Volunteer management volunteer volunteer roles

Description

Join our amazing volunteer team in this flexible opportunity that puts you at the heart of our work supporting blind and partially sighted people. You’ll make taking part in events and carrying out volunteering easier and more enjoyable for our customers and volunteers with sight loss.
You’ll take some of the stress and anxiety out of getting around and taking part in activities as a blind or partially sighted person. The help you give will encourage people to do more.

What you’ll be doing
• Sighted guiding / giving practical help to individuals in and around venues, so they can take part in events.
• Supporting volunteers with sight loss with their volunteering activities which range from facilitating a regular community group to delivering a talk about sight loss to a local business. Your role would involve things like guiding; Meeting and greeting at group activities or creating a welcoming and interesting display stand at events.

In this role you will only be helping individuals in places open to the public, often in a group setting. We will provide training in sighted guiding techniques and understanding sight loss.
We would particularly like to recruit support volunteers within the Downpatrick area (last Wednesday of every month)

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• This role requires one reference

Additional location information

• Particularly looking for Volunteers to Support West Belfast walk every Friday in Falls Park 10.30 am-12pm

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people. • An empathetic and professional manner. • The ability to take the supportive and helpful role.

YMCA Worcestershire is looking for enthusiastic and reliable Events Volunteers to support our fundraising activities throughout the year. Our events help raise vital funds to support young people across Worcestershire, providing safe accommodation, guidance, and opportunities to help them build brighter futures.

What you’ll do

As an Events Volunteer, you’ll have the chance to learn the ins and outs of fundraising events while supporting our team with things such as:

• Event set-up and pack-down

• Welcoming and supporting participants

• Helping with registration desks

• Assisting with activities and stalls

• Supporting fundraising activities on the day

• Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere for attendees

Upcoming events you could support

We have several exciting events coming up, including:

• Race for Change – Sunday 21st June

• Family Fun Day – Saturday 4th July

• Sleep Easy – Saturday 17th October

…and more events currently being scheduled throughout the year!

Why volunteer with us?

Volunteering with YMCA Worcestershire is a great opportunity to:

• Give back to your local community

• Gain hands-on experience in fundraising and event management

• Meet new people and work as part of a friendly team

• Support vital services that help young people across Worcestershire

Whether you can help at one event or several, we’d love to hear from you.

Get involved

If you’re interested in becoming one of our Events Volunteers, please get in touch to register your interest and find out more.

Join us and help make our events a success while making a real difference to young people in Worcestershire.

Trustee (People and Human Resources)

The charity Citizens Advice Lewisham (CAL) is a member of the national Citizens Advice (CitA) organisation. We deliver free, impartial and confidential advice to those who live, work or study in the London borough of Lewisham.

We are a highly engaged board who are passionate about ensuring our charity makes a big difference to Lewisham residents, especially to the most vulnerable people. We work in a collegiate way, respecting the diverse viewpoints board members bring to the table and hold ourselves to high professional standards.

Role focus for this appointment

This role is aimed at candidates with senior human resources and people leadership experience. We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring strategic insight into workforce planning, employee and volunteer engagement, people policy, organisational culture, inclusion, safeguarding and people-related risk.
 

What will you do?

• complete an induction for your role

• maintain an awareness of how the local Citizens Advice is operating

• read papers for board meetings and attend 4 meetings per year 

• depending on your skills and experience, work on specific projects with other trustees or staff within the local Citizens Advice and the Citizens Advice network, including people-related projects, to further strategic objectives

• Provide thought leadership in areas agreed with the Chair, particularly people strategy, human resources, workforce planning, volunteer engagement, equality, diversity and inclusion, staff wellbeing and organisational culture.

• Act as a senior people and human resources voice on the Board, offering strategic challenge and support on governance, risk, safeguarding, organisational effectiveness and employment practice.

• Take an active part in discussions during board meetings and work with other trustees to: 

• Contribute to setting policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice within the quality assurance frameworks set by the network

• ensure that the people related policies, strategies and processes work effectively  for recruitment, retention, development, wellbeing and turnover of staff and volunteers

What’s in it for you?

• use your human resources and people leadership experience to make a positive impact for people in your local area by ensuring the local Citizens Advice is sustainable and meeting the needs of the community

• meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers

• build on your governance, leadership, strategy and people-related knowledge and skills in a high performing and sector lead charity

• increase your employability

And we’ll reimburse expenses too.

What do you need to have?

You don’t need specific qualifications but you’ll need to:

• understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities as a trustee

• be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own

• have good listening, verbal and written communication skills

• be able to exercise good independent judgement

• have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the treasurer

• Senior human resources or people leadership experience, ideally in a charity, public sector, not-for-profit or values-led organisation.

• A strong grasp of charity governance, people-related risk management, employment practice and strategic planning.

• Confidence reading management information and contributing to Board-level discussions on workforce, culture, safeguarding, wellbeing and people-related risk.

• be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection

• be willing to undertake annual mandatory training in your role

How much time do you need to give?

Trustee boards usually meet in the evenings to accommodate the needs of trustees, and you’ll likely need to give a few hours a month to read papers and support the board. Additional time may be required for committee work or specific projects. You may need to attend other meetings if you’re involved in specific projects, or meet with volunteers and staff occasionally within the local Citizens Advice. We can be flexible about the time spent, so come and talk to us.

Valuing inclusion

Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from ethnic minority communities.

If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility around location, time, ‘what you will do’ and how we can support you please contact us.

Are you passionate about helping others? Could your skills and experience help shape the future of wellbeing support within the pharmacy profession?

Pharmacist Support – the profession’s independent charity – is recruiting lay trustees to join our Board and help guide the future direction of the charity at a time when wellbeing support across the profession has never been more important.

Recent Workforce Wellbeing Survey findings highlight continued high levels of stress and burnout across pharmacy, reinforcing the growing need for accessible and compassionate support for pharmacists and their families, trainees and students.

This is an exciting opportunity to use your professional experience, lived perspective and insight to help shape the charity’s strategy, governance and future development, ensuring Pharmacist Support continues meeting the changing needs of those it supports throughout their lives and careers.

About Pharmacist Support

Pharmacist Support is an independent, trusted charity providing free and confidential support to pharmacists and their families, former pharmacists, trainees and students.

We listen without judgement and help people navigate challenges including workplace pressures, financial difficulties and mental health and wellbeing concerns.

Established in 1841, Pharmacist Support has evolved from Benevolent Fund roots into a modern, forward-looking charity championing wellbeing across the profession.

About the role

We are particularly keen to hear from:

• Individuals with experience in the charity or voluntary sector
• Skills or expertise in areas such as finance, HR, governance, digital or fundraising.
• Individuals with lived experience of the charity’s services
• Those who can bring fresh perspectives, skills and insights from outside the pharmacy profession

Our aim is to build a Board of Trustees that is representative of the people and communities we support. We welcome applications from individuals of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and levels of experience.

If you are passionate about supporting others and feel your skills, experience or lived perspective could benefit our dynamic and innovative charity, we would love to hear from you. Previous trustee experience is not essential and full induction, training and ongoing support will be provided.

Pharmacist Support is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and creating an inclusive environment for our beneficiaries, staff, volunteers and trustees.

Time commitment

The role requires approximately one day per month across:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Four sub-committee meetings per year
• Preparation and reading time
• Occasional involvement in charity events, working groups or training

Board meetings are usually held in Manchester during the day, although virtual attendance can be accommodated where required. Sub-committee meetings are generally held virtually in the evening.

Reasonable expenses incurred to facilitate attendance at meetings will be reimbursed.

How to apply

To apply, please send:

• An up-to-date CV outlining your employment history, experience/qualifications as well as your contact details.
• A Supporting Statement (no more than 800 words)
  • Demonstrating how you meet the criteria outlined in the Person Specification
  • Outlining why you are interested in being a trustee for Pharmacist Support and what you could bring to the board of trustees
• In your email, please state which role you are applying for (either pharmacy or lay) and indicate where you heard about the role.

