Support work volunteer roles

Volunteering for Sense

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.

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.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide 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. 

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’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. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• 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 can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• 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. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

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

About Us

Focus Surrey runs a Saturday Club for autistic children aged 3 to 16. We provide a fun, supportive and child-centred environment where children develop communication, social interaction and early learning skills through play, guided by the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Sessions are led by experienced practitioners, including Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs).

We are recruiting volunteers to join our Saturday Club and support autistic children through play-based activities. This is a great work experience opportunity for students and individuals who are interested in developing their understanding of children with disabilities and gaining meaningful experience in psychology, SEN, education, therapy or related fields. The role supports early career development by offering practical experience in a structured and supportive setting where volunteers can build foundational skills confidence and understanding

The Role

As a Volunteer Play Assistant, you will support autistic children during structured and creative play activities, helping them build communication, social interaction and confidence in a positive and inclusive environment. You will work with qualified practitioners, gaining direct experience using evidence-based approaches such as ABA in practice, while receiving ongoing support and guidance throughout the sessions.

Volunteers are allocated a specific child based on their experience and interests, allowing you to build consistency and rapport over time. The role involves active engagement with children, responding to individual needs, and contributing positively to a collaborative and supportive team environment.

What You’ll Gain

· Hands-on experience supporting autistic children in a real-world SEN setting

· Practical exposure to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) in practice

· Experience working alongside qualified practitioners and gaining support and guidance

· Development of transferable skills including communication, teamwork and behaviour support

· Increased confidence working with children with diverse needs

· Enhanced DBS check provided

Commitment and Timing

The club will run for 12 Saturdays between February 21st to May 23rd, 2026, from 9am to 4pm each day. Volunteers are encouraged to commit to the majority of the term to ensure consistency for the children and to gain the most from the experience.

Location

The club is based at Merton College in Morden. The venue is a five-minute walk from Morden South Station and is also accessible by bus routes 80, 93, and 154.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  05/04/2026

Closing date for these opportunities is: 20/03/2026

Are you passionate about making Wakefield a fairer city? Join us and help improve the lives of people in Wakefield!

Prosper Wakefield District is a dynamic, independent charity dedicated to improving the lives of people in Wakefield. We provide grants, foster partnerships and encourage investment into the Wakefield District.

At Prosper, our core values are at the heart of everything we do:

· Valuing trust and bravery

· Collaborating for better

· Listening then acting

· Considering different points of view.

If this describes you – then we’d love to hear from you! You could be joining our small and welcoming Trustee board and making a difference to the people of our district.

About Us:

Prosper Wakefield District is a dynamic and impactful charity dedicated to supporting the VCSE sector, who work with some of the most vulnerable people and communities and those facing the greatest health inequalities. We also work with health, business, and public sector partners to identify and develop shared approaches to reduce gaps in health inequalities in some of the districts most deprived neighbourhoods and communities. Our work positively impacts the lives of so many underrepresented and disadvantaged groups across the district. As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

Role Overview:

As a Trustee of Prosper you will play a vital role in ensuring the charity is effectively governed and well-managed. You will work alongside fellow trustees and the executive team to provide strategic direction, ensure accountability, and oversee the charity’s operations and financial health.

Key Responsibilities:

- Provide strategic leadership and direction.

- Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, and other relevant legislation.

- Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure proper financial management.

- Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity’s policies, goals, and objectives.

- Attend and actively participate in board meetings and annual events.

- Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work within personal and professional networks.

Skills and Experience:

We are looking for people who possess:

- A passion for the work Prosper do and the Wakefield District.

- A varied background of culture and ethnicity.

- Strategic vision and independent judgment.

- The ability to think creatively and offer constructive criticism.

- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

- Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.

- No experience is necessary for success in this role.

Desirable (but not essential) Experience:

- Expertise in areas such as finance, fundraising, marketing, law, HR, or community engagement.

- A ‘lived’ experience (having experienced hardship) helps to reflect the communities we support and understand the challenges they face.

- Understanding of the voluntary sector and the challenges faced by charities.

What We Offer:

- An opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of Wakefield & District underrepresented groups.

- A chance to work with a passionate and dedicated team.

- Personal development opportunities through trustee training and networking events.

- Reimbursement of reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.

How to Apply:

If you are interested in this rewarding opportunity to contribute to the success of Prosper, please send your CV and a cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience by 31st March 2026. Before applying, please read and download the supporting documents and information pack from the Prosper Wakefield District website.

Prosper is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of the community.

