Volunteer roles in Shepherds bush, greater london

Want to make a difference without breaking a sweat? Join our incredible team of Cheer Team Volunteers and help support runners taking on the London Marathon to raise money for Alzheimer's Society.

You'll be part of a high energy, feel-good atmosphere, giving our runners the boost they need with your cheers, claps, and encouragement.

By joining us, you’re helping us fulfil our mission: to give help to those living with dementia today and provide hope for the future.

What’s involved:

· Stand at a designated cheer point on the race route

· Clap, shout, wave flags and motivate runners

· Work alongside a friendly, supportive team

What you’ll get:

· A fun and rewarding experience

· Branded t-shirt

· A chance to make a real impact in just a few hours

No previous experience is needed just bring your energy, your voice, and your enthusiasm!

Ready to join our Cheer Squad? Sign up today and help us celebrate every step toward a dementia-free future.

Volunteer Admin Support

Across the UK, our local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Every year, our skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests, designing and creating bespoke equipment free of charge.

As a local admin support volunteer you are the lynchpin of our local branch activities. You will often be the first point of contact, ensure useful information is circulated to other members and help us make sure we keep all the data and details we need up to date.

What the role involves

This is a varied role that each branch tends to do a bit differently, but it will involve:

• Keeping records and data up to date and taking notes at meetings

• Preparing mail-outs

• Answering enquiries

• Accessing the branch REMAP and Portal accounts

• Booking venues for meetings

• Ensuring branch members are aware of current agreements/activities

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Comfortable organising the administration of a group

• Able to follow REMAP policies and procedures

• Able to understand and apply our risk management system

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow Remap policies and procedures and a commitment to our aims and values

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training.

Where will I volunteer?

This role is largely home based, but it varies from branch to branch – some branches hold in-person meetings once a month or so, and their volunteers tend to be based in the area the branch covers.

If it works better for you, however, there’s a possibility this role could be done remotely.

Time commitment

This also varies, but it’s generally around 1-3 hours a week.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Volunteer positions currently available in Newham

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer 

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care.

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might:

• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
• Raise concerns
• Keep detailed notes and records
• Make a real difference to someone’s life

Hospital Visitor Volunteer – Mondays and Wednesdays 9 am- 4 pm  

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake. 

As a hospital volunteer, you might:

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

Support Session Volunteer 

You’ll be supporting people over the age of 18 with disabilities, this may include those with poor mental health, learning difficulties, autism and other disabilities.  Your role will include supporting clients to understand and undertake a task on a one-to-one basis.  The task will vary from client to client as will the needs of the individual.

As a support session volunteer, you might:

• help people have their say when it matters most
• Helping individuals navigate challenges and ensuring their needs are met
• help people to make complaints and use local services

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”

Your London Marathon Volunteering Experience - Cheer with Scope!

Be part of the electric atmosphere at the world’s most iconic marathon on Sunday 26 April 2026. We’re looking for enthusSoak up the fantastic energy and be a part of the world’s most iconic marathon on Sunday 26th April 2026. Join Scope in cheering on and motivating our incredible team of over 110 runners, who are all fundraising to help create an equal future with disabled people.  

About this role 

The streets of London will come alive once again on Sunday 26th April for the London Marathon. We can’t wait to get out there and support our amazing runners! And we hope YOU will join us.

Your role will be to help keep our runners going and make them feel super proud of what an amazing thing they’re doing. Clap, yell, cheer - anything that lends our runners the energy they need to go the distance. We’ll have music, banners and flags! By registering to help, you’ll also get a free Scope t-shirt to help you look the part. 

“It’s the best day out in London. The energy is amazing, and everyone is there to have a good time and support the runners.” – 

Previous Scope volunteer. 

