Volunteer roles in Birmingham

Join the Board of the Early Education and Childcare Coalition 

Are you interested in creating an early education and childcare system that delivers for all? Can you help the Early Education and Childcare Coalition move to the next phase of its development? 

We are seeking new non-executive board members to help shape our strategic direction, ensure robust governance, and contribute to the Coalition's collective expertise.
 

About us 

The Early Education and Childcare Coalition is a policy and advocacy partnership working to transform the system for families. We unite the voices of all those with a stake in the future of early education and childcare – children, parents, providers, the early years workforce and the business community. Founded by more than 30 organisations, our members are parent campaign groups, child advocacy organisations, early childhood experts, antipoverty campaigners, provider membership bodies, trade unions and business lobbying groups. 

Our vision is of a high-quality, inclusive system of early education and childcare that is accessible to all children, affordable for parents, fairly funded for providers, and offers decent pay and conditions for the workforce. Our mission is to rescue and reform the system by combining urgent policy measures to stabilise the sector with long-term transformation. 

About us

The Coalition was co-designed throughout 2022 by more than 30 organisations and launched publicly in 2023. Since then, we have gone from strength to strength, concluding a successful hosting relationship and becoming an independent organisation in the summer of 2025, with a team of eight staff influencing policymaking and connecting families, providers and decision-makers through advocacy, co-production and convening. 

Please note that the Coalition is in the process of registering as a charity; therefore, it is expected that board members will transition to become trustees within the next year.

About you

We are looking to grow our new board and strengthen our succession planning. Therefore, board membership could include taking on senior roles within the Board following a familiarisation period and supported development.

We would therefore welcome applications from those who have held board officer roles in the past, including experienced Chairs. We are also particularly interested in applications from people who have experience in one or more of the following areas: 

• Fundraising 

• Policy analysis and research 

• Campaigning/influencing 

• Legal and compliance 

• HR 

• Experience of working on issues related to children and families 

• Experience of working in other coalitions/alliances or movement building 

In order to maintain balance and equity across our membership and manage conflicts of interest, applicants should not have a current direct link to the Coalition. For example, we cannot accept applications from individuals who are currently working for a member or supporter organisation.

About the role

Board members will work closely with the Coalition’s Executive Director, staff team and Advisory Group to ensure the success of the organisation to meet its aim to transform early education and childcare in England. 

Board members are legally responsible for running the company, making sure information is sent to Companies House on time, setting the strategic direction of the organisation, monitoring progress, ensuring good governance and supporting the staff team in their work. 

Board members must follow the rules set out in the company’s Articles of Association, agree to act in the best interests of the organisation and raise any conflicts of interests throughout their term. 

Responsibilities: 

• Provide financial oversight of the organisation including overseeing budgeting, monitoring performance, signing off accounts, financial reporting and fundraising. (The Board Treasurer will lead on financial management and assessing financial risk, but financial oversight is a duty of all board members). 

• Work with other board members to continue growing the Board, identifying skill gaps, organisational needs and participating in the recruitment and onboarding of new board members. 

• Work with other board members to implement the strategic plan, contributing ideas and proposals. 

• Monitor progress on strategy through Board and other meetings. 

• Provide support to the Executive Director on operational matters, including but not limited to HR, legal compliance, communications and membership matters and where appropriate, policy developments. 

• Attend Board meetings, or when unable to attend, communicate ideas and comments to the Coalition’s Executive Director/Board Chair in advance of the meeting. 

• Work with other board members to identify and manage potential risks and opportunities to the company’s operations, finances and reputation. 

• Proactively promote the work of the Coalition through personal and professional networks. 

In addition, Board members may be invited to:  

• Represent the Coalition at appropriate meetings and events. 

• Participate in the work of the Coalition as appropriate (e.g. working groups, projects or recruitment panels). 

Further information 

• Board members are appointed for a term of three years, and they may be reappointed for a further three-year period. 

• All directors will be members (guarantors) of the company and all members (guarantors) will be directors, with a personal liability of £1 and listed on documents filed at Companies House. 

• Board members must be at least 18 years old, a UK resident and not disqualified from acting as a company director. 

• Find out more about the general duties of a company director here. 

Time commitment 

Board members will be required to attend up to five board meetings per year for approximately two hours each (with up to 4 hours preparation time). These are usually held on Zoom, with one away day in London expected per year with the staff team. Any travel and other related and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. 

Papers will be shared ahead of time and reading and preparation is expected ahead of each meeting.

