Youth support manager volunteer roles

The Sutton Trust is at a pivotal moment in its development. For nearly three decades, we have been the UK’s leading voice on social mobility, working tirelessly to break the link between socio-economic background and life chances. Today, that mission is as urgent as it has ever been. Despite pockets of progress, social mobility in the UK remains low by international standards, with deep inequalities in education, access to professions, and regional opportunity continuing to limit life chances and economic potential.

We are seeking a Trustee with policy expertise who shares our commitment to fairness, evidence, and long-term change. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are keen to hear from those who can help us navigate an evolving political landscape and leverage our research to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring our voice remains the most influential in the national drive to transform social mobility.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Trustee

Policy Responsibilities

• Providing oversight for the charity’s research and advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s work is mission-aligned, evidence-based, and intellectually rigorous
• Supporting the Board in discharging their collective duties around planning, risk and compliance, particularly in areas such as horizon scanning for upcoming legislative changes, political shifts and shifts in social trends affecting the Trust as well as specific regulations around political neutrality
• Leveraging their professional networks and expertise, enhancing the charity’s credibility and influence, ensuring our research translates into meaningful systemic change

General Responsibilities

• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s vision, mission and values and providing advice on the Trust’s wider purpose, goals and activities
• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s aims and long-term strategy in furtherance of its charitable purpose
• Ensuring key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively as well as keeping abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment
• Monitoring the Trust’s performance against its strategic aims, operational plans and budgets
• Safeguarding and promoting the Trust’s reputation, and acting in the best interest of the Trust at all times
• Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the Trust
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• Ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and renumeration of the CEO and they are held to account
• Contributing to regular reviews of the Trust’s own governance
• Ensuring the Trust complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use their specific skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the Board’s decision-making, and dedicate sufficient time to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This may involve sitting on Board Committees, scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Trustees aim to support a specific member of the SLT based on their skills and experience or may participate in appropriate subgroups, e.g., Alumni Leadership Board, Education Advisory Group, (Development) Board meetings, etc.

Person Specification

Mission and Values

• Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage
• High level of personal and professional ethics, integrity, and accountability
• Willingness to safeguard and promote the Trust’s reputation within the wider sector

Strategy and Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to think strategically in order to provide appropriate oversight and scrutiny for the Trust’s overall activity and direction
• Ability to confidently and fairly make evidence-based decisions and constructively challenge the decisions of others if required
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team to provide advice, make decisions, and/or solve problems
• A commitment to personal development and a willingness to participate in regular reviews of the Board’s own performance and governance

Governance, Risk and Finance

• Understanding of the legal duties of a Trustee (or willingness to learn), including compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and commitment to the roles and responsibilities of a Trustee
• Awareness of (or willingness to learn about) financial health indicators and organisational risk management

Specialist Expertise and Experience

• A background in public affairs, civil service, think tanks, education sector organisations or senior policy or research roles in (education) charities
• Strong understanding of how UK government (at local, regional or national level) and/ or the UK education sector works
• Strong influencing and communications skills with the ability to lead discussions, provide expert advice, and influence stakeholders in a professional manner
• Good understanding of how to translate policy jargon into clear, strategic advice for the wider Trustee Board

Interviews

Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 30th March. First round interviews will take place on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th April, and second round interviews will take place w/c 27th April or w/c 4th May. All interviews will be held at our London offices in Millbank Tower.

Youth engagement is a core part of our how we function. We have a network of paid Young Associates as well as 2 Young Trustees (under 25 years old). We are now looking to strengthen our Governance with the appointment of another Young Trustee, ideally someone with relevant lived experience and/or has participated in Youth Careers Collective programmes.

Essential criteria

- A commitment to realising Youth Careers Collective’s mission

- Experience of effective, fair and impartial decision-making

- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of effective Trusteeship

Desirable criteria

- Experience of operating at Board or Committee level, either executive or non-executive

- Experience of strategic development and implementation

- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of the charity sector

- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of state schools and colleges

- Experience of income generation, policy, marketing and communication, or digital

We do not expect applicants to have all the above experience, and welcome first-time Trustees and will provide training and support on the role. We also welcome candidates with links to our priority area of west London, those from ethnic minority and black backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve, and from candidates with disabilities.

