134 Youth engagement volunteer roles

The Alec Dickson Trust is a grant making charity looking to recruit one volunteer to join its Board with expertise in Fundraising. The Trust supports young people who, through volunteering or community service, aim to enhance the lives of others, particularly those most marginalised by society.

At Chestnut Tree House, making memories for families is at the heart of what we do. We're looking for skilled sewing volunteers with their own sewing machine to help transform treasured clothing into memory bears and keepsakes through our Material Memories service. Using a supplied pattern and guidance from our support workers, you'll create unique items that reflect each family's wishes. Volunteers attend monthly sewing groups to collect materials and discuss projects, then complete the work at home. By sharing your sewing skills, you'll help create lasting keepsakes that bring comfort and connection to families for years to come.

This role is ideal for experienced needle workers who have their own sewing machine and are happy to work on projects at home. We hold monthly sewing groups, where you'll receive materials, chat through briefs, and meet other volunteers (you'll need to bring your machine with you). There may also be opportunities to help repair and restore memory blankets for the children and young people who use Chestnut Tree House.

You will need a car to attend the monthly sewing groups because of the location.

Please note you must be over 18 to apply for this role.

OVERVIEW

Ditch the Label is a global young people’s organisation that helps young people thrive in an increasingly complex digital world. 

We combine research, education and direct support to ensure young people are able to navigate the digital world safely and confidently. We work alongside young people giving them opportunities to take the lead on issues that matter to them, including identifying the challenges we address and helping to shape the solutions.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the governance of an organisation at an inflection point. We have strong funder relationships, an ambitious international growth plan, and a mission that has never mattered more. Every day, millions of young people navigate online bullying, harassment and digital harm. Ditch the Label exists to change that. 

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO

1. RESEARCH - We generate high-quality, youth-led insights to better understand the issues shaping young people’s lives. Our reports inform our programmes and policy work to ensure they are evidence-based and effective.

2. EDUCATION - We work with educators and young people to promote positive online practice, and provide solutions when challenges arise. We deliver this through our school membership programme of training, resources and support

3. SUPPORT - We provide free, confidential support to young people through online communities, one-to-one mentoring and therapeutic services. Delivered by our team of psychologists, counsellors and psychotherapists, our support helps young people feel seen, heard, overcome challenges and access the tools they need to thrive

TIME COMMITMENT

Approximately two days per month, including quarterly board meetings, catch ups with the CEO every two weeks, and occasional representation of the charity externally.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

• Lead the board in overseeing strategy, financial sustainability and risk, while giving the executive team room to execute

• Champion good governance without stifling pace, helping Ditch the Label move fast and responsibly as it grows

• Represent Ditch the Label to funders, partners and stakeholders, opening doors as the organisation expands into new markets

• Support recruitment and development of a high-calibre, diverse board

• Ensure the voice of young people remains central to every governance decision

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

• Experience at Senior leadership or board-level, ideally including chairing or co-chairing a board

• A genuine passion for young people's safety, wellbeing or digital rights

• Comfort with ambiguity and pace; we are a growing organisation

• Confidence to challenge constructively and hold the executive to account, paired with the generosity to support them

• Experience of international or multi-market growth is a strong plus

Please send an initial expression of interest setting out what you would bring the Ditch the Label, along with your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you! 

Ditch the Label is committed to equality of opportunity and building a team and trustee board that reflects the diversity of the people we serve. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of online harms, bullying, mental health or any of the issues central to our work.

Your role is to support the Corporate Relations Manager at the Baytree Centre in developing and maintaining corporate partnerships. This includes conducting prospect research, assisting with engagement activities, and supporting the delivery of corporate volunteering days to ensure companies remain connected to Baytree’s mission and values.

Main responsibilities:

- Conduct detailed research to identify and analyse potential corporate partners aligned with Baytree’s mission.

- Create and maintain a structured database of prospects, including relevant company data and key contacts.

- Prepare comprehensive prospect profiles with information on CSR initiatives, sponsorship activities, and charitable giving.

- Support the planning and coordination of corporate volunteering days, including logistics, preparation of materials, and communication with partners.

- Monitor industry trends to identify new corporate partnership opportunities.

- Assist with any tasks set by the Corporate Relations Manager to support corporate engagement efforts.

