Support volunteer roles

Are you a dog lover? Do you have the time to help raise a life-changing puppy? Would you like to make a difference to someone's life? If you've answered yes to these questions, then this role could be perfect for you! 

As a Puppy Raiser, you'll provide a 6-8 week-old puppy with the vital foundation for its future role as a guide dog. You'll be looking after a puppy for 12-16 months and will guide him or her through training, socialisation, the introduction of new environments and experiences while providing a loving home.

There might be the odd chewed slipper along the way, but nothing beats the rewarding feeling of loving and raising a puppy who will go on to make an enormous difference to someone living with sight loss.

What you'll be doing:

• Engaging with our world-class training programme to prepare your puppy for the next stages of becoming a guide dog.
• Providing care and support for your puppy at home e.g., loving, grooming and feeding him or her. 
• Socialising your puppy and introducing him or her to a variety of environments to increase confidence – this can be as simple as taking your puppy with you to the shops, office or park as you go about your everyday life.
• Teaching your puppy to be comfortable alone - gradually building up from a few minutes to a maximum of four hours.
• Taking your puppy to monthly puppy classes, and interacting with other puppy raisers in your community whilst refreshing your training and sharing tips.
• Meeting with your volunteer manager as frequently as needed to discuss any changes or issues with your puppy.
• Completing short questionnaires about your puppy’s development.

You'll ideally have:

• A loving home with enough time to invest in raising a puppy and attending to their needs (e.g. toilet training). If you work from home or have hobbies, you'll need to be available to give the puppy regular attention alongside these.
• Someone at home who is physically able to handle large breed dogs (around 25-40kg).
• Access to a car, so that you can get your puppy used to travelling.
• The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in the property if you rent your home. 
• A safe secure area outside for your puppy to go to the toilet.

What you'll get:

• The satisfaction of knowing you're supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding feeling of watching a mischievous puppy learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
• The opportunity to participate in our bespoke world-class training programme – this can help you train your own dogs or advance a future career in dog handling.
• The opportunity to have a loveable, canine companion, proven to reduce feelings of stress and improve fitness – you’ll be out walking rain or shine!
• The chance to be part of the inspirational Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people and interacting with a community of puppy raisers in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

s a volunteer you'll have access to our world-class training programme, to implement with your puppy in training, a great bonus for any dog owner! This is delivered in an interactive and engaging manner, using a mixture of different learning techniques virtually e.g., videos, documents and e-learning modules. Examples of the modules you'll have access to include:

• Food manners
• Greeting new visitors
• Being home alone
• Settling in new environments

You'll receive plenty of support from your volunteer manager who will help you work through these training modules with your puppy. We also offer puppy classes for puppy raisers in the local area to get together, share stories and provide refreshers on training techniques. 

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, food costs for the puppy and other materials needed for the puppy’s training. We will also pay an optional allowance of up to £100 a year to offset additional costs, and we have working agreements with certain bus and train operating companies, letting you take your puppy on short training journeys free of charge.

Minimum age of applicant: 18.

To find out if this role is available in your area, please click 'Redirect to recruiter' at the top or bottom of the page, and use the postcode search function on the Guide Dogs website to explore local opportunities.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Roles available at colleges across Stockton-on-Tees

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across Stockton-on-Tees, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers onto governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

We offer specialist governor, chair, and trustee recruitment services as part of our mission to build exceptional boards. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

The Netherton Feelgood Factory exists to support local people. We provide activities, services, and a welcoming space for residents of all ages and backgrounds — but none of that happens without a secure financial foundation. As a small charity, we can't rely on grants and donations alone. Sustainable income from venue hire gives us something equally precious: independence. The freedom to plan ahead, to protect the services people rely on, and to say yes to new ideas. As our Venue Hire & Income Generation Volunteer, you won't just be filling a diary. You'll be helping to future-proof a community asset.

Our organisation provides advice and services to all members of our local community from birth to old age.  We help over 5000 people each year with a variety of health-related or social needs.  Our centre is used as a base for counselling, food distribution, health programmes, children’s activities and social groups.  As funding sources have diminished the demand for our services has increased.  We are actively pursuing other ways to generate income.