For more information please read the full recruitment pack.

WANTED: THE STRATEGIC CREW.

THE URBAN YOUTH BOARD OF TRUSTEES

THE MISSION: GUARD THE BRAND. FUEL THE MOVEMENT.

URBAN YOUTH doesn't just do "sessions"—we deploy interventions. To keep our van on the road and our impact high, we need a Board of Trustees that thinks like a startup and acts with the precision of a global brand.

We are looking for the Architects, the Guardians, and the Hustlers to oversee our governance. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time leader, if you have the drive to protect and power our youth, we want you on the Board.

THE LINE-UP: OPEN POSITIONS

THE EXECUTIVES

• CHAIR OF THE BOARD: The Visionary. You facilitate the big conversations and keep the CEO/Co-CEO on track.

• DEPUTY CHAIR: The Strategy Lead. You ensure the board stays active and the mission stays sharp.

• TREASURER: The Financial Architect. You manage the "fuel" (budgets, accounts, and financial sustainability).

• SECRETARY: The Governance Lead. You keep the mission organised, legal, and documented.

THE SPECIALISTS

• SAFEGUARDING TRUSTEE: The Guardian. You ensure every "drop" is a safe space. (Social work/Education background preferred).

• FUNDRAISING TRUSTEE: The Rainmaker. You open doors to corporate partners, grants, and high-net-worth "investors."

• YOUTH WORK TRUSTEE: The Practitioner. You ensure our interventions remain world-class and evidence-based.

• HR TRUSTEE: The People Lead. You help us recruit, support, and protect our "Field Agents" and Crew.

• YOUTH BRAND TRUSTEE: The Hype Lead. You ensure the brand remains culturally relevant, "cool," and authentic to the streets.

THE NEXT GEN (Aged 16–25)

• YOUNG TRUSTEES (x3): The Truth-Tellers. You hold the board accountable. You have equal voting power to ensure the brand never loses touch with the community it serves.

THE COMMITMENT

• Quarterly "Huddles": Board meetings that aren't boring. We review the data, celebrate the wins, and solve the blockers.

• Remote & On-Street: We meet digitally, but we expect you to show up at a "Drop" at least once a quarter to see the impact firsthand.

• Status: Volunteer.

HOW TO JOIN THE CREW

WE VALUE SKILLS OVER STUFFY CVs.

Tell us which "Seat" you want and why. Send a brief intro or a link to your LinkedIn profile.

"We aren't just looking for names on a letterhead. We are looking for the power behind the brand."

STATUS: RECRUITING NOW

DEADLINE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

URBAN YOUTH // GOVERNANCE WITH GUTS.

WANTED: THE REINFORCEMENTS.

ROLE: VOLUNTEER FUNDRAISING & PARTNERSHIPS MANAGER

THE MISSION: FUEL THE DROP. SCALE THE IMPACT.

URBAN YOUTH doesn't ask for "handouts." We offer Investments.

We are a high-speed, street-level intervention brand with a world-class aesthetic and a frontline pulse. To keep our "Drops" hitting the pavement and our "Crew" equipped, we need a Fundraising and Partnerships Manager who knows how to turn a vision into a budget.

We’ve got the streets. We need you to bring the fuel.

THE MISSION DEBRIEF

Your objective is to build a sustainable, high-powered engine for the brand:

• THE PARTNERSHIPS: Scouting and securing "Brand Alignments" with companies that want to invest in the next generation (think Fashion, Tech, Music, and Sport).

• THE GRANTS: Identifying the high-level "Strategic Funds" and turning our data into winning bids.

• THE REVENUE: Finding creative ways to monetize the brand—from "Sponsor a Drop" packages to corporate social responsibility (CSR) deals.

• THE INVESTORS: Managing the relationships with our high-net-worth supporters, keeping them hyped on the "Mission Debriefs."

THE SPECS

Who you are:

• The Closer: You aren't afraid to ask for the check. You know the value of what we do and you sell it with 100% confidence.

• Strategist: You don't just "apply"—you "position." You know how to make URBAN YOUTH the only choice for a partner.

• Connected: You have a black book of contacts or the "Hustle" to build one from scratch.

• Professional with an Edge: You can hold your own in a corporate boardroom, but you appreciate the grit of a street-side intervention.

