Supporter manager volunteer roles

Prison-based volunteers are the backbone of Fine Cell Work (FCW). Supported by the Fine Cell Work programmes team and by other staff at the FCW office, they teach and administer FCW stitching groups in prisons.

Prison volunteers work in teams to organise classes and teach our stitchers, as well as providing groups information to the prison and to the FCW office. The precise mix of skills will vary from prison to prison.

Volunteering in prison for Fine Cell Work requires ideally a good level of needlework skill (or a willingness to learn), some teaching experience and/or experience of working with socially-excluded groups. Volunteers must be patient and non-judgemental in order to work effectively. As a prison volunteer you will:

• Developing skills and confidence
• Teach prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects
• Teaching prisoners to stitch FCW products within the framework of our training programme
• Encouraging and supporting prisoners to volunteer as class coordinators and peer mentors
• Encouraging and helping prisoners who wish to undertake their own creative projects

It is essential for volunteers to support FCW ethos, believe in rehabilitation, be an excellent teamworker, observe personal boundaries, be reliable and patient to ensure cell groups run smoothly, and have record-keeping skills and have at knowledge of tapestry/needlework. . 

Volunteers work in prisons around the UK dependant on where groups are based, therefore it is requred that volunteers will be able to travel to the relevant prisons. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity. 

Please take some time to read the role description to find put more details about the role and what we offer to our volunteers. 

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in FCW’s workforce.

These include applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+, and male identifying applicants as these are currently under-represented in our volunteers groups.

Volunteer role - Stock Specialist Volunteer

Volunteer manager - Shop Manager

Where you will be based - Batley hub

Why we want you

We’re seeking friendly, reliable individuals aged 18 or over who want to make a difference in their community.

You have a specialist knowledge and interest that means donations can be accurately valued, you can assess the condition of items accurately, ensuring only quality goods are put on sale.

No prior retail or online selling experience is needed, as we provide full training. If you’re open to learning, enjoy working with others, and have a passion for helping people, you’ll fit right in!

By volunteering with us in one of our amazing retail spaces you will be raising essential funds for Oxfam – all whilst learning new skills and meeting some incredible people.

What you will be doing

• Undertaking shop related tasks agreed with the Manager, for example:
• Selecting, sorting, and pricing donated stock.
• Chatting to customers who drop off donations and other members of the team.
• Preparing stock to be put out on the shop floor, ready for sale.
• Researching valuable, rare, antiquated and vintage stock.
• Photographing and listing items for the online shop.
• This role may include occasionally lifting boxes. We prioritise a safe working environment and provide comprehensive health and safety training to all volunteers.

The skills you need

• We ask that you are reliable and on time for your volunteering
• Full training and support is given for volunteering in the retail space
• A specialist knowledge and understanding in your area of interest
• Happy to be part of a team and collaborate effectively with others

What's in it for you

• Some lunch and travel costs paid (speak to the Manager first to understand what is covered)
• Access to training and development
• Grow your confidence and meet new people
• Flexible volunteering schedules that fit your lifestyle
• Free confidential support by the Retail Trust
• Possible references for future employers

Disclaimer

Additional information: - We warmly welcome everyone to apply and are dedicated to creating an inclusive and diverse environment. If you have any particular needs, please talk to the Manager, and we can consider possible adjustments. - We conduct ID checks for all volunteers and require one reference upon application. If you have any difficulties providing a reference, please speak to a manager for assistance.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

There are currently four Committees that report directly to the Board of Trustees, one of them is the Safeguarding Committee, of which you will be a member. The Safeguarding Committee provides assurance, advice and recommendations to the Board on safeguarding matters.

The Committee provides strategic leadership, ownership and oversight of The Scout Association (TSA)’s safeguarding policies and procedures, and ensures that safeguarding policies, procedures and practice remain fit for purpose and sector leading in protecting young people in Scouting.

The Committee also provides strategic oversight, challenge and assurance in relation to TSA’s safeguarding arrangements, including the safeguarding of adults where relevant.