- Adhere to the policies and procedures of the Baytree Centre.

- Complete volunteer questionnaires and evaluations as required.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and safeguarding procedures.

- Work directly with clients across Baytree services (e.g. youth clubs, workshops, reception, and befriending activities).

Skills and qualities required:

- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.

- Strong research and analytical skills, with attention to detail.

- Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.

- Reliable, punctual, and committed.

- Enthusiasm for community development and corporate social responsibility.

- Willingness to take initiative and support a range of tasks.

- A friendly, flexible, and professional attitude.

Commitment:

- 2 to 4 days per week (Monday–Friday).

- Hours: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. - Duration: 4 to 6 months, with the option to extend.

Benefits:

- We reimburse up to £7 for travel and £5 for lunch expenses for each full day of internship.

- Valuable experience in corporate fundraising and partnership development.

- Opportunity to gain and develop practical research and engagement skills.

- Personal fulfilment from contributing to meaningful community initiatives.

- Opportunity to attend corporate and volunteer social events and network.

- Professional development and workplace experience in the charity sector.

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Open your home for a night. Change a young person's future.

Every year, young people in our community face the frightening reality of having nowhere safe to stay. By becoming a Volunteer Nightstop Host, you can provide a warm welcome, a safe place to sleep, and the breathing space a young person needs while longer-term support is put in place.

About Us

Wyre Forest and South Worcestershire Nightstop and Mediation works with young people aged 16–25 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to build an independent and positive future.

Our services include:

• Safe, emergency accommodation through our Nightstop community hosting scheme.
• Family and school mediation to help prevent relationship breakdown.
• Homelessness prevention through education, life skills workshops and crisis support.

About Nightstop

Nightstop provides emergency accommodation in the homes of trained and approved volunteer hosts. Rather than spending the night on the streets or in unsafe situations, young people are offered a temporary, safe place to stay while our team works to find appropriate longer-term accommodation and support.

As a Volunteer Nightstop Host, you'll never be working alone. Our experienced team provides ongoing guidance and support throughout every placement.

What You'll Do

As a Nightstop Host, you'll:

• Provide a clean, safe and private bedroom for a young person needing emergency overnight accommodation.
• Offer an evening meal, breakfast and a packed lunch.
• Give access to bathroom facilities and laundry if needed.
• Stay in regular contact with the Nightstop team before, during and after placements.
• Maintain appropriate professional boundaries while providing a welcoming environment.

Placements are short-term and arranged around your availability.

Who We're Looking For

You don't need previous experience—what matters most is compassion, reliability and a willingness to help.

We're looking for people who:

• Want to support young people experiencing homelessness.
• Can offer a non-judgemental and respectful approach.
• Have a spare bedroom available at short notice.
• Are willing to complete training and work alongside our experienced team.
• Have an interest in making a real difference within their local community.

Training and Support

We'll make sure you feel confident before welcoming your first guest.

You'll receive:

• Comprehensive induction and ongoing training.
• Daily check-in calls throughout each hosting placement.
• Access to a 24-hour emergency on-call service.
• Regular supervision and support meetings.
• Opportunities to attend additional training delivered by the organisation.

Why Volunteer With Us?

By becoming a Nightstop Host, you'll:

• Help prevent youth homelessness in your local community.
• Provide safety and hope at a critical moment in a young person's life.
• Develop valuable skills through high-quality training and support.
• Meet like-minded volunteers through appreciation and networking events.
• Receive reimbursement for all agreed out-of-pocket expenses.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating an inclusive service and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and communities. We believe our volunteers should reflect the diversity of the people we support.

Recruitment Process

To ensure the safety of everyone involved, successful applicants will complete:

• An application form.
• An informal interview.
• Enhanced DBS and reference checks.
• Induction training.
• A home visit and health and safety assessment.

If you have a spare room and a desire to make a lasting difference, we'd love to hear from you. One night of kindness can be the first step towards a brighter future for a young person experiencing homelessness.

Purpose of the Role:

To support the delivery of engaging and inclusive football sessions as part of the Baytree Centre’s GEMS programme, which offers after-school clubs for girls aged 5–18, you will work alongside a football coach to help create a safe and supportive environment where girls can develop their skills, build confidence, and enjoy being active. You will escort the girls to an off-site football pitch where a professional coach will lead the session. 