THE REWARDS

• Architect Status: You are the reason we can scale from one borough to the whole city.

• The Portfolio: A "Lead Fundraiser" role at a disruptive, fast-growing brand is a massive power-move for your career.

• The Crew: Full URBAN YOUTH "Crew" kit and a seat at the strategic "Board Huddles."

• The Legacy: You aren't just raising money; you are raising the ceiling for every young person we reach.

HOW TO SECURE THE ASSETS

WE DON'T WANT A CV. WE WANT THE NUMBERS.

TO APPLY:

Send us a brief "Partnership Pitch"—which brand should URBAN YOUTH partner with next and why?

• Bonus: Tell us the biggest "Win" you've ever secured in your career or community work.

STATUS: OPEN

DEADLINE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

URBAN YOUTH // FUELLED BY THE FUTURE.

WANTED: THE VOICE OF THE STREET.

ROLE: VOLUNTEER COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER

THE MISSION: BROADCAST THE DROP. BUILD THE NOISE.

If a drop happens and nobody sees it, did it even hit? URBAN YOUTH is more than a charity; it’s a broadcast. We don’t "report"—we storytell.

We need a Communications Manager who understands how to turn a 3-hour pop-up into a month of digital heat. You’re the one who makes sure the city knows we’re coming, and the world knows what we achieved.

This is your frequency. Own it.

THE MISSION DEBRIEF

Your objective is to keep the URBAN YOUTH signal loud, clear, and high-contrast:

• THE NARRATIVE: Telling the story of our young people (The Architects) with dignity and hype. No "pity" stories—only power stories.

• THE DROP STRATEGY: Managing the countdowns. Coordinating the "Leaks," the "Live Clips," and the "Mission Debriefs" across Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

• THE PRESS HUSTLE: Getting the brand into the right ears—from local street blogs to national news and industry podcasts.

• THE BRAND GUARD: Making sure every piece of content—from a tweet to a flyer—is strictly Black, White, and High-Vis Yellow.

THE SPECS

Who you are:

• Digital Native: You live on the grid. You know the difference between a "post" and a "moment."

• Wordsmith: You can write a professional funding update in the morning and a high-energy "Drop Announcement" in the afternoon.

• Strategic: You don't just post for the sake of it; you post to build a movement.

• Visual Thinker: You work hand-in-hand with the Graphic Designer and the Crew to ensure the "Vibe" is always 10/10.

THE REWARDS

• The Platform: You get to shape the voice of London's most exciting new youth brand.

• The Network: Build connections with journalists, influencers, and community leaders.

• The Crew: Full URBAN YOUTH "Crew" kit and direct access to the Co-CEOs for strategy.

• The Impact: Your words and videos are the reason a young person decides to show up to a drop and change their life.

HOW TO SECURE THE SIGNAL

WE DON'T WANT A COVER LETTER. WE WANT A HEADLINE.

TO APPLY:

Send us a link to your best work or a 3-slide "Comm's Strategy" for our next drop.

• Bonus: Write us a 150-character Instagram caption for a "Secret Location" drop.

STATUS: TRANSMITTING

CLOSING DATE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

URBAN YOUTH // THE MESSAGE IS THE MISSION.

WANTED: THE GROUND BREAKER.

ROLE: VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & OUTREACH MANAGER

THE MISSION: EMBED THE BRAND. UNLOCK THE CITY.

URBAN YOUTH doesn't just "show up." We land with purpose. But before the van doors open, the ground needs to be prepared. We need a Community Engagement & Outreach Manager to be our lead scout and bridge-builder.

You are the one who talks to the local legends, the shop owners, the parents, and the "quiet leaders" of the estate. You turn a "neighborhood" into a "Partner Zone."

We have the gear. You have the keys to the city.

THE MISSION DEBRIEF

Your objective is to ensure URBAN YOUTH is welcomed, trusted, and embedded across London:

• THE STREET SCOUT: Identifying the "Heat Zones"—the specific corners, parks, and squares where young people are gathered and need us most.

• THE TRUST ARCHITECT: Building deep, authentic relationships with local community groups, faith leaders, and grassroots organisations.

• THE OUTREACH ENGINE: Leading the "Pre-Drop" hype. Getting on the ground days before a session to let the community know we’re coming.