Board members may also be asked between meetings to act as signatories, give time to contribute to reports, applications and accounts, and provide advice and guidance to the Executive Director and wider staff team on specific topics and/ or issues. 

The predicted time commitment for the Board members is estimated at 2-4 hours per month depending on Board role with one away day.

Remuneration 

This is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses for in-person meetings paid in advance or reimbursed. 

The Coalition’s vision, mission and values: 

Our vision is to build a world-class early education and childcare system that supports children, parents and our economy to thrive, rooted in the following principles:

• High quality provision for all children, especially those who benefit the most

• Sustainable provision that works for all kinds of working parents and their employers

• Good pay, terms and conditions for the professionals who deliver it

• Accessible and affordable options for all parents, in all communities

• Locally shaped options that respond to local circumstances 

Our mission is to drive reform through coordinated advocacy among all stakeholders. Our mission recognises that transforming early education and childcare requires both immediate action and long-term reform. Our experience since launch has taught us valuable lessons about managing urgent needs while building toward systemic change. 

Our shared values are: 

• Fairness: as much as we believe in an equitable and fair early education and childcare system, we hold the same to be true in how we work as a Coalition. We do this by ensuring members' interests are represented equally through our internal systems and governance, and by committing to embodying co-production principles in our work.

• Integrity: we act in the best interests of the Coalition, its members and beneficiaries avoiding alliances or projects which may bring the EECC or its members into disrepute. When faced with difficult decisions, we prioritise the interests of the most disadvantaged child. Integrity is critical to an enduring sense of goodwill and thus the future sustainability and efficacy of the Coalition.

• Respect: the diversity of our membership is a strength, but we recognise that diversity can lead to different perspectives. Respect for that difference is essential in finding consensus that can be built on to secure change. We do not knowingly undermine each other or other stakeholders publicly or privately.

• Collaboration: transforming the early education system is a complex task that no single organisation can do alone. We believe that progress lies in partnership and that the best route to reform is through broad-based, powerful alliances with people from a wide variety of backgrounds and perspectives. We don’t believe in collaboration for its own sake. We think partnerships must be smart, strategic, and creative in order to be effective, but as far as possible, they must also be broad-based. 

Application and interview process

• Please apply with CV and statement of suitability/cover letter by 6pm on Friday 24th April.
• We will aim to respond to all applicants by Friday 1st May.
• Interviews will take place on 13th May and 22nd May. 

Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable A-Level History tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses. 

"Over time I have become much more confident in tutoring and in essence this is making the sessions much more enjoyable for me. I like preparing new slides every week and discussing new content with my student." - Volunteer A-Level Tutor

What will you be doing? 

Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person. 

Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to A-Level History

Help to combat social isolation through fun and engaging tutoring sessions. 

Adhere to safeguarding policies and report concerns to the BFUK Team

What are we looking for? 

1. Subject Knowledge: Strong understanding of A-Level History concepts and specifications.

2. Teaching Skills: Ability to explain complex ideas in a clear and engaging way.

3. Empathy and Patience: Kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.

4. Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment.

5. Adherence to safeguarding policies and report concerns to the BFUK Team

What difference will you make?

1. Academic Progress: Help young people stay on track with their studies despite their health challenges, ensuring they do not fall behind.

2. Confidence Builder: Provide a stable and encouraging presence that helps build the students' confidence and resilience.

3. Future Opportunities: Equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

What will you gain?

1. Enhanced DBS will be provided

2. Safeguarding Level One Training

3. Skill Development opportunities

4. Direct experience working with children and young people

You must be a UK resident and be at least 18 years old.

As a charity that supports children and young people, we make safeguarding individuals our top priority. For this reason, all volunteers are subject to an enhanced criminal record and disclosures check. We also ask all volunteers to adhere to our Safeguarding, Equality and Confidentiality policies. These are nothing to worry about and if you have any questions, our team are happy to support you.

Purpose of the role

Are you passionate about health justice and human rights? Join us as our new Treasurer!

