Youth and children volunteer roles

About CARAS:

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and people seeking asylum who live in south London. We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a background of forced migration, providing them with tools to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for young people currently include: ESOL classes (English for Speakers of Other Languages), study group, youth club, swimming lessons and football.

About Youth Club:

Youth Club is a place for young people aged 14-19 to come and play games, learn new skills, make and strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging. Regular activities include classic youth club games such as table tennis, pool, foosball, board and card games. We also work in partnership with a range of organisations to run a rich programme of workshops within our youth club. Some of these have included creative visual arts, drama, music and workshops on rights and entitlements of young asylum seekers. We also cook a hot meal from time to time and offer a range of snacks each week. Our casework team are also on-site to support young people with a range of advice and signposting needs, usually by-appointment.

Youth club takes place at Furzedown Youth Centre. Welham Rd, London SW16 6TJ

About the role:

As a Youth Club volunteer, you would be helping young people to feel welcome, join in with activities and be a great role model.

Youth Club takes place every Wednesday at 6.00-8.30pm. We ask for a commitment of at least 2 sessions per month for a minimum of 6 months.

Tasks and responsibilities:

· To attend and contribute to volunteer de-briefs which occur 15 minutes after each session.

· To act as a positive role model and set standards of behaviour when volunteering with young people.

· To encourage and inspire young people to reach their full potential.

· To assist young people to both recognise and celebrate their achievements.

· To challenge young peoples’ negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manner.

· To adhere to CARAS Child Protection procedures, Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.

Requirements:

To be 18 years or older;

· To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;

· To be reliable and punctual;

· Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;

· The ability to volunteer on Wednesday evenings for a minimum of six months;

· Current resident of the UK;

· Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check;

· Able to attend compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding prior to the start of role

Volunteer induction training currently takes place online once a month on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings from 6pm - 8pm. we offer the same trainings on Tuesday and Wednesday daytimes online between 12noon - 2pm once every 3 months.

Your availability to attend 1 general and 1 safeguarding online training session at these times within 3 months of your application would be a prerequisite of being accepted as a volunteer at CARAS.

Desirable:

· Knowledge of community languages, such as (including Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali and Spanish).

Through volunteering with us you will:

· Meet new members of your local community;

· Learn about different cultures;

· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum;

· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team;

· Develop your skills and competencies;

· Be able to access relevant training;

Help shape the future of youth gaming and gambling-related harm prevention by becoming the Chair of Trustees of Ygam, an evidence-led charity.

About Ygam

Ygam is a national charity with a clear mission: to prevent children and young people from experiencing gaming and gambling harms through awareness raising, education and research. Our award-winning workshops are assured by City & Guilds and informed by psychologists, academics and health professionals alongside people with lived experience.

Founded in 2014, Ygam has evolved into the UK’s leading charity in this area, delivering impact-focused training and education across the UK to those in positions of influence over children and young people.

Over the past decade, Ygam has trained over 28,000 delegates and reached an estimated 4.3 million children and young people. With 95% of delegates recommending our training, we’re making real progress in safeguarding our digital generation.

The opportunity

We are in the third year of our “Safeguarding our Digital Generation” strategy, and we will begin the process to appoint our new Chief Executive later this year. As our current Chair comes to the end of their term this year, we are looking for a visionary leader to join our board and help shape the future of harm prevention.

This is a unique opportunity to lead the board at a critical time when digital safeguarding has never been more important.

We seek a Chair who will play a pivotal role in leading our Board and guiding the development of our new strategy in the years to come. This position requires an individual with a track record of board experience and strategic acumen to help drive Ygam’s ambitious growth plans.

Who we are looking for

We believe that diverse experiences and perspectives are crucial to effective governance. The digital challenges facing young people today are complex and interconnected, requiring a broad perspective that can view issues through multiple lenses.

We are looking for a Chair with a track record of board appointments who can guide strategic discussions, collaborate with our board, build relationships that are both supportive and challenging, and serve as an ambassador for Ygam.

This role requires someone who can balance strategic oversight with a desire to lead a best practice board to ensure Ygam continues to evolve and adapt to emerging challenges.