When and where 

Sunday 26th April 2026 

Cheerpoint 1 – Mile 3, Woolwich with the Singing Striders choir: 

• 8.30am to 1pm 
• John Wilson Street (SE18 6QQ), near the intersection of John Wilson Street and Wellington Street 
• What3Words address: ///blaze.jokes.smiled
   

Cheerpoint 2 – Mile 23, Tower Hill: 

• 12pm to 5pm 
• Lower Thames Street (EC3R 5AS), between Pizza Express and All Bar One pub 
• What3Words address: ///design.grin.charm 

You can download the free What3Words app from the App Store or Google Play, and these words tell you the precise location of the cheer point.
 
Please note that we will be as close to the above locations as possible. Look out for the big Scope banners and flags on the day! 

It would be fantastic if you’re able to volunteer for the full shift. But if you can’t, then we’d be super appreciative for any time you are able to give – ideally 2 hours minimum. 

Who we’re looking for 

We welcome anyone who is friendly and passionate about disability equality! We're looking for volunteers who are enthusiastic, friendly, and ready to be the loudest and proudest cheerers on the course! ​No experience is necessary. Volunteers must be over 18, or with a responsible adult.

We’d love to welcome disabled people to cheer with us. Equality and inclusion are at the heart of Scope’s mission. We’re deeply committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all volunteers.

 Accessibility 

Cheerpoint 1 

Nearest stations: Woolwich, Woolwich Dockyard and Woolwich Arsenal.

Accessibility:  

• Woolwich is served by the Elizabeth and Thameslink lines and has step-free access 
• Woolwich Dockyard is a National Rail station and has limited step-free access 
• Woolwich Arsenal is served by the DLR (Docklands Light Railway) and Thameslink lines - it is also a National Rail station and has step-free access 

Cheerpoint 2 

Nearest stations: Monument and Tower Hill 

Accessibility:  

• Monument is served by the District and Circle lines and does not have step free access 
• Tower Hill, which is within walking distance, is served by the District and Circle lines and has step-free access 

We’re committed to making this an inclusive environment, so will talk to you about your access needs and adjustments before the event.

Skills and experience you can gain 

• Experience being a part of a charity team 
• Being a Scope representative
• Supporting a charity committed to creating an equal future with disabled people 
• Meeting new people 
• Boosting your confidence and increasing your self-esteem 

What we can offer you ahead of the day 

• Support with travel plans to and from the event 
• Agreed out of pocket expenses 
• Information about plans for the day
• Information on what you will be doing

What we can offer you on the day 

• Free Scope t-shirt 
• Scope event staff on hand to support on the day 
• Front row view of the world’s most iconic marathon 
• Fun day out in London 
• Opportunity to volunteer with friends and family if you wish 
• The chance to meet new people and Scope staff 
• Knowing you’ve made a big difference to our runners and helped make their day extra special 

 Safeguarding

Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. Scope is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and wellbeing of children and adults at risk who are either receiving services or volunteering. We expect all trustees, staff, and volunteers to share this commitment. iastic volunteers to help cheer on our incredible team of over 110 Scope runners, all fundraising to help create an equal future for disabled people. 

As our Volunteer Administrator, this is your chance to make a significant difference 'behind the scenes', to the support we offer to Bereaved Siblings around the UK. 

The Administrative Assistant volunteer plays a vital behind the scenes role in supporting the smooth running of the charity.
This role is ideal for someone who is organised, reliable, and happy to support a small, mission-driven organisation with a variety of practical tasks.

Sibling Support is the UKs charity ensuring that Bereaved Siblings are seen, heard and supported through their journey with grief after the death of their brother or sister. We offer a broad range of services across the UK both in person and online. 

You will support with administrative tasks such as:
- Managing event bookings and attendance lists
- Researching information for fundraising, projects, and
  development work
- Helping to keep systems and information organised and up to date
- Providing general administrative support to the charity team as needed.

Your self driven approach to working alongside your eye for detail, will mean that you will help us continue to operate in a smooth, efficient and professional manner. You might already work in Bereavement Support, or bring lived experience with  you of being a Bereaved Sibling.

Whether you're able to carry out your role an hour or a few hours a week, your contribution will be valued. You will be supported by induction training and on the job support. 