Independent Members bring external expertise, independent scrutiny and constructive challenge to support the Committee in fulfilling its responsibilities. The role is not operational: it is a strategic governance and assurance role, focused on strengthening oversight, improving learning and helping Scouts respond effectively to current and emerging safeguarding risks.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

· Provide strategic advice, challenge and independent scrutiny to support the Committee in discharging its responsibilities.

· Assist the Committee in ensuring that Scouts remains at the forefront of safeguarding practice and development.

· Review safeguarding performance information, assurance reports, learning reports and risk information to support effective oversight.

· Contribute to the Committee’s review of safeguarding assurance activity, quality assurance findings, thematic reviews, and organisational learning arising from safeguarding incidents and case reviews.

· Contribute to the development and review of safeguarding policies, procedures, guidance and assurance arrangements.

· Help identify emerging safeguarding risks and opportunities affecting young people, volunteers and the wider organisation.

· Support the Committee’s oversight of safeguarding culture, organisational learning and continuous improvement.

· Participate in monitoring and reviewing safeguarding risks delegated to the Committee by the Board.

· Contribute to discussions on strategic priorities and future safeguarding developments across Scouting.

· Act as an advocate for excellent safeguarding practice and a culture that places the safety and wellbeing of young people at its centre.

THE PERSON

Skills

· Communicate effectively with senior volunteers, trustees, staff and external stakeholders.

· Analyse complex information and exercise sound judgement.

· Provide constructive challenge and independent scrutiny.

· Contribute effectively within a strategic committee environment.

· Work collaboratively while maintaining independence of thought.

· Quickly develop an understanding of Scouts, its governance arrangements and safeguarding framework.

EXPERIENCE

The Committee is particularly seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas.

· Priority area: substantial expertise in digital safeguarding, including online safety, digital harms, safeguarding in online environments, social media risks, emerging technology risks and child protection risks associated with digital platforms.

· Additional areas of interest: family law, social care practice or leadership, child protection and safeguarding within statutory services, law enforcement experience relating to safeguarding, horizon scanning, regulatory or inspection environments, quality assurance, or safeguarding within youth, education, faith or voluntary sector settings.

CHARECTERISTICS

· Commitment to the purpose and values of Scouts.

· Strong personal integrity and sound judgement.

· Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk.

· Ability to operate strategically and objectively.

· Sufficient time available to fulfil the role.

TIME COMMITMENT AND MEETINGS

The Safeguarding Committee normally meets four times per year, with three meetings held virtually and one longer meeting held face-to-face. Members will also be expected to read papers in advance of meetings and may occasionally be consulted between meetings on specific matters.

Applicants should expect to spend around two days per quarter on Committee business after the induction phase, including preparation, attendance and follow-up activity.

APPOINTMENT TERM

Appointments will normally be for an initial three-year term, subject to a six-month review, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term by mutual agreement.

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES

In common with other registered charities, there is no remuneration directly associated with the role. The Scout Association will reimburse reasonable and properly documented expenses incurred in performing the role in accordance with its Expenses Policy.

Become a Community Wish Maker

Right now, 91 children in the North East are waiting for their life changing wish — part of a much bigger picture of children across the UK still waiting for theirs. You can help make that happen, from as little as one hour a month.
 
Help Make Wishes Come True 

Every pound you help raise goes directly towards granting wishes for children facing critical illnesses, creating hope, joy, and unforgettable memories for families who need it most. 

What Makes This Role Different? 

This is a flexible, ad hoc, volunteer-led role that fits around your lifestyle and commitments. There are no set fundraising targets or fixed weekly hours. You decide how you'd like to support Make-A-Wish and how much time you can give. 

Fundraising is at the heart of this role and is driven by your own ideas, local connections, and enthusiasm. Whether it's organising a community event, engaging local businesses, securing donations, or encouraging others to get involved, you'll help generate the funds needed to grant wishes. We'll provide guidance, resources, and support along the way. 