• THE PARTNERSHIP MAPPING: Connecting with local councils, youth hubs, and police (where necessary) to ensure our interventions are supported and sustainable.

THE SPECS

Who you are:

• The Natural Communicator: You can talk to a Council Leader in the morning and a group of teenagers in the afternoon without changing your soul.

• The Map-Maker: You know London. You understand the nuances between boroughs and the "invisible borders" that young people face.

• High Empathy, Low Ego: You listen more than you talk. You understand that "Community" is earned, not bought.

• The Problem-Solver: You know how to navigate local tensions and turn "Not in my backyard" into "When are you coming back?"

THE REWARDS

• The Key to the City: You will build a network of contacts that spans the entire capital.

• The Impact Lead: You are the reason a "Drop" feels like a homecoming rather than an intrusion.

• The Crew: Full URBAN YOUTH "Crew" kit and a senior seat at the "Mission Briefings."

• The Legacy: You are building the foundation for a London-wide movement.

HOW TO UNLOCK THE ZONE

WE DON'T WANT A PROPOSAL. WE WANT TO HEAR YOUR HUSTLE.

TO APPLY:

Send us a 60-second "Street Pitch." Tell us: How do you introduce URBAN YOUTH to a community that has been let down by "the system" before?

• Bonus: Tell us about a time you turned a "No" into a "Yes" on the streets.

STATUS: SCOUTING

DEADLINE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

URBAN YOUTH // ROOTS IN THE STREET.

WANTED: THE NEXT GEN FOUNDER.

ROLE: VOLUNTEER YOUTH Co-CEO (AGE 18–25)

THE MISSION: LEAD THE STREETS. SHAPE THE BRAND.

Most charities talk about young people. URBAN YOUTH is built by them.

We don’t do "youth councils" or "advisory boards." We do Power. We are looking for a Youth Co-CEO to sit at the top table. Someone who knows what’s hitting the streets, what the community needs, and how to make a "drop" go viral.

This is your brand. This is your city. Take the keys.

As Youth Co-CEO, you aren't just an assistant—you are the Cultural Architect. You work side-by-side with the other Volunteer Co-CEO to drive the engine:

• CULTURAL LEAD: You define the "Vibe." You tell us where to drop, what the kit should look like, and how we talk to our community.

• THE STRATEGIST: You help decide which neighborhoods need us most and how we flip the script on "traditional" youth work.

• THE FACE: You represent the brand on the ground, on the "Gram," and in the boardroom.

• THE CONNECTOR: You bridge the gap between the suit-and-tie funders and the real energy of the streets.

WHO YOU ARE

• AGED 18–25: You’re in the mix. You understand the pressure, the talent, and the hustle of being young in the city today.

• VISIONARY: You don't want a "job"; you want to start a movement.

• BOLD: You aren't afraid to tell the "adults" in the room when an idea is dead or when we need to pivot.

• HUSTLER: You know how to get things done with limited resources.

WHY VOLUNTEER @ URBAN YOUTH

• Co-CEO Status: Real leadership experience that beats any degree or entry-level job.

• The Network: Direct access to CEOs, funders, and community leaders.

• The Gear: Full URBAN YOUTH "Crew" kit (Exclusive Yellow/Black drops).

• The Legacy: You aren't just "helping out"—you are co-founding the future of street-based youth work.

WE DON'T WANT A CV. WE WANT THE ENERGY.

TO APPLY:

Send us a DM, a Voice Note, or a 60-second video on WhatsApp/Email.

1. Who are you?

2. What’s the one thing the streets need right now?

3. Why are you the one to lead URBAN YOUTH?

STATUS: RECRUITING

LOCATION: London

DEADLINE: Monday 30th March 2026, before 6pm

URBAN YOUTH // THE STREETS ARE WATCHING. LEAD THEM.

GMYN is seeking to recruit new trustees with the passion and drive to move the charity forward with our recently updated strategy.

Since 2007, we have supported over 15,000 young people across Greater Manchester who face significant challenges, including those with experience of the care system, young refugees, and those with social or mental health needs. We don’t just deliver programmes; we provide a "family" and a platform for young people to have their voices heard.

