Volunteer roles in Alvaston, derby

Our green charity looks after dozens of spaces around the East Midlands, with multiple in Amber Valley:

• Carr Wood Local Nature Reserve in Ripley: Every Wednesday 9am – 12:30pm
• Hammersmith Meadows Nature Reserve in Ripley: One Wednesday morning a month
• Pennytown Ponds Local Nature Reserve in Somercotes: Every other Wednesday morning
• Sandbed Lane Loop in Belper: One Friday morning a month
• Red River Local Nature Reserve in Heanor & Loscoe: Every second Saturday of the month from 10am – 12pm

From planting and coppicing trees to litter picking and weeding, there are tasks for people of all ages and abilities, whether you’re an avid gardener or a brand new enthusiast. Full training, PPE, and light refreshments are provided. We’ll also fully reimburse your transport costs.

Volunteering has many benefits:

• Being active helps your physical and mental health
• Meet new people and being social
• Enjoy working outdoors in the fresh air
• See a green space improve before your very eyes
• Give back to your community
• …and much more!

Our retail roles are varied and fun. You could be sorting donations from the public, dressing our window or serving customers on the till. There are many people from different walks of life and it's a great way to get practical experience and to meet new people.

This role will take place on a weekly basis for a few hours We will try our best to be flexible around the best time for you, but also need to consider the store opening times and volunteer rota. It could be a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, our stores are usually open 7 days a week. We’d appreciate any time that you can spare.

Whilst in the store, you will help with activities based on the needs of the Store Manager.

Tasks you could get up to whilst volunteering could include:

• Serving customers on the till
• Taking stock donations from the public
• Tagging and steaming stock for the shop floor
• Dressing the window displays
• Asking people to join us as a volunteer

As a Retail Volunteer you will be:

• Friendly and Approachable
• Reliable, Kind and Patient
• A good communicator (including listener)
• Willing to volunteer within guidelines and to take direction where necessary
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

As a Mencap volunteer you will:

• Make new friends and raise important funds for people with a learning disability
• Get reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with our policy e.g. travel
• Receive full Training and support
• Volunteer alongside other people
• Have a chance to give back your local community

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Lead Volunteer

Mind Retail

About the role

Without the help and support we receive from our Lead Volunteers and volunteer teams we wouldn’t be successful at what we do. Our Lead Volunteers play a key role by supporting the shop management team with the day to day running and management of our shops - helping us to raise crucial funds from the sale of pre-loved, donated stock to fund Mind's vital mental health support services.

Our shops are vibrant hubs in local communities across England and Wales. In our Lead Volunteer role, you’ll play a key part in building this community, helping to create a culture where every person is valued and supported - and where people have fun!

You can gain a wide variety of knowledge, skills and experience by becoming one of our valued Lead Volunteers, including:

· Experience working as part of, and leading, a diverse team

· Shop management, retail management and key holder experience

· Opportunities to improve your management, leadership and interpersonal skills

· Stock organisation, processing, pricing and merchandising skills

· Cash handling skills, including management cash functions

· Understanding of sales information, including takings

· Commercial knowledge and skills

· Understanding of policies and procedures

· Administrative skills

· IT skills

· Additional learning and development opportunities, including your own eLearning account with access to personal and professional development courses

Our Lead Volunteer roles are also flexible, so they're perfect for fitting in around your commitments. We value any time that you can give us, so whether it’s a few hours a week or a few days – we’d love to hear from you!

We need great people like you to help us in the fight for mental health. Will you join us?

Click on the role profile to find out more about our Lead Volunteer role and read on to hear some stories from our existing Lead Volunteers!

About You

• Commitment to our values & behaviours
• Enthusiastic and committed to achieving shop targets
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to work as a team and on your own initiative
• Able to build good working relationships
• Ability to work within Mind Retail’s policies and procedures
• Willingness to learn
• Good customer service skills
• Good communication skills

About Mind Retail

Mind Retail are a network of almost 200 shops across England and Wales, generating a net income of around £21 million per year. We have ambitious plans to grow over the next few years and we're going to be fighting for mental health in a way we never have before. We won't stop until everyone with a mental health problem gets the support and respect they deserve.

