Supporting officer volunteer roles

Chair of Trustees

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire

Voluntary role | Buckinghamshire

Are you a well-connected leader in Buckinghamshire with the energy and ambition to help a respected local charity grow its impact?

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

About Us

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network, providing free, confidential and impartial advice to thousands of people each year across Buckinghamshire. We have offices in Aylesbury, Buckingham, High Wycombe and Chesham.

Our work helps people resolve problems around debt, housing, employment, benefits and consumer rights, often preventing crises, reducing pressure on public services and enabling individuals to regain stability and independence.

The organisation is stable, well-managed and ambitious. Following reductions in statutory funding and changes across the national network, we are now focused on strengthening income streams, raising our local profile and entering a new phase of growth.

The Opportunity

It is an opportunity to build on strong foundations and take the organisation forward.

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees.

• Help strengthen funding and sustainability.

• Raise the profile of Citizens Advice across Buckinghamshire.

• Represent the organisation with funders, partners and the wider community.

• Champion the difference we make to people’s lives.

We are particularly interested in candidates who live in, or have strong knowledge and networks within Buckinghamshire (ideally central or south).

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who brings:

• Strategic leadership experience (board or senior executive level).

• The confidence to support and constructively challenge a CEO.

• Strong networking skills and credibility locally.

• Commercial awareness and financial literacy.

• An interest in fundraising and partnership development.

• A genuine commitment to community impact.

Prior Chair experience is welcome but not essential. Energy, judgement and the ability to build relationships are key.

Time Commitment

• Four face-to-face Board meetings per year (2 hours each).

• Four subcommittee meetings per subcommittee annually Finance & Risk, Operations, People, and Fundraising).

• Annual strategy Away Day.

• Annual Staff & Volunteers Day.

• Attendance at selected fundraising and stakeholder events.

• Approximate commitment: 2 -4 days per month.

Why This Role Matters

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire helps people solve problems that, left unaddressed, cost families, councils and government far more in the long term.

As Chair, you will help ensure this essential service continues to thrive, supporting residents to become more financially secure, resilient and able to contribute fully to society.

For more information and how to apply download the Appointment Brief.

Closing date: 9am Friday 11 September 2026

Join us in shaping the next chapter of Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Carers Support is looking for a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage of our development. This is an important voluntary role for someone with strong board or senior governance experience who wants to make a real difference to unpaid carers.

About Carers Support

We are an independent charity supporting thousands of unpaid carers of all ages across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. We provide advice, information, practical help, emotional support, training, young carers services and more.

Our vision is that all carers are recognised, valued and supported. We work closely with the NHS, local authorities and voluntary organisations, and hold the Trusted Charity quality mark

Main duties would include:

As Chair of Trustees, you will:

• Lead the Board and help set the charity’s strategic direction

• Support and work closely with the Chief Executive

• Make sure the Board fulfils its legal and governance duties

• Encourage a positive, open and inclusive Board culture

• Ensure meetings are well-run and support good discussion and decision-making

• Help the charity respond to the needs and views of unpaid carers

• Ensure risks, finances and performance are monitored effectively

You do not need previous chairing experience. We are looking for someone with solid board or committee experience who can guide a group and support strong governance.

What we’re looking for

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and lived experiences. We are looking for someone who can bring:

• Board, governance or senior decision-making experience

• Calm, confident leadership and good people skills

• The ability to facilitate effective meetings or a willingness to learn

• Sound judgement and the confidence to ask questions

• A commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers

• Time to prepare for and attend meetings

Time commitment

• 4 board meetings per year (2 hours each)

• Regular meetings with the Chief Executive

• Occasional committee meetings, events or development sessions

• Additional committee meetings, events or development sessions, as required

What you’ll gain

• A meaningful leadership opportunity with social impact

• Strategic experience in a respected local charity

• Supportive induction, training and ongoing guidance

• A warm and collaborative Board environment

 There’s lots more we could tell you, but why not apply and come and see for yourself.  If you’d like any further information, please email our recruitment team with your details and we’ll arrange for someone to call you back.

