386 Volunteer roles in Manchester

No one should die because they needed first aid and didn’t get it. St John Ambulance teaches people first aid so they can be the difference between life and death, and you can help us do this.

As a Network President for Oldham, Rochdale & Tameside– you will support the Network Lead; act as an ambassador to the local community on behalf of St John Ambulance and the Order of St John, promoting the charity’s objectives and our work within the local community.

You will have established links in the community and be able to help SJA achieve our charitable aims by developing relations both externally and internally with local units, volunteer managers, regional staff and with the County Priory Group and other Presidents. All you do will be aimed at supporting the area to fulfil our vision: ‘Everyone who needs it should receive first aid from those around them. No one should suffer for the lack of trained first aiders.’

The role is only for people in Oldham, Rochdale & Tameside. You will need to attend a Network meeting that is two hours a week in Denton or Oldham.

Closing date for this post is 19/11/2026

Are you an experienced Board-level leader passionate about education, social mobility, STEM, and creating opportunities for young people?

The Engineering Development Trust (EDT) is seeking an exceptional Chair of Trustees to provide strategic leadership to its Board. This opportunity would suit an experienced Chair, Trustee, Non-Executive Director (NED), Board Member, CEO, Executive Director, Managing Director or senior leader with expertise in governance, strategy, financial stewardship and organisational leadership who is passionate about education, STEM and social impact.

 We’re looking for someone with senior leadership experience, strong understanding of charity governance and finance, and the ability to support and challenge at Board level.

About EDT

EDT is a UK-wide education charity delivering over 50,000 learning experiences each year through the Industrial Cadets Awards. We bring together employers, educators and young people aged 9–21, helping them explore STEM pathways and access rewarding future careers. EDT plays a critical role in tackling skills gaps, improving social mobility and increasing diversity across STEM industries.

About the Role

This is a high-impact trustee leadership opportunity for someone who wants to shape the future of a national charity. As Chair, you will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, financial oversight and organisational effectiveness.

You will work closely with the Chief Executive, acting as a trusted sounding board while maintaining accountability for delivering EDT’s mission and strategy. You will also act as an ambassador, representing EDT to partners, funders and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the Board of Trustees
• Ensure effective charity governance and compliance
• Oversee financial health and sustainability
• Support and challenge the Chief Executive
• Lead Board development and performance
• Act as an external ambassador for EDT

About You

We are seeking a collaborative, strategic and values-driven leader with experience operating at Board, Trustee, Non-Executive Director (NED), Chair, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Executive Director, Managing Director or senior leadership level.

You will bring:

• Significant senior leadership, executive, trustee or non-executive experience
• Strong understanding of charity governance, corporate governance, risk management, financial oversight and organisational strategy
• Experience working with Boards, Trustees, Committees or governing bodies
• The ability to provide both support and constructive challenge to senior executives and leadership teams
• Excellent stakeholder engagement, influencing, partnership-building and ambassadorial skills
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, social mobility and creating opportunities for young people
• Strong judgement, integrity and a passion for delivering social impact

Experience gained within the charity, not-for-profit, third sector, education, STEM, skills development, employability, workforce development, youth development, public sector or social enterprise sectors would be particularly valuable, although candidates from the commercial sector with relevant governance experience are equally encouraged to apply.

Commitment

• Approx. 4 Board meetings per year plus committee involvement
• Regular engagement with the Chief Executive
• Attendance at key events and stakeholder meetings

This is a voluntary role with reasonable expenses reimbursed.

Why join EDT?

This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people across the UK, while helping to address critical skills shortages in STEM. You will join a committed Board and executive team and play a central role in shaping EDT’s future at a time of both challenge and opportunity for the sector.

We welcome applications from experienced trustees, board members, non-executive directors, charity leaders, public sector leaders, education leaders and senior executives who share our commitment to improving outcomes for young people and strengthening the future STEM workforce. We actively welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive Board.

This is an exciting and strategic moment to join the Board of The Leprosy Mission Shop (TLMS). We are fortunate to have a dedicated and experienced group of Directors, but with members nearing the end of their tenures, we are looking to appoint two new Directors during 2026.

The Leprosy Mission is the world’s largest leprosy-focused organisation, a pioneer in our field, with over 152 years’ experience tackling this ancient disease. As a leading international Christian development organisation, we operate as a Global Fellowship comprising members from 27 countries. We work with people of all faiths and none to bring about the defeat of leprosy and transformation in the lives of people affected. We raise funds, promote research and innovation, and support our partners to strengthen health systems, provide life changing health care services, skills training and opportunities for those who have been excluded and rejected by society.