Following the success of the 2025 Council Climate Action Scorecards last year, Climate Emergency UK is looking to create the third edition of the Action Scorecards. Analysing council climate action only becomes valuable if you track the progress that has been made. Therefore, we are looking for volunteers to assist us in managing the Freedom of Information (FOI) requests we are sending to councils to answer some of the Scorecard questions.

Why are we doing this?

We’re in a climate and ecological crisis and local councils have the power and influence over around 30% of emissions in their local area. Councils are uniquely placed to make a real impact on emissions within their area. We know that councils are listening to the Scorecards results and taking more effective action. The average score in the 2025 Action Scorecards increased by 7 percent points. The Scorecards are a campaigning tool that residents can use to hold their council to account on their climate action, and lobby for specific, targeted change. We have also found evidence of 34% councils using and referencing the Scorecards in committee meetings, reports or in their own press releases and organisations across the sector are utilising the data from the Scorecards as well. Finally, this UK wide assessment will demonstrate where the UK and devolved governments need to provide more support to local authorities in order for them to take even further action.

How can you help?

We need at least 200 volunteers to pull this project off! We are sending councils a small number of FOI requests in order to answer some of the Scorecard questions. We have already written the FOI requests, and we need volunteers to manage the FOI request responses from all 400 councils and input their answers into our Scorecards. 

What experience do I need?

We will provide training so you don’t need any experience. If you have previous experience of sending FOI requests using WhatDoTheyKnow or reading responses to FOI requests that would be useful but not necessary in order to apply.

What will I gain?

This is a great opportunity if you want to work with FOI/EIR requests in the future. As you’ll be processing a variety of FOI requests from different council types across the UK, you will gain a deep understanding of the FOI request process and strengthen your analytical skills as you read and interpret the responses. By helping with this project you will be making a real contribution to the fight against the climate crisis.

What we need from you

You will need to be available to attend the following sessions:

• Volunteer induction
  You will only need to attend an induction session on either Tuesday 19th May or Thursday 21st May 2026.

• FOI Training
  You will need to attend the training session on 26th May 2026 from 5:30-7:30pm.

Scorecard FOI requests volunteers will be carrying out crucial tasks to manage the thousands of FOI responses we will be submitting. Using WhatDoTheyKnow you will be logging whether a council has responded to an FOI request and extracting the answers to create a data set of answers that will be used to mark councils in the Scorecards. Every volunteer will be trained and supported to manage the FOI responses.

Each FOI request will take between 10-30 minutes to classify and extract responses and the more you do, the quicker you will become. This can be done flexibly according to your scheduling needs. Our core FOI volunteers should be able to give 10 hours per week for 5 weeks between 25th May 2026 and 19th June 2026. You will need access to a laptop or computer with good internet for this volunteer position in order to access WhatDoTheyKnow.

Note: We will not accept current Councillors or Officers (Parish/Town councillors/officers are free to apply). 

How it works

• You will receive training on how to use WhatDoTheyKnow and manage the FOI responses.

• You will use WhatDoTheyKnow Projects to first classify and then extract information from FOI requests as we receive responses from councils across the country. 

• You will be supported through online communication with other volunteers across the country.

• You will be supported on Slack so at any point you will be able to ask questions of CE UK staff and other volunteers. There will also be an optional weekly FOI team co-working session, where you can work with CE UK staff and other volunteers, ask questions and get to know the other volunteers.

As a Tigrinya Interpreter Volunteer, you will be supporting women who speak little to no English and helping them to communicate with others in society. This role is necessary for our service user to feel included as well as supported. This would be a great opportunity for you to meet someone new and make a difference in their time at Hestia!

What you will be doing

• To maintain strict confidentiality and good working relationships
• To be able to meet with client when required for appointments and other professional meetings when needed
• Speech translating along with translating written documents from English to Tigrinya

The skills you need

• Fluent in Tigrinya
• Be understanding and patient, as well as sensitive to service user’s emotions
• A good communicator who is able to create a relaxing and nurturing environment

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards, outings, celebration, and social events for our volunteers to get together and have some fun; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering.