Following our 2025 Trustee Skills Audit, we are entering an exciting period of new opportunities and are looking for three new trustees to join our passionate board. We are looking for individuals who share our values of compassion, creativity, courage, learning and fun.

We are specifically seeking expertise/experience in the following high-priority areas:

• Finance & Audit Trustee: To provide scrutiny of financial information, budgeting, and support our long-term financial resilience.
• Fundraising & Income Generation Trustee: To help shape our fundraising strategy, focusing on corporate partnerships, grants, and traded income.
• Digital & Communications Trustee: To lead our digital strategy, helping us amplify our brand and marketing efforts.
• Young Trustees - Please see section below on “lived experience”.

However, you do not need to be an expert in these areas to apply. We welcome applications from anyone who shares our values. We believe that a diverse board with a wide range of perspectives is what makes us strong.

The Value of Lived Experience

GMYN aims to create an inclusive welcoming environment for young people and all those who work or volunteer at GMYN or wish to join #TeamGMYN.

Whilst our staff and board of trustees are diverse in many ways, we recognise we are not fully representative of the communities that we serve, and we want to change this. We especially encourage applications from the Global Majority, people from working-class backgrounds, and disabled or neurodiverse individuals.

At GMYN, we believe young people shouldn't just be part of our programmes—they should help lead them. We are looking for new Trustees help shape our future. We strongly encourage applications from:

• Young leaders (18+) who want to make a difference in Greater Manchester.
• Experts by experience: the unique insights you have from navigating the care system, living with a disability, or being a young person in Greater Manchester today. Your first-hand knowledge helps us make better, fairer decisions.
• People who currently use, or have previously been involved in, GMYN programmes including beneficaries, volunteers or GMYN alumni.

Your personal insight and "youth voice" are just as valuable to us as professional qualifications and experience. We want our board to reflect the diverse communities and the resilient young people we serve.

Why join #TeamGMYN?

Our current trustees choose to be part of GMYN because they want to:

• Make a meaningful difference for young people facing disadvantage.
• Gain a deeper sense of purpose by contributing to a cause rooted in compassion.
• Connect with diverse people and new perspectives within the community.
• Share their own knowledge to help more young people thrive.

The commitment

We expect trustees to try and attend all meetings. We have around 5 to 6 evening trustee meetings each year (on-line and face-to-face) plus attendance at the annual strategic planning day.

In addition to this trustees are encouraged to visit our projects and participate in focused working groups as and when needed.

Person Specification

Experience of youth work is not required to be a GMYN Trustee. Neither is previous experience as a trustee.

The main qualities that we are looking for are:

• A demonstrable passion for supporting young people so that they can build a positive future for themselves.
• Commitment to regularly attend and fully engage in board meetings and be pro-active in-between meetings.
• The ability to think at a strategic level and leave the day-to-day operation of the charity to the Senior Leadership Team.
• The ability to work collaboratively with other Trustees and senior level staff.
• Curiosity and the ability to ask challenging questions when required.
• Skills and experiences that are relevant to the high-priority areas as shown above.

Guidance for applicants 

If having read this information you would like to apply, we would suggest you set up a short informal chat with our Chair, Liam McDaid Jones. He can provide you with a bit more background to GMYN; where we’ve come from, and where we are heading. He can also answer any other questions you may have about the trustee role.

Our Second Home is a youth movement that empowers migrants and refugees to flourish in the place that they call home. Our overnight activity camp for young people aged 14-18 is a chance for young people to come together and have five days of fun and excitement, supported by a dynamic and dedicated team of leaders and staff.

An OSH Leader is a supportive adult, a role model, and someone young people can feel safe being themselves around. It’s about creating a warm, fun, and consistent presence during residentials — helping young people with refugee and migrant backgrounds feel welcomed, included, and at home.

Youth Leaders for this project will be responsible for facilitating the camp, and will be directly in contact with, and responsible for, the participants. During the camp they will be ‘on duty’ full-time, meaning that they will spend the whole time with the participants, including at meals.

THIS ROLE IS ONLY FOR PEOPLE LIVING IN THE UK. We will arrange Zoom interviews with applicants separately.