How You'll Get Started 

Getting started as a Community Wish Maker is simple. Within your first few months, you'll choose a fundraising activity from our Community Fundraising Toolkit or create your own fundraising idea. 

You can: 

- Organise an activity independently 
- Fundraise with friends, family or colleagues 
- Team up with other local Community Wish Makers 
- Support an existing Make-A-Wish fundraising campaign or event 
- Whether it's a bake sale, quiz night, sponsored challenge, workplace fundraiser, school activity or local business partnership, you'll be helping raise the funds needed to grant more wishes

We'll provide resources, guidance and support to help you succeed. 

What We're Looking For 

You don't need fundraising experience—just enthusiasm, initiative, and a desire to make a difference

We're looking for people who are: 

- Confident building relationships and engaging others 
- Self-motivated and proactive 
- Creative in finding fundraising opportunities 
- Organised and reliable 
- Positive, enthusiastic, and passionate about helping others 

What we will do for you: 

- You will receive a 12 week induction training
- Community Fundraising Volunteer Toolkit to help you get started 
- A one-to-one introductory phone call with a member of our team 
- Materials to get you started in your role 
- A dedicated Volunteer manager 
- Access to connections & networks in your region 
- Make-A-Wish email address / ID Badge / Letter of Authority to help with your fundraising
- Help & support you with ideas and steward you as much as you would like
- Regular volunteer newsletters with updates, opportunities, and useful information 

 Commitment 

Aged 18 or over 

Commitment of at least 12 months 

If you're passionate about making a difference and enjoy bringing people together to raise funds for a great cause, we'd love to hear from you

We're keen to hear from you if you'd like to share your experiences as a blind and partially sighted person and help build a world which understands the impact of living with sight loss.

In this role, you will be:

• Delivering talks to groups of sighted people about your lived experience of sight loss to challenge their perceptions and behaviours. Audiences will vary but may include local businesses, community, faith and voluntary groups.

• Making links with your own existing groups and networks in your local community that may want to be involved in reducing barriers to blind and partially sighted people.
• Building relationships with people or local businesses you know.
• Taking part in and sharing information about specific campaigns and initiatives to help remove barriers to blind and partially sighted people.
• Delivering talks on behalf of RNIB’s Social Action Team.

What you'll gain from the role:
• A chance to make a difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people with a sense of achievement.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people.
• To make an impact by speaking to groups of people.
• An opportunity to develop your role into delivering talks independently as your confidence and skills grow.
• An opportunity to improve public understanding, helping change perceptions and behaviours, building a world which understands sight loss.
• An opportunity to explore different volunteer roles within our organisation and have access to internal employment opportunities.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• Induction to the role and organisation.
• Training in public speaking and telling your story.
• A supportive volunteer manager.
• Regular catch-ups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

The Elizabeth Fry Charity provides support to women, mostly on licence from prison, who have a range of complex needs. Through our work, we help women to begin to address the issues they face, improve their lives and reduce the likelihood of further involvement in the criminal justice system.

The Elizabeth Fry Charity provides a 25-bed Approved Premises in Reading, enabling women to access accommodation, support, and monitoring.

As the Charity continues to grow and develop its services, we are seeking to strengthen our Board by recruiting a Trustee with finance, accounting, or audit experience.

To achieve our strategic plans, we require strong financial oversight to support sustainable growth, ensuring robust financial management and governance across all activities. We are therefore particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Professional experience in finance, accountancy, or audit (chartered or qualified desirable)
• Experience in financial governance, risk management, and internal controls
• Ability to interpret financial statements and support budget setting and monitoring
• Strategic insight into financial planning and sustainability within a charitable or regulated environment

Trustees, both individually and acting together as the Board, use their skills, knowledge, expertise, and contacts to govern the Charity, safeguard its assets and apply them as efficiently and effectively as possible to further its charitable objectives.