Main Responsibilities:

- Escort the participants from Baytree to the offsite location.

- Support the football coach in delivering engaging, age-appropriate activities that promote learning and personal development.

- Help maintain a supportive atmosphere where girls feel comfortable building confidence and working as a team.

- Assist with administrative tasks such as attendance tracking.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and safeguarding procedures. 

Skills and Qualities Required:

- Empathy and patience to work effectively with girls of varying ages, backgrounds, and abilities. - Strong communication skills to engage positively with participants, other volunteers, and staff. - Creativity and enthusiasm for delivering fun, skills-based activities.

- Reliability and commitment to attend scheduled sessions consistently.

- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and take direction from the coach.

Commitment:

- One session per week lasting one hour for a minimum of two terms.

- Exact timings will follow the GEMS programme timetable. Sessions usually take place Monday to Thursday between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

Benefits:

- Gain experience supporting sports-based youth activities.

- Develop skills in youth engagement, teamwork, and coaching support.

- Contribute to the physical wellbeing, confidence, and personal development of girls.

- Be part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer commu

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Purpose of the Role:

To lead engaging cookery sessions as part of the Baytree Centre’s GEMS programme for girls aged 5–18. By creating a safe, welcoming, and inspiring environment, you will help participants learn new cooking skills, explore different recipes, and build confidence in the kitchen. You will assist with facilitating and supporting cookery lessons that encourage creativity, teamwork, and healthy living.

Main Responsibilities:

- Assist in preparing and facilitating cookery-focused after-school sessions, providing guidance and encouragement to participants.

- Support the delivery of age-appropriate cooking activities that promote learning, creativity, and personal development.

- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where girls feel confident trying new recipes, expressing themselves, and working as part of a team.

- Assist with administrative tasks such as attendance tracking and organising resources to ensure smooth running of sessions.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and safeguarding procedures.

Skills and Qualities Required:

 - Empathy and patience to work effectively with girls of varying ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

- Strong communication skills to engage positively with participants, other volunteers, and staff.

- Creativity and enthusiasm for developing and delivering engaging cooking activities.

- Reliability and commitment to attend scheduled sessions consistently.

- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. 

Commitment:

 - One session of about an hour and a half each week, with a commitment of at least two terms.

- Exact timings will follow the GEMS programme timetable. Sessions usually take place Monday to Thursday between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. 

Benefits:

- Gain experience supporting cookery and life-skills-based youth activities.

- Develop skills in youth engagement, activity facilitation, and creative teaching.

- Contribute to the confidence, independence, and wellbeing of participants.

- Be part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer community. 

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Purpose of the Role:

 To support the delivery of engaging and inclusive art sessions as part of the Baytree Centre’s GEMS programme for girls aged 5–18. By creating a safe, inspiring, and welcoming environment, you will help participants explore creative activities, develop new artistic skills, and build confidence in their imagination and self-expression. Working alongside staff, you will assist in planning and delivering activities that nurture creativity, personal growth, and enjoyment of the arts. 

Main Responsibilities:

- Assist in preparing and facilitating art-focused after-school sessions, providing guidance and encouragement to participants.

- Support the delivery of age-appropriate creative activities that promote learning, self-expression, and personal development.

- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where girls feel confident trying new techniques, sharing their work, and working collaboratively.

- Assist with administrative tasks such as attendance tracking, activity planning, and organising resources to ensure smooth running of sessions.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and safeguarding procedures. 

Skills and Qualities Required:

- Empathy and patience to work effectively with girls of varying ages, backgrounds, and abilities.

- Strong communication skills to engage positively with participants, other volunteers, and staff.

- Creativity and enthusiasm for developing and delivering engaging art activities.

- Reliability and commitment to attend scheduled sessions consistently.

- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team. 

Commitment:

- One hour session each week for a minimum of two terms.

- Exact timings will follow the GEMS programme timetable. Sessions usually take place Monday to Thursday between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm. 

Benefits:

-  Gain experience supporting art and creativity-based youth activities.

- Develop skills in youth engagement, activity facilitation, and arts education.

- Contribute to the confidence, self-expression, and personal growth of participants.

- Be part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer community. 

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Inspire the next generation of tech talent from just 1-2 hours a week

Thousands of young people across the UK are interested in technology but have never met someone who works in the sector. They've never had the chance to ask questions, explore pathways into the industry, or hear someone say, "You can do this too."