Please visit our website for all the information you need and details of how to apply.  All expressions of interest and CV’s should be returned to our recruitment inbox.

Closing date for applications is 30th September 2026 (however this vacancy may close early if we find a suitable candidate).

We are an Equal Opportunities Employer, and our workplace is free of barriers and fully accessible for people with disabilities.  We are committed to safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable adults; from recruitment of staff through to supporting our team working with families and carers in crisis.

Registered Charity No:  1063226

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support

About Us

Bright Futures and the Hillel Bright Futures Trust are proud to be South London's leading SEND community hub. Based in Croydon, we offer a vital range of education, training, and well-being services. We mainly serve children aged 4 to 19 years, extending up to 25 years for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We are deeply family-centred. We firmly believe that "a happy parent is a happy child." Because we champion equal opportunity and community support, over 90% of our services are delivered completely free of charge. This life-changing charitable work is only possible through the dedication of our incredible team and volunteers.

The Opportunity

Are you looking to use your professional leadership and management skills to make a real social impact? We are seeking two proactive and highly organised Volunteer Operations Leads (Directors) to jointly support the hands-on delivery of our vital community hub programmes.

Guided directly by the CEO, you will work together to ensure our diverse services run smoothly, remain on time, and stay within budget. This rewarding role offers high-level operations management experience within the charity sector, allowing you to act as a central pillar across our entire organisation.

What You Will Do

As part of a dual-lead operational team, your role will span a range of business and project administration duties:

• Programme Delivery: Jointly manage and deliver community hub programmes (90% of which are free), ranging from our Homeschooling Hub to After-School and Holiday Clubs.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Support staff, volunteers, and external stakeholders, ensuring the team remains timely, professional, and kind during service delivery.
• CEO Support: Coordinate directly with the CEO to manage workflows, schedule essential meetings, and align project timelines.
• Human Resources: Assist with tracking volunteer onboarding records and training schedules.
• Fundraising Support: Help track grant applications and coordinate local fundraising events.
• Communications & Social Media: Create engaging content using Canva and manage our active social media profiles to promote hub activities.

What We Are Looking For

Essential Skills:

• Tech Literacy: Mastery of the full Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Teams.
• Design Tools: Proficiency in Canva to create engaging social media and marketing graphics.
• Communication: Warm, professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Organisation: Strong time management, budget awareness, and the ability to manage diverse administrative tasks

Desirable Criteria:

• Driving License: A clean, valid UK driving license is highly preferred.
• Background Checks: A current Enhanced DBS check is ideal, though we can arrange this for you.

Commitment & Flexibility

We require a combined commitment across our core office days: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, with online remote workflows on Tuesday and Friday.

As this is an official job-share arrangement, the two Operations Leads will divide and coordinate these days between them to ensure seamless operational cover across the 3 core days.

What We Offer You

• Free Hot Lunch: Provided daily at our hub.
• Travel Expenses: Full reimbursement of reasonable travel costs.
• Well-being Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (via Bright HR).
• Professional Development: Free targeted training where required to enhance your performance.
• References: A high-quality reference upon successful completion of your placement.
• Environment: A friendly, supportive team environment making a genuine difference.

About us:

Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C. is a pioneering Podcast/YouTube Channel and healing membership organisation. We provide a platform for survivors and whistleblowers to share their lived experiences, highlight systemic frustrations, and offer solutions rooted in culturally trauma-informed care.

Our membership offers young people and survivors a path to heal, learn digital skills, and interactively participate in our Alchemic 369 Book Club, where members engage in weekly discussions, debates, and critical analysis of African, Caribbean, and world history, Ifa, classics, and political thought. Members sharpen their reading, reasoning, and imagination skills, with opportunities to engage directly with authors, attend highly subsidised plant-based transformative retreats, and become part of a community designed to empower and educate.