Safer Recruitment at Mind Retail

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our employees and volunteers and we expect anyone working or volunteering with us to share this commitment. This role may involve the supervision of young volunteers who are under 18. Because of this, the minimum age for this role is 18 and under our Safer Recruitment Policy, you’ll also be required to agree to an enhanced DBS check.

Our Commitment

We embrace the different perspectives that each of us bring. We want our staff and volunteers to be authentic and bring their whole selves to work. We want Mind to be a workplace that truly reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the people we support. Where everyone is appreciated – regardless of race, gender, age, religion, identity and experience.

Hear from some of our existing Lead Volunteers…

Stuart, Lead Volunteer at our North Shields Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I chose to volunteer at Mind, specifically because of the cause – I support the charity in what they want to achieve. Mind also supported me through the lockdown period during the pandemic, which I found very isolating.

I’ve volunteered for Mind for 20 years - I started volunteering for Mind in 2005. At the time, I had a full-time job, but I wanted to try volunteering. I’ve volunteered in a number of Mind shops, including Wallsend, Whitley Bay, Gateshead (which was where I became a Lead Volunteer) and finally, North Shields.

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer to gain more experience, which I can then pass onto others. I now undertake key holder duties in my current shop. It was a little scary to begin with, but there was plenty of support from the wider region and I feel really proud to now be doing the role.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

I’ve developed my technology skills – I’ve learnt how to use the till, how to use the computer including emails and Microsoft Teams, how to complete eLearning and the new Gift Aid hub. I struggled a bit before with technology, so it’s really helped me to be exposed to it more. I’ve also developed cash handling skills and how to deal with external contractors. My confidence has really grown and I’m also now able to cover local stores too!

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

I really enjoy giving amazing customer service and working with the team of staff and volunteers – we have lots of fun whilst we work! The shop has a great atmosphere. My Shop Manager has said she couldn’t do without me! I would really recommend for anyone to come and volunteer with Mind – it’s a great way to meet new people.

Lead Volunteer at our Turnham Green Mind Shop

Why did you want to become a Lead Volunteer?

I wanted to become a Lead Volunteer because I wanted to take on more responsibilities and keep myself as productive as possible. By taking on more responsibilities, I’m able to support the wider team with certain activities within the shop. It’s also helped me become less focused on my myself and my own problems. I suffer from low self-esteem and felt that by becoming a Lead Volunteer, it would help strengthen my self-worth.

What knowledge and skills have you gained or developed whilst being in the Lead Volunteer role?

As I have never worked in retail, becoming a Lead Volunteer has given me more insight into how the retail industry and how Mind Retail operates day-to-day. I have become more patient and not as isolated as before. My communication skills have improved too.

What do you enjoy most about being a Lead Volunteer?

Certain customers are confiding in me about their mental health. I find it great to be able to assist and provide some support. We all just need an ear to listen…

It’s also great to be able to make decisions too. The team I work with at the shop are very supportive and understanding – they look after me and I feel like a belong to a small family. The team really understand that our shops are not just shops! They’re a place where everyone, including those with mental health problems, can feel safe and listened to.

Job description:

Job Title: Learning & Development Specialist

Location: Remote (UK-based)

Department: People & Culture

Reports To: Manager: Learning & Development

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a trailblazing organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we empower individuals and teams to drive systemic change through equitable learning and growth opportunities.

Role Overview

As the Learning & Development Specialist, you will lead the design and delivery of impactful learning programs that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and strategic goals. You’ll develop leadership curricula, create engaging instructional materials, oversee induction training, and continuously refine L&D initiatives based on feedback and data. This role is ideal for a creative, data-driven professional passionate about fostering inclusive leadership and equipping teams with the skills to advance social justice.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership Development & Training

• Design and implement leadership training curricula, workshops, and coaching programs that cultivate inclusive, equitable, and socially conscious leaders.
• Partner with senior leaders to identify skill gaps and align learning and development (L&D) strategies with organisational objectives.
• Facilitate dynamic workshops on topics like anti-bias leadership, conflict resolution, and change management.

Instructional Design & Content Development

• Create engaging, accessible learning materials, including e-learning modules, facilitator guides, videos, and assessments, using tools like Articulate 360 or Adobe Captivate.
• Embed D&I principles and social justice themes into all content, ensuring cultural relevance and representation.
• Develop microlearning resources and toolkits to support continuous, self-directed learning in a remote environment.