As an IntoTech online mentor, you can help change that.

Brightside is recruiting 700 volunteer technology professionals to support young people aged 14-16 as they explore careers in technology. Delivered in partnership with Futures for All and generously funded by the Hg Foundation, the programme will launch in January 2026, connecting more than 2,000 young people with professionals working across the tech sector.

Over 12 weeks, you'll connect with a young person through Brightside's secure online mentoring platform, sharing your experiences, answering questions, and helping them build confidence about their future. Young people choose their own mentor, creating meaningful conversations that broaden horizons and bring careers in technology to life.

The mentoring is entirely text-based and asynchronous, so there's no need to coordinate diaries or attend regular calls. You can respond at times that suit you, making it easy to fit around work and other commitments. Most mentors volunteer for just 1-2 hours a week.

You don't need any previous mentoring experience. We'll provide training, guidance and ongoing support, and we'll complete your DBS check before the programme begins. Onboarding will take place between now and December, with opportunities to get involved in other Brightside mentoring programmes in the meantime.

With 23 years' experience supporting young people through mentoring, Brightside operates the UK's safest online mentoring platform, enabling meaningful, moderated engagement between volunteers and young people.

By sharing your story, you can help a young person discover opportunities they may never have considered and take a confident step towards a future in technology.

Join us and help make the tech sector more accessible, diverse and inclusive for the next generation.

Purpose of the Role:

To support the delivery of engaging and age-appropriate wellbeing and enrichment activities for newly arrived migrant girls aged 11–19 at the Baytree Centre. These activities form part of the Arrive and Thrive programme and may include cookery, wellbeing/fitness sessions, and creative workshops. The role helps girls to build confidence, develop personal and social skills, and form positive relationships while waiting for a place in formal education. By offering encouragement, guidance, and a welcoming environment, the volunteer will help participants integrate, express themselves, and explore new interests.

Main Responsibilities:

- Assist in planning and delivering enrichment sessions (e.g., cookery, wellbeing/fitness) for girls. - Create engaging activities that encourage creativity, learning, and personal development.

- Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where girls feel comfortable expressing themselves, trying new skills, and building confidence.

- Support positive relationship building and teamwork among participants.

- Assist with administrative tasks such as recording attendance, activity planning, and organising materials for sessions.

- Adhere to Baytree Centre policies and safeguarding procedures.

Skills and Qualities Required:

- Patience, empathy, and understanding when working with girls from different cultural backgrounds, ages, and abilities.

- Creativity and enthusiasm for developing and delivering engaging activities that capture the girls’ interests. - Reliability and commitment to attend scheduled sessions consistently.

- Ability to work as part of a team and follow instructions from facilitators or staff.

Commitment:

- One session per week for at least one term (usually 10–12 weeks).

- Please refer to the Arrive and Thrive timetable for exact session times.

- Meeting location: The Baytree Centre.

Benefits:

- Gain experience in delivering creative and wellbeing-focused enrichment activities.

- Develop skills in youth engagement, activity facilitation, and cross-cultural communication.

- Contribute to the confidence, wellbeing, and personal growth of newly arrived young people.

- Be part of a supportive and welcoming volunteer community.

This role is open to female applicants only (Equality Act 2010: Schedule 9: Occupational Requirements). Applicants must be 18 years or older.

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer Deputy Head of Policy to support the Head of Policy in leading and developing its Policy Team and delivering an ambitious programme of policy work aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities. The successful candidate will contribute to identifying and developing key policy priorities, supporting the design and delivery of impactful policy projects, and helping to shape the organisation’s wider strategic direction.

Working closely with the Head of Policy, Senior Leadership Team and Heads of the Initial Research Team, the Deputy Head of Policy will support the development of evidence-based policy initiatives, monitor emerging policy developments and opportunities, and contribute to building effective relationships with relevant external stakeholders. The role will also involve supporting the development, engagement and training of Policy Team volunteers, strengthening collaboration across the organisation, and contributing to policy-related research, publications and communications.