As an organisation we are seeking transformational growth. Our goal is to see a leprosy-free world. Our vision is for ‘leprosy defeated, lives transformed’, meaning a world with zero transmission, zero disability and zero discrimination.

The Leprosy Mission Shop UK exists to transform the lives of people affected by leprosy by raising vital funds and awareness through ethical retail. Directors play a vital role in leading the organisation and supporting a values-driven team that uses commerce as a tool for positive change, ensuring that every purchase contributes to lasting impact.

You will provide strategic oversight, constructive challenge, and guidance to support the effective governance and long-term sustainability of The Leprosy Mission Shop UK. You will have a good understanding of finance with the ability to interpret budgets, management accounts, and performance reports.

Experience in one or more of these areas is desirable:

• market research
• direct marketing
• digital marketing
• e-commerce
• product development and selection
• legal
• and, for our new chair, experience of being on a similar non-executive board

We seek candidates who have time availability to attend a mix of on-site (Peterborough) and online Board meetings (total of four meetings per year) and undertake some work from home for preparation, review of papers, and virtual discussions.

The Leprosy Mission Shop has a zero-tolerance policy towards any abuse, neglect and exploitation of all people. Successful candidates are expected to understand, sign and comply with all organisational policies, including our code of conduct and safeguarding policies. Recruitment to roles within The Leprosy Mission Shop includes, in particular, criminal record checks/screening and the collection of relevant references.

As an explicitly Christian charity, The Leprosy Mission Shop is seeking candidates who are committed Christians, willing to uphold and contribute to the organisation’s Christian ethos. This includes engaging in and at times leading prayer within the organisation, demonstrating alignment with our values, and showing active involvement in their Christian community. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. *In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

To apply, please visit our careers page.

Closing date: Monday 7 September 2026.

Registered Charity number 1076556.

The Snow Sports Foundation is a small UK charity that helps fund life-changing snow sports opportunities for neurodivergent children and adults.

We are looking for a volunteer Treasurer to help oversee the charity's finances. This role can be undertaken either as a Trustee or as a non-trustee, depending on your preference. This will be for about 1-2 hours a month.

About the role

Working closely with the Chair and fellow volunteer Trustees, you will help ensure the charity's finances remain well managed and that the Board has the financial information needed to make informed decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Monitor the charity's financial position and present financial updates at the quarterly online meeting (or the finance section of the meetings if appointed as a non-trustee Treasurer).
• Approve bank payments.
• Vote on funding proposals (if a Trustee).
• Co-ordinate the preparation of the charity's annual report and accounts to be audited by the independent examiner.
• Upload annual report on the Charity's Commission website.
• Ensure appropriate financial controls and financial records are maintained.
• Keep up-to-date with charity commission reporting requirements and amend finance policies and procedures as required.

Skills

• Has experience in finance and accounting.
• Has experience of preparing and compiling annual reports.
• Has experience of working as a Treasurer and working with a board of Trustees.
• Can explain financial information clearly to the Board.
• Shares the charity's passion for helping more neurodiverse people experience the benefits of inclusive snow sports.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• A background in the charity sector would be preferable but not essential.

What you'll gain

• The satisfaction of helping a small charity make a difference to people with neurodiversity.
• A chance to use your professional skills for a meaningful cause.
• The opportunity to work with a friendly and committed volunteer team.

c. half a day per month + quarterly board meetings

Remote with in-person board meetings twice a year in central London

The Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT) is seeking an experienced commercial leader to join its Board as a Lay Trustee and Commercial Lead, helping the organisation develop sustainable and ethical approaches to income generation, commercial partnerships and the effective use of its assets.

Who we are

The RCSLT is the professional body for speech and language therapists across the UK. The RCSLT has over 24,000 members and employs around 65 staff, predominantly based in its London office, with additional offices in Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff. Our mission is to improve the lives of people with communication and swallowing needs by facilitating and promoting research, producing guidance, holding events and influencing government. We aim to promote better education and training for speech and language therapists and provide information to our members and the public about speech and language therapy.

The role

We are seeking a senior commercial leader to bring expertise, insight and constructive challenge to the RCSLT’s Board. The Commercial Lead will help the organisation think strategically and confidently about income generation and diversification, including opportunities for sponsorship, corporate partnerships, new services, joint initiatives and other forms of collaboration.