AI-Enhanced Instructional Design

• Using various platforms, create dynamic, AI-generated content (e.g., simulations, scenario-based learning), and adaptive e-learning modules.
• Build AI-driven assessments and feedback loops to measure knowledge retention and behavioural change.

Onboarding & Integration

• Lead the design and delivery of induction programs that immerse new hires in QuilomboUK’s mission, values, and D&I commitments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure onboarding content reflects role-specific and cultural integration needs.
• Monitor new hire feedback to refine onboarding experiences and reduce time-to-productivity.

Training Evaluation & Continuous Improvement

• Measure training effectiveness using key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, knowledge retention, and behavioural change.
• Analyse feedback surveys, LMS data, and performance metrics to identify gaps and iterate on content.
• Stay ahead of L&D trends (e.g., gamification, AI-driven learning) to innovate QuilomboUK’s programs.

D&I Integration

• Ensure all learning initiatives prioritise equity, cultural competence, and trauma-informed approaches.
• Partner with ERG (Employee Resource Group) leaders to co-create programs that address systemic inequities.
• Advocate for accessible learning design, including accommodations for neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years in L&D, instructional design, or leadership development, ideally within mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations, with hands-on experience using AI tools.
• Skills:
• Expertise in e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate, Canva) and LMS platforms.
• Strong facilitation and storytelling skills for remote and hybrid audiences.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Power BI) to measure program impact.
• Proficiency in prompt engineering for generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Claude) to create scalable content.
• Knowledge:
• Deep understanding of adult learning theories, inclusive pedagogy, and social justice frameworks.
• Familiarity with UK compliance standards related to workplace training.
• Understanding of ethical AI frameworks, algorithmic bias mitigation, and GDPR-compliant AI use in HR.
• Familiarity with AI and how it can amplify (or hinder) equitable learning outcomes.
• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and the role of L&D in driving equitable change.

Personal Attributes

• A visionary thinker who balances creativity with analytical rigour.
• Collaborative bridge-builder who engages stakeholders at all levels.
• Adaptive and empathetic, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts.
• Committed to lifelong learning and amplifying underrepresented voices.

About QuilomboUK QuilomboUK is an organisation that works for fairness and social justice. We believe in a "People First" way of working. Our goal is to make sure every person is heard and respected in the workplace. Join our remote team to help people find jobs and feel like they belong.

Role Overview As the Manager: Placements, you will lead the entire Placements Department. Your job is to make sure your team finds paid jobs for our participants at other companies. You will manage the Team Leaders and ensure the department hits its high performance targets. The ideal candidate has strong leadership skills and deep experience in the recruitment industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Department Leadership: Take full responsibility for the Placements Team and ensure all staff follow mandatory protocols.
   

• Strategy: Mana

• Performance Targets: Ensure the department reaches the 95% weekly completion target and follows the "ABC" method.
   

• External Relations: Build high-level partnerships with external companies to create more job opportunities for our participants.
   

• Commission Management: Oversee and approve the commission payments for each successful placement made by your team.

• Problem Solving: Identify gaps in the recruitment process and use AI or new strategies to fix them.
   

• Quality Control: Ensure every participant is correctly matched and that their First Day Training (FDT) is confirmed by the employer.
   

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Experience: 3+ years of experience in recruitment or placement services, with a history of managing teams.
   

• Education: A degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field is preferred.
   

• Leadership: Strong ability to lead and motivate a large remote team.
   

• Communication: Excellent skills in professional UK English to influence senior stakeholders.
   

• Decision Making: Ability to make quick decisions to move candidates forward within 48 hours.
   

• Technology: Highly skilled in using MS Office and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
   

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week unpaid Professional Development Programme. It requires a commitment of at least 12 hours per week, typically across two 6-hour workdays (Monday to Friday).

QUILOMBO UK wants an inclusive workplace where everyone is treated fairly. We follow the Equality Act 2010 and do not tolerate discrimination of any kind.

Why Join QuilomboUK?

• Impact: Lead the team that directly helps people move into paid employment.
   

• Growth: Develop your senior leadership skills in a values-driven environment.
   

