Finance Volunteer Volunteer Roles

Do you have financial skills and enthusiasm to help an organisation that supports families of young children?  You could be the next Treasurer for Home-Start Surrey heath and help drive our vision.

Our board includes people with experience and skills in support for Early Years; we'd expect our new Treasurer to have empathy with our cause and the families we support.

If you have some experience of charity finance, we'd welcome that, although if your experience is from other sectors, please talk to us.  Full induction to our organisation will be provided plus specialist support as a new Trustee, including access to external training.

We’d welcome your financial qualification but that’s not a requirement as our finances aren’t complex. An understanding of how charity finance works is beneficial, with the important ability to communicate financial information clearly, especially to other trustees. Support from our employees is always available, as they will be dealing with day-to-day finances.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for fresh expertise and experience from a variety of backgrounds to our charity. We want to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups. 

The focus of a trustee role is strategic, and trustees will not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, contact and liaison with other trustees and employees is expected.   

We are seeking a committed and detail-oriented Volunteer Archivist to join our team. As a Volunteer Archivist, you will play a crucial role in preserving, organising and maintaining our archives, encompassing both digital and physical assets.

Our archive and library are permanently housed at our London Office. This role would suit someone working towards an archive or record management qualification, with an interest in social and cultural archives and history.

Main Duties

• To assist in maintaining a comprehensive archive and library encompassing both digital and physical assets representing the rich history CPAG.
• Collaborating closely with the Office Manager and CEO, your role will involve developing an efficient and user-friendly framework for the ongoing management and preservation of the archive.
• Listing, describing and boxing records.
• To develop a basic ‘collections policy’ outlining future collecting and simple archiving procedures for organisational maintenance.
• To use your knowledge of archiving processes to support staff with cataloguing archive contents.
• To undertake any other duties that may reasonably be required.
• This includes applying archival principles and standards, enhancing the archives research and historical value.

Commitment
The role requires a minimum commitment of at least 3 months, 7-10 hours per week during our working hours (Monday-Friday, 9.00am to 4.30pm).

To apply, please complete the attached application form, detailing how you meet the person specification listed in the attached role pack and return to the email address listed within. 

Application deadline: 10am Wednesday 19th June 2024.

Interview dates to be confirmed. 

Could you use your skills and experience to support Signals?

We’re looking for new volunteer Trustees who are interested in helping to develop the organisation.

Signals is a registered charity, established 35 years ago. It specialises in filmmaking and digital arts for social, learning and creative outputs. Signals works across the region but with a focus on Essex.

Signals works with children, young people, artists and community groups supporting creativity and learning at all levels. Signals is committed to increasing equal access to digital and creative experiences.  Signals vision is to positively impact peoples’ lives by encouraging creativity, developing skills and raising aspirations through creative digital production and education.  This work is increasingly relevant in supporting those left behind in a digital age.

Current projects include working with local migrant communities, disability groups and communities in Harwich.

Signals is seeking new volunteer trustees to diversify and bring additional skills to the board.

Signals is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all members of the community particularly from those currently under-represented on the board including young people, Tendring residents and people from the global majority. We are also looking for those with legal, marketing, community work, funding and building management skills.

The time commitment for trustees is the attendance at quarterly evening meetings (approx. 2 hours per meeting) inclusive of the AGM, occasional attendance of subcommittee and adhoc meetings. Trustees will also be expected to review a range of reports and strategy documents and review and develop policy.


We look forward to hearing from you.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups and teams, all of which help our feline friends in a different ways. They take in stray and abandoned cats and ensure they receive the veterinary care and attention they deserve, help raise funds, promote neutering and help spread cat welfare messages. Our volunteer treasurers maintain the finances of local groups and teams, ensuring they hold the funds needed to continue their vital work. Cats Protection relies solely on donations from generous members of the public, and our volunteer treasurers help make sure these funds are spent in the most effective way.  

What can you expect to be doing?

• Preparing budgets
• Keeping accurate financial records
• Reporting financial records via ‘Cashlog’ (Cats Protection supplied software)
• Paying invoices and volunteer expenses
• Being part of a team which ensures there are sufficient funds to meet expenditure
• Updating and advising others on income received, expenditure and available funds
• Managing and monitoring donations made to the group
• Following financial procedures e.g. Gift Aid returns and VAT claims

A bit more information about this role and the team

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by overseeing the finances of a local volunteer groups or team. You will meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Experience or knowledge of accounting, book keeping and/or good numeracy skills
• The ability to collect and present information clearly and logically
• Good communication skills
• Willingness to be part of a team
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to use own initiative  
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our current volunteer treasurers usually spend between 2 to 4 hours per week in this role. More hours may be required at certain times, such as towards the end of the financial year but support is always available. 