Working with the Board and Executive Team, you will provide advice on developing sustainable income streams, strengthening the RCSLT’s market position and building mutually beneficial relationships with external partners. You will bring insight into what motivates prospective corporate partners, including brand alignment, social value and reputational benefit, and help ensure that commercial opportunities remain consistent with the RCSLT’s charitable purpose, values and public benefit obligations.

You will also contribute strategic advice on pricing, value propositions and the effective use of organisational assets, including potential opportunities relating to the RCSLT’s property. Where appropriate, you may draw upon your professional networks to help identify and develop new partnerships and collaborations across the private, public and charitable sectors.

Alongside this specialist contribution, you will participate in the wider work of the Board, helping to provide strategic direction, oversee financial sustainability, monitor organisational performance and ensure effective governance and risk management. This is a strategic and advisory, non-voting role rather than an operational position. The expected time commitment is approximately one day per month, including attendance at four Board meetings each year and participation in relevant committee work.

What we are looking for

We are looking for a strategic and commercially minded individual with significant senior-level experience in commercial development, business development, income generation or a related field. You will have a strong understanding of financial sustainability and market dynamics, together with a proven ability to identify, assess and develop commercial opportunities.

Experience of generating or diversifying income within the charitable or not-for-profit sector would be particularly welcome, as would experience of developing sponsorship arrangements, corporate partnerships or other collaborations that create both financial and social value. An understanding of property strategy, asset management or estates optimisation would also be beneficial.

The successful candidate will be able to operate effectively at Board level, offering independent advice and constructive challenge while balancing commercial opportunity with risk, ethics and organisational purpose. You will share the RCSLT’s commitment to improving the lives of people with communication and swallowing needs and understand the importance of ensuring that commercial activity supports the organisation’s mission, values and reputation.

To apply, please complete our online application form via the apply button. 

Closing date: 8 September 2026.

Are you committed to delivering high-quality care? Do you have experience working as part of a multidisciplinary team?

As a County Lead of Greater Manchester, you will be part of the establishment of a County St John Council to oversee and guide volunteer Community Networks aims to create a structured and supportive framework that empowers volunteers to operate more effectively and efficiently. By providing strategic leadership, coordination, and oversight, the council ensures that volunteer efforts align with community needs and priorities while avoiding duplication of services.

St John has embarked on a journey to achieve the goal of ensuring that every community and young person across the country is first aid confident.

We are looking for a dynamic and collaborative individual to take on the role of County Education and Volunteer Training Lead.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with strong communication skills and a passion for supporting others to make a real difference in our county. As part of this role, you will work closely with the Networks Leadership teams and the County Leadership Team, collaborating on projects and sharing best practices to strengthen our volunteer community.

Key responsibilities include identifying training needs, developing and leading an enthusiastic county training team, and ensuring we deliver the volunteer courses required by the county.

You will have the chance to foster personal and professional growth by developing trainers, arranging regular county trainers' team meetings, and attending monthly council meetings.

This role is ideal for those with experience in leadership and volunteer management who are eager to contribute to a supportive environment. Your contributions will make a significant impact on our county’s volunteer development, and we truly appreciate your dedication to education and training. We encourage enthusiastic and committed individuals to apply and look forward to welcoming someone who is ready to help our team thrive.

We are looking for a leader with a passion for local volunteering and helping communities to inspire and support volunteers on this journey across your county

This will be a split role in the region,

The post will also interact with relevant Communities of Practice to share learning, advice and best practice

Assist Networks in writing and implementing effective community plans. - Ensure volunteer leaders follow the recruitment and onboarding processes. - Support volunteer leaders in delivering an effective welcome and induction process to ensure volunteers feel valued and prepared for their roles. - Contribute to the reward and recognition programme. - Ensure volunteer leaders follow the leavers process to provide a positive and supportive exit experience. - Facilitate internal training opportunities. - Actively promote and support free and paid education and engagement activities being delivered in communities and schools. - Actively promote and contribute to the success of national campaigns.

The closing date for this vacancy is the 13/09/2026

Interviews - Date, Time and Location to be advised

The Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader leads the local volunteer team by motivating and supporting members to deliver agreed objectives. The role provides strategic direction, management, and guidance while ensuring a positive, inclusive, and effective team environment. 

What will you be doing?

To lead, motivate and support the local volunteer team in developing, delivering and monitoring a yearly local strategy that aligns with Crimestoppers's vision, mission and organisational priorities. 

What are we looking for?

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and networking skills
• Experience leading teams, meetings or projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding of the local geographic area and community needs
• Willingness to learn and develop knowledge of Crimestoppers's strategies and plans

What difference will you make?

As Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader, you will play a key role in empowering people to create safer communities. 

You will lead the local volunteer team, setting direction and ensuring activity aligns with Crimestoppers’ mission that people are the ones who stop crime. 

You will working closely with the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, and local organisations, and help deliver campaigns and events that improve community safety. 

Through regular communication with regional and national staff, you will ensure your volunteers stay informed, connected, and supported.

You also help to recruit, support, and develop volunteers, creating an inclusive and motivated local team. 

Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader applicants must live in the local area where you are applying.

This role requires a commitment of around three years to support continuity and effective delivery. Monthly time commitments vary and may include:

• Local or national meetings
• Planning activities
• Partnership engagement
• Ongoing support for volunteers

The Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader leads the local volunteer team by motivating and supporting members to deliver agreed objectives. The role provides strategic direction, management, and guidance while ensuring a positive, inclusive, and effective team environment. 

What will you be doing?

To lead, motivate and support the local volunteer team in developing, delivering and monitoring a yearly local strategy that aligns with Crimestoppers's vision, mission and organisational priorities. 

What are we looking for?

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and networking skills
• Experience leading teams, meetings or projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding of the local geographic area and community needs
• Willingness to learn and develop knowledge of Crimestoppers's strategies and plans

What difference will you make?

As Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader, you will play a key role in empowering people to create safer communities. 

You will lead the local volunteer team, setting direction and ensuring activity aligns with Crimestoppers’ mission that people are the ones who stop crime. 

You will working closely with the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, and local organisations, and help deliver campaigns and events that improve community safety. 

Through regular communication with regional and national staff, you will ensure your volunteers stay informed, connected, and supported.

You also help to recruit, support, and develop volunteers, creating an inclusive and motivated local team. 

Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader applicants must live in the local area where you are applying.

This role requires a commitment of around three years to support continuity and effective delivery. Monthly time commitments vary and may include:

• Local or national meetings
• Planning activities
• Partnership engagement
• Ongoing support for volunteers

The Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader leads the local volunteer team by motivating and supporting members to deliver agreed objectives. The role provides strategic direction, management, and guidance while ensuring a positive, inclusive, and effective team environment. 

What will you be doing?

To lead, motivate and support the local volunteer team in developing, delivering and monitoring a yearly local strategy that aligns with Crimestoppers's vision, mission and organisational priorities. 

What are we looking for?

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and networking skills
• Experience leading teams, meetings or projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding of the local geographic area and community needs
• Willingness to learn and develop knowledge of Crimestoppers's strategies and plans

What difference will you make?

As Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader, you will play a key role in empowering people to create safer communities. 

You will lead the local volunteer team, setting direction and ensuring activity aligns with Crimestoppers’ mission that people are the ones who stop crime. 

You will working closely with the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, and local organisations, and help deliver campaigns and events that improve community safety. 

Through regular communication with regional and national staff, you will ensure your volunteers stay informed, connected, and supported.

You also help to recruit, support, and develop volunteers, creating an inclusive and motivated local team. 

Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader applicants must live in the local area where you are applying.

This role requires a commitment of around three years to support continuity and effective delivery. Monthly time commitments vary and may include:

• Local or national meetings
• Planning activities
• Partnership engagement
• Ongoing support for volunteers

The Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader leads the local volunteer team by motivating and supporting members to deliver agreed objectives. The role provides strategic direction, management, and guidance while ensuring a positive, inclusive, and effective team environment. 

What will you be doing?

To lead, motivate and support the local volunteer team in developing, delivering and monitoring a yearly local strategy that aligns with Crimestoppers's vision, mission and organisational priorities. 

What are we looking for?

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and networking skills
• Experience leading teams, meetings or projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding of the local geographic area and community needs
• Willingness to learn and develop knowledge of Crimestoppers's strategies and plans

What difference will you make?

As Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader, you will play a key role in empowering people to create safer communities. 

You will lead the local volunteer team, setting direction and ensuring activity aligns with Crimestoppers’ mission that people are the ones who stop crime. 

You will working closely with the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, and local organisations, and help deliver campaigns and events that improve community safety. 

Through regular communication with regional and national staff, you will ensure your volunteers stay informed, connected, and supported.

You also help to recruit, support, and develop volunteers, creating an inclusive and motivated local team. 

Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader applicants must live in the local area where you are applying.