Responsibilities:

• Interacting and forming a bond with the participants
• Creating and running fun and engaging activities for the participants
• Looking after the participants’ welfare, and ensuring that they feel cared for and secure
• Managing the participants’ behaviour and setting clear boundaries

Expectations and requirements:

• All applicants must be interviewed and be willing to provide references on request.
• Youth Leaders must set a positive example of behaviour and involvement for all participants, and adhere to the volunteer guidelines.
• Youth Leaders may be required to prepare activities for participants at the camp. If asked, this must be completed in plenty of time to allow any materials or equipment to be sourced.
• Applicants should be aged 20 or above.
• Applicants must be eligible for DBS clearance (no criminal record that prevents applicants from working with children)
• Youth Leaders must raise any safeguarding concerns swiftly and follow safeguarding procedures
• Youth Leaders must follow all Our Second Home policies and procedures of (which will be explained at the Camp training days).
• Anyone attending an OSH residential must test negative for COVID-19 prior to attending the programme, regardless of whether they have received a vaccine or not.

Essential skills:

• Flexibility, adaptability and ability to improvise
• Ability to build connection quickly with peers and young people
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively
• High level of organisation
• High levels of empathy and patience
• Awareness and sensitivity that some participants might be suffering from trauma

Additional desired skills:

• Experience working with and/or caring for young people aged 14-18
• Experience working with refugees and/or asylum seekers
• Experience working with young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities
• Language skills: Arabic, Dari, Pashto, Tigrinya, Somali
• First Aid training
• Creative or artistic abilities
• Sports leadership
• Ability to prepare fun and engaging activities for young people

We particularly encourage applications from those who have lived experience of being a refugee.

Please ensure you are available to come to all the following events - specific dates can be found on the application form:

• Training
• Pre-Residential Prep Day (on site)
• Residential, in full
• Feedback & thank you afternoon

QUOTES:

• “Having the professional [welfare] support made me feel very support and more comfortable with the work” – BT
• “The atmosphere of fun, respect, care, and community is what made the young people so comfortable and connected” – BT
• “The leaders were all awesome – it was incredible to work in a team so full of hard working, intelligent, experienced people” – BT
• “Seeing the kids bursting out of their shells and that being the norm rather than just exceptions was just incredible.” – CA
• “It honestly surpassed anything I could have hoped for” – LK

Structure:

Youth Leaders will be supported by the Welfare Support Lead(s), who will be their main contact in the build to and throughout the camp. The Welfare Support Lead(s) will run team meetings at the end of each day and be on hand to advise and manage the Youth Leaders.

BE A FOUNDING VOICE: Help Us Build YCAS from the Ground Up!

Role: Founding Trustee (Voluntary)
Time: ~8 hours per month (Highly Flexible)
Location: Ealing, West London for monthly Trustee meetings, the rest of the hours can be done from home

The Vision:

In Ealing, young people are facing unprecedented pressures. We are at the "Day Zero" concept stage of creating YCAS (Youth Counselling and Advice Service)—a temporary name for a permanent mission. We are building a safe, vibrant "hub" where 11–25-year-olds can find free counselling, art therapy, and guidance without barriers.

Why We Need You (The "Startup" Reality)

We aren’t a polished machine yet; we are a seed. As a Founding Trustee, you won't just "oversee"—you will architect. This is a rare chance to shape a charity's DNA, from its legal structure to its very first clinical session.

What You’ll Do (Your Impact)

• Architect the Foundation: Work with our Founder to move from "concept" to "registered charity".
• Strategic Blueprinting: Help set our mission, values, and 3-year growth strategy.
• Governance & Safety: Ensure we are "gold-standard" for safeguarding and ethics from the start.
• Champion the Cause: Use your networks to build the partnerships and funding we need to open our doors.
• Listen & Lead: Ensure the voices of Ealing’s young people are baked into every decision.

Who You Are

You don’t need a long list of previous board roles—we value passion and perspective over a "perfect" CV. We are looking for:

• Visionaries: You enjoy the "blank page" and aren't afraid of the hard work required for a startup.
• Community Lovers: You care deeply about Ealing and its youth.
• Collaborators: You are thoughtful, reliable, and a great listener.

Bonus Skills (We have specific seats at the table for):

• The Pilot (Chair/Deputy): To lead our meetings and keep us on track.
• The Guardian (Safeguarding): To keep our young people safe.
• The Strategist (Treasurer/Finance): To build our financial health.
• The Connectors (Fundraising & Partnerships): To help us find the resources to grow.
• The Specialist (Therapist/Clinical): To ensure our support is world-class.