In this role, you’ll help create a fun, uplifting atmosphere where participants can relax, express themselves, and enjoy music together in a supportive environment. Whether someone wants to belt out their favourite song or simply watch and enjoy, you’ll help make the session welcoming and inclusive for everyone!

What you will be doing

• Set up and pack down karaoke equipment, ensuring everything runs smoothly
• Welcome participants and help them choose songs
• Encourage involvement in a positive, non pressured way
• Create a safe, supportive, and friendly space where everyone feels comfortable taking part.
• Support staff with basic session coordination as needed

The skills you need

• Friendly, approachable, and patient
• Comfortable engaging with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Enjoys music and creating a positive atmosphere.
• Reliable and confident supporting small groups.
• No singing ability required—just enthusiasm!

What's in it for you

• Supporting You - You will have a dedicated volunteer supervisor to support you in your role; Quarterly volunteer forums with the central Volunteering team and volunteers across Hestia; References for job applications
• Developing You - You will gain knowledge and insight into issues that impact Domestic Abuse, Modern Slavery and Mental Health; You will have access to our extensive Learning and Development Programme; 40% of our departed volunteers secured a paid role at Hestia last year!
• Valuing You - We hold annual Volunteer Awards and Celebration events; We reimburse travel expenses and up to £5 for lunch for your volunteering; We hold social events and outings for our volunteers to get together and have some fun.

Volunteer at Cockpit

Become part of the Cockpit volunteer team! 

In 2026, Cockpit celebrates 40 years of supporting makers, and we have an ambitious calendar of events planned. Our 40th anniversary events, taking place at both Cockpit Bloomsbury and Cockpit Deptford, include our biannual Open Studios, the launch of our annual report, The Cockpit Effect, during London Craft Week, and more.

Each event is an invaluable opportunity to meet a diverse body of artist-makers that create and showcase their craft directly to the public.  The volunteer team are key to helping Cockpit deliver a smooth and enriching experience to all our partners and visitors.

What is Cockpit?
Cockpit is a centre of excellence in contemporary craft. Spanning a wide range of craft disciplines, Cockpit makers are united by their extraordinary skill and imagination. Bridging the gap between talent and opportunity, our mission is to equip makers to succeed on their own terms, creatively and commercially. 

A charity and award-winning social enterprise, Cockpit gives makers tools to build their businesses so they can focus on what they do best: making. We provide funded studio space, in-house business training and coaching, and exhibition opportunities for 176 makers practicing 23 different disciplines. Beyond Cockpit we work with makers throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.

The Role: Events Volunteer

What will you do?

By joining the Cockpit team as a volunteer, you help us by being an on-site presence at our events, and you will actively engage with those running the event, offer help, talk to and guide visitors around the building, and pass any problems/issues back to the event manager. 

Key qualities: 

• Ideal for someone with a genuine interest in craft and the creative sector and keen to learn from interactions with the core team and makers

• Good communication skills, friendly and with a natural ability to engage with the public

• Confident with sharing some knowledge with visitors about Cockpit and what it does as a charity

• Possess a calm and measured presence to assist with the smooth delivery of the events

Who are we looking for?

• Presentable, confident, and enthusiastic individuals who have a keen interest in craft, design, and the visual arts

• Have some experience of working at events, customer service, and/or invigilating exhibitions

• Can confidently and clearly give directions and assist the public with queries

• Able to attend online and on-site training/orientation sessions 

Key Event Dates: 

• Bloomsbury: 
  • Monday 11 May – The Cockpit Effect Launch
  • Tuesday 12 May – London Craft Week Exhibition
  • Thursday 4-Sunday 7 June – Summer Open Studios
  • Thursday 26-Sunday 29 November – Winter Open Studios

• Deptford: 
  • Friday 12-Sunday 14 June – Summer Open Studios
  • Friday 4-Sunday 6 December – Winter Open Studios

Hours of Work: 

• You would be expected to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the start of the public opening times

• The shifts are usually in 3-hour blocks with1 half hour (30 minute) break, unless specified

• You will not need to be available for all the days/times, but should be able to offer shifts equivalent to two (2) full days

Expenses 

• A stipend of £25 is available to cover daily travel expenses and food allowance. Please provide receipts with your claim form.