The purpose of the Board of Directors is to provide leadership, guidance, checks and balances on the structure and operation of the organisation.                                                                                                                                                                           

The Board of Directors:

• Fulfils the duties and responsibilities of Company Directors

• Advises on and approves strategic plans, annual roadmaps, and budgets, and any changes to these

• Identifies any risks to the organisation and advises on these

• Advises on and approves organisational policies and commitments, including grant and commercial agreements

• Advises on and approves organisational structure, including the structure and composition of the Board and any other Boards and Committees it deems necessary

• Provides oversight on the Executive Director, including their appointment, performance reviews, remuneration decisions, and delegated powers

Additional duties as Treasurer:

• Chair the Finance and Risk committee

• Monitor the financial sustainability of the organisation

• Take a lead in interpreting financial information to fellow Directors

• Support the team in their participatory budget setting process

• Make sure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external support are reviewed regularly 

• Provide guidance on the preparation of the annual accounts where necessary

• Provide ad-hoc support to the Senior Operations Officer who deals with the day-to-day finances (using Xero)

• Support the production of management accounts 

“Our dedicated Directors form a great team that I love being a part of. We really care about the work and staff team, and we're keen to add value through our expertise as well as being eager and open to learning. Through mutual respect and listening to each other our meetings and interactions are really fruitful. I know I get a lot out of being part of this team and the opportunity to support the great work of Just Treatment.”

Adina Claire, Chair

“We’re very excited to be adding a Treasurer to our board. As we’re launching into our next four year strategy we need to build our board to create a team that can help us meet this moment. Our financial sustainability and the stewardship of our treasurer are central to this.”

Diarmaid McDonald, Executive Director

The Practicalities

Time commitment:

We have four full board meetings per year. Three of these are online and last for two hours, and one longer full day meeting is in person (likely in London. All costs will be covered). Directors are expected to attend these, and come prepared, having read all board papers in advance.

We have additional committees such as Finance and Risk, and the Treasurer will be expected to chair this committee. There may be other events that Directors are invited to attend, and other opportunities to get involved. We also expect that Directors will provide ad hoc support based on their expertise and available time, with the Treasurer working with the Senior Ops Officer, Executive Director, and Chair to prepare and secure support for our budget and other key financial processes. We estimate the time commitment to be around one day per month (with peaks during the financial cycle). 

What qualities should our board members have?

Our Board members are diverse while all having:

• Alignment with Just Treatment’s values

• Commitment to Just Treatment's mission

In addition the Treasurer should bring:

• Significant senior-level financial background 

• Experience of risk management

• Confidence working at Board level

• Charity or non-profit experience is desirable 

Our Board includes people who have:

• lived experience of the issues we work on

• experience leading and growing non-profit organisations in the UK, including leading their strategy and planning cycles, and fundraising efforts

• experience with different organisational forms and governance structures

• experience with shaping organisational cultures, policies and processes

• knowledge of health policy and health justice

• understanding of campaigning, advocacy, and organising practice

This Role Transforms Words Into Funding for Change. At Tell My Truth and Shame the Devil C.I.C., compelling storytelling and clear proposals unlock the resources we need to grow and sustain our mission.
The Grants and Proposal Writer ensures that the CIC secures funding from trusts, foundations, and grant-making bodies. You will research opportunities, craft persuasive applications, and maintain documentation for reporting and compliance. Your work directly supports programmes, events, and initiatives that impact vulnerable communities.
This is not a generic writing role—it is strategic, high-impact, and central to CIC sustainability.

This role exists to:

• Research and identify grant and funding opportunities aligned with the CIC’s mission
• Develop high-quality proposals, applications, and supporting materials
• Coordinate with the Fundraising Director and other team members to ensure accurate and compelling submissions
• Maintain records of applications, deadlines, and reporting requirements
• Track outcomes, feedback, and lessons learned to improve future proposals
• Ensure compliance with grant conditions, CIC policies, and ethical fundraising standards

You are the storyteller who converts opportunity into actionable support.

Why This Role Matters

Grants and proposals are a critical revenue stream:

• They provide predictable and scalable funding
• They allow the CIC to expand programmes and reach more communities
• They strengthen credibility with partners, donors, and funders

Without this role, potential funding opportunities may be missed or poorly executed. With it, the CIC can secure long-term resources and scale impact ethically.

Experience Qualification and Requirements

Essential / Highly Valued Experience

• Experience in grant writing or proposal development, producing clear, persuasive, and well-evidenced applications
• Ability to research funding opportunities, assess eligibility, and interpret complex funder guidelines
• Strong written communication and storytelling skills, particularly for social change, community impact, and beneficiary-centred narratives
• Ability to translate programme data and outcomes into measurable impact statements
• Experience preparing or contributing to reports and documentation for funders, including outcomes and financial narratives
• Understanding of, or experience within, non-profit, CIC, charity, or social impact sectors
• High attention to detail with strong organisation and deadline-management skills
• Confidence collaborating with diverse internal stakeholders to gather accurate information
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple applications, and prioritise effectively in a volunteer capacity
• Commitment to the organisation’s mission, values, and principles of equity, inclusion, and integrity