In this role, the Trustee with finance expertise will support the Board and Senior Management Team in maintaining strong financial oversight, contributing to strategic decision-making, and ensuring the Charity’s resources are used effectively to maximise impact.

We are interested in hearing from anyone who is passionate about the work we do and feels they can contribute to the success of the Charity.

The Board of Trustees meets five times annually at Elizabeth Fry House in Reading. Trustees are invited to participate in either our Finance or People and Safeguarding Committee, both of which meet four times a year. Additionally, Trustees conduct scheduled visits to the Approved Premises throughout the year.

St Basils is looking for a new Non-Exec Director / Trustee with Marketing & Communications experience to join our Board

About Us

St Basils works with young people aged 16-25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, to enable them to find and keep a home, grow their confidence, develop their skills, increase opportunities and ultimately prevent homelessness.

We help just over 4,000 young people each year across the West Midlands, with services in Birmingham, Coventry, Sandwell, Solihull, Warwickshire and Worcestershire. Our services range from providing supported accommodation to outreach, advice, support, employability and engagement services to help young people regain the stability they need to rebuild their lives, gain skills, confidence and employment and move on. The aim is to help them successfully break the ‘cycle of homelessness’ so that they can go on to experience a bright, fulfilling future and never return to a state where they are at risk of homelessness again.

About our Board

We are a registered provider of social housing, a charity and a company limited by guarantee, meaning our Board members are both Directors and Trustees.

To navigate our challenging regulatory landscape, we need to be tightly governed. At the heart of this is a Board with the right knowledge, values, skills and diversity, all whilst working towards our vision that homelessness should not be part of growing up.

As a member of St Basils’ Board, you will be a guardian of St Basils’ charitable purpose. You will be responsible for holding the Senior Leadership Team to account through constructive challenge and support, and for ensuring St Basils’ strategic priorities are met.

You will form part of St Basils’ governance framework, providing oversight of key business areas, such as business planning, safeguarding, risk, finance, health and safety, EDI and business development. 

Our Board is made up of 14 members, 2 of which are designated for young people who have lived experience of homelessness and / or St Basils’ services.

St Basils has adopted the RACE Equality Code and is actively seeking applications from those from Black communities to ensure our Board is reflective of both the young people that we serve and our dedicated workforce.

About the Role

We are looking for a voluntary Director / Trustee with expertise in marketing, communications and/or public engagement to increase the reach of our campaigns. Our new Board member will need to strong networking and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to open doors and build relationships.

As our Marketing & Communications Board Member, you will:

· Ensure marketing initiatives align with the organisation’s goals and regulatory requirements.

· Support St Basils’ PR and marketing initiatives by bringing knowledge of current marketing tools

· Help identify opportunities to increase the visibility and impact of St Basils’ campaigns.

· Leverage personal and professional networks to enhance the charity’s reach, partnerships and fundraising potential.

· Work closely with the Director of Income Generation & Value Capture to ensure St Basils’ marketing and communications strategies are being implemented effectively.

• Contribute to trustee discussions and decisions on broader charity strategy, risk management and financial oversight.

Our new Director / Trustee will sit on our Business Support & Audit Committee which oversees central functions, including Finance, HR, Fundraising and Marketing. This committee meets virtually, one a quarter.

Although the role is voluntary, reasonable expenses will be paid for costs incurred in undertaking the role.

About You

You will be an experienced professional in marketing, communications, PR or brand strategy, ideally with experience in the youth or homelessness sectors.

You will demonstrate sound judgement and be able to challenge confidently and constructively, although you do not need to have Board experience.

Understanding of governance and the responsibilities of a charity trustee is desirable, but training will be provided.

You will work within the principles of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and understand the needs of the diverse young people we serve.

You will put the needs of young people first, be passionate about ending youth homelessness and share our mission, vision and principles.