• You will receive a lunch voucher if you work a full day, redeemable at the onsite café

• Refreshments and light snacks will be provided for breaks

How to apply and get involved:

If you would like to get involved, please complete the form and send your CV by Friday 10 April, 6pm.  Please include ‘Volunteer’ in the subject line of your email.

• Please let us know how many days you would like to do and any availability restrictions you are already aware of

• We will review all applications following the deadline and notify you via email

• Those who are selected will be given a schedule that is tailored to the number of days and hours you can offer

• There will be orientation and training sessions held at each site — attendance is required as it will be opportunity to ask questions and meet the core team and understand the landscape of each site

Are you passionate about using your skills and expertise to help support and develop a UK-wide relationships and sex education charity?

Sexpression:UK provides high quality, comprehensive relationships and sex education workshops to young people between the ages of 11-18 in schools and youth groups. We operate across the UK through our unique network of affiliated branches and volunteers based at universities and students’ unions in 15 towns and cities.

You will have strong empathy with our mission to educate and empower young people to make individual, informed decisions about their bodies and their health. You will be committed to using your expertise to contribute to the future development of the charity and ensuring high quality governance of the organisation.

We are looking for a motivated individual with demonstrable experience in leadership or governance to join our board as Chair of Trustees.This is an exciting time to join our charity with the opportunity to contribute to a unique youth-led charity playing a leading role in some of today’s biggest issues.

Come and join the team at Hampton Court Palace Pink Ribbon Walk on Saturday 18 April 2026. We need friendly, enthusiastic volunteers to help welcome our walkers, support them out on the route, and cheer them across the finish line

About this volunteering opportunity 

We’re expecting hundreds of walkers to take part in our 10 mile Pink Ribbon Walks. You’ll be part of the 100-strong support team on the day, helping to make sure they have a safe, fun experience while they raise funds for our world-class research and life-changing support. 

What will I be doing? 

• From welcoming and registering our walkers in the event village, to running a snack station on the route, to cheering and handing out medals at the finish line - there’s a role for everyone at a Pink Ribbon Walk! 
• You’ll be that friendly face, making sure our walkers get the support and encouragement they need, when they need it

What do I get out of it? 

• Fun! You’ll have a great time when you join the Pink Ribbon Walk community
• You’ll meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and experiences
• You’ll use your communication and teamwork skills to help support a major fundraising event

What skills or qualities do I need?

• Bags of enthusiasm! Able to quickly connect with and uplift people
• Happy to work as part of a team or independently
• Flexibility - we need you to be available between 8am and 4pm, but we don’t expect you to volunteer all day! 

How will you support me? 

• You’ll get an info pack well in advance, to help you plan for your big day! 
• You’ll get a full briefing from the staff team on the day
• You’ll get a free hot meal (and breakfast if you start early)

How do I get involved? 

• Sign up to this opportunity, book yourself on to a shift and complete the short application form. We'll then be in touch with more information via email
• Get in touch with the team if you have any questions

Job Title: Talent Enablement
Location: Remote
Department: People & Culture
Reports To: Manager: Talent Enablement

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a visionary organisation committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. Rooted in a People First philosophy, we strive to create workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. Join our People & Culture team to drive meaningful change through equitable HR practices and a culture of belonging.

Role Overview

As a Talent Enablement professional at QuilomboUK, you will support the planning, coordination, and delivery of training programmes that enhance employee skills and organisational development. You will help prepare training materials, assist with training sessions, track attendance and progress, and maintain accurate training records. Working closely with the Talent Enablement Manager and Team Leader, you will also manage shared inbox enquiries, contribute to team coordination, and provide reports on training activities, helping promote a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

 Talent Enablement - Specialist / Coordinator/ Assistant

• Prepare training materials for training sessions

• Tracks training attendance and progress

• Provide support in conducting training sessions

• Respond to the shared inbox emails appropriately.