• Culture: Join a collaborative team where authenticity and courage are celebrated.
   

Flexibility: Work from home with autonomy to lead your department.

Job Title: IT Assistant
Location: Remote (UK-based)
Employment Type: 12 hours per week (6 Hours per Day)

About QuilomboUK

We are a Kingston-based social marketing enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion.

We aim to attract knowledgeable individuals encouraging different cultures to unite which enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. 

Partnering with local organisations, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to support our cause to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. As well as delivering workshops on unconscious bias in the workplace. 

To learn more about our impactful work at Quilombo UK, we encourage you to explore our website and YouTube channel. 

Join us in leading positive change!

About the position

The IT support role is vital to the organisation, as they will have the responsibility for the maintenance of the technical appliances used in the organisation. The IT support will not be required to come in on a weekly basis, but upon request as for when it is needed. The main tasks for the IT support will be reassuring all technical appliances are updates, responding to potential breakdowns and assuring electrical safety. Technical skills are required, in addition to flexibility, as they would need to quickly respond to potential breakdowns etc.

The role provides you with flexibility and autonomy at work. Where necessary, specific training will also be provided to help you develop and grow your skill set.

Main Responsibilities

• Ensure all computers and other electrical equipment is updated.

• Ensure the safety of electrical equipment.

• Respond to breakdowns of electrical equipment.

• Assist in the functions of IT-packages.

General tasks

• Contribute to staff meetings and other internal meetings with views and suggestions etc.

Essential

• IT skills

• Health and Safety of electrical equipment

• Knowledge about different IT-packages

• Has ability to deliver tasks in a timely manner

• Handles difficult situations well

Desirable

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate.

• Proficiency in Microsoft and Excel

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Bright Futures UK is looking for passionate and knowledgeable Key Stage 3 English tutors to provide educational support and a fun, safe learning environment for young people living with serious illnesses. 

"The phrase "time flies when you are having fun" comes to mind. It's been a really joy teaching my student." - Volunteer Tutor

What will you be doing? 

Run tutoring sessions online to support a young person for one hour per week

Offer subject area knowledge and expertise related to KS3 English

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 KS3 English 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.

Location 

Remote/Online

Time 

1 Hour per Week 

 Duration: 14 Weeks minimum

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.ed

About The Abundant Woman

The Abundant Woman is a community-driven organisation dedicated to empowering women through self-development, mentorship, wellness, and advocacy. As we expand our initiatives, we are looking for a talented Website Designer to create and maintain a visually appealing, user-friendly, and high-performing website that reflects our mission and engages our audience.

Role Overview

We are seeking a creative and detail-oriented Website Manager to enhance, and manage our website. The ideal candidate will have experience in designing modern, responsive, and accessible websites that effectively communicate brand identity and improve user experience.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Develop: Create a visually appealing and fully functional website aligned with our brand identity.

User Experience (UX): Ensure intuitive navigation, mobile responsiveness, and a seamless user experience.

Content Management: Integrate and manage blog posts, event updates, and resources.

SEO Optimisation: Implement best practices to enhance website visibility and search rankings.

E-Commerce & Donations: Set up functionality for event ticket sales, fundraising, and online donations.

Security & Maintenance: Ensure site security, regular updates, and performance optimisation.

Requirements

Proven experience in web design and development (portfolio required).

Proficiency in Squarespace, Wix, or other CMS platforms.

Strong knowledge of HTML, CSS, and basic JavaScript.

Experience with SEO, UX/UI design, and mobile responsiveness.

Ability to integrate e-commerce, payment gateways, and donation platforms.

Excellent attention to detail and creativity.
 

A note: Passion for women's empowerment and community-driven projects is a plus!