We are a mission-driven, collective-focused C.I.C. building a movement that combines healing, re-education, and empowerment.

Our content focuses on:

• Survivors of CSA, RSA, CT, and CA
• Whistleblowers and retired experts
• Generational trauma and healing
• Youth empowerment and education
• Community transformation through honest storytelling

Our mission is to challenge generational cycles, expose hidden truths, fight for justice, and create a platform rooted in authenticity, deep healing, and transformation.

Job Purpose:

To support the procurement and supply chain activities required to develop and operate the IFA Retreat by coordinating purchasing, supplier relationships, inventory management, and procurement administration, ensuring resources are sourced efficiently, ethically, and cost-effectively.

About the role:

As a Volunteer Procurement & Supply Chain Officer, you will support the day-to-day procurement and supply chain operations that underpin the development and future operation of the IFA Retreat.

Working closely with senior leadership and other departments, you will help source products and services, maintain supplier records, coordinate purchasing activities, monitor inventory, and ensure procurement processes are followed consistently.

You will contribute to the procurement of construction materials, accommodation furnishings, restaurant supplies, retreat equipment, maintenance items, gift shop stock, and operational resources while helping maintain accurate procurement documentation and supplier information.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain practical procurement and supply chain experience while contributing to a meaningful social impact project.

Key Responsibilities

• Support procurement activities from sourcing through to purchase.
• Research and identify suitable suppliers and obtain quotations.
• Maintain supplier databases and procurement records.
• Assist with supplier onboarding and relationship management.
• Coordinate purchase requests and track procurement progress.
• Monitor inventory levels and assist with stock control processes.
• Support the maintenance of procurement policies and procedures.
• Help ensure purchasing activities remain within agreed budgets.
• Assist with evaluating supplier performance and identifying improvement opportunities.
• Liaise with internal teams to understand procurement requirements.
• Prepare procurement reports and maintain accurate documentation.
• Support continuous improvement of procurement and supply chain processes.

Ideal Candidate

• Passionate about organisation and operational efficiency.
• Strong attention to detail and excellent organisational skills.
• Interested in supporting African development and cultural preservation projects.
• Comfortable working collaboratively across different teams.
• Able to prioritise multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Enjoys problem-solving and improving processes.
• Comfortable working in a volunteer start-up environment.
• Committed to supporting the organisation as it grows.

Experience & Skills

• Experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain, logistics, administration, or inventory management.
• Good organisational and administrative skills.
• Experience maintaining records and documentation.
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to compare quotations and support purchasing decisions.
• Understanding of inventory management principles.
• Good Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
• Experience using procurement or inventory management systems is desirable.
• Knowledge of Nigerian suppliers or procurement markets is advantageous.
• Familiarity with Yoruba culture, Ifa traditions, or African cultural projects is beneficial but not essential.

What You Will Gain

• Practical procurement and supply chain experience.
• Experience supporting a large-scale international development project.
• Opportunity to develop supplier management and negotiation skills.
• Portfolio-building experience in procurement operations.
• Experience working within a growing social enterprise.
• Networking opportunities across multiple organisational departments.
• Professional mentoring and development.
• Opportunity to influence operational systems within a purpose-driven organisation.
• Potential future paid opportunities and long-term career pathways.
• Direct pathway into future paid roles.
• The opportunity to help build a nationally recognised healing, education, and survivor-support platform.
• COS opportunities for top-performing staff members.

This role is designed as a long-term pathway opportunity to a paid position and lifestyle transformation.

We don't operate on individualism—we build through collectivism. As the platform grows, your role, influence, and opportunities grow with it.

Additional Notes

This role is not suitable if you:

• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work.
• Are uncomfortable following established procurement processes.
• Prefer working without documentation or record keeping.
• Are seeking immediate paid employment.
• Are uncomfortable working within a growing start-up environment.

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, skills, ideas, or vision you would bring to the role.