We're looking for a volunteer with business, sales, or marketing experience to help us make the most of our fantastic building by hiring it out to local businesses, training providers, clubs, and organisations. Whether you've worked in sales, events, marketing, property, or business development — or simply have a talent for spotting an opportunity and making things happen — we'd love to hear from you.

You'll play a key role in identifying potential hirers, promoting our spaces, and helping us price and package our facilities competitively — all while ensuring the centre's core charitable activities remain protected.

• Identify and approach potential hirers, including local businesses, training providers, clubs, and community organisations
• Develop and maintain a marketing plan to promote the building for hire (e.g. flyers, social media, local business networks, online listings)
• Review and help set competitive, sustainable hire rates for different rooms/spaces and time slots
• Create or improve hire packages (e.g. half-day/full-day rates, regular booking discounts, room set-up options)
• Help develop simple hire agreements, terms and conditions, and invoicing processes (with support from staff/trustees)
• Build relationships with regular or repeat hirers to encourage long-term bookings
• Identify opportunities for new income streams connected to venue hire (e.g. catering add-ons, equipment hire)
• Report progress and income performance to the management team/trustees on a regular basis.

This is a genuinely rewarding role. You'll use your real-world skills to help generate vital income that goes straight back into funding the services our community depends on. You'll have the freedom to be creative — developing hire packages, building relationships with local businesses, and finding new ways to fill our spaces and boost our income.

You won't be doing it alone. Our friendly staff and trustee team will support you every step of the way, and you'll have the flexibility to volunteer in a way that suits your schedule.

If you're approaching retirement and looking for a way to keep your business skills sharp and stay connected, or if you're simply someone who wants to make a difference close to home, this could be the perfect fit.

VOLUNTEER: Company Secretary (Trustee or Non‑Trustee)

SUNSHINE Charity — Positivity • Human Connection • Community • Belonging

SUNSHINE Charity is a vibrant, 100% volunteer‑powered start‑up movement dedicated to bringing SUNSHINE into people’s lives. We aim to help smash loneliness and social isolation by creating welcoming opportunities to connect, participate, learn, volunteer, make friends and feel like you belong.

• We are joyful.
• We are human.
• We are community-powered.
• And now, we are ready for a skilled, organised, confident Company Secretary to help guide our next chapter.

Why We Need You

SUNSHINE is growing — fast. Our programmes, events and volunteer opportunities are about to launch across London, and our governance needs to stay strong, structured and steady as we expand.

Our Founder, who has been carrying the charity forward with enormous heart and energy, is stepping back from leading the board to focus on operational delivery. He will remain as Vice Chair, offering continuity and support — but we now need a Company Secretary who can bring clarity, organisation and governance confidence to a developing board.

Our current trustees are passionate, committed and enthusiastic, but apart from the Founder, they are new to trusteeship. We need someone who can:

• Keep us compliant

• Keep us organised

• Keep us aligned

• Keep us moving

• And help shape a board that reflects SUNSHINE’s culture of positivity, connection, community and belonging

If you’re an experienced governance professional, administrator, trustee, or someone who simply loves structure, accuracy and good process — this role is made for you.

What You’ll Do

As Company Secretary of SUNSHINE Charity, you will:

• Ensure our governance is strong, compliant and well-documented.

• Prepare and circulate board papers, agendas and minutes.

• Maintain statutory records and filings.

• Support the Chair and Vice Chair with board coordination.

• Provide guidance on best practice and charity governance.

• Help newer trustees understand their responsibilities.

• Keep our board running smoothly, positively and professionally.

You’ll be joining a charity where kindness is a superpower, community is everything, and every volunteer helps bring SUNSHINE into people’s lives.

This role can be taken as either:

• A Trustee position, joining the Board formally.

• A Non‑Trustee position, supporting governance without voting responsibilities.

Time Commitment

We keep things simple, structured and manageable.

• Board meetings: Every 3rd Monday, 7–9pm.

• Working groups: Light involvement between meetings.

• Total commitment: Around 4 hours per month.

This is a role designed for someone who wants to make a meaningful difference without an overwhelming time burden.

Who We’re Looking For

You’ll thrive in this role if you are:

• Experienced in governance, admin, compliance or charity operations.

• Confident with documentation, organisation and record‑keeping.

• Calm, structured and detail‑focused.