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

We are looking for a team player with experience of finance and fundraising best practice, preferably within the charity sector, to join our Board of Trustees As we continue to expand our services, our new Treasurer will help us to develop our procedures and strategies to ensure we maintain good governance. Applicants must also be prepared to take on the wider responsibilities of becoming a charity Trustee.

​This is a hands on role which requires close working with our CEO, Finance Manager, Chair of Trustees and Accountants. You will help us to review and implement new financial processes and budgeting procedures, develop new investment and fundraising policies and ensure that we operate in line with best practice. As a Trustee you will also contribute to the organisations wider mission and strategy and oversee the running of the Charity.

​If you are looking to use your skills to give back to your local community or to support a cause that you are passionate about and have experience in financial management or in establishing sound financial procedures, we want to hear from you. This is an opportunity to make an immediate impact within a growing charity.

​Please note that we have a full time Finance Manager who manages our day to day finances so our Treasurer will not be responsible for book keeping or other administrative functions.

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles:

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by agreeing the strategy, agreeing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are:

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, asking difficult questions and providing advice and guidance on new initiatives. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

Treasurer Role Purpose

To provide high level oversight of the financial affairs of the organisation and ensure they are legal, constitutional and within accepted accounting practice.

Key Responsibilities

● Attend bi-monthly Trustee meetings; chair bi-monthly Finance. Audit and Risk (FAR) Sub-committee meetings and report to the Board on financial matters. The first point of contact on the Board for any matters relating to Finance.

● Work with the Head of Finance, CEO, Finance, Audit and Risk Committee members and other Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation.

● Support fellow Trustees to be aware of their financial obligations and take a lead in interpreting financial data to them.

● To have oversight of accounting policies, procedures, processes and record keeping including advising on best practice.

● Appraising the financial viability of plans, proposals and feasibility studies.

● Sign off annually on the organisation budget and annual accounts.

● Lead on appointing auditors

● Work with Finance Lead, EO, Finance, Audit and Risk Committee members and trustees to set the financial strategy for the organisation.

Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the six annual board meetings, five of which last approximately three hours (typically 6-9pm). One meeting is an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year. Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. The Treasurer will also Chair the FAR sub-committee sub-committee which means 6 times a year for 2 hours.

Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings with quorum of three, where necessary

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

 Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.

Who we are looking for

As a Treasurer, you will have:

● Knowledge and experience of current and fundraising and finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations.

● Knowledge of bookkeeping and financial management (as necessary).

● Good financial analysis skills.

● Experience of advising others on financial matters, and being prepared to challenge

Each trustee should have:

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement

● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims

● Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise

● Integrity

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work.

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

We are looking for a Finance professional to bring their skills and expertise to our Board.

What will you be doing?

The Treasurer plays a central role in the strategic management of the organisation. 

The purpose of this role is to monitor the financial administration of The Bridge and advise the Board and CEO on financial matters, in line with best practice and in compliance with the governing document and legal requirements.

What are we looking for?

• Qualified accountant. 
• Skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences. 
• Ability to explain financial analysis clearly and make recommendations to the Board. 
• Willingness to be available to staff to provide advice and guidance on financial matters. 
• Good interpersonal, leadership and influencing skills to communicate effectively with the Board, management team and external stakeholders. 
• Existing Trustee experience is desirable but not essential. 

Having an interest in our cause is crucial for all Trustees. You will be committed to work we do but do not need to be knowledgeable as we will induct in this area

What difference will you make?

The Charity’s finances are in a very sound position and it's an exciting time to join us as we are looking to grow and expand our services. 

The Treasurer will play a vital role on the Board and help to ensure that we continue to provide support to people who are homeless in Leicester

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting The Bridge with their trustee recruitment. 

Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. 

To apply please send your CV/LinkedIn profile along with a supporting statement explaining why you are interested in the role, the skills and experience you will bring to the Board and what you would hope to get out of the role. 

Would you like to support people from within the serving community? You just need a friendly demeanour, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, please get in touch.

What is a Community Volunteer?

Community Volunteers provide practical help to serving people and their families. Whilst a friendly chat is an important aspect of the role you will also be providing some hands-on support like a lift to a medical appointment or help with shopping.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Armed Forces life can bring its challenges when a loved-one is deployed overseas, or a family must move to a new location. Some people find themselves facing illness, bereavement or unexpected financial problems. Day-to-day activities can become difficult without a little help. That’s where you come in. Could you spare a few hours a week to lend a helping hand to a family in your serving community?

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting beneficiaries, so you will be expected to travel to meet people at home or elsewhere.