Location: London

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at: 9 a.m. Monday 2nd March 2026

About us:

Write Back is a young charity helping marginalised young people develop their self-esteem, literacy and creativity through storytelling. Currently based in Barking & Dagenham, since 2020 we have run storytelling programmes for more than 200 young people, helping them tell their stories and printing and celebrating their work. 9 out of 10 participants on our programmes see significant improvements in their self-esteem, and in our short period of operations, we have published over 20 anthologies of young writers’ work, exploring themes like immigration, identity and social isolation.

What we do:

We run 10-week long storytelling programmes in Barking and Dagenham, east London, to build self-esteem among young people aged 13-16. In each session we do confidence building activities, engage with the writing of a young author and then develop the participating young people’s own stories. The 10-week project involves developing their ideas individually and collectively and culminates with the publication of their work, including in books, local museum exhibitions and much more.

We are working with six secondary schools in Barking and Dagenham, who have been referring young people to our programmes or inviting us into their premises to run bespoke programmes for selected students Barking and Dagenham is the 9th most deprived local authority in the country and 37% of the young people and children live in poverty. Despite this recent research shows that Barking and Dagenham has the joint fewest charities per head in the country.

About the role:

Write Back has grown considerably since its founding five years ago. Now with paid part-time staff, strong local networks, secure medium-term funding and proof of impact, we are entering a new phase of organisational growth.

To oversee this, we are looking for a new Chair of Trustees to oversee a significant period of strategic choices. We are looking for someone who wants to get closely involved in setting the strategy, direction and priorities of Write Back as we transition from new ‘start-up’ into a more established charity. As a small charity, the Chair will be someone who can think ‘big picture’ but also is happy to get involved with day-to-day matters when necessary - securing new funding, overseeing our staffing model, building networks with other organisations and more. We are therefore looking for an individual with:

• Experience of organisational governance (ideally experience being on a board of trustees before).

• Experience in a leadership role in a growing organisation (either teams/departments or the whole organisation).

• Strong fundraising and networking skills and experience.

• Knowledge and expertise of the charity sector.

• A strong commitment to the work of Write Back and empowering young people.

• The passion and enthusiasm to throw themselves into a new and exciting charity for young people to help us in our next phase of growth.

• The ability and experience of working at a strategic level, providing expert oversight, advice and guidance, but willing to get involved day-to-day where necessary.

• The skills and temperament to collaborate effectively in a small, growing organisation.

• A good understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of charity trusteeship and an appreciation of the personal implications.

• A demonstrable commitment to equality and diversity.

• Experience in the education sector, or in legal, HR or other operational or governance matters, is a plus but not required.

Core requirements:

• This is a voluntary unpaid role, for which any reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

• Your initial term will be for 2 years, with the possibility of renewal.

• Attendance at trustee meetings every two months (either online or in person, for roughly 90 minutes), as well as preparation for these meetings and any follow-up tasks.

• Working with the Director and the Treasurer, overseeing all governance, financial and operational matters and reporting requirements as necessary.

• Fulfilling any or all other requirements for trustees as outlined by the Charity Commission.

• We estimate the time commitment to be no more than two days per month in total.

Join The Kids Network to Support Children in Your Hackney Community! 

Are you looking to donate your skills, give back to your community, or spend your time in a meaningful way? The Kids Network gives you the chance to make a real difference in a child’s life while developing your own skills and building connections. Support a Little Londoner in Hackney by helping them grow in confidence. Get crafty, have fun, and make a lasting impact on their future.

If you already have experience in mentoring, education, psychology, or related fields, The Kids Network provides an ideal platform to use and donate your skills. By becoming a mentor, you can actively practice your learned skills and see the direct impact of your efforts on the children in your local community and provide support to those who need it most.

Why Choose The Kids Network?

• Active Skill Application: Our programme allows you to apply your expertise in real-world settings, enhancing your practical experience.
• Structured Support: We provide comprehensive training and ongoing support, ensuring you can make the most of your skills.
• Proven Impact: With 100% of children reporting increased wellbeing, you’ll see tangible impact from your mentoring.