We welcome individuals who are passionate about helping create platforms that inspire healing, justice, truth, education, empowerment, and lasting community impact. That see themselves transforming their lifestyles to maintain the above for the generations to come.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

This opportunity will be at both Crook and Durham so volunteers need to be willing to volunteer at both sites.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

The Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum commitment of one day (9:00am - 5:00pm) per fortnight is asked for. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

Across the UK, our volunteer groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS, bringing people together and connecting our local MS communities.

As a Group Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group reaches out to people affected by MS.

The role is varied, and will enable you to further develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.

Chair of the Board of Trustees

The Ripple Pond Charity - Supporting Armed Forces and Veteran Families

A Voluntary Trustee Position
With reasonable expenses reimbursed

Please note that although the closing date for applications is 11 September 2026, we will be reviewing applications as they are received and may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. We therefore encourage interested candidates to apply early, as the recruitment process may close once a suitable appointment is made.

 Help Shape the Future of Support for Military Families

The Ripple Pond is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as Chair of our Board of Trustees.

This is an opportunity to lead a unique and growing charity that supports the families and carers of Armed Forces personnel and veterans who have sustained a service-related physical or psychological injury. Through peer support, advocacy, collaboration and innovation, we help military families feel seen, heard and supported throughout their journey.

We are looking for a values-driven leader with strategic vision, strong governance experience and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of military families and the wider Armed Forces community.

About the Role

As Chair, you will lead the Board of Trustees, ensuring that The Ripple Pond remains focused on its charitable purpose, strategic priorities and long-term sustainability.

Working closely with the Chief Executive Officer and fellow Trustees, you will help guide the charity through its next phase of development, strengthening our impact, partnerships and influence across the military, veterans, health and social care sectors.

You will function as an ambassador for the charity, helping to build relationships, influence decision-makers and create opportunities that support lasting positive change for those we support.

Who Are We Looking For?

The Chair of The Ripple Pond leads a small but complex charity that provides support to more than 1,200 Armed Forces and veteran family members across the UK. Around 20% of new Members joining our services live in environments that place them at high risk.

These challenges often arise from complex and overlapping circumstances, including addiction, suicidal ideation, domestic abuse, safeguarding concerns, risk of homelessness and wider welfare needs.

This places significant responsibility on the Chair to provide strong board leadership, support and develop trustees, maintain effective governance and strategic oversight, and work in close partnership with the CEO to ensure the charity remains focused on delivering meaningful impact for military families. The Chair also acts as one of the charity's principal ambassadors and public representatives.

We are seeking an individual with a broad range of experience and perspectives, ideally gained across multiple sectors. This might include commercial business, the public sector, healthcare, social care, the arts, the Armed Forces, emergency services or the voluntary sector.

You will have experience in developing and delivering regional or national strategies that have achieved sustainable and measurable positive outcomes, preferably through collaboration and partnership with a range of stakeholders.

You will have operated at executive or equivalent senior leadership level and be comfortable working across organisational boundaries, where success is achieved through influence, relationships and shared purpose rather than formal authority alone.

You will possess a strong understanding of risk, including strategic, organisational, and people-related risks, and be able to explain complex issues in a way that is clear, practical, and accessible to others.

Most importantly, you will demonstrate humility, integrity and compassion. You will care deeply about people, value the contribution of others and be motivated by a desire to serve the Armed Forces community and improve the lives of military families.

Role Profile

We are seeking an experienced senior leader who can provide effective governance, constructive challenge and confident stewardship to help guide The Ripple Pond through its next phase of development.

The successful candidate will bring:

Experience and Capability

Organisational Leadership and Change

• Significant executive, board-level or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Experience of leading organisations through growth, transformation or periods of significant change.
• A proven ability to develop and deliver complex strategies, align stakeholders behind a shared purpose and achieve sustainable outcomes.
• The ability to balance organisational ambition, opportunity, risk and long-term sustainability.

 Governance, Finance and Risk

• A strong understanding of governance, accountability and effective board leadership gained through charity trusteeship, corporate governance, public service or other relevant senior leadership experience.
• Experience of supporting effective decision-making, constructive challenge and organisational assurance.
• Financial confidence and literacy, including the ability to understand budgets, financial performance, investment decisions and long-term sustainability.
• An understanding of risk management and the importance of robust oversight.

Influence, Partnerships and Representation

• Experience of building effective partnerships and relationships across sectors.
• The ability to represent an organisation with credibility, authenticity and professionalism.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage and influence a wide range of audiences.

Leadership Style and Values

We are particularly interested in individuals who demonstrate:

Integrity and Accountability
A commitment to ethical leadership, transparency and maintaining the highest standards of governance.

Collaborative Leadership
The ability to build trust, bring people together and create an environment where trustees, Members, workforce, partners and other stakeholders feel valued and able to contribute. You will listen, encourage open discussion and help create a shared sense of purpose both within The Ripple Pond and across the wider community.

Compassion and Respect
An understanding of the experiences of military families and carers, with genuine respect for different perspectives, backgrounds and lived experiences.

Courage and Constructive Challenge
You will be confident asking the difficult questions, challenging thinking and encouraging open and honest conversations. You will build trusted internal and strategic relationships, using your influence to ensure the experiences of military families and carers are understood and reflected in wider conversations and decision-making. This will help ensure that The Ripple Pond continues to play its part in shaping a stronger support landscape for military and veteran families.

Self-Awareness and Learning Mindset
A willingness to listen, reflect and continue developing, recognising that effective leadership requires curiosity, humility and openness to new ideas.

Commitment to Our Purpose
A genuine desire to improve the lives of military families, carers and veterans affected by service-related injury. You will understand the importance of lived experience in shaping services, strategy and practice, ensuring that those we support remain central to organisational decision-making.

Experience within the Armed Forces, veterans, healthcare, social care, public service or charity sectors would be beneficial but is not essential.

Safeguarding and Creating a Safe Culture

The Ripple Pond is committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all Members, volunteers, staff, trustees and partners. Safeguarding is fundamental to our work, and trustees share responsibility for ensuring that people feel respected, listened to and able to raise concerns.

The Chair will champion a strong safeguarding culture, ensuring the Board maintains appropriate oversight of safeguarding practice, risk management, policies and organisational culture.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The Ripple Pond believes that diversity of experience and perspective strengthens our organisation and improves the support we provide. We welcome applications from people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, including those with relevant lived experience.

The Chair will help ensure equality, diversity and inclusion are embedded throughout governance, decision-making, culture and service development, creating an organisation where everyone feels valued, respected and able to contribute.

Time Commitment

The role of Chair is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the lives of Armed Forces and veteran families. While voluntary, it carries significant responsibility and requires a consistent commitment throughout the year.

Key responsibilities include:

• Chairing at least four formal Board meetings annually.
• Participating in occasional committee, strategic planning and development meetings.
• Maintaining regular engagement with the Chief Executive, providing guidance, support and constructive challenge.
• Supporting trustee recruitment, development and succession planning.
• Attending selected events, conferences and stakeholder engagements.
• Acting as an ambassador for The Ripple Pond with partners, funders, supporters and the wider community.
• Providing occasional availability for matters requiring Chair input between scheduled meetings.

Many meetings are held virtually to maximise accessibility and efficiency, although some travel will be required for Board meetings, key events and stakeholder engagement.

Professional Practice

As a national charity supporting over 1,200 military family members across the UK, the Chair will maintain an informed understanding of The Ripple Pond’s work, operating environment, opportunities and risks to provide effective Board leadership and appropriate support and challenge to the Chief Executive.

Applicants should be able to commit sufficient time in line with Charity Commission guidance and recognised principles of good governance. The time requirement will vary throughout the year, with additional involvement likely during periods of strategic development, organisational change or significant emerging issues.

Above all, the Chair will view this not simply as a governance appointment, but as an opportunity to help shape and strengthen an organisation making a lasting difference to military families across the United Kingdom.

Digital Confidence and Ways of Working

The Ripple Pond is a digitally enabled charity, with services, meetings and engagement activity delivered predominantly through online platforms. The Chair should therefore be comfortable working in a digital environment and using technology to support effective governance and communication.

This includes participating in virtual Board meetings, reviewing digital reports and documents, communicating with the Chief Executive and engaging with stakeholders online. Confidence using video conferencing, shared document systems and online collaboration tools is essential to ensure effective participation, timely decision-making and organisational agility.

Term of Appointment

The appointment is for an initial term of three years.

Trustees may be reappointed for further three-year terms up to a maximum of nine years, subject to the charity's governing document and Board approval.

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to lead the Board of a growing charity with a clear purpose and a strong commitment to military families across the United Kingdom.

The Ripple Pond exists because the experiences and challenges faced by families caring for injured serving personnel and veterans are often unseen and not fully recognised. As Chair, you will help shape our next chapter, working with an experienced team and community of Members to strengthen our impact, ensure the voices of military families and carers are heard, and help influence wider understanding, services and support.

About Thames21

Thames21 is an environmental charity that works with communities to restore and look after rivers, water and nature across London and the Thames Basin.  We believe that every river should be healthy, thriving and valued by the community it serves.

What We Do:

Empower communities to care for rivers

• We support thousands of volunteers and community groups each year to improve their local waterways and green spaces.

Restore rivers and nature

• We deliver practical river restoration projects that improve habitats, water quality and biodiversity.

Build climate resilience

• We create nature-based solutions that help communities and ecosystems adapt to climate change and reduce flood risk.

The role

We have an exciting opportunity to appoint a voluntary Company Secretary to support our Board of Trustees and help ensure our governance is as strong as the environmental impact we deliver.  Your professional skills will support an ambitious and growing charity making a real difference to rivers, wildlife and people.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage applications from groups currently under-represented in charity governance roles.

The Role

The Company Secretary plays an important role in supporting the effective operation of Thames21's governance.

Working closely with the Chair of Trustees, Chief Executive and Board, you will help ensure that meetings are well organised, decisions are properly recorded and the charity meets its statutory obligations as both a registered charity and company limited by guarantee.

You will be expected to attend four Board meetings and approximately two sub-committee meetings each year, together with occasional planning discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.  The role is voluntary, although reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

What You Will Be Doing

• Supporting the smooth operation of the Board of Trustees and its committees.
• Working with the Chair and Chief Executive to plan Board and committee meetings.
• Preparing and distributing agendas and meeting papers.
• Attending meetings and ensuring accurate minutes and action logs are maintained.
• Maintaining key governance records and statutory registers.
• Supporting the filing of statutory returns and governance documents with Companies House and the Charity Commission.
• Advising trustees on governance processes and good practice.
• Assisting with trustee induction and governance documentation.
• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and relevant legal requirements.
• Supporting governance reviews and improvement initiatives as appropriate.

What We Are Looking For

We are seeking someone who has:

• Experience as a Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee, board administrator or in a similar governance role.
• An understanding of company and/or charity governance.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• The ability to produce concise and accurate minutes.
• Good judgement and discretion.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• The confidence to provide procedural advice and guidance when needed.
• An interest in environmental issues, community engagement and the mission of Thames21.

Desirable but not essential:

• Experience working with charities, membership organisations, companies limited by guarantee or not-for-profit organisations.
• Knowledge of charity law and Charity Commission requirements.
• An interest in charity governance and governance improvement.

Why Join Thames21?

This role may appeal to an experienced Company Secretary, governance professional, trustee or board administrator looking to use their skills in support of a meaningful environmental cause.  It could suit someone seeking a voluntary role alongside their career or as part of a portfolio of charitable commitments.

This role offers the opportunity to:

• Join a friendly, passionate and professional organisation committed to creating lasting environmental and social impact.
• See the tangible results of your contribution through projects that improve rivers, wildlife habitats and local communities.
• Use your professional skills to support a respected and ambitious environmental charity.
• Work closely with an experienced Board of Trustees and leadership team.
• Gain insight into charity leadership, strategy and governance.
• Build relationships with professionals from across the environmental, water, local government and charity sectors.
• Support practical action on river restoration, biodiversity recovery and climate resilience.

Most importantly, you will help ensure that Thames21 has the strong governance foundations needed to deliver lasting environmental impact.

Time Commitment

Approximately 6–10 days per year, including:

• Four Board meetings annually.
• Approximately two subcommittee meetings annually.
• Preparation time for meetings and governance administration.
• Occasional discussions with the Chair and Chief Executive.

To Apply

Please send your CV and a short covering letter with the reference CS0726 via the Charity Job Website explaining:

• Why you are interested in becoming Thames21's Company Secretary; and
• How your experience and skills would support the role.

Do you have a passion for helping grow support that transforms lives? Are you ready to use your skills to make a difference? 

Join DFN and play a key role in growing the funding and partnerships that support our programmes in India.

Dignity Freedom Network (DFN) works in cities and in rural villages across India. We champion those society sidelines including those from low caste and tribal backgrounds.  Could you help secure funding from grant makers for our education, health and protection programmes?

What will you be doing?

You will support DFN’s fundraising team by helping to identify new opportunities, strengthen relationships with supporters, and contribute to the development of funding opportunities that enable our work to grow.

This role will involve using your writing and research skills to support a range of activities, working closely with the team to help increase DFN’s fundraising capacity and impact. The role is remote, with regular opportunities to connect with the fundraising team and learn more about DFN’s work. You will need access to a computer and the internet. 

What are we looking for?

Skills and experience

Essential 

• Good research skills 

• Excellent writing

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills. 

• Organised, reliable, and able to manage multiple tasks. 

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusive practice. 

• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a small team. 

Desirable 

• Experience intrust and foundation fundraising and/or major donors 

• Previousfundraisingexperience (paid or voluntary) 

• Experienceofdevelopingfundraising resources 

What difference will you make?

Your contribution will help DFN strengthen its fundraising approach and secure support for programmes that create opportunities and improve lives.

By sharing your skills and experience, you will help a growing charity expand its ability to deliver meaningful work with communities across India.

What are the Benefits for you?

• Experience in a small, entrepreneurial charity where your contribution has visible impact. 
• Opportunities to develop or broaden your fundraising skills in a supportive environment. 
• Informal training in fundraising skills

• A warm, values‑driven team committed to inclusion, learning, and positive change. 

• References and recognition for your contribution to help you secure your first or next paid role

• An opportunity to make the world a better place!

• Working flexibly, tailored to your availability.

Dignity Freedom Network (DFN) is active across India. We work in large cities and in rural villages, with young children and new mums, with women who have experienced exploitation, and families facing discrimination and prejudice. We work to champion those society sidelines including those from low caste and tribal backgrounds.

Indian colleagues and volunteers deliver impactful education, health, protection and vocational skills programmes - the ladder needed by those we seek to help to overcome the barriers they face.

Volunteer Executive Assistant to the CEO

Organization: Bright Futures & Hillel Bright Futures Trust Community Hub
Location: Croydon, South London (Office-based)
Time Commitment: Main office days - Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday/Online the remaining days (Potential Job Share available)
Start Date: Immediate (Following successful interview and reference checks)
Benefits: Free hot lunch, travel expenses, free training, and EAP support

About Us

Bright Futures and the Hillel Bright Futures Trust are proud to be South London's leading SEND community hub. Based in Croydon, we offer a vital range of education, training, and well-being services. We mainly serve children aged 4 to 19 years, extending up to 25 years for individuals with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We are deeply family-centred. We firmly believe that "a happy parent is a happy child." Because we champion equal opportunity and community support, over 90% of our services are delivered completely free of charge. This life-changing charitable work is only possible through the dedication of our incredible team and volunteers.