Volunteering for Sense

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.

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.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide 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. 

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’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. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• 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 can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• 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. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

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

Volunteering for Sense

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.

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.

What your role will involve

You’ll get the opportunity to get involved in a wide 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. 

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’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. 

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• 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 can Sense offer me as a volunteer?

• 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. 

About Sense

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

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

Summary

Can you inspire, energise and motivate young people aged 12-18 years?
Do you enjoy making a real difference to the lives of young people?

Detailed description

Mentoring within One YMCA is delivered through the youth team and volunteers. Young people aged 13-19 years can access the service which provides support and encouragement for young people to work towards their goals.

Mentors and mentees are paired based on experience, expertise and support needed.

This project will last for up to a year with each young person, with an average of 3-4 hours per month being given to the young person and their support.

Training for this role is due to commence on 22nd January 2025 (Time and Location TBC)

Pay: This is a voluntary role; however, expenses will be covered.

Key Responsibilities:

·To attend full induction training and complete all relevant child protection checks

·To arrange to meet with your mentee for 1-3 hours a month over a period of 12 months, in a public place.

·To prepare for your mentoring sessions with the purpose of progressing with their mutually agreed goals.

·To offer tailored support to your Mentee in areas such as confidence and resilience building, accessing services, careers focus and development. You may be working on a number of areas as the needs of your Mentee present themselves.

·To safeguard and promote the wellbeing of your Mentee.

·To complete feedback, monitoring and evaluation forms.

·To liaise with the mentoring coordinator for support in delivery of sessions where needed.

·To help identify the support that your Mentee requires, reporting any concerns you have to the mentoring coordinator.

·Completing regular reviews with your Mentee and mentoring coordinator.

·Any other reasonable task that is associated with the role.

Personal Specification:

Experience:

• Experience of working with young people
• Experience of working with young people from a variety of backgrounds

Skills:

• Ability to work on own initiative and a willingness to prepare for each session
• Ability to use online video platforms such as Microsoft Teams
• Ability to think creatively and problem solve
• Good communication skills
• Good organisational skills
• Ability to work as a part of a team
• A willingness to meet the young person in a public space

Personal Qualities:

• An interest in working with young people
• Ability to engage with a young person
• The willingness to have an open mind and non-judgemental approach to supporting a young person in their mentoring journey
• Ability to cope with potentially difficult conversations or situations
• Commitment to the mentoring project and to the Mentee
• Motivated by promoting the wellbeing of young people
• Commitment to and ability to work in accordance with ethos of One YMCA, their polices and boundaries

Other:

• Willing to undertake and induction and training
• Willing to provide 2 references
• Willing to undergo an enhanced Disclosure and Barring check (DBS)

This position is a Trustee role, sitting on Hidayah's board. The IT/Tech This role will oversee Hidayah’s IT infrastructure to ensure suitability and sustainability of charitable activities.

What are the responsibilities of this role?

This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:

● To ensure Hidayah’s IT operating systems and equipment are fit for purpose

● To drive the delivery and improvement of data protection procedures, using technology to improve the operations of the charity

● To keep the website updated, refreshed and ensure plug-ins and links are valid. This will include creating new pages, updating SEO and ensuring hosting agents are compliant with GDPR

● To take the lead in evaluating IT related proposals for the Board of Trustees

● To provide strategic oversight of implementation and project manage any IT related projects

● To assist with documentation of processes and delivery of specific tech training for volunteers

● Manage and moderate the Hidayah Discord server

● Operate as Hidayah’s Google Workspace administrator

● Work with the wider Digital Team to facilitate the technical development of Hidayah as an organization

How much commitment is required? 

We are flexible around your own schedule. However, the following commitments are in place for all members of the Hidayah Board:

● To be able to attend all Trustee meetings and to deliver a comprehensive report to the Trustee each meeting with updates and to completed actions as and when they appear

● To aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary when close to Hidayah events as well as the events themselves (where possible due to geography)

● To help to fundraise for, and advertise, any Hidayah events and fundraising drives

● To be part of a communications group to keep up to date with Hidayah developments

● To contribute toward and to maintain the administration of our file sharing system ‘Google Drive’ so it is always up to date with clear records, templates and forms

● To check emails and to respond when needed

● Enthusiasm, dedication, responsiveness, flexibility and eagerness in supporting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah

● To contribute toward the Annual Report once a year

● To be in post until the next AGM

● The role is subject to a 6 months probationary period.