This role requires a commitment of around three years to support continuity and effective delivery. Monthly time commitments vary and may include:

• Local or national meetings
• Planning activities
• Partnership engagement
• Ongoing support for volunteers

The Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader leads the local volunteer team by motivating and supporting members to deliver agreed objectives. The role provides strategic direction, management, and guidance while ensuring a positive, inclusive, and effective team environment. 

What will you be doing?

To lead, motivate and support the local volunteer team in developing, delivering and monitoring a yearly local strategy that aligns with Crimestoppers's vision, mission and organisational priorities. 

What are we looking for?

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and networking skills
• Experience leading teams, meetings or projects
• Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders and external partners
• Ability to support and motivate volunteers from diverse backgrounds
• Understanding of the local geographic area and community needs
• Willingness to learn and develop knowledge of Crimestoppers's strategies and plans

What difference will you make?

As Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader, you will play a key role in empowering people to create safer communities. 

You will lead the local volunteer team, setting direction and ensuring activity aligns with Crimestoppers’ mission that people are the ones who stop crime. 

You will working closely with the Police, Community Safety Partnerships, and local organisations, and help deliver campaigns and events that improve community safety. 

Through regular communication with regional and national staff, you will ensure your volunteers stay informed, connected, and supported.

You also help to recruit, support, and develop volunteers, creating an inclusive and motivated local team. 

Volunteer Team Leader / Deputy Team Leader applicants must live in the local area where you are applying.

This role requires a commitment of around three years to support continuity and effective delivery. Monthly time commitments vary and may include:

• Local or national meetings
• Planning activities
• Partnership engagement
• Ongoing support for volunteers

Department: Financial Wellbeing

Role Location: Community

Role Support: You will be supported by the Project Coordinator

What is the purpose of this role?

To provide support to the Project Coordinator in delivering engaging Scam Awareness events within communities across Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire.

What impact does this role have?

Our Scam Awareness Events provide vital information and support to older people, helping them recognise scams, protect themselves from fraud, and access support when needed.

By providing support at these events, you will have the opportunity to liaise directly with people who have been affected by scams or may be vulnerable to them. By supporting community events, you can help older people access information, build confidence, and learn how to protect themselves from scams.

What activities might you be involved in?

Ø  Help set up and pack away event materials and information stands

Ø  Welcome and speak with attendees, helping to create a friendly and inclusive environment

Ø  Chat with members of the public and signpost them to information

Ø  Support people to access digital information using their own devices where appropriate

Ø  Distribute leaflets and awareness materials

Ø  Help raise awareness of current scams and fraud trends

Ø  Support the collection of feedback from attendees

Ø  Pass on questions or concerns to the Project Coordinator when further support is needed

Ø  Carry out the volunteer role in line with the Charity's policies and procedures, and adhere to the Volunteer Code of Conduct

What are we looking for?

Ø  Have an interest in supporting older and vulnerable people within their local community.

Ø  Are friendly, approachable and enthusiastic

Ø  Are keen to help raise awareness of scams and fraud prevention

Ø  Have good communication and interpersonal skills

Ø  Possess good digital skills and confidence using a range of digital devices and online platforms

Ø  Understand the need for confidentiality

Ø  Are able to travel to events throughout Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire using their own transport or public transport

When would you be needed to volunteer?

Most volunteering sessions last around 4 to 5 hours (& typically take place on a Wednesday or Thursday), including travel time, event set-up and tidying away afterwards.

We welcome volunteers who can offer regular support. Where several volunteers are involved, opportunities can be shared on a rota basis to provide flexibility.

 What training will you be given?

You will be given all the training you need to enable you to carry out your role which will include a thorough departmental induction.

 What can you gain from this opportunity?

· The chance to make a difference to older people’s lives

· Ongoing support, ensuring your volunteering experience is a fulfilling and positive one

· A comprehensive training programme

· The opportunity to learn new skills

· Experience to add to your CV

· The opportunity to meet new people and make new friends

· Reimbursement of travel expenses as defined in the Age UK Notts Volunteer Handbook

Additional Information

Please note a Basic DBS check is required for this role which will be undertaken by the Charity at no cost to the volunteer, after being offered the role.

As a Client Services Helpline Volunteer, you will play an important role in supporting the delivery of our services. Working within a compassionate and inclusive environment, you’ll help provide high‑quality, person‑centred support to individuals seeking guidance, information, or reassurance.

This role involves:

1. Supporting callers on our helpline
2. Recording information accurately
3. Signposting to relevant partner services
4. Working collaboratively within a supportive team environment 

We ideally ask for a commitment of one 4‑hour shift per week, although we do appreciate that this may not always fit around everyone’s circumstances. Our helpline operates 24/7 and shifts are prearranged to suit volunteers’ availability.