• Warm, encouraging and people‑positive.

• Skilled at supporting and guiding newer trustees.

• Passionate about tackling loneliness and building community.

• Energised by SUNSHINE’s culture of positivity, human connection, community and belonging.

What You’ll Gain

• The chance to shape a charity with huge heart and huge potential.

• A close, collaborative relationship with the Chair and Vice Chair.

• The opportunity to build strong governance foundations from the start.

• The joy of helping people feel connected, valued and part of a community.

• A role where your organisational superpowers genuinely change lives.

Ready to Bring Your Light to SUNSHINE?

If you’re someone who loves good governance, clear structure and helping a board shine — we’d love to hear from you.

Join the SUNSHINE movement.

Help us bring connection, community and belonging to London.

COME SHINE WITH US.

Role description for Safeguarding Champion (Voluntary role)
“It’s been a life-changing experience. Last week I read a book to my grandson. I never read to my children because I couldn’t.” Peter, from Read Easy Poole

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

Outline of the Safeguarding Champion role
As the Safeguarding Champion you will ensure that your group implements, understands and works within the Read Easy UK Safeguarding Policy and organising DBS checks when necessary.
How we will support you
You will be provided with the Management Team Handbook, training/induction, policies and guidance specifically needed for this role, including access to support from a Read Easy UK Regional Adviser, via your Team Leader. You will also be invited to Read Easy UK’s regional forums and annual conference which give volunteers an opportunity for networking with those from other groups.
What you will be doing
● Reporting and actioning any safeguarding issues raised within the Team.
● Becoming familiar with Read Easy Safeguarding and DBS policies and appendices.
● Liaising with the local Adult Safeguarding Helpdesk, to seek advice or refer a case to them for further action in accordance with the Safeguarding Policy.
● Providing an induction for new Management Team Members so they are aware of the safeguarding requirements of the group, using the resources provided.
● Providing a short Safeguarding Refresher Session at a coach meeting annually.
● Carrying out Enhanced DBS checks on behalf of the group when appropriate.
● Ensuring that the group is acting in a way that recognises its safeguarding responsibilities in all its activities.
● Being the single point of contact for anyone within the group who wants to report any form of abuse or suspected abuse, or who has concerns and needs advice.
● Attending management team meetings, typically every six to eight weeks.

The skills you will need
● Ideally experience and understanding of adult safeguarding.
● Ability to work with discretion and confidentiality when required.
● A strong commitment to improving the lives of the people Read Easy works with.
● Good communication and people skills, with a commitment to maintaining confidentiality.
● Reasonable confidence in using IT.
● The ability to use initiative and work independently.
● A willingness to abide by Read Easy policies and procedures.
● An open attitude that encourages two-way communication and willingness to ask for and offer support to the Team.
● A non-judgemental attitude and respect for others, with a commitment to equality and diversity, so that you can make everyone feel valued and included.
● Energy and enthusiasm with an average of two hours a week to commit to the role.
What is in it for you?
● Develop your knowledge and skills in relation to the safeguarding of adults
● Meet and work collaboratively with new people
● Be active and engaged, adding value to your local community
Interested
If you think you can offer the time, skills and experience that we are looking for and would be interested in taking up this role, please contact the person who sent you this role description.
Please note: All Read Easy volunteer roles are subject to Safer Recruitment procedures which include verification of identity and two references, and eligibility for Management Team roles in line with Charity Commission regulations for trustees.
Please see the ‘Introduction to Read Easy for potential Management Team volunteers’ to find out more about the structure and responsibilities of the Management Team.
 

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Role available at City of Sunderland College.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers for governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

With more than 25 years’ experience and a national network of partners, we connect schools, academy trusts, colleges, and education charities across England and Wales with skilled, independent volunteers. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor. 

Social Media Volunteer - London 

Do you want to use your social media skills to tackle the housing emergency? 

Information about the role 

You’ll be identifying topics to share, helping develop the communications and then using a range of social media platforms to promote our local services and increase engagement with local and national campaigns.

Location: Shelter Office, 88 Old Street, London

Suggested contribution: 5 hours per week for a minimum of 6 months

Availability: Volunteering will take place at a time that suits you, within Monday-Friday, 9am – 5pm 

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

Main activities may include: 

• Establishing and/or maintaining active social media accounts for the Shelter London hub. 

• Helping to develop social media communication plans. 

• Creating and sharing content on social media platforms that raises awareness of Shelter’s campaigns and services and helps the local community. 

• Identifying topics to share through communicating with hub teams as well as researching housing related news and issues affecting people locally. 

• Being up to date with social media trends and using them to attract target audiences. 

• Attending events organised by the London hub to gather content to share on social media and/or live posting throughout.

• Monitoring reactions to our posts, including flagging any responses that do not align with our inclusion and Anti-Racism work.

This role fights the housing emergency by promoting awareness of Shelter’s campaigns and services. This means people who need help with housing or homelessness know where to go for support.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter 

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering. 

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity. 

Your skills and experience 

We’re looking for someone who’s comfortable using various social media platforms. You don’t need to have professional experience in this area, using them for your personal accounts is just as relevant. Most importantly, we’re looking for someone who cares about social justice and fighting the housing emergency. 

Supporting you 

• You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook. 

• The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

• You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer expenses policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

• You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders. 

Next steps 

You can apply for this role by clicking ‘fill in an application’. If you need to apply by an alternative method, please contact us to see what options are available. 

We will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further. 

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions and complete a basic level Criminal Record Check. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information. 

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Roles available at colleges in Redcar

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers for governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

With more than 25 years’ experience and a national network of partners, we connect schools, academy trusts, colleges, and education charities across England and Wales with skilled, independent volunteers. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor. 

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader 

Roles available at colleges across E10, London.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom? 

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials. 

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

Further education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts. 

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed. 

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

• Set strategic direction: help define the college’s mission and goals 

• Hold leadership to account: monitor finances, performance, and outcomes 

• Ensure governance excellence: make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders 

• Act as a charity trustee: ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance 

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners. 

Who are we looking for? 

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to: 

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed. 

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed. 

Time commitment 

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including: 

• Attending board and committee meetings (in person or remote) 

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development. 

Where you’ll be needed 

Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

• Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role 

• Expand your professional network 

• Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact 

About Boards for Education 

Boards for Education is a charity that sources and supports volunteers for governing boards. We aim to improve educational outcomes for children, young people, and adult learners by strengthening governance across the education sector. 

With more than 25 years’ experience and a national network of partners, we connect schools, academy trusts, colleges, and education charities across England and Wales with skilled, independent volunteers. 

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role? 

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you. 

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor. 

Do you - want to establish closer working relationship with the local police to improve community safety in Barnet?

Can you - spare a few hours a week to make this happen?

If so – we are looking for a Chair to lead Barnet's Safer Neighbourhood Board.

Role Overview: Lead Barnet’s Safer Neighbourhood Board, ensuring effective operation in line with MOPAC requirements. Manage all aspects of Board meetings and foster a collaborative environment.

Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week on average

A Safer Neighbourhood Board is established in every borough giving local Londoners and victims a greater voice.

Barnet’s Safer Neighbourhood Board entails a team of volunteers and local agencies who will work together to advise the Borough Commander.

The Board consists of a wide range of individuals representing Barnet’s diverse communities alongside the statutory positions defined in the MOPAC Guidance[1], involving people of all ages and from all sections of the community. This includes those who may not have been actively involved before, who may be vulnerable or who have been a victim of crime.

Barnet’s Safer Neighbourhood Board will be required to:

Barnet’s Safer Neighbourhood Board will be required to:

 · Help identify and advise on Barnet’s local policing

· Monitor police statistical data, performance and confidence

· Fulfil a range of specific functions.

For more information please visit the role profile.

�� Important Eligibility Note: This is an onsite, self-funded international volunteer placement located in Ghana. This opportunity is open ONLY to international volunteers and applicants traveling from outside the African continent (including Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia, and Antarctica). Because SFLIG operates on a sustainable, grassroots model, volunteers must fully fund their own experience, including international flights, visa arrangements, and the program fee which covers safe community housing, daily meals, airport pickup, and 24/7 onsite support. Local applications cannot be considered for this international framework.

Program Overview

Gain a profound understanding of global maternal health and clinical obstetrics by joining SFLIG Volunteers’ Midwifery placement in Ghana. Tailored specifically for midwifery students, aspiring labor and delivery nurses, OB/GYN residents, and pre-health students, this program offers an immersive look at pre-natal, labor, and post-natal care in resource-limited settings.

Participants shadow local midwives and obstetric nurses in bustling regional hospitals and rural clinics, witnessing firsthand the resourcefulness, cultural practices, and challenges unique to maternal healthcare delivery in West Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Clinical Observation & Shadowing: Shadow skilled local midwives and obstetric staff during prenatal consultations, active labor, deliveries, and postnatal evaluations.

• Maternal & Neonatal Triage Support: Assist staff under direct supervision with routine tasks such as measuring maternal vitals, tracking fetal heart rates, and charting patient progress.

• Postnatal Care Assistance: Observe and assist with newborn checkups, maternal recovery monitoring, and educational support for new mothers regarding breastfeeding and infant wellness.

• Community Public Health Outreaches: Participate in local community health caravans focused on reproductive health education, family planning resources, and neonatal care in rural villages.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Current student or graduate in Midwifery, Nursing (with a focus on Labor & Delivery), Pre-Med, Public Health, or a related field.

• A deep commitment to patient privacy, clinical ethics, and respect for cultural birth practices.

• Emotional resilience, high adaptability, and the ability to maintain composure in fast-paced, high-stakes clinical environments.

• Strong interpersonal skills and an eagerness to learn from local, experienced midwives.

• Onsite Commitment & Self-Funding: Ability to travel to and reside onsite in Ghana for the duration of your placement, with the financial capacity to cover all associated travel and program expenses.

Cultural Experience & Weekend Tours

Volunteering with SFLIG is more than just clinical work; it is a full cultural immersion. Beyond your hours in the clinic, you will experience the famous warmth and hospitality of Ghana through local language lessons, traditional cooking sessions, and community gatherings.

On the weekends, you will have the opportunity to join coordinated group excursions to explore Ghana's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Depending on your placement region, weekend tours can include:

• Walking the canopy bridges at Kakum National Park.

• Exploring the historic Cape Coast and Elmina Castles.

• Visiting the vibrant cultural markets of Kumasi.

• Relaxing on the beautiful beaches of the coastal region.

Program Flexibility & Hours

• Flexible Start Dates: This is an all-year-round opportunity. Volunteers select their own arrival and departure dates to align with their personal, professional, or academic schedules.

• Customizable Schedules: You have the flexibility to determine your daily hospital/clinic shift lengths and the total number of hours you wish to commit each day, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the local culture.

Fundraising events helper

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

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

You can expect us to

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

What we need from you

You’ll be:

· help set up and/or man stalls at events

· help on collection days like supermarket collections events or street collections

· help at fundraising events such as quiz nights, cake sales and dances

· promoting a professional image of Cats Protection at events

Time expectation

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

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

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

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

 Volunteer Opportunity: Change a Life with Just 30 Minutes a Week 

Are you friendly, chatty, and committed to making a difference?

We’re looking for volunteers to give just 30 minutes a week from home to speak with older people (aged 75+) who are feeling isolated and lonely. These weekly phone calls have been proven to transform lives - not just for those receiving them, but for volunteers too.

You’ll receive full training and ongoing support from Re-engage, a charity dedicated to reducing loneliness among older people.

If you’re interested in becoming one of these special volunteers, please get in touch - I’d love to hear from you

Become a Call Companion

Our Call Companion service connects a volunteer with an older person, aged 75 or over, who is experiencing loneliness and isolation. As a Call Companion volunteer, you’ll make a regular phone call, typically once a week, to foster friendship, enjoyment and conversation.

This role description sets out the aims and expectations of the role, your responsibilities and Re-engage’s commitment to supporting you as a volunteer.

Your role:

• Call the older person you’ve been matched with for approximately 20-30 minutes, usually once a week.
• Provide companionship over the phone by talking about interests, experiences and by providing a listening ear.
• Maintain the boundaries set out in our training and report any concerns to Re-engage.
• Keep your knowledge and training up to date by reading our volunteer newsletter – Re-engage Matters – sent monthly by email.

To become a Call Companion you’ll need to:

• Complete an induction – you might choose to attend a group induction or watch our pre-recorded video.
• Submit an ID check – you’ll need either a passport, driving licence, national insurance number or national identity card to do this.
• Provide a character reference – your referee can be an employer, a colleague, a friend, neighbour or community representative.
• Complete online training – these modules will help you get the most out of the role and take approximately one hour to complete.

Practical details:

• A flexible, homebased volunteering role that fits around your availability.
• No personal details are ever shared with your match, with calls made via our secure befriending platform.
• To keep our services free for older people, we can’t pay expenses for this role.
• You’ll be over 18 and able to commit to 12 months of volunteering (approximately 26 hours over a year).

About Us

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is a survivor-led podcast, YouTube channel, and healing membership organisation. We provide a platform for survivors and whistleblowers to share lived experiences, expose systemic issues, and promote solutions rooted in culturally trauma-informed care.

Our membership supports young people and survivors through healing, education, and digital skills development. Members participate in our Alchemic 369 Book Club, engaging in discussions and critical analysis of African, Caribbean, and world history, Ifa, classics, and political thought. Members also benefit from author discussions, subsidised plant-based retreats, and a supportive community focused on empowerment and growth.

We are a mission-driven organisation combining healing, education, truth-telling, and community empowerment.

Our Content Focuses On:

• Survivor stories (CSA, RSA, CT, CA)
• Whistleblowers and retired experts
• Generational trauma and healing
• Youth empowerment and education
• Community transformation through honest storytelling

Our mission is to challenge harmful cycles, expose hidden truths, fight for justice, and create lasting social change.

Job Purpose

To design and build the digital management systems that will serve as the operational backbone of the IFA Retreat, enabling effective management of procurement, inventory, staffing, suppliers, budgets, projects, maintenance, and reporting through a centralised platform.

About the Role

As a Volunteer Business Systems Developer, you will design and implement the retreat's management infrastructure using platforms such as Airtable, Notion, ClickUp, Monday, Odoo, or similar database solutions.

Working alongside the Operations and Procurement Consultants, you will translate operational requirements into practical digital systems that support the retreat from development through to full operation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build databases and operational dashboards
• Create workflows and automation systems
• Develop reporting and approval processes
• Design supplier directories and inventory registers
• Create staffing and project management systems
• Build operational tracking and performance tools
• Support scalable, transparent, and efficient operations

This role is essential to ensuring accountability, operational excellence, and sustainable growth.

Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who:

• Enjoys building systems that solve real-world problems
• Is organised, analytical, and process-driven
• Can translate complex operations into user-friendly workflows
• Communicates effectively with technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Is interested in African cultural development projects
• Is committed to long-term involvement and continuous improvement
• Is open to learning about Yoruba culture and the retreat's mission

Skills & Experience

• Experience with Airtable, Notion, ClickUp, Monday, Odoo, or similar platforms
• Experience creating workflow automation and reporting dashboards
• Strong database design and information architecture skills
• Experience documenting business processes and procedures
• Knowledge of procurement, inventory, project management, and operational reporting systems
• Ability to integrate multiple operational functions into a single platform

Desirable:

• Experience supporting hospitality, tourism, construction, or non-profit projects
• Knowledge of African development, cultural, or heritage initiatives

What You Will Gain

• Practical systems-development experience
• Portfolio-building opportunities
• Leadership mentorship and professional development
• Networking opportunities within a growing organisation
• Experience contributing to a purpose-driven project
• Creative freedom and personal growth
• Potential future paid opportunities
• Direct pathway to future leadership and operational roles
• Opportunity to help build a nationally recognised healing and education platform
• COS opportunities for top-performing team members

This role is designed as a long-term pathway into greater responsibility, professional growth, and potential paid opportunities as the organisation expands.

We believe in collectivism rather than individualism—as the platform grows, so do your opportunities, influence, and impact.

Additional Notes

This role may not be suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteering
• Dislike detailed reporting or systems work
• Are seeking immediate paid employment
• Prefer not to contribute to strategic decision-making

To Apply

Please send:

• Your CV, portfolio, or LinkedIn profile (if available)
• A short introduction about yourself
• Why this mission resonates with you
• Any relevant experience, ideas, or vision you would bring to the role

We welcome people passionate about healing, justice, education, empowerment, and creating lasting community impact.