The Opportunity

Are you looking to use your professional skills to make a real social impact? We are seeking a highly organized, proactive Volunteer Executive Assistant (EA) to support our Chief Executive Officer.

This rewarding role offers the chance to gain high-level experience in the charity sector. You will act as a central pillar across our organization, directly contributing to our growth and community outreach.

What You Will Do: arrange of business admin duties - 

• CEO Support: Manage diaries, schedule meetings, and handle administrative workflows.
• Project Assistance: Coordinate tasks for community initiatives to support free service delivery.
• Human Resources: Assist with volunteer onboarding records and training schedules.
• Fundraising Support: Help track grant applications and coordinate local fundraising events.
• Communications & Social Media: Create content using Canva and manage our active social media profiles.

What We Are Looking For

Essential Skills:

• Tech Literacy: Mastery of the full Microsoft Office Suite, including Microsoft Teams.
• Design Tools: Proficiency in Canva to create engaging social media and marketing graphics.
• Communication: Warm, professional written and verbal communication skills.
• Organisation: Excellent time management and the ability to manage diverse administrative tasks.

Desirable Criteria:

• Driving License: A clean, valid UK driving license is highly preferred.
• Background Checks: A current Enhanced DBS check is ideal, though we can arrange this for you.

Commitment & Flexibility

• We require a commitment on our core days: Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Online days: Tuesday and Friday (will consider job share across 3 days)
• We welcome applications from individuals looking for a job-share volunteer arrangement to cover these days.

What We Offer You

• Free Hot Lunch: Provided daily at our hub.
• Travel Expenses: Full reimbursement of reasonable travel costs.
• Well-being Support: Access to our Employee Assistance Programme (via Bright HR).
• Professional Development: Free targeted training where required to enhance your performance in the role.
• References: A high-quality reference upon successful completion of your placement.
• Environment: A friendly, supportive team environment making a genuine difference.

IAPWA is seeking an experienced HR Volunteer to provide strategic guidance and independent oversight of our people practices. This role is focused on supporting good governance rather than delivering day-to-day HR operations.

Working alongside the CEO and relevant staff, the volunteer will help ensure the charity's HR policies, procedures and practices remain compliant with UK employment legislation, reflect best practice, and support a positive and inclusive working environment.

This is an advisory role requiring a couple of hours per week, with flexibility around when those hours are completed. The volunteer will act as a trusted source of HR knowledge, helping the charity identify potential risks, strengthen governance, and continuously improve its people practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide independent advice and guidance on HR matters to support good governance.
• Review HR policies and procedures periodically, recommending updates to reflect changes in legislation and best practice.
• Support the charity in maintaining compliance with UK employment law and relevant Charity Commission expectations.
• Provide advice on people-related risks and help identify appropriate mitigation measures.
• Offer guidance on employee relations matters where required, whilst recognising that operational HR activities are undertaken by others.
• Support the development of fair, consistent and inclusive HR practices.
• Review and advise on staff handbook content and employment-related documentation as required.
• Provide input into organisational culture, employee wellbeing and engagement initiatives where appropriate.
• Help ensure appropriate HR records, governance processes and documentation are maintained.
• Provide guidance on safer recruitment, equality, diversity and inclusion, learning and development, performance management and other HR best practice.
• Attend occasional meetings (virtually or in person) as agreed.

Essential Experience/Skills

• Previous experience working within Human Resources, People Management or a related HR profession.
• Good knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practice.
• Experience developing or reviewing HR policies and procedures.
• Ability to provide balanced, pragmatic and confidential advice.
• Understanding of good governance and organisational risk management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and manage a small voluntary time commitment.
• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Understanding of confidentiality and data protection requirements.
• A commitment to the values and aims of the charity.

Desirable

• Chartered membership or associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).
• Previous experience within the voluntary or charity sector.
• Experience supporting small organisations with HR governance and compliance.