Impact on Mentees

• Building Confidence: Help children in your community develop self-assurance and resilience.
• Creating Opportunities: Provide guidance that helps young people navigate their challenges and seize opportunities.
• Strengthening Community: Contribute to the overall wellbeing of your community, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

Connection

• Personal Fulfilment: Experience the joy and satisfaction of making a positive impact on a child’s life.
• Meaningful Relationships: Form a strong bond with your mentee, providing guidance and support through fun and engaging activities.
• Community Engagement: Participate in mentor meet-ups and group activities, connecting with other mentors and mentees.

Your Role as a Mentor

As a mentor, you will hold weekly one-on-one sessions of 1-3 hours for the duration of 12 months. You will help build confidence, resilience, and help your mentee manage feelings through a series of fun experiences and activities. Whether you’re playing games or discussing goals, you’ll be making a difference in a child’s life by developing the tools for a positive future.

 Join Us Today

Whether you're wanting to use your expertise, eager to give back and make an impact, or looking for purpose and connection, The Kids Network offers a meaningful way to contribute. Volunteer with us and become part of a community dedicated to fostering positive futures for children and mentors alike.

For more information and to apply, visit The Kids Network website

Home-Start Croydon is a charity dedicated to helping parents give their children the best possible start in life.

 As a volunteer, you will help run a warm and welcoming peer-to-peer stay and play group for families with children aged 0–5. You will engage with parents, share information about local services, and take part in play activities that encourage children to learn and explore.

 Your support will help strengthen community bonds, promote inclusion, and reduce isolation—creating a safe, supportive space where families and children can flourish and thrive.

Role title: Stay & Play Group Volunteer

Hours: 3 hours per week, term-time only

Key activities

v Setting up the group room and tidying up afterwards

v Chatting with parents and making them feel welcome

v Making refreshments for adults/healthy snacks for children

v  Encouraging children to play and explore

v  Participating with the families in the activities organised for the day

v Inspiring parents to build friendships and support networks amongst themselves

v  Providing information on childcare options / signposting to local services for families (training provided)

v  Being attentive, observant, able to read situations and respond with care

v  Building a good knowledge of your own community and links with local families

v Collaborating and coordinating with fellow volunteers to ensure sessions run smoothly

v Recording and documenting basic but essential information needed for funding purposes

v Attending training

v  Regularly meeting with the Parent Champion Coordinator and other volunteers to share good practice

Skills and Experience

v  Have experience of being a parent or carer

v  Have a positive experience of using formal childcare and local family services

v  Having an understanding of professional and personal boundaries

v  Being warm, jovial and welcoming with the families and colleagues

v  Have a non-judgemental attitude, able to communicate and listen with kindness and understanding

v  Have the ability to empathise with some of the difficulties parents face

v  Be able to work collaboratively in small teams

v  Have an awareness of Confidentiality and Safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults (training provided)

v  Have knowledge of and commitment to equal opportunities, fairness and diversity

v  Be able to keep basic records as requested by Home-Start Croydon

Prospective volunteers will be contacted and invited to attend an induction training course provided by Home-Start Croydon and Coram Family and Childcare. An enhanced DBS check is required and will be carried out as part of the application process by Home-Start.

Home-Start Croydon is committed to safe recruitment practice as an important part of safeguarding and protecting children and vulnerable adults.

This role involves volunteering with families who may be going through difficult times. It is essential that candidates are in a stable and positive place themselves, meet the above criteria, and are prepared to work sensitively and responsibly with families. Home-Start Croydon reserves the right to decline any volunteer application if the individual does not meet the requirements or if it is considered not suitable for the families’ well-being.

We are looking for a finance professional to join our engaged and friendly board as Treasurer, with specific oversight of the charity’s financial management. While day-to-day financial administration is carried out by employees or external providers, the Treasurer works closely with them and the Board to ensure sound financial governance. The Treasurer provides financial leadership, helps trustees understand the organisation’s finances, and ensures that the charity meets its financial and statutory obligations.

You will have a qualification in Financial Management, Accounting, or Audit, or perhaps be a senior Finance Manager or Director in a charity. We welcome applications from people for whom this is their first Treasurer role, but we are seeking candiates who have some understanding and/or experience of the charity sector.  We are willing to provide access to training around the treasurer role, but a basic knowledge of charity accounting and financial management would be a strong advantage.