What do we expect from a Trustee: IT Tech Officer

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

Knowledge: 

● Educated to degree level or experience which demonstrates equivalent technical role

● Knowledge of Wordpress / Frontend development skills (Currently using Breakdance for our website)

● Adept knowledge of Discord as a communications platform and server management

● Knowledge of Google Workspace

Personal Skills:

● Ability to understand confidentiality, equality and diversity and safeguarding procedures;

● Ability to respond to resolving conflict situations if needed;

● Someone who can behave with professionalism.

Administration Skills:

● To regularly check, maintain and keep up to date Hidayah administration and data handling systems such as using Google Drive to store information

● A high degree of literacy of Microsoft Office and IT Applications

● To be part of a communications text group to keep up to date with Hidayah developments and to inform the Board Members of any developments;

● To read, understand and agree with the constitution of Hidayah (available on website).

Additional:

● To help to fundraise for, and advertise, any Hidayah events and fundraising drives.

Ensure you do not have a conflict of interest with your current role and check this prior to applying for this role.

Join Us as a Trustee or Treasurer Trustee at Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

Are you passionate about improving the lives of older people in our communities?
Do you have skills, experience, and enthusiasm to help guide a well‑established and growing local charity?

Age UK Cambridgeshire & Peterborough (Age UKCAP) are seeking new Trustees, including a dedicated Treasurer, to join our Board.

We are the largest local charity supporting older people across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, delivering vital services that reduce loneliness, support independence, and improve quality of life. As demand for our work continues to grow, strong strategic leadership has never been more important.

Why Become a Trustee?

Being a Trustee is an extremely rewarding opportunity to use your experience for social good. As a Trustee with Age UKCAP you will:

• Shape the strategic direction of a respected local charity
• Support the wellbeing of older people across the region
• Gain Board-level experience
• Join a friendly, committed, and values‑driven team
• Help ensure our charity remains sustainable, effective, and innovative

 Who We’re Looking For: We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and sectors. In particular, we are keen to hear from people with:

General Trustee Skills

• Knowledge or interest in health, social care, voluntary sector services, or community support
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion
• A passion for improving older people’s lives

Specialist Skills (for the Treasurer Role)

In addition to the above, our Treasurer Trustee will bring:

• Strong financial management experience
• Understanding of charity finance, risk, and governance
• Ability to oversee budgets, financial reporting, and audit activity
• A collaborative approach, working closely with our CEO and Finance Team

(You do not need to be a qualified accountant, though this would be an advantage.)

Time Commitment

Approximately 8 meetings per year, plus occasional strategic or sub‑group sessions.
Trusteeships are voluntary roles, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

How to Apply

If you would like to make a meaningful difference in your community, we would love to hear from you.

For more information or to express your interest, please contact our Executive Assistant

We are looking for volunteers to become members of our local fundraising groups across the UK.  Our groups are dedicated to raising funds so that Marie Curie can continue to care for people with terminal illnesses in their own homes and in our hospices. Along with other group members, you will organise collections, fundraising events and encourage support for Marie Curie in your local community.

In addition to group members, there are other roles available within the groups including Chair, Secretary and Treasurer – talk to us about what you are interested in. 

Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks:

• Help to organise collections, events and other fundraising activities
• Help to promote the work of the charity and encourage support from the local community
• Regularly attend and participate in group meetings
• Complete agreed action points following meetings

Certain roles would have additional tasks – you can discuss these when you apply for a role. 

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) - starting 29/07/2026, dates, time & venue. to be confirmed
• Training for role - details of course including dates, time & venue. to be confirmed

Closing date for these opportunities is:  31/05/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  Full induction will be completed upon successful application and role offer completion.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026

FUNDRAISING & GRANTS LEAD (VOLUNTEER)

Help Power SUNSHINE’s Launch Across London — and Bring Hope to People Facing Loneliness

About SUNSHINE

SUNSHINE is a small but ambitious grassroots charity on a mission to reduce loneliness and help people feel truly seen, valued and connected. Every week, our volunteers bring warmth, joy and human connection to people who feel isolated, overlooked or alone.

As we prepare to launch publicly, we’re looking for a Fundraising & Grants Lead who can help us secure the seed funding we need to grow our volunteer‑powered movement across London — and eventually beyond.

This is a role where your work directly translates into real‑world impact. Every pound raised becomes a conversation, a connection, a moment of hope for someone who feels alone.

What You’ll Be Doing

1. Kickstarting SUNSHINE’s Fundraising Strategy

• Shape and lead our early‑stage fundraising approach.