Training:

The training for Client Services Helpline role consists of initial e-learning. Volunteers are also required to attend a weeklong virtual training session so that we can provide guidance and support to them whilst they navigate our systems for the first time as well as for us to go through our processes and ensure that they have all the access needed to succeed in the role.

The training runs Monday – Friday from 9am to 4pm.

What we do

Respair Therapy C.I.C. began in 2023 with a simple belief: dance belongs to everybody, and every body. Like many of the people we work with, Respair does not fit neatly into one box. Our work exists on a spectrum, from the gloriously frivolous to the deeply serious.

At one end, we hire out silent disco equipment so that people can turn their living room, kitchen or garden into a dancefloor. We create joyful events where people can put on a pair of headphones, choose their music and dance together without worrying about what they look like. Income from silent disco hire goes back into Respair, so a party in someone’s garden can help another person access psychological support.

At the other end is Dance Movement Psychotherapy, or DMP. This is not a dance class or an informal wellbeing activity. It is a recognised form of psychotherapy in which movement, the body and the relationship between client and therapist are central to the clinical work.

In the UK, Dance Movement Psychotherapists complete postgraduate training at Master’s degree level, including clinical placements, personal therapy, supervised practice and academic research. Qualified practitioners register with the Association for Dance Movement Psychotherapy UK and work to professional and ethical standards. DMP is used within NHS services, as well as in schools, mental health services, social care, charities and private practice. It is serious clinical work that can support people experiencing trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, loss, relationship difficulties and other forms of psychological distress.

Between these two ends are projects such as Babe Club, our silent disco for parents, carers and babies; therapeutic movement in schools; and work with neurodivergent people, adults with learning disabilities and people living with dementia.

Our work is inclusive, trauma informed and anti oppressive. Whether we are helping somebody throw a brilliant party or supporting a person through specialist psychotherapy, we are creating more opportunities for people of different ages, backgrounds and abilities to experience movement, connection and psychological support.

How do we what we do

Respair is run by a Founding Director and team of Supporting Directors who volunteer their time. The Founding Director is also the Lead Psychotherapist and Facilitator. We meet quarterly to discuss the finance, legal and compliance aspects of the work. We have an accountant and a book keeper and we use Quickbooks to keep everything in one place. We apply for funding from local and national funding bodies. We have been successful in securing over £24,000 in restricted funds, and we have plans to apply for more. 

What we need

Respair is a creative and responsive organisation, so new ideas and opportunities can appear quickly. We need a Finance Director who can help us pause, understand the numbers and decide what is realistic.

The right person will be financially experienced, practical and approachable. They will look beyond whether the figures add up to help us understand what they mean, ask difficult questions and give clear advice.

Essential skills and qualities

The successful candidate will:

• Have substantial experience using QuickBooks.
• Have experience working with a charity, Community Interest Company, social enterprise or other small mission driven organisation.
• Understand restricted grants, funder budgets and financial reporting.
• Be able to prepare and interpret annual budgets, project budgets, cash flow forecasts and management accounts.
• Compare actual income and expenditure against agreed budgets, identify significant differences and recommend action.
• Assess the financial impact of new projects, contracts, staffing decisions and significant purchases.
• Develop proportionate financial policies and controls, including reserves policies and spending limits.
• Read annual accounts and ask sensible questions before they are approved.
• Explain financial information clearly to people without a finance background.
• Give honest, independent advice and offer thoughtful challenge, including when the Managing Director or Board may have hoped for a different answer.
• Be trustworthy, reliable and able to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Support Respair’s commitment to inclusion, fairness and accessible mental health support.

The Finance Director will work closely with Debbie, our Founding Director, so a warm, straightforward and respectful working relationship will be important.

Desirable skills and qualities

It would be helpful if the candidate also has:

• A recognised finance qualification, such as ACA, ACCA, CIMA or AAT.
• Previous experience as a finance director, treasurer or board member.
• Knowledge of payroll, PAYE, pensions, Corporation Tax and Companies House reporting.
• Experience working constructively with bookkeepers and external accountants.
• An interest in mental health, therapy, community work or the creative arts.

We do not expect one person to know every answer. We do expect them to recognise the limits of their knowledge, ask questions and seek specialist advice when needed. A sense of humour and an understanding of the slightly unpredictable nature of a small, growing organisation would also be very welcome.