You will have the ability to communicate financial information clearly to those without financial expertise and be a strategic thinker, with the ability to balance financial scrutiny with broader trustee responsibilities.

Our board meet once a month (either virtually or in person in London) for around 90 minutes. We aim to have strategy days twice a year. You will meet with the CEO and Finance Manager once a month, and be available for ad hoc emails, advice. Trustees are usually appointed for a three-year term, which can usually be extended. 

You will also bring a commitment to the values, aims, and objectives of the charity, and a desire to help children and young people who have experienced grief.

We are looking to recruit a Youth Programme Coordinator, for a minimum commitment of 6 months, to manage our Youth Programme. The Youth Programme works with young refugees and asylum seekers in the Epirus region of Northern Greece, providing them with a sense of community and experiences that they wouldn’t otherwise receive!

In this role,  you would be coordinating the daily planning and delivery of activities for young refugees in the sites in which we're operating in the Epirus region of Northern Greece.

The programme usually consists of English classes, thematic and social and emotional learning workshops and excursions. The programme engages children between the ages of 8 and 16.

For this role, you would initially work as a Youth Programme team member so that you could develop an understanding of the programme, the people involved, and the organisation as a whole.

Your role would include:

• Coordinating, delegating, and managing a team of 2-5 team members in the daily operations of the Youth Programme

• Directly supervising and supporting team members, providing feedback to ensure the quality of the programme remains high

• Delivering effective inductions to transfer key skills/knowledge to team members

• Developing the current programme in coordination with the Education Manager and Youth Programme team members

• Assessing the impact and effectiveness of the programme in line with its objectives

• Planning and delivering effective and dynamic educational and outdoor activities, within a theme-based curriculum

• Training new team members in appropriate behavioural management techniques

• Capturing data and compiling evaluation reports on the programme

You should be able to:

• Prioritise and delegate tasks effectively

• Manage a wide range of tasks and intense workload effectively and efficiently 

• Manage individuals effectively to create a positive team environment in which shared problem solving is encouraged

• Oversee the delivery of programme activities and the completion of vital administrative and logistical tasks

• Be honest and transparent; be able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way

• Communicate in English, both written and orally

• Learn quickly, managing a wide-ranging and intense workload

• Understand what is required to work and effectively communicate in complex and volatile contexts

• Care for people: the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working with children specifically in the refugee context

• Experience in leadership roles and have knowledge in how to effectively manage a team

• Knowledge of pedagogical tools and programmes suitable to children in the refugee context 

What do we offer?

• A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow; investing in personal and professional development.

• Accommodation in a shared house

• Transportation to/from work

• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Looking for an internship?

If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.

Perinatal Support Volunteers provide one-to-one support to parents during pregnancy and up to nine months after the birth. These parents either have mental health issues or are at risk of developing them.

Perinatal Support Volunteers visit these families once a week (usually weekdays during working hours) for 2-3 hours, providing emotional support and practical help in the family’s home or local community. Support is aimed at empowering parents and building resilience beyond the support period.

The type of support Perinatal Support Volunteers provide to parents may include:

• An empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear
• Support to prepare for parenthood
• Support to build confidence in parenting skills
• Support to develop a positive relationship with their infant
• Support to establish daily and weekly routines
• Support to take time for self-care
• Support to manage the things that are causing stress
• Support to access relevant services
• Support to access local green spaces
• Support to make connections with other parents

No special qualifications are necessary to become a Perinatal Support Volunteer, but Home-Start volunteers are usually either parents or grandparents themselves, or people with experience of young children and family life. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges.

Become a Lifeskills Volunteer Guide – Bring Safety to Life!

Are you passionate about making a real difference in young lives?

As a Volunteer Guide at Lifeskills, you’ll take Year 6 primary school children on an unforgettable, hands-on safety adventure! You’ll lead small groups through immersive, life-like safety scenarios—from crossing a road safely to navigating a kitchen, visiting a shop, or exploring a railway line—encouraging children to spot hazards and think about staying safe in everyday life.

With the help of scripts, props, lighting, and sound effects, you’ll bring each scene to life, spark engaging discussions, and guide children as they practise making 999 emergency calls in a safe, supportive environment. Every session you deliver empowers children with the confidence and skills to make safer choices, helping them grow into independent, healthy, and aware young people.