Time Commitment

You will need to be able to attend the majority of Board and Committee meetings, one of each is held each quarter (8 meetings total per year). Each meeting will last around 2 hours and will normally be held late afternoon/early evening (usually 4pm – 6pm). Board meetings are held in person at St Basils’ Head Office in Birmingham, and Committee meetings are held virtually via Microsoft Teams. The dates for meetings are set by calendar year, towards the end of the previous year.

Meeting papers will be shared via an online portal one week in advance of the meeting to allow for sufficient preparation time.

A Board away day is held each year, usually October, and every other year this includes an overnight stay. This will be fully paid for by St Basils.

We encourage Board members to visit our accommodation services to deepen understanding of our work and support effective governance and decision-making. We would like all Board members to make 2 visits a year if possible.

All travel expenses incurred in attending Board meetings / conducting site visits will be reimbursed by St Basils.

What’s in it for you?

We offer a series of essential online training courses (for example GDPR, Cyber Security, EDI, Safeguarding, Risk Management) and the opportunity to do additional online or in-person training, such as Psychologically Informed Environment training. As part of our commitment to race equality, we provide mandatory Anti-Racism training for all staff and Board members.

You will be part of a knowledgeable and supportive Board and have the opportunity to work alongside young people with lived experience.

You will have the guidance of a knowledgeable Chair to support your development as a Director / Trustee, and you will have access to St Basils’ Senior Leadership Team to help you fulfil your role.

St Basils is a learning organisation and therefore we are able to support and develop Board members who are new to the role. In addition, St Basils has membership with the Board Development Agency, which provides our Board Members with access to webinars and development tools specific to housing sector Boards.

Being a Director / Trustee at St Basils is more than just attending meetings – if you would like to contribute to an organisation that has young people at its core, where you can visibly see the difference you are making, then this is the role for you.

For further information please see the link to the full job pack.

We welcome early applications and will interview on a rolling basis.

Fine Cell Work (FCW) is a UK-based rehabilitation charity and social enterprise. We are supported by an incredible team of prison volunteers who are the link between the charity and the stitchers we work with in prison. Our volunteers run fortnightly stitching groups in the prisons we work with to facilitate our stitchers’ production of high-quality needlework.

Our prison volunteers work in small teams to teach our stitchers’ embroidery and needlepoint, organise their group sessions, and liaise with the prison and FCW office.

What you will do as a prison volunteer:

• Teach people in prison how to stitch and support the completion of our premade kits in our cell groups, which consist of around 10-15 stitchers.
• Communicate with staff at our hub in Battersea to receive kits and supplies for your group and send back completed work for your stitchers to be paid.
• Encourage and help stitchers to complete our Open College Network certifications in creative needlework.
• Develop stitchers’ skills and confidence by encouraging them to take responsibility as peer mentors.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity and sharing our vision and values throughout your volunteering.

Who we are looking for:

• Skills in embroidery and/or needlepoint or a willingness to learn to stitch is essential for this role.
• Ideally some teaching experience or experience working with socially-excluded groups.
• Someone with a non-judgemental attitude and commitment to rehabilitation.
• Someone who is an excellent team worker.
• Someone who is good at observing personal boundaries.

Commitment: our stitching groups run for 2 hours every fortnight, so with travel time and some admin work after groups we ask prison volunteers to set aside a morning or afternoon every 2 weeks.

You must be over 18 for this role with the ability to travel to the prison. Travel expenses will be reimbursed by the charity.

Please take some time to read the role description to find out more details about the role and what we offer to our prison volunteers. 

At Fine Cell Work, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented amongst FCW’s prison volunteers. This includes applicants from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, and male identifying applicants.

Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

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

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats and kittens each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups. We have branches across the UK, all of which help our cats in different ways. Branches take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve; help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our branch team leader volunteers lead their local team by supporting and managing volunteers within their group, maintaining communications with both volunteers and employees, and helping promote a positive and professional image of Cats Protection.

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

A bit more information about this role and the team

Cardiff is a thriving branch with a dedicated team of volunteers. For more information about the branch activities and what the Branch Team Leader volunteer role involves, please get in touch for a chat.