Full details on the work and impact of Pharmacist Support, along with Trustee Recruitment Pack and application details can be found on our webiste.

Closing date: 12 noon Monday 3 August 2026

If shortlisted, you will be invited to an interview with a panel of current Trustees in Manchester.

Interviews will take place on one of the following dates: 10, 11 and 14 September 2026

Successful applicants will initially be appointed for a three-year term, with the opportunity for reappointment subject to satisfactory peer appraisal and trustee term limits.

As part of the appointment process, trustees will be required to confirm they are eligible to act as a charity trustee.

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Vice-Chairperson (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Responsibilities:

• Support the Chairperson and act in their absence.

• Ensure all board decisions are actioned efficiently.

• Oversee special committees and task forces.

• Assist with performance evaluations of executive staff.

• Provide leadership continuity during transitions.

Requirements:

• Strong leadership and organisational skills.

• Prior experience in management or board governance.

Benefits:

• Executive leadership recognition.

• Key role in succession planning and governance strategy.

• Access to leadership networks and visibility opportunities.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

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.

Our vision is to help build communities that save lives and serve each other through volunteering for health and first aid.

Young people play a crucial role in helping us realise this mission. As a volunteer with our youth teams, you’ll be trained to provide our young people with both life skills and lifesaving skills – all while having great fun!

You’ll be working with our brilliant Badgers (aged 7-10) or creative Cadets (aged 11-18). You’ll also have the opportunity to design your own role, whether that involves running fun activities – such as outdoor events, summer camps and mountain adventures – or providing ‘behind-the-scenes’ support.

We’ll offer you the chance to become a fully-fledged Youth Leader, which will mean completing extra courses in First Aid or Adventure to broaden your capacity and experience.

Would you like to volunteer once a week or once a month? That’s entirely up to you. With the constant guidance of a friendly volunteer manager and youth team, you’ll have all the support you need to make bold strides and rediscover your inner ‘big kid’.

This role is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitations Offenders Act and as such as Enhanced DBS check will be obtained.

The closing date for this application is 31/12/2026

When you join us as a volunteer, you’ll be part of a community of passionate people coming together to support the MS Society’s vision of a world free from MS.

As one of our wonderful volunteers, you can get involved in:

• providing support and services to the MS community
• increasing awareness of, and delivering resources to, people affected by MS
• raising vital funds to help stop MS
• boosting our community voice by advocating for MS research and policy

Role details:

Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI) are at the heart of our work. We work with people with lived experience of MS, volunteers, and professionals to guide and direct our approach to EEDI.

The EEDI Reference Group is a group of people affected by MS who helped develop our previous EEDI strategy and now support the EEDI work in our more recent organisational strategy. They bring lived experience of marginalisation for example people from minoritised ethnic groups, the LGBTQ+ community, carers and disabled people.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Equity, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EEDI) work. By attending monthly meetings you’ll use your lived and/or professional experience to provide advice, feedback, guidance and personal opinion on our EEDI work.

This is a home-based role, which will require attending online meetings of up to an hour, with up to 30 minutes of pre-reading and follow-up work before each one. 

What you’ll be doing:

· Attending online meetings

· Reading documents and preparing feedback

· Using your lived and/or professional experience to provide constructive and honest feedback on our ways of working, processes and future initiatives

· Representing the MS community and people from marginalised group(s) with lived experience

· Having confidence to speak and input into meetings

· Feeling passion for the MS Society and for EEDI in our work

· Showing awareness of EEDI in a broader context, to provide challenge outside of your lived experience

What you’ll get in return:

· You’ll be part of our amazing volunteer network

· You’ll meet and work with people from a variety of backgrounds and experiences of MS

· You’ll develop skills, which can improve your CV and employability

· You'll be making a real difference to the MS community

· You’ll get a say in influencing our work

· You’ll receive a Volunteer Welcome Pack

· You’ll have an induction to your role

· You’ll get support from your Volunteer Manager

· You’ll gain access to Learning and Development opportunities

· You’ll be reimbursed for any related expenses while carrying out your role

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

Roles available at colleges across Stockton-on-Tees

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

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

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you 

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

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

This is an opportunity to: 

• Apply your corporate skills in a leadership role 

• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV 

• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility 

• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation 

What will you be doing? 

As part of a governing board, you’ll: 

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

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

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

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

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

Who are we looking for? 

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

• Finance, Audit & Risk 

• HR, People & Culture 

• Strategy, Transformation & Operations 

• Technology, AI & Digital 

• Legal, Governance & Compliance 

• Marketing, PR & Communications 

• Education, apprenticeships, or vocational courses 

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

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

Time commitment 

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

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

• Reading papers and preparing questions 

• Participating in training and occasional college visits 

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

Where you’ll be needed 

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

What’s in it for you? 

This role offers the opportunity to: 

• Enhance your board-level and governance experience 

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

• Expand your professional network 

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

About Boards for Education 

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

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

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

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

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

Do you want to support a local school in enhancing its outcomes for its students? Do you want to develop your board level experience? Have you got a passion for making a difference in your communities?

As a school governor, you’ll operate at board-level and develop strategic leadership skills and assist in making decisions on a wide range of topics; all while collaboratively improving education within your local community.
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for schools in Spalding to strengthen their governing boards and enhance outcomes of pupils within your communities. If you feel, you want to make a difference within your community, read on for more details about the role of a governor and how to apply.

Governors make decisions that affect schools and their pupils for years to come; our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. Becoming a governor gives you ample opportunity for personal and professional development, including exposure to finance and budgeting, safeguarding, HR, strategic planning, and more.
As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role as well as have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. Governors act as a ‘critical friend’ to their head teacher ensuring accountability and helping to monitor and evaluate the schools progress, budget and staffing. You’ll also help to shape and implement future plans and guide the schools aims, ethos and values.

You don’t need to be a parent or have any specific skills to become a governor as long as you’re over 18 and happy to have a DBS check, you can apply! Professional skills such as HR, finance, law or project management are useful but governing boards are often needing softer skills such as leadership, communication and problem solving alongside a fresh perspective and lived experience within their communities. As a governor, you’ll be supported by the Chair, head teacher and the rest of the governing team.

This vacancy is for a primary school looking to find a governor to sit on their board with experience of SEND and Safeguarding. The school is a small friendly village school set in an old building and embraces the natural environment to ensure the children have a strong relationship with their communities. 

If you’re interested in becoming a school governor, fill out the short application form on our website.

Role- Head of Governance and Legal (Voluntary)

Reporting- CEO/CPO

Location- Remote, UK-based

Commitment: We estimate this role requires 4–6 hours per week, with flexibility to manage your own time. All meetings are remote and scheduled in advance.

Compensation: Voluntary role (non-paid)

About YouthAdvantage UK

YouthAdvantage UK is a volunteer-led, research-based organisation championing the rights and wellbeing of young people aged 11 to 25 across the UK. We influence national policy, deliver grassroots projects, and elevate youth voice in key debates; from education to mental health, climate action to justice reform.

We are seeking a passionate, committed Head of Governance & Legal to join our senior leadership team and help shape the strategic foundations that support our work.

About the role

As Head of Governance & Legal, you will lead a small team focused on risk, compliance, and governance excellence. You will ensure our work is rooted in sound legal and ethical frameworks and will support our growth with robust, transparent policies and guidance. You’ll also provide strategic support to our Board of Trustees and act as the senior point of contact for all legal matters.

This is an ideal opportunity for a governance, legal, or compliance professional looking to gain sector leadership experience while supporting a values-driven youth organisation.

 What you’ll gain

• Strategic leadership experience in a national charity
• A portfolio of governance and legal work with social impact
• Board-level exposure and public recognition of your contribution
• A flexible and supportive remote-first culture
• Testimonials, references, and public acknowledgment upon completion
• A chance to help shape youth policy at a systemic level

What you’ll do

• Lead and support the Governance & Legal Support Manager and team
• Design, update, and implement governance frameworks and organisational policies
• Maintain regulatory compliance across charity law, safeguarding, and data protection
• Liaise with the Board of Trustees - prepare agendas, minutes, and reports
• Oversee legal documentation and contracts
• Maintain and review the organisation’s risk register
• Build relationships with regulators and external legal advisors
• Embed a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical practice

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from a broad range of professional backgrounds. You might be:

• An experienced lawyer, company secretary, or governance lead
• A compliance or legal professional seeking strategic exposure
• A postgraduate in law or non-profit management looking for leadership experience
• Returning to work and keen to rebuild your senior-level skillset
• Recently semi-retired and passionate about giving back

 Essential:

• Experience in governance, legal, or compliance leadership (minimum 12 months)
• Familiarity with UK charity law and regulatory frameworks
• Ability to lead and support others with tact and clarity
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and ethical standards

To Apply

If you’re interested, just send us your CV and a few lines about why the role appeals to you — this can be a short paragraph in your email or a separate note. If you'd prefer an informal chat before applying, we’d love to hear from you. Just drop us a message and we’ll arrange a time.

Volunteer Acknowledgement

Although this is a volunteer role, we’re committed to recognising your contribution. Upon successful completion of your commitment, you can request:

• A LinkedIn testimonial or written reference
• A public thank-you post on our social media
• Permission to list your role with YouthAdvantage UK on your CV and LinkedIn

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.

Description

Youth Advantage UK (YAUK) is seeking a Volunteer Senior Researcher. The successful candidates will be allocated to lead one of our teams that either conducts, supports or progresses our short term or long term research projects. They should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

Responsibilities:

• To lead a small team of volunteers in conducting research or developing research

• To provide oversight of a number of tasks at once while providing support on specific issues as they arise

• To provide guidance to the team

• To work with management and the team to coordinate research projects and planning

• To provide advice and guidance to more junior team members

• To conduct or oversee research projects 

• To ensure of ethical standards at all times and monitor task progress to ensure of compliance

•    Requirements:

•    Experience of leading a small team in a charity or research or policy setting
•    Knowledge of issues affecting children and young people in the UK.
•    Knowledge of a range of research methods
•    Experience of writing or contributing to research or briefings and other policy documents.
•    Excellent writing and speaking skills.
•    IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
•    Ability to work well independently and in a team.
•    Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
•    Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits
•    Gain valuable experience in influencing research projects
•    Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
•    Flexible volunteering hours.

The impact you will make:

By supporting local and national fundraising activity, you will help ensure that NCI stations can continue to operate effectively. Your contribution will directly support the volunteers on watch who provide a crucial extra set of eyes along the coast, helping to prevent incidents and assist emergency services when needed.

What you will be doing:

As a volunteer station supporter fundraiser, you will be involved in your stations fundraising activities, including:

• Attending local fundraising events and community activities organised by your station
• Manning stalls at events, shows, and public spaces
• Collecting, checking, and emptying donation boxes in agreed locations
• Assisting with simple fundraising initiatives organised by your local station
• Helping to promote NCI within the local community and encouraging public support

This role is ideal for someone looking to gain experience, confidence, and skills while supporting a coastal water safety charity. Would be beneficial to be located near to an NCI station, or reasonable travelling disctance from a station. Would need to hold a driving licence for travelling to and from events.

Ideally what skills would suit this role:

• Enthusiasm, commitment and willingness to get involved
• Organised individual with project management skills
• Friendly, confident and approachable manner
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Reliability and a flexible approach to tasks
• An interest in supporting coastal safety and local communities

No previous fundraising experience is required – training and support will be provided.

What’s in it for you:

• Be part of a respected national coastal safety charity
• Learn new skills in fundraising
• Meet new people and join a motivated volunteer team making a real difference
• Supporting your local coastal community
• Gain practical experience to enhance your CV
• The chance to develop your professional and personal skills
• The satisfaction of helping protect lives along the coast