We provide full, personalised training at your own pace, and you’ll always be supported by a friendly, experienced team. Volunteering sessions last 2 hours, and you can choose the times that suit you—Monday to Friday during term time.

This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a lasting impact, meet like-minded people, and develop new skills, all while having fun! You’ll take pride in helping children gain life-saving knowledge they’ll carry for years to come.

What you’ll enjoy as a Lifeskills Volunteer Guide:

• Personalised training at your own pace

• Flexible weekday sessions: mornings 9:45am–11:45am, afternoons 12:45pm–2:45pm

• Reimbursement for travel expenses

• A warm, friendly, and supportive team environment

• Invitations to seasonal social events, including our festive Winter Party and fun Summer Party

• Opportunities to build meaningful connections and gain valuable experience

• The chance to make a real, lasting impact on children’s lives

Join us and help make safety exciting, interactive, and unforgettable—while having a fantastic time yourself!

DCF are a small, local, family-founded charity focusing on supporting children and young people's wellbeing. We provide youth groups, workshops and 121 support in schools and in the community. 

We are looking for a Finance Trustee to lead on financial oversight of the charity, set up financial controls and processes and oversee our Treasurer.  

We currently have a lack of financial oversight which impacts on grant applications and planning.  We have a need for trustees with specific skillsets so that each board member can take ownership of their areas related to the charity.  Currently our CEO has a very active role within Board meetings and would benefit from support from proactive members.

We would like to grow the Board and create processes and procedures that diversify our income and sustainability. We currently deliver services in two boroughs (Croydon and Merton) and have a 5 year plan to expand to four boroughs.  

What are we looking for?

This individual should have:

• Knowledge and experience of charity finance practices
• Professional accounting, finance or similar qualification
• Strong understanding of financial management and reporting
• Experience in establishing and setting out strategic goals and direction in organisations
• Ability to explain financial procedures to other Board members
• Experience of providing Governance to organisations 
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, and to exercise good, independent judgement.
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.

The role will involve:

• Supporting the Treasurer
• Providing overview of income, expenditure, reserves, balance sheet, and cashflow
• Recording transactions
• Monitoring spend for various projects
• Providing reports to the Treasurer and Board 
• Forecasting project and operational spend with CEO 
• Attending 'monthly' meetings (10 per year)
• Providing information to HMRC and Pension providers 
• Monitoring compliance with local accounting laws and regulations

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about giving back and helping our future generation of young people.  

In this vital role you will be able to offer your unique skill set to provide invaluable guidance on financial procedures and ways of streamlining processes, therefore enhancing the charity's ability to run smoothly and reach more young people.  We are looking for someone to keep us on track financially as well as helping us to formulate our vision for the future.

Before you apply

• Please provide a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience.
• Interviews will be an informal virtual chat with our CEO and then with the wider Board.

Applications are welcomed from people across the Sutton and Croydon Communities. If you live more than 30 miles from these locations, your application is likely to be unsuccessful. Board meetings are in person and on-line so being able to attend is a key part of the position.

Are you a parent, grandparent or have experience of caring for children?

Do you have 2-3 hours per week to spare? Use your experience to support a family facing challenging times.

Our Home-Visiting Service supports families who are experiencing difficulties or suffering stress and who have at least one child under the age of five years.

Our aims are:

To increase the confidence and independence of the family by:

Offering support, friendship and practical assistance

Visiting families in their own homes and in their community, where the dignity and identity of each adult and child can be respected and protected

Reassuring parents that difficulties in bringing up children is not unusual and encouraging them to enjoy family life.

Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed. This approach is flexible to take account of different needs.

Encouraging parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing – for the ultimate benefit of their children.

Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships, and to effectively use the support and services available within the community.

To help deliver our work across our social channels, we are inviting young people, aged 16-25, to join our Communications Committee youth voice group at The Mix. 

Our goal is to connect with young people in a meaningful way that resonates with them and to do that authentically, we need young people involved. So, if you have a talent (or even just an interest!) for creating engaging content and are excited about building impactful social media campaigns, this is the perfect opportunity for you. 

As a member, you'll participate in monthly Teams meetings where you'll collaborate with others to develop and execute campaigns across our social media platforms and online community. You'll work both independently and as part of a team to create dynamic content for TikTok and Instagram, brainstorm upcoming partnerships and exciting campaigns, have an exclusive sneak peek at The Mix's content calendar, and network with fellow young people. Between sessions, you might be asked to take on fun tasks or work on independent projects!

Who are The Mix?

The Mix is here to help 25s and under get to grips with any challenge they face – from mental health to money, from homelessness to finding a job, from break-ups to drugs. Anywhere and anytime; online, over the phone or via social media. 

We are powered by the charity Mental Health Innovations, which also powers Shout, the UK's first and only free, confidential, 24/7 text messaging service for anyone who is struggling to cope.

So, what do you get out of it?

Skill Development: Gain hands-on experience in content creation, enhancing your skills in video production, social media, and campaign design.

Collaboration: Work closely with peers and network with like-minded young people, fostering valuable connections and teamwork skills.

Leadership: Through independent projects and leading small tasks, develop leadership qualities and learn to take initiative in a highly supportive environment.

Real-World Experience: Being involved in the planning and execution of social media campaigns provides practical experience that can be valuable for future career opportunities. We are always more than happy to provide a reference!

Positive Impact: Make a meaningful difference by helping to create content that resonates with and reaches other young people, amplifying young voices!

What are we looking for from you? 

• Must be aged 16-25 and based in the UK. Those under 18 will need parental consent.
• Someone who enjoys creating content (both written and video.)
• To be available monthly - both to attend online meetings and complete remote independent tasks.
• To be able to access the internet for monthly meetings.
• Be enthusiastic about representing the voice of young people.
• Be creative with ideas of how we can create content on issues impacting young people.
• Be willing to join our wider youth voice network. 

Where: Google Meet
When: Every second Monday of the month, 6-7pm
Who: Anyone aged 16-25

You don’t need to upload a CV for this application. If the form asks for one, just upload a blank document. What we’re really looking for is your answers to the questions. 

Become a Young Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people!

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Young Trustee.

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year.

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Young Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education.

Role Snapshot: 

• Contribute to shaping Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitoring performance
• Help ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document (training provided)
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity
• Support effective use of resources and long-term sustainability
• Work with fellow trustees to advise and support the CEO
• Act as an ambassador for Young Citizens, promoting our mission and building connections

Why join as a Young Trustee?

• Play an important role in guiding a national charity at a critical time for civic education.
• Bring your perspective as a young person to Board discussions - your lived experience matters.
• Gain governance experience, develop leadership skills, and learn how charities operate.
• Receive full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support, including a mentor trustee.

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society.

What We Are Looking For

We’re looking for young trustees who bring fresh ideas, big-picture thinking, and a collaborative spirit. You’ll approach the role with openness and integrity, ready to learn, grow, and champion Young Citizens beyond the boardroom.

We welcome applications from young people aged 18–25 who are passionate about active citizenship and youth voice. You do not need prior board experience - training and support will be provided. We’re looking for potential, and learning as you go is part of the role. If you have experience or interest in any of the following areas, that’s great (but not essential):

• Citizenship education or youth engagement
• Marketing, communications, or influencing
• Business growth and partnerships
• Digital innovation or technology
• Fundraising and income generation

We also welcome diverse experiences or educational backgrounds, including leadership, public service, law, finance, policy, or community involvement.

If you want to play an active role in guiding strategy and making decisions that matter, ensuring hundreds of thousands of young people every year have the skills and confidence to engage fully in society, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Requirements

The role requires around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings. Trustees attend four board meetings a year (usually weekday evenings in London), monthly online finance updates, and an annual Away Day. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential renewal. While day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and senior team, trustees hold ultimate responsibility for governance and compliance. 

To learn more about the role and the application process, please refer to the job pack for full details.

The Pirate Castle is a buzzing charity based in the heart of Camden.  From our iconic castle base we offer boating, kayaking and canoeing as well as community space to hire.  As we enter our 60th anniversary year, we are looking for a Company Secretary for our engaged trustee board to minute our meetings and to lead on governance and compliance matters.  We look forward to hearing from candidates with governance experience who are keen to contribute to the future of a well-loved community charity as it reaches a major milestone.