• Send daily report to Team Leader/ Manager

Qualifications

• Skills:

  • Strong knowledge of UK employment law and ER best practices.

  • Ability to navigate sensitive conversations with empathy, discretion, and cultural competence.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for policy drafting and stakeholder guidance.

  • Proficiency in HRIS systems and case management tools.

• Knowledge: Understanding D&I frameworks, restorative justice principles, and trauma-informed HR practices.

• Alignment: Commitment to QuilomboUK’s mission and passion for social justice.

Personal Attributes

• Fair-minded and principled, with a strong ethical compass.

• Collaborative team player who builds trust with employees and leaders alike.

• Proactive problem-solver who balances empathy with organisational needs.

• Resilient under pressure, with the ability to manage multiple priorities calmly.

About Quilombo UK

Quilombo UK is a social justice organisation dedicated to inspiring individuals to "See, Think, Behave and Speak Differently" about equality, diversity, and inclusion. We create engaging experiences—ranging from our Beyond Bias training to our "Voices for All" podcasts—that raise awareness and empower unheard voices within our diverse communities.

By joining us, you will play a pivotal role in our Professional Development Programme (PDP), which supports career changers and newcomers to the UK in bridging employment gaps and tackling discrimination in the job market. We are currently working towards SRA (Solicitors Regulation Authority) certification to provide formal accreditation for the time our team members spend with us. This will allow participants to count their contribution as Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), a vital step for those qualifying via the SQE route. This is a unique opportunity to deliver tangible community impact while directly enhancing the employability and professional standing of legal professionals.

Head of Department (Legal)

The Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity for a career step-up, providing experience in managing legal teams and departmental operations within a social justice framework. In this Head of Department capacity, you will gain the leadership credentials and strategic oversight necessary to advance your professional trajectory while ensuring every individual we support is empowered to achieve their full potential.

Role Purpose

The Head of Department (Legal) oversees a team of dedicated legal professionals and graduates who operate in a capacity similar to paralegals. You will bridge the gap between Directors and the legal team, turning high-level objectives into actionable legal support plans while ensuring the highest standards of professional conduct and social justice advocacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Developing and managing the legal department’s roadmap to support Quilombo UK’s social justice initiatives.

• Team Supervision: Overseeing the work of legal graduates, many of whom are working towards their LLM (Master of Laws), ensuring their contributions are technically sound and ethically grounded.

• Departmental Leadership: Coaching the legal team to maintain 100% project visibility and ensuring all work meets the rigorous standards required for future SRA accreditation.

• Social Justice Advocacy: Managing caseloads and research projects that tackle systemic inequalities and discrimination within the community.

• Operational Control: Maintaining 100% visibility of all legal tasks via project management tools and providing weekly reports to Directors on risks, progress, and Work in Progress (WIP).

Additional Professional Benefits

• Career Development: A full CV and profile review conducted by our Talent Acquisition and Learning & Development teams.

• Operational Support: Access to the services of the Legal, Graphic Design, PR, and Production teams for up to 10 hours per month for professional or departmental support.

• Proactive Recruitment: Use of the Talent Acquisition team to actively search out new roles and opportunities via industry portals and LinkedIn.

Financial Incentives

• 15% Profit Share: A share of the commission for work carried out, divided among individuals at the HoD level for specific tasks.

• 10% Business Development: An additional commission if new work or clients are brought into the organisation independently by the HoD.

Requirements

• A strong legal background (GDL, or equivalent) with a deep commitment to social justice.

• Experience in a supervisory or management role, ideally overseeing paralegals or junior legal researchers.

• A clear understanding of the SRA regulatory framework and the requirements for Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).

• Excellent analytical, drafting, and communication skills.

• This is a 100% remote-only position.

Selection Process

• Informal interview.

• Requirement of two professional references

The D D McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO (DDMCS), charity number 1197598, is an active grant making
Charitable Incorporated Organisation. It has succeeded the D.D. McPhail Charitable Settlement, charity
number 267588, which was founded in 1973 and operational till 2023.