What’s In It For You?

• Total Influence: Your fingerprints will be on a service that could save lives.
• Leadership Growth: Gain rare "founding board" experience with full induction and support.
• Community: Join a warm, driven team of "do-ers".

The Commitment (Volunteer)

• 8 hours per month: Includes one Board meeting and some remote prep work.
• Flexibility: Most work is digital, with occasional in-person meet-ups in Ealing.

​Ready to build something beautiful?

Apply by sending your CV and a Covering Letter, telling us why you want to help YCAS take flight.

YCAS: Designed by Ealing, for Ealing's future.

Supporting Chapter Manager - Volunteer Role

About Make A Smile

Make A Smile is a UK charity dedicated to bringing joy, play, and magical experiences to children facing illness, disability, or disadvantage. Volunteers dress as beloved characters and deliver uplifting activities, from hospital visits and care‑centre sessions to arts, crafts, stories, and games - ensuring every child gets the chance to enjoy their childhood. Trustees and Officers are essential to keeping the charity running smoothly across the UK, helping us “bring smiles to the faces of so many children.” 

About the Role

The Supporting Chapter Manager plays a vital role in strengthening Make A Smile’s chapters across the UK. You will identify chapters that are struggling, assess their needs, and provide hands‑on support to help them rebuild, grow, and thrive. This role directly protects the continuity of the charity in key areas and ensures no chapter is left behind.

Key Responsibilities

You will take a proactive, leadership‑focused role in supporting and revitalising chapters. Responsibilities include:

● Assessing chapters regularly to understand their challenges and support needs.

● Providing hands‑on intervention for struggling chapters, focusing on recruitment, events, and wardrobe.

● Leading chapter overhauls when needed, including stepping in as temporary President if required.

● Supporting committee members, rebuilding enthusiasm, and setting clear action plans.

● Monitoring committee engagement and escalating concerns to the Chair when necessary.

● Ensuring struggling chapters focus on the “Golden Triangle”: wardrobe, trained volunteers, and events.

● Collaborating with the Wardrobe Manager, Recruitment Manager, and Events Manager for specialist support.

● Encouraging an “upwards spiral” of volunteer engagement, recruitment, and event quality.

● Reporting chapter progress and concerns at monthly Charity Leadership Meetings.

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

This role suits someone who is proactive, organised, and passionate about helping teams succeed. You’ll thrive if you bring:

● Strong leadership and people‑management skills.

● Confidence in motivating and supporting volunteers.

● A solution‑focused mindset. 

● The ability to stay calm and structured when chapters are under pressure.

● Willingness to step in hands‑on when needed. Posting on social media, organising events, messaging volunteers, etc.

● Professionalism, dedication, and alignment with Make A Smile’s ethos (“Act in the best interests of Make a Smile… Enjoy it!”). 

Time Commitment

Trustees and Officers are expected to contribute around 4 hours per week to their role. This includes chapter assessments, communication, meetings, and hands‑on support.

Training and Support

You will receive:

● Full Trustee Training (online).

● A comprehensive handover and access to all systems (OneDrive, Simvoly, WhatsApp communities).

● Guidance from the Chair and other Trustees.

● Access to the Supporting Chapter Guide and President training materials.

● Opportunities for personal development through CPD and charity-funded training.

What You’ll Gain

● Leadership experience in a national charity.

● Skills in team support, crisis management, and organisational development.

● A meaningful role where your work directly keeps chapters alive and thriving.

● The chance to shape the future of Make A Smile and support volunteers across the UK.

● The joy of knowing your efforts help bring magical experiences to children.

Safeguarding and Eligibility

Trustees and Officers must act in line with charity standards, including professionalism, confidentiality, and reliability. You must be able to attend monthly meetings and engage actively in communication channels. A DBS check may be required depending on involvement with events.

How to Apply

To express your interest, please send across your CV along with a short message outlining your experience and why you’d like to support our chapters.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for helping children smile.

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  04/01/26

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/03/2026

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;

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Pursuing the role

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates:

• Welcome Event (Induction) -  29/12/2025

Closing date for these opportunities is: 07/12/2026