Desirable / Can Be Developed

• Awareness of ethical, legal, and compliance considerations, including CIC requirements and data protection
• Proficiency with basic digital tools (e.g. Word, Google Docs, spreadsheets, shared tracking systems)

Qualifications

• Formal qualifications not required; equivalent professional or voluntary experience is highly valued

Main Responsibilities/ Key Duties

• Identify funding opportunities: Proactively source and monitor relevant grant-making organisations, charitable trusts, foundations, statutory bodies, and corporate funders aligned with the organisation’s mission, values, and programmes. Maintain awareness of emerging funding trends and opportunities within the non-profit and social impact landscape.
• Research eligibility and priorities: Analyse funder guidelines, eligibility criteria, strategic priorities, funding cycles, and assessment processes to determine suitability. Provide clear recommendations on which opportunities to pursue and advise on positioning applications for best alignment.
• Write high-quality grant proposals: Develop clear, persuasive, and well-structured grant applications, expressions of interest, and supporting documents. Translate complex programmes and outcomes into compelling narratives supported by evidence, budgets, and measurable impact.
• Collaborate with internal teams: Work closely with programme leads, finance, monitoring and evaluation, and leadership teams to gather accurate data, budgets, case studies, outcomes, and delivery plans. Ensure proposals reflect current activities and realistic capacity.
• Application and deadline management: Maintain an organised and transparent system to track funding opportunities, application stages, deadlines, submission requirements, and reporting obligations. Ensure timely preparation and submission of all materials.
• Compliance and quality assurance: Ensure all grant submissions meet ethical standards, legal requirements, and Community Interest Company (CIC) regulations. Review applications for accuracy, consistency, safeguarding considerations, and data protection compliance before submission.
• Funding tracking and reporting support: Record funding awarded, declined, or pending. Assist with donor acknowledgement, progress updates, and end-of-grant reports by collating outcomes, financial information, and impact evidence in line with funder requirements.
• Continuous improvement: Reflect on feedback from funders, analyse success rates, and contribute to improving grant-writing processes, templates, and organisational funding strategy over time.

Who This Role Is For

This role is suited to someone who:

• Can write persuasively and strategically
• Understands grant-making processes or is willing to learn
• Is organised, deadline-driven, and detail-oriented
• Can translate programme impact into compelling narratives
• Values ethics, transparency, and trauma-informed storytelling

You are a strategic writer and funding advocate

What You Gain

• Founding-level experience in grant writing and fundraising strategy
• Strategic insight into funding cycles, donor expectations, and impact storytelling
• Leadership exposure in shaping sustainable funding models
• Priority consideration for future paid roles
• Direct contribution to community empowerment and CIC growth

This role builds strategic writing, research, and funding acquisition skills.

What This Role Is Not For

This role is not suitable if you:

• Avoid strategic or detailed writing tasks
• Prefer low-responsibility volunteer work
• Are seeking immediate paid employment
• Are uncomfortable representing an ethical, trauma-informed organisation

Important to Be Clear

• This is a volunteer role during the CIC’s build phase
• It carries real responsibility for securing ethical funding
•  Paid roles will emerge as funding and sustainability allow

Next Steps

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to:

• A values-led conversation
• A practical discussion about grant writing, deadlines, and proposal strategy

If you believe that well-crafted proposals can fuel meaningful change, and that writing can create impact beyond words, this role is for you.

A Final Word

Grants are about people, not just funding.
If you know that:

• Trust is built through honesty, clarity, and accuracy
• Ethical compliance and data protection safeguard both funders and communities
• Respectful storytelling strengthens long-term partnerships and impact

…then you already understand the heart of effective grants and proposal writing.

Job Overview

The Abundant Woman is looking for an experienced and compassionate Human Resources (HR) Manager to help build and support our growing team. This role is essential for creating a positive work environment that reflects our mission of empowering women, ensuring our HR policies are inclusive, and managing the full HR lifecycle—from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and staff well-being.

Key Responsibilities

 •  Oversee recruitment, hiring, and onboarding processes to attract and retain top talent aligned with our values.

 •  Develop and implement HR policies that promote a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture.

 •  Provide guidance and support on employee relations, performance management, and conflict resolution.

 •  Coordinate training and professional development opportunities to support employee growth and well-being.

 •  Ensure compliance with UK employment laws and maintain up-to-date employee records and HR documentation.

Key Skills and Qualifications

 •  Proven experience as an HR Manager or in a similar role, preferably in a nonprofit or social enterprise setting.