DDMCS aims to support 2 or 3 major multi-year grant projects each year, which are actively sought by the
Trustees to enable small / medium sized charities to make a significant or step change in their activities. The
original trust deed and now the CIO constitution specifies three key areas of preference in the UK around:

• Furtherance of medical research,
• Care of the disabled particularly disabled children, and
• Care of the aged and infirm

The Trustees have wide discretion to support other charitable activities in the UK. There is more detail in
the annual report available via the Charity Commission website and the charity’s own website that outlines
the activities of the charity. Within these broad areas the Trustees recently agreed, following a strategic
review, to focus for the next grant making cycle on charities supporting care for the physical and mental
wellbeing of children living in poverty.

Recent grant support has enabled a number of significant multi-year projects, including:

• British Dyslexia Association - supporting the creation of Local Outreach Hubs to increase access to dyslexia advice, assessment and early intervention within communities.

• Candlelighters - funding a Family Wellbeing Practitioner to improve emotional and practical support for families affected by childhood cancer.

• IPSEA - funding a SEND Policy Manager to strengthen national policy influencing for children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

• The Myton Hospices - supporting the development of the Volunteer Service, enhancing capacity and patient experience across hospice services.

Further information can be found in the recruitment pack (attached). 

We are seeking a Chair Designate to join our board, with a view to taking over as Chair in 2027. The Chair provides inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and strategic direction for the charity. They act as an ambassador for the organisation, working closely with the Director and fellow Trustees to maximise impact for beneficiaries. DDMCS does not undertake any fundraising activity, as all grant making is supported through the charity’s long-established investment portfolio. As a result, there is no requirement for the Chair to have fundraising experience.

Key Responsibilities: 

Strategic Leadership
• Lead the Board in setting and reviewing the charity’s vision, mission, and strategic objectives.
• Ensure decisions align with charitable objectives and long-term sustainability.
• Promote diversity and inclusion within the Board and wider organisation.

Governance
• Ensure compliance with the charity’s governing document, Charity Commission guidance, and relevant
legislation.
• Maintain high standards of governance, risk management, and financial oversight.
• Facilitate annual Board and Trustee performance reviews

Board Management
• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring impartiality and open debate.
• Provide guidance and constructive challenge to trustees.
• Foster strong relationships among Trustees and between the Board and Executive Director.
• Drive Trustee recruitment and succession planning.

External Representation
• Act as an ambassador and spokesperson for the charity.
• Represent the organisation at external events and with grantees and key stakeholders
• Support advocacy through personal networks where appropriate.

Support to Director
• Maintain a clear distinction between governance and management roles.
• Ensure regular communication and a strong, collaborative working relationship.
• Provide guidance and support to the Director.

Person Specification:

Essential Skills and Experience
• Proven leadership experience at Board or senior executive level.
• Strong understanding of charity governance and the legal duties of Trustees.
• Strategic thinker with ability to balance long-term vision and short-term priorities.
• Financial literacy and ability to oversee budgets and risk management.
• Excellent communication, with ability to build consensus
• Experience in grant-making or philanthropic sector

Desirable
• Knowledge of charity law and regulatory frameworks.
• Established networks within relevant sectors (e.g., philanthropy, corporate, public).

Personal Attributes
• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values.
• Integrity, impartiality, and sound judgment.
• Ability to dedicate sufficient time and energy to the role.
• Collaborative and inclusive leadership style.
• Innovative thinker with ability to bring forward fresh ideas.

If, after reading the applicant pack, you feel you have the skills and experience we are looking for then please apply through CharityJobs, providing a CV and cover letter (2 pages max) detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. 

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for preliminary interviews in April (dates to be confirmed). Initial interviews will take place via Teams. 

The Trustees of DD McPhail Charitable Settlement CIO are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences, particularly those underrepresented in leadership roles within the charity sector.

There will be an online Q&A session on Wednesday 1 April at 5pm where you will be able to find out more about DD McPhail and hear from our current Chair of Trustees. If you would like to attend that session, please drop us a line using the following details and we will forward an invitation 

info at ddmcphail dot org