• Identify opportunities that align with our mission and values.

• Build the foundations of a sustainable, ethical fundraising model.

2. Writing Warm, Compelling Grant Applications

• Craft applications that tell SUNSHINE’s story with heart and clarity.

• Highlight the real impact our volunteers make.

• Secure seed funding to help us launch and run our programmes.

3. Building Relationships With Funders & Supporters

• Connect with trusts, foundations, community groups and local partners.

• Share SUNSHINE’s vision with warmth, confidence and authenticity.

• Help build a network of supporters who believe in our mission.

4. Creating Campaigns That Inspire People to Give

• Develop small, joyful fundraising campaigns that feel true to SUNSHINE.

• Help us build excitement and momentum around our launch.

• Celebrate every donation — because every donation matters.

5. Helping SUNSHINE Grow Across London

• Support the development of new programmes, volunteer roles and community projects.

• Ensure we have the resources to reach more people facing loneliness.

• Lay the groundwork for long‑term sustainability and expansion.

This Role Is for You If…

• You’re a natural communicator who loves telling meaningful stories.

• You enjoy writing, organising and building relationships.

• You care deeply about loneliness, wellbeing and community.

• You want to help a new charity grow from the ground up.

• You’re excited by the idea of creating something that lasts.

• You’re based in or connected to London.

• You want to develop your skills in fundraising, grants or charity leadership.

Practical Details

• Location: London Remote/Hybrid/Flexible — remote with occasional London meetups.

• Time: Approx. 3-5 Hours per week (This is a fully flexible volunteer role with no set hours)

Why This Role Matters

Your work will help someone who feels invisible find a place where they belong. Your grant applications will turn into real programmes, real conversations, real moments of connection. Your fundraising will help volunteers bring joy, confidence and hope to people who need it most.

You won’t just be raising money. You’ll be raising possibility. You’ll be helping build a London where no one feels alone.

This is a chance to shape the future of SUNSHINE — and the lives of the people we support.

How to Apply

Send a CV and a short note about why this role speaks to you. We review applications on a rolling basis — join us and help bring SUNSHINE to life across London.

Role Purpose

Senior Policy Advisors provide leadership, analytical expertise, and strategic oversight within Youth Advantage UK’s policy function. Whether placed in Policy Planning or Impact Development, you will help shape the direction of our national and local policy projects, ensure high‑quality decision‑making, and support volunteers to produce work capable of achieving real impact for young people.

This role is ideal for someone with professional policy exposure, strong research capability, and sound judgment in reviewing decisions and guiding project direction.

Key Responsibilities

1. Leadership & Supervision

• Delegate tasks to Officers/Researchers/Advisors based on project needs and volunteer strengths.

• Provide direct supervision, support, and quality assurance for team outputs.

• Help resolve issues, remove barriers, and maintain a supportive team environment.

• Contribute to volunteer development through coaching, feedback, and skills support.

• Build strong working relationships across the department and collaborate closely with the manager.

2. Policy Planning or Impact Development (depending on placement)

If in Policy Planning

• Review and assess project ideas identified through horizon scanning or other approved channels.

• Apply the organisation’s project assessment checklist to determine whether proposals should progress to initial research or local project development.

• Work with other departments to plan early‑stage projects and ensure effective collaboration.

• Ensure that proposed work is strategically aligned, feasible, and likely to generate meaningful outcomes.

If in Impact Development

• Review findings from initial research or early‑stage projects to determine next steps.

• Provide guidance to relevant teams on strengthening impact, refining recommendations, or redirecting work where necessary.

• Support the preparation of materials for meetings with decision‑makers or external stakeholders.

• Ensure that all progressing work remains capable of achieving real, measurable impact.

3. Strategic Input & Decision Support

• Support the manager in planning, prioritisation, and decision‑making.

• Identify risks, opportunities, and resource considerations within ongoing projects.

• Contribute to the development of internal processes, frameworks, and best‑practice guidance.

• Uphold high standards of clarity, evidence, and organisational alignment.

Role Requirements

Essential

1. At least 2 years of progressive professional exposure to government policy, public administration, or related policy environments.

2. Academic or research background with the ability to understand organisational resourcing, capacity constraints, and feasibility considerations.

3. Experience reviewing decisions and exercising sound judgment, particularly in assessing project viability, strategic alignment, and potential impact.

4. Strong analytical and critical‑thinking skills.

5. Excellent written communication and ability to synthesise complex information.

6. Ability to supervise and support volunteers with empathy and clarity.