 •  Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR best practices, and compliance requirements.

 •  Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with an empathetic and solutions-oriented approach.

 •  Organisational and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail in managing HR processes.

 •  Passion for supporting a mission-driven team and fostering an inclusive work culture.

Why Join Us?

As the HR Manager at The Abundant Woman, you’ll be a key part of a mission-driven team dedicated to creating impactful change. This role offers the unique opportunity to shape our organisation’s culture and provide meaningful support to a team committed to empowering women.

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.

About the role:

As a community champion volunteer you’ll be supporting Sense’s fundraising team, playing a vital role in helping Sense to raise funds and awareness to support people with complex disabilities. 

You’ll engage with individuals, local businesses, and regional press to share our mission, organise events, and inspire others to take action. Whether you’re great at planning events, researching opportunities or connecting with your community, this role has something for you.  

This is a flexible role, with the opportunity to volunteer either virtually or in your local community. We are looking for volunteers able to offer a minimum commitment of 2 hours per month. 

We’re looking for people who are passionate about Sense’s work to support disabled people with complex needs and who have a calm, kind and friendly personality.

Please note that you will not be providing care for the people Sense supports as part of this role.

Due to the nature of the volunteer role, we cannot accept applications for anyone under the age of 18.

The four areas of the role:

As a Community Champion, you’ll have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities, organised into four main role categories. You can choose to get involved in one or more of these areas, and we’ll discuss your preferences with you as part of the application process. Please note, we don’t expect volunteers to take on every area. Instead, we’ll focus on what interests you most and shape the role around your strengths and skills.

Event volunteer:

Support Sense’s Community Fundraising team by:

• Organising your own fundraising events in aid of Sense.
• Supporting and participating in fundraising events at your local Sense services, and shops.
• Supporting with fundraising admin, for example sourcing prizes for Sense fundraisers.

Skills needed:

• Creative, with fresh fundraising ideas and enthusiasm.
• Organised, with the ability help co-ordinate multiple aspects of an event.

Local public relations (PR) volunteer:

Boost Sense’s profile in your local community by:

• Writing content for local press releases.
• Building a network of local media contacts.
• Supporting regional output of national campaigns. 

Skills needed:

• Strong written communication
• Able to follow branding and messaging guidelines.
• Self-motivated and proactive in seeking opportunities. 

Fundraising researcher:

Help boost Sense’s regional income by researching available grants, partnerships and other local connections. Responsibilities include:

• Researching local grants and business partnerships.
• Researching networking events.
• Helping us to source prizes for Sense fundraising events.

Skills needed:

• Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently.
• Organised, ensuring new leads are accurately recorded and shared. 

Community connector:

Act as an ambassador for Sense, attending events across your community to thank supporters, and forge new partnerships.

• Attending cheque presentations, thanking our supporters.
• Giving presentations about Sense to local schools and community groups.
• Engaging with local businesses and groups, to forge new relationships for Sense.

Skills needed:

• Strong communication skills and enjoys public speaking opportunities.
• Well-connected in their local area, and love engaging with people.

What we offer you:

As one of our volunteers, you’ll get:

• Full training with ongoing support and guidance from your team.
• A chance to meet new people.
• A great way to develop new skills and share your existing skills.
• The feeling you get knowing you’re making a difference to the lives of disabled people with complex needs.
• A reference to support future applications for paid or voluntary roles.
• Support from our Mental Health First Aiders, should you need it. 

Our values:

Everything we do is underpinned by five core values. These values shape the way we work every day. Our values are:

• We include
• We collaborate
• We find a way
• We challenge
• We celebrate

Support the work of St John Ambulance in your community by volunteering as a Community Volunteer, an exciting new role which is designed to revamp how volunteering looks in the modern world; flexible, innovative and is open for all.

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient. Community Volunteers can choose from a wide selection of activities – including fundraising, talks and demonstrations, supporting at events, volunteer welfare, social media and administration support.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives.

Give as much (or little) time as you can afford. With this new role, you simply volunteer when it works for you. That means you can give as much time as you like or as little as 24 hours across a whole year, whenever it suits you. It’s perfect for busy lives, changing schedules, or for anyone seeking a low-commitment involvement. 

The Community Volunteer provides an easy way to stay connected and contribute meaningfully to your local community. Here are some examples of what you could do: 

• Community fundraising
• Talks and demonstrations
• Support at events
• Volunteer welfare
• Community Roadshows
• Supporting national campaigns
• Counting and banking money
• Booking events
• Supporting Networks  
• Administration support
• Writing thank you and community letters
• Media and social media
• Community news and Network newsletters 

Through volunteering as a Community Volunteer, 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.