This is a voluntary position for women only under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010), Schedule 9, Part 1. Such positive recruitment action is justified whenever it is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

Location: Remote 
Type: Freelance with potential to grow

We are looking for a creative and strategic Social Media Manager to join our team and support the growth of an exciting lifestyle and wellness brand. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in building and managing the digital presence of a brand that blends health, wellness, community, and lifestyle.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and implement a results-driven social media strategy across platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest)

• Create engaging, on-brand content (graphics, captions, reels, stories) to drive awareness, engagement, and conversions

• Manage content calendars, ensuring consistent posting and alignment with campaigns

• Monitor analytics and deliver insights to continuously improve performance

• Engage with the community — responding to comments, messages, and building relationships with followers and influencers

• Stay up to date with trends in wellness, lifestyle, and digital media to keep the brand relevant and ahead of the curve

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in social media management (agency or brand side)

• Strong understanding of wellness, lifestyle, and community-driven content

• Proficiency with tools such as Canva, Meta Business Suite, Later/Buffer, or similar

• Excellent copywriting skills and a good eye for design and brand storytelling

• Ability to analyse metrics and translate them into actionable strategies

• Creative thinker, highly organised, and able to work independently

Nice to Have

• Experience with influencer outreach and partnerships

• Paid ads management (Meta, TikTok, Google)

• Interest in health, wellness, or lifestyle sectors

Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a dynamic team at an exciting time of growth, with the chance to make a real impact in shaping the voice and presence of a wellness brand that is gaining traction in both the UK and US markets. This is not just about managing social media — it’s about being part of a mission-driven movement that inspires healthier, more abundant living.

Note : This is a voluntary position for women only under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010), Schedule 9, Part 1. Such positive recruitment action is justified whenever it is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Unfortunately, thousands of cats each year are abandoned or have strayed and rely on charities like Cats Protection for help. Becoming a trap, neuter and return (TNR) volunteer is one way you can make a real difference to cats in your local area. Our TNR volunteers help reduce the number of feral cats by raising awareness of our TNR programmes, setting humane traps to safely capture cats, taking them to local vets to be neutered, and hopefully returning them back to their territory. Local TNR programmes are crucial, as feral and abandoned cats present a huge challenge for communities across the UK.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Trapping cats using humane methods
• Taking cats to local vets to be neutered 
• Returning cats to their territory or finding a suitable alternative

The role might also include:

• Regular feeding of feral colonies
• Promoting neutering by building relationships with farmers, land owners and local businesses
• Liaising with vets to promote and arrange neutering 

Time expectation 

This is a flexible role and the hours will vary depending on the number of cats identified for specific TNR campaigns. Our current TNR volunteers spend about 2 to 3 hours per week in this role which can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Are you looking for a meaningful and flexible volunteering opportunity that also helps you develop valuable communication and interpersonal skills? Join the Talking Bubble Project and help tackle loneliness through the power of a simple phone call.

Since the pandemic, many befriending services have reduced or closed—but Talking Bubble remains one of the few projects continuing to provide regular, phone-based companionship to people who need it most. Demand for this support remains high, and we are currently looking for compassionate, English-speaking volunteers across the UK.

What is the Talking Bubble Project?

☎︎ Talking Bubble is a phone-based befriending service connecting volunteers with older adults and vulnerable individuals experiencing loneliness and social isolation. Through regular weekly calls, volunteers provide conversation, consistency, and human connection to those who may otherwise feel isolated.

Even a short conversation can have a lasting impact.

Why Volunteer With Us?

✔ Make a genuine difference in someone’s life
✔ Volunteer flexibly from the comfort of your own home
✔ Receive full training, ongoing support, and a reference upon completion
✔ Gain experience in active listening, communication, empathy, and relationship-building
✔ Opportunity for reflective learning and experience relevant to helping professions

This role may particularly appeal to students or graduates interested in psychology, counselling, mental health, social care, or related fields who are seeking meaningful experience alongside their studies or professional development.

Where appropriate, we are also happy to provide feedback, complete placement documentation, or support reports/forms required by universities or training providers.

What You’ll Need

✅ No previous experience required—just empathy, reliability, and a willingness to listen
✅ Volunteers must complete Safeguarding Adults Level 2 training and undergo a DBS check (both provided free of charge)
✅ Must be a UK resident

How to Get Involved

Apply now via the CharityJob website or contact us directly for more information.

Together, we can keep connection alive—one call at a time.

Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?

Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.

We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.

Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.

Volunteer recruitment dates

The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 6 September 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 7 and 18 September 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.

Training:

You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.

Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:

• 8 October 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 15 October 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 22 October 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Zoom)

• 12 November 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)

You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.

Why we want you

Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.