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Supporting your team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure volunteers are happy and confident
• Making sure the team observes charity best practice and compliance
• Collaborating with your Branch Development Manager (BDM) to plan volunteer activity
• Leading the team to follow Cats Protection policies, procedures and guidelines
• Monitoring expenditure and helping ensure long term financial stability of the volunteer group
• Organising and chairing team meetings
• Acting as an ambassador for Cats Protection

Time expectation

Our branch team leader volunteers usually spend 10 to 15 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. There will be times of year when more hours are required, such as towards the end of the financial year, but support and guidance are available.

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.

Our shops help raise vital funds, and volunteering with us is a great way to make a difference, meet new people, and join a fantastic team. Volunteering in our shops offers a variety of exciting tasks. From sorting, steaming, and pricing donations to spotting hidden gems, you'll roll up your sleeves in the backroom and assist on the shop floor. Engaging with customers is key, whether you're serving with a smile, working the till or helping donors complete Gift Aid forms.

Creating a warm, friendly and inviting space is just as important. You'll help design eye-catching window displays, keep the space tidy, and use your creativity to ensure everything looks its best, encouraging customers to return.

No special skills are needed as we’ll show you what to do, and we provide all the training you’ll need. 

Please note you must be over 18 to apply.

Are you passionate about community engagement, advocacy, and building meaningful partnerships? Join Hidayah as a National Outreach Officer Trustee in this voluntary role and help strengthen support networks for LGBTQ+ Muslims across the UK.

Hidayah is a volunteer-led organisation supporting LGBTQ+ Muslims through community support, advocacy, education, and wellbeing initiatives. This role requires a minimum commitment of 4–5 hours per week, with additional time required during busy periods or organisational activities.

Purpose of the Role

The National Outreach Officer Trustee leads on developing and maintaining relationships with external stakeholders, community organisations, and outreach partners. The role supports Hidayah’s national growth and helps ensure LGBTQ+ Muslims can access inclusive support, representation, and community connections.

Core Responsibilities

• Act as a key point of contact between Hidayah and external organisations, community groups, and stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with LGBTQ+ organisations, faith groups, educational institutions, and community networks.
• Promote Hidayah’s events, campaigns, and services across relevant communities and platforms.
• Lead outreach initiatives to engage under-represented LGBTQ+ Muslim communities, including trans and intersex individuals.
• Develop, coordinate, and support a national network of outreach volunteers and representatives.
• Work collaboratively with external organisations to provide signposting and access to wellbeing, legal, financial, and community support services.
• Represent Hidayah at events, workshops, panels, and educational opportunities where appropriate.
• Encourage inclusive dialogue, partnership working, and stronger engagement across LGBTQ+ and faith communities.
• Support the growth, visibility, and positive representation of Hidayah nationally.

Trustee Responsibilities

• Attend Trustee Board meetings and provide regular updates and reports.
• Support Hidayah events, planning meetings, and fundraising activities.
• Engage with internal communications and shared systems (e.g., Discord and Google Drive).
• Respond to emails and communications promptly.
• Contribute to the Annual Report.
• Uphold Hidayah’s mission, values, and code of conduct.
• Serve until the next AGM (subject to a 6-month probation period).

Person Specification

Essential Knowledge & Experience

• Understanding of community outreach, partnership working, or stakeholder engagement.
• Knowledge of equality, diversity, inclusion, and safeguarding principles.
• Experience working in voluntary, community, or LGBTQ+ spaces (desirable).
• Ability to work at both strategic and operational levels.

Essential Skills & Attributes

• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Confidence networking with diverse communities and organisations.
• Good organisational and planning abilities.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Professional, approachable, and proactive attitude.
• Good IT and administrative skills.

Benefits of the Role

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact within LGBTQ+ Muslim communities.
• Leadership and charity governance experience.
• Professional development in outreach, partnerships, and community engagement.
• Opportunity to expand your professional and community networks.
• Experience working with a passionate and supportive volunteer team.