Once we have completed your selection and screening for this role, we will provide you with an induction, as well as invite you to any necessary training sessions. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Interviews at Dickens Heath Community Primary School, Three Acres Lane, Dickens Heath, Solihull B90 1NA date and times to be advised

If you are successful you will need to undertake induction & training for role at these dates: Welcome Event (Induction) - Dickens Heath Community Primary School, Three Acres Lane, Dickens Heath, Solihull B90 1NA. Training for role - Date and times to be advised

Closing date for these opportunities is: 27/04/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Young Lives Foundation are recruiting volunteer wellbeing mentors to support young people through one-to-one mentoring. 
 
Their mentors provide consistent, positive support to a young person, helping them build confidence, resilience, and life skills. No formal qualifications are required, and full training, safeguarding checks, and ongoing support are provided.
 
They’re looking for people who are:

• Reliable and committed
• Good listeners with empathy and patience
• Interested in making a meaningful difference to a young person’s life

The commitment is typically around 1–2 hours per week, for a minimum of 6 months.

For more information and to apply click here

We are currently developing an open-source website and internal systems, and we are looking for a UX/UI Designer to lead the design of a platform that is: 

• Emotionally safe
• Intuitive and accessible
• Scalable across multiple services
• Built with survivors in mind
• clean lines and top quailty

This is not just a design role — this is an opportunity to shape a digital experience that will impact thousands of lives. 

Key Responsibilities

User Experience (UX)

Design user journeys for:

• Survivors sharing their stories
• Volunteers and staff interacting with the system
• Students accessing training and opportunities
• Conduct user research (where appropriate and ethical)
• Create wireframes, user flows, and prototypes
• Ensure trauma-informed and emotionally sensitive design decisions

User Interface (UI)

• Design clean, modern, and accessible interfaces
• Develop a consistent design system (colours, typography, components)
• Ensure mobile-first and responsive design
• Collaborate with developers to bring designs to life

Platform & Systems Design

• Contribute to the UX of:
• Internal dashboards
• Learning platforms
• Community spaces (forums, content hubs, bookclub ,etc.)
• Help simplify complex systems into intuitive experiences

Collaboration

• Work closely with:
• Founder and leadership team
• Developers (open-source contributors)
• Content creators and marketing team
• Translate vision into practical, user-centred design

Essential Skills & Experience

• Experience in UX/UI design (portfolio required)
• Proficiency in tools such as: Figma (preferred), Adobe XD / Sketch (optional)
• Strong understanding of:
• User journeys and information architecture
• Accessibility (WCAG standards)
• Mobile-first design principles

• Ability to think both creatively and strategically

Desirable (Not Essential)

• Experience designing for:
• Non-profits or social impact organisations
• Mental health or trauma-informed platforms
• Understanding of open-source collaboration
• Basic knowledge of front-end (HTML/CSS)
• Experience with community platforms (e.g., forums, learning systems)

Personal Attributes

We are looking for someone who is:

• Empathetic and emotionally intelligent
• Passionate about social impact
• Reliable and committed
• Able to work independently and take initiative
• Open to feedback and collaboration

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to build a meaningful, real-world platform from the ground up
• A strong portfolio project with social impact
• Experience working within a growing organisation
• Future paid opportunities as the organisation scales
• A chance to directly contribute to changing lives and communities

Safeguarding Note

Due to the nature of our work, all team members must approach the role with sensitivity, confidentiality, and respect. Exposure to sensitive topics may occur. 

People & Planet is looking for volunteers to assist with compiling its 2026/27 People & Planet University League; the only higher education ranking that classifies based on ethics and climate justice criteria.

Universities impart skills and knowledge, form life-long beliefs and behaviours, act as centres of communities, employ, house and feed large numbers of people and promote the creation and sharing of knowledge. We believe this makes them uniquely placed to lead on environmental and ethical issues. For this reason the People & Planet University League has been running since 2007 and has been published by high-profile media partners such as The Guardian (2021, 2022. 2023, 2024, 2025), The BBC, and whose data is used in the Sunday Time Good University Guide.

Volunteers will research publicly available university documents and assess universities against our marking criteria, which cover a wide range of climate and social justice issues including decarbonisation, fossil fuel divestment, ethical banking, workers’ rights and environmental management among others. This work will help to incentivise the university sector towards taking immediate and appropriate action on the climate crisis and upholding the rights and wellbeing of all people internationally.

The role will develop and improve the following areas:

• Qualitative research skills

• Attention to detail

• Use of data collection software

• Time management and keeping to deadlines

• Working independently and remotely

• Communication skills

• Knowledge of environmental management processes and sustainability reporting.

Training is provided for the role. We believe the skills and experience gained could be valuable for a number of career paths, including working in NGOs, corporate sustainability, estates management, higher education policy making, research and campaigning among many others.

People & Planet would like to support volunteers in their future careers, so will give all volunteers an official reference letter on successful completion of their placement and will act as a referee for future positions for which you may apply. From last year’s cohort, 100% said they would recommend this position to someone who wanted to add experience to their CV.

Feedback from previous volunteers

‘I think as someone looking for relevant experience to bolster a CV, this is a helpful and not-too-time-consuming position. It had exactly the kind of flexibility that I required at this point in time.’

‘It's a really great opportunity to hone one's research skills, learn more about what our universities can do to improve their impact on the planet, and make a small but real difference.’

Person Specification -the following are essential:

• Access to a computer or laptop and internet connection.

• Familiarity with desk-based research.

• Ability to work accurately and efficiently to agreed standards.

• Reliability and commitment to completing work to deadlines.

• Able to communicate needs with staff at People & Planet and if needed, ask for appropriate support to complete tasks in time.

• Ability to search policy documents for specific information in English.

• Ability to assess information against standardised frameworks.

• Ability to work remotely and independently

The following are desirable:

• Awareness of current issues in sustainability and ethics.

• Experience of research and data collection.

• An interest in higher education policy.

Please note anyone employed by a UK university cannot volunteer as a Researcher.

You will need to commit to

• Two 25 hour weeks of remote work in July and August.

• 5 hours work per day for the two week period. Volunteers can manage their own time flexibly and will receive support from People & Planet, but must meet task deadlines on a weekly basis and attend a short daily meeting. Volunteers are free to work evenings and weekends, but please note People & Planet operates a 4 day week from 9-5.

• One induction session the week prior to your 2 week engagement.

• Completion of a self-access standardisation activity prior to the start of your engagement.

• Attending a brief meeting in the morning or afternoon each day and one individual check-in meeting in week 1.

• Checking the work chat function regularly.

Summer timetable

June 22nd-July 3rd Ethical Investment and Banking, Ethical Careers and Recruitment, Education for Sustainable Development. Induction 18th June 10am

July 13th-July 24th Sustainable Food, Staff & HR, Environmental Policy and Strategy Induction 9th July 10am

August 3rd-August 14th Managing Carbon, Workers’ Rights, Staff and Student Engagement. Induction 30th July 10am

How to Apply

Fill in this form and attach a C.V that has your full name in the filename.

Applications will be processed on a rolling basis until positions are filled, so please apply early to avoid disappointment. The deadline for applications is Wednesday the 20th May at 11:59

Candidates will need to attend a non-competitive group recruitment session and complete an online self-access task before being invited to volunteer with us.

Please let us know if you have specific access needs and what we can do to make the interview, training and volunteer experience more accessible to you, including organising a one-on-one interview. We welcome people with hearing loss, deaf and or disabled people to apply for this volunteer opportunity -unfortunately we don't use BSL so would need to make alternative support provisions for the training, unless a BSL interpreter can join you. If you have specific needs where we might support you by making this volunteering opportunity more accessible, please contact us.

People & Planet welcome applications from BAME folks and people of colour, from disabled people, from LGBTQI*people, from people who speak English as a second language, from people who identify as non-binary gender, from women, from people of different ages, from people with caring responsibilities and from people with irregular migration status, people seeking asylum in the UK or with a migrant background, folks with a working class background, and everyone else.

We are looking for a Volunteer Researcher / Guest Relations Officer to support our Podcast Production Team.

This role combines research, guest outreach, and communication to ensure podcast episodes are well prepared and guests feel informed and supported.

Key Responsibilities

• Research podcast topics and relevant background information
• Identify and approach potential podcast guests
• Communicate with confirmed guests and coordinate availability
• Prepare guest briefing notes and episode research summaries
• Maintain organised records of guest communication
• Support respectful and professional guest engagement

Who We're Looking For

Essential

• Strong research and information-gathering skills
• Clear written communication
• Strong organisational skills
• Ability to manage multiple conversations and tasks
• Comfortable working with sensitive topics

Bonus Skills

• Experience in research, journalism, communications, or outreach
• Experience working with communities or social impact organisations
• Interest in media, podcasting, or storytelling

Formal qualifications are not required — relevant experience or transferable skills are welcome.

Why Join Us

• Gain experience in podcast research and guest coordination
• Develop communication and editorial preparation skills
• Work with a mission-driven media team
• Contribute to meaningful social impact work
• Priority consideration for future paid roles

The Wellbeing Officer (Trustee) provides information, guidance and advice to volunteers and service users around topics such as mental health and wellbeing. Additionally, if service users or volunteers have any concerns, the best point of contact is the wellbeing officer.

What do we specifically expect of this role?

● Delivery of a plan to proactively assist officers and volunteers in public-facing roles, with tools and techniques to prevent or reduce any initial harm/trauma from purposeful or accidental harmful interactions - social media, live events, outreach, panel events, etc.

● Providing support for service users by way of triaging and responding to requests that come through to the wellbeing inbox. ● Building and maintaining wellbeing resources for service users and following a data-informed approach as to areas of wellbeing improvement. This includes building relationships with external service providers that can assist in helping members of our community.

How much commitment is required?

We are flexible around your own schedule. However, the following commitments are in place for all member of the Hidayah board:

● To be able to attend all Trustee meetings and to deliver a comprehensive report to the committee each meeting with updates and to completed actions as and when they appear;

● To aim to attend all other planning meetings as necessary when close to Hidayah events as well as the events themselves (where possible due to geography);

● To help to fundraise for, and advertise, any Hidayah events and fundraising drives;

● To be part of a communications group to keep up to date with Hidayah developments;

● To contribute toward and to maintain the administration of our file sharing system ‘Google Drive’ so it is always up to date with clear records, templates and forms; 1

● To check emails and to respond when needed;

● Enthusiasm, dedication, responsiveness, flexibility and eagerness in supporting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah;

● To contribute toward the Annual Report once a year;

If taking on the role, you're expected to be in post until the next AGM. This role is subject to a 6 months probationary period.

What do we expect from a Wellbeing Officer (Trustee)?

Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:

● A self-starter who can volunteer with minimal supervision.

● Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

● Friendliness, enthusiasm, dedication, responsiveness, flexibility and eagerness in supporting the aims, vision and mission of Hidayah.

● Reliable and regular volunteer.

● A team-player.

Additional:

● Experience of successfully working collaboratively.

● Preferably some experience of mentoring and/or supervision.

● Prior experience of wellbeing provision.

● Must be 18+ and live in the UK

 About HIAS+JCORE

HIAS+JCORE is the UK Jewish response to refuge and asylum. Our vision is a UK where refugees can live in dignity, in a society free from racism. This work is driven by the belief that the Jewish community should play an active part in empowering refugees to thrive.

Our organisation came into this form through the joining of operations between two organisations: the UK-based JCORE (Jewish Council for Racial Equality) and HIAS, a global humanitarian aid and advocacy organisation. HIAS+JCORE is inspired by Jewish values and history to support those who are displaced, no matter their background.

Role purpose

The Fundraising Trustee will bring expertise, insight, and strategic guidance to help the charity strengthen and diversify its income. Working with the Board and staff/volunteers, they will ensure fundraising is ethical, sustainable, and aligned with the charity’s mission and values.

Key responsibilities

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is realistic and compliant with regulation.
• Act as a fundraising champion on HIAS+JCORE’s board, working with and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If networks for fundraising exist, use them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, including the Code of Fundraising Practice, and through HIAS+JCORE’s policies and procedures.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.

Person specification

Essential:

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns).
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice.
• Strong communication and networking skills.

Desirable:

• Experience of fundraising in a small charity context.
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts.
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing.

1. Recruiting and selecting potential volunteers, acting as an ambassador for Plateful Café

2. Inducting volunteers into suitable roles based on their interests, experience and expectations and the charity's needs

3. Providing an initial point of contact with the charity and ensuring volunteers maintain a positive and confident approach

4. Supporting the volunteer team to ensure the provision of relevant experience, training and development opportunities as well as supervision and support

5. Maintaining an up-to-date database in order to monitor volunteer progress and to record and celebrate their contributions

6 Contributing to newsletter and reports in order to maintain and develop the profile of Plateful Café

7. Good understanding of safeguarding to keep both employees and volunteers safe and protected. 

8. Good management skills and the ability to organise on behalf of others.

9. Help new volunteers when they are stuck with certain tasks

10. You will need to effectively strategise a plan for other volunteers, make volunteer rotas and stay on top of volunteering admin and prioritise important tasks.