The successful candidate should have excellent writing, communication and analytical skills, strong IT literacy, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. They should demonstrate a strong interest in policy development, research and evidence-based change, together with the ability to manage delegated projects, provide constructive leadership and translate complex policy developments into clear and actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities:

• Support the Head of Policy in leading the Policy Team in designing, developing and implementing impactful project objectives in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Assist the Head of Policy in identifying and developing key policy priorities and contributing to the organisation’s wider strategic direction.
• Support the management and development of relationships with relevant external stakeholders, helping to enhance the organisation’s visibility, reach and impact.
• Work closely with the Head of Policy and other members of the Senior Leadership Team in identifying and responding to emerging strategic priorities and opportunities.
• Monitor and analyse relevant external trends, developments and policy changes, providing the Head of Policy and wider organisation with timely information and recommendations where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and HR in developing a strong and effective Policy Team, including contributing to the identification of appropriate skills, expertise and development needs.
• Assist in ensuring that Policy Team volunteers are appropriately supported, engaged and trained throughout their period of service.
• Support the Heads of the Initial Research Team in developing and implementing frameworks for initial research that enable effective and efficient research aligned with the organisation’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with the Communications Team to support the development and implementation of strategies that increase the organisation’s profile, visibility and impact.
• Contribute to the creation of policy-related blogs, articles, reports and other written materials, and support the development of academic articles and research outputs where appropriate.
• Support the Head of Policy and Chief Executive Officer in preparing policy strategies, recommendations and relevant materials for presentation to the organisation’s Trustees.
• Assist in delivering training and knowledge-sharing sessions for other teams within the organisation, helping members understand the policy process, how policy can be influenced and how they can contribute to policy-related work.
• Identify, collate and distribute relevant policy information, research, publications and external developments that may be of interest or value to members across the organisation.
• Take responsibility for delegated policy projects and initiatives, ensuring that agreed objectives and timelines are effectively managed and delivered.
• Provide leadership and support to members of the Policy Team in the absence of the Head of Policy or when delegated to do so.
• Promote effective collaboration between the Policy Team and other teams across the organisation, ensuring that policy considerations are appropriately incorporated into relevant organisational activities.
• Undertake any other policy-related duties or projects reasonably required by the Head of Policy or Senior Leadership Team.

Requirements:

• Experience in policy work, leading key campaigns or programmes
• High-level understanding of policy and practice, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities
• Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy
• Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members
• 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 leading a policy team
• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team
• Flexible working hours

Hertfordshire’s Family Centre Service brings children’s centres, health visiting and school nursing together, to provide a more joined-up service for children, young people, and their families.

The centres deliver a range of support groups and activities for children and their families to help them be healthy, grow and develop. To make it easy for families to fit sessions and services around their busy lives, access is available from any Hertfordshire Family centre. We have locations across the entire county so please do enquire ensuring you have provided your postcode.

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

To represent Family Centre Services within local communities and help strengthen the link between families and the centre by promoting services and support available.

Key Responsibilities:

· Promote Hertfordshire Family Centres by attending toddler and parent groups and local activities.

· Distribute leaflets, posters, and other promotional materials in community venues (e.g. libraries, health centres, nurseries, shops).

· Talk to parents, carers, and professionals about the Family Centre offer, signposting them to services and activities.

· Share updates on Family Centre activities through word of mouth, local networks, and community noticeboards.

· Provide feedback to Family Centre staff about local needs, events, and opportunities for engagement.

· Represent the Family Centre in a positive and professional way at all times.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Friendly, approachable, and confident in talking to new people.

· Good communication skills.

· Reliable and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

· Enthusiasm for supporting children, families, and the local community.

· Respectful of diversity and inclusive of all families.

· Knowledge of the local area and networks

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including Socials, Conferences and Training opportunities. 

Additional Information

· Undergo enhanced DBS check

· X2 References required

· Undertake additional training as and when required

· We offer to pay volunteers’ “out of pocket” expenses within agreed guidelines

Hertfordshire’s Family Centre Service brings children’s centres, health visiting and school nursing together, to provide a more joined-up service for children, young people, and their families.

The centres deliver a range of support groups and activities for children and their families to help them be healthy, grow and develop. To make it easy for families to fit sessions and services around their busy lives, access is available from any Hertfordshire Family centre. We have locations across the entire county so please do enquire ensuring you have provided your postcode. 

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

To support early years sessions for families with children aged 0–5, including those with SEND and emerging needs, by promoting engagement and child development through group activities.