What you will be doing

• Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
• Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
• Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
• Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
• Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
• Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
• Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
• Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
• Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
• Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
• Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering

The skills you need

• A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
• Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
• Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
• Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
• Able to manage own time and prioritise
• Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
• Able to use IT

What's in it for you

• Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
• Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are
• You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
• All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
• We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
• We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role

Become a Fundraisng Team Leader Volunter!

The difference you will make to cats and people

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

You can expect us to

• make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers
• planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• keeping financial records from fundraising events
• encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection
• following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

You may be just the volunteer we've been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Chair of Trustees - The Family Place Foundation

We are recruiting a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board and support the next stage of our charity’s development.

Location: Remote, with occasional in‑person trustee meetings (typically once or twice a year) held in the Clyro/Herefordshire area.

Time commitment: Approximately 1–2 days per month. This includes six trustee meetings a year, occasional ad‑hoc discussions and light‑touch support between meetings (for example reviewing policies or responding to emails).

Remuneration: Voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

About us

Established in 2020, we are a small, well-established charity with a strong grounding and a clear purpose. We raise funds to provide support to adopted, fostered and kinship care children and their families to improve emotional wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and reduce the impact of early trauma. In collaboration with leading UK practitioners, we support the delivery of a range of services providing essential therapeutic care and family support that isn’t covered by statutory funding. Services offered include Family Activity Days, Specialist Clinical Workshops, Advisory Consultations and Family Respite Camps. We also work to raise awareness of the challenges faced by children who cannot live with their birth families. We are a warm, committed team with a strong reputation for high‑quality support, clear governance, and genuine care for the families we serve.

To learn more about our work, please search online for “The Family Place Foundation”.

We are now seeking a Chair of Trustees to help guide the charity through its next stage of development, including shaping our emerging Family Foundations project, a significant new early‑years initiative for the charity, alongside our ongoing portfolio of funded projects delivered through our specialist partner. This is an exciting opportunity to join a dedicated Board and a small operational support team who care deeply about the families we serve and the long‑term sustainability of the organisation.

The charity is currently led by a Board of four trustees, supported by two part‑time operational staff and a small group of volunteers.

As Chair, you will provide leadership to the Board, ensure effective governance, and help the charity continue enabling the delivery of high‑quality, trauma‑informed support. You will work closely with the trustees and operational colleagues to help shape strategy, strengthen partnerships, and ensure the charity remains compliant, resilient, and focused on its mission. You will also play a key role in strengthening the charity’s governance and fundraising, which in turn enables the therapeutic delivery carried out by our specialist partner. 

A supportive handover will be provided to ensure a smooth and confident transition into the role.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone who brings:

• Warmth, clarity and good judgement, with a balanced, proportionate approach to governance.

• A genuine commitment to improving the lives of adopted, fostered and kinship care children and an understanding of the challenges faced by families affected by early trauma.

• Confidence in chairing discussions, helping the Board reach clear, well‑considered decisions.

• An understanding of good governance, including risk, safeguarding and compliance (or a willingness to learn).

• The ability to work collaboratively with trustees and our small operational support team, offering encouragement and constructive challenge while supporting the charity’s governance and fundraising role, which enables the specialist delivery work carried out by our partner.

• Strategic thinking, with the ability to help shape the charity’s direction and ensure long‑term sustainability.

• Reliability, integrity and a calm, steady approach, keeping the charity’s purpose at the centre of decision‑making.

• Meets the eligibility requirements to serve as a charity trustee, as set out by the Charity Commission.

Helpful but not essential:

• Experience of chairing a board or committee

• Experience in charity governance, education, social care, therapeutic work, or community leadership would be helpful, but we are open to a wide range of backgrounds.

• Lived or professional experience related to adoption, fostering, trauma or family support.

What We Offer

• A warm, committed Board, small operational support team and group of volunteers who work collaboratively and value clear communication.

• A meaningful opportunity to shape the future of a small but growing charity with a strong reputation for high‑quality, trauma‑informed support.

• Flexible time commitments that fit around work and family life.

• A chance to make a tangible difference to adopted, fostered and kinship-care children and young people, and the families who care for them.

How to apply

Please apply through the CharityJob platform with your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your interest in the role and your relevant experience. 

If you would like an informal conversation before applying please contact the charity directly using the details provided on our website. We would be happy to arrange a conversation with the current Chair or another member of the Board if you would like to learn more about the role.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences.