone.  ​

What skills, interests or experience might be helpful in this role?

• Patience and a warm and friendly attitude. 
• Active listening skills with the ability to motivate others.
• A wish to support older people in a person- centred manner, taking account of preferences and abilities.
• Awareness of acting in a way that respects equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Willingness to follow guidance to keep yourself and others safe.

Additional information:

• This role is subject to police checking by the Disclosure and Barring Service.
• You will need to be willing and able to travel to your befriendee and travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• We are looking for volunteer befrienders throughout Cheshire.