Key Responsibilities:

· Welcome and engage families in a warm, friendly manner

· Support the delivery of structured and free-play indoor and outdoor activities

· Encourage participation and interaction between parents/carers and children

· Promote children’s development through praise and positive reinforcement

· Work collaboratively with staff to support inclusive practice

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Enjoy working with children and families.

· Interest in child development

· Warm, approachable, and good at communicating with people of all ages.

· Reliable, punctual, and able to work well in a team.

· Respectful, inclusive, and sensitive to the needs of diverse families.

· Able to follow guidance and instructions from session leads

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including Socials, Conferences and Training opportunities. 

Additional Information

· Undergo enhanced DBS check

· X2 References required

· Undertake additional training as and when required

· We offer to pay volunteers’ “out of pocket” expenses within agreed guidelines

Chair of Trustees - Gorse Hill Studios Community & Cultural Centre (GHSCC)

Help Shape the Future of an Ambitious Youth Arts Charity

Gorse Hill Studios (GHSCC) is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead the Board of a respected and ambitious youth arts charity that has transformed the lives of thousands of young people across Greater Manchester. Working closely with our Chief Executive and fellow trustees, you will help shape our strategic direction, strengthen our governance, and champion our mission to ensure every young person has the opportunity to thrive.

About Us

At Gorse Hill Studios, we believe all young people deserve social, emotional, educational and cultural investment in their future.

For over a decade, we have supported young people aged 8 to 25 through a unique combination of arts, youth work and creative learning. Our work focuses on inclusion, disability, youth voice, alternative education and creative engagement, helping young people build confidence, resilience and meaningful pathways into adulthood.

Through our programmes, we empower young people to discover their potential, strengthen their communities and achieve aspirations they may never have thought possible.

The Opportunity

As Chair of Trustees, you will provide leadership to our Board and help ensure GHSCC remains focused on achieving its charitable objectives while operating to the highest standards of governance.

You will act as a trusted partner to our Chief Executive, providing support, challenge and strategic oversight while maintaining the appropriate distinction between governance and operational management.

This role provides a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of children and young people while contributing your leadership skills to a values-driven organisation at an exciting stage of its development.

Key Responsibilities

As Chair, you will:

• Lead and facilitate an effective, inclusive and high-performing Board of Trustees.
• Ensure the Board fulfils its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities.
• Work closely with the Chief Executive to develop and monitor organisational strategy.
• Foster constructive relationships between trustees, staff and stakeholders.
• Support the recruitment, development and succession planning of trustees.
• Ensure risks are appropriately identified and managed.
• Champion GHSCC's mission, values and reputation across the sector and wider community.
• Encourage robust discussion, constructive challenge and effective decision-making.
• Lead Board meetings and the Annual General Meeting.

Who We Are Looking For

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals who can demonstrate:

• Senior leadership or board-level experience.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• The ability to inspire, influence and build consensus.
• A commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
• An understanding of good governance and organisational accountability.
• Experience of leading meetings and facilitating effective group decision-making.

Previous Chair experience is desirable but not essential. We are equally interested in hearing from candidates with strong leadership experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be advantageous:

• Charity leadership and governance
• Fundraising and income generation
• Marketing and communications
• Education and alternative provision
• Finance or risk management
• Legal or HR expertise
• Public sector or community engagement

Time Commitment

The Board currently meets four times per year in person at Gorse Hill, Trafford.

In addition, the Chair is expected to:

• Meet regularly with the Chief Executive.
• Attend occasional committee meetings and key events.
• Support trustee recruitment and board development activities.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity when appropriate.

We estimate an average commitment of approximately 1 to 2 days per month.

This is a voluntary unpaid role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Our Commitment to Diversity

We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve.

We actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who bring lived experience, perspectives and voices that are currently underrepresented in charity governance. We celebrate the richness of our differences, including social class, ethnicity, disability, gender, sexual orientation, faith and age.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV alongside an expression of interest (maximum two sides of A4) outlining:

• Why you are interested in becoming Chair of Trustees at Gorse Hill Studios.
• The skills, experience and perspectives you would bring to the role.
• How your values align with our mission and work with young people.

Deadline midnight 25th September 2026.

Interviews 9th October 2026 afternoon and early evening TBC