Some volunteers will visit more people than others. Whilst you may visit a beneficiary, or family, on a regular basis support is always time-limited.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting beneficiaries and arranging to meet them at their home or in a suitable place depending on their needs
• Providing practical help like lifts to appointments, going to the shops, washing-up, running errands etc.
• Providing time limited, relief care for children (additional training is required for those undertaking this type of support).
• Helping people to think about how to access other support if needed and signposting as required
• Reporting any safeguarding concerns in line with SSAFA’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
• Keeping in touch with your Community Volunteer Coordinator, attending supervision and keeping a record of your visits.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support beneficiaries
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA
• Adhering to SSAFA’s policies and procedures at all times, including SSAFA’s: safeguarding; equality, diversity and inclusion; health & safety; data protection; confidentiality

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to the serving community
• Support people in your local serving community using your patience, time and life experience
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA Serving Community Team and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• One day training course for Community Volunteers. The option to pursue this course further and gain an accredited qualification in community volunteering. Additional training is required for those wishing to undertake the Relief Care Service for Children.
• Support from a local Community Volunteer Coordinator
• Support from SSAFA’s Welfare Team and Volunteer Experience Team based at our Central Office
• Online training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date with how to keep clients, their families and personal information safe
• Refresher training to keep your knowledge and skills up to date
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience and empathy
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Understanding of the need to remain within the boundaries of the role with regards to friendship, finances etc.
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA’s policies
• Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Ability to travel to meet beneficiaries
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities to have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.

Minimum Age: 18

Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).

Is a criminal record check required? Yes* (the cost of this will be covered by SSAFA)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands or other information should not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, if required and where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered. 

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Visitor?

SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

With the gift of time and a listening ear you can improve someone’s quality of life for far longer than the hour or so you might spend with them. We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us to help more people!

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need a driving licence and access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or elsewhere.

Some volunteers will visit more people than others. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period, you will not be developing the kind of relationship where you would provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them regularly at their home or care home for uninterrupted conversation.
• Letting the divisional secretary know of any concerns for your or the client’s safety.
• Arranging for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support as required.
• Chatting, making a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at photo albums, military mementos etc
• Helping your client to think about ways to reduce their isolation and support them to put these into practice.
• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and Data Protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background using your patience, time, and empathy.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression.

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – confidentiality and boundaries, friendship, and befriending. This training would take approx. 4 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local Induction
• Access to the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience, and a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to friendship, finances etc.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep regular appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely (within SSAFA policies)
• Willingness to travel by public transport or car to appointments with clients.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer This role requires an enhanced check.

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered.

Are you passionate about animal welfare and eager to make a difference in your community? Join us as a volunteer trustee for the RSPCA Shropshire Branch and play a vital role in shaping the future of our organisation.

About Us

The RSPCA Shropshire Branch is dedicated to improving the lives of animals in our local area. As a branch of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA), we work 

tirelessly to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome animals in need in the Shropshire area, which includes supporting the National RSPCA Inspectorate with local cruelty cases. We also educate and raise awareness, hold free microchipping events and offer welfare assistance.

Role Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic individuals with experience in charity or business management to join our team of trustees. 

We are currently looking for individuals with expertise in:

• Finance

• Governance

• Fundraising

Various roles are available, including positions as Treasurer or Secretary.

Responsibilities

• Serve on the governing body of the charity, overseeing the management and governance of the Branch.

• Collaborate with fellow trustees to develop and implement strategic plans for the organisation.

• Contribute to decision-making processes and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and best practices.

• Attend monthly committee meetings, typically lasting around 2 hours, and actively participate in discussions and decision-making.

Benefits

• Make a meaningful impact on the welfare of animals in your community.

• Gain valuable experience in charity governance and leadership.

• Collaborate with like-minded individuals and contribute to a rewarding cause.

• Opportunity for personal and professional development through training and networking.

Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend monthly 2 hour committee meetings, with additional duties as required. The time commitment may vary depending on individual roles and responsibilities. Meetings are generally held online with quarterly meetings held in-person.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about animal welfare and possess the skills and experience we are looking for, we would love to hear from you. 

Join us in making a difference for animals in need. Become a trustee with the RSPCA Shropshire Branch today!

We are looking for volunteers who can commit for a minimum of 10 weeks, with adaptable profiles and who have the enthusiasm and energy we need to provide support in various areas across the organisation.

In this generalist role, you will find yourself responsible for a variety of tasks; helping to ensure that both our programme activities and day-to-day operations run smoothly. Second Tree works in a transparent way, in a challenging and changeable situation in the field; therefore, an ability to learn quickly and be open to feedback is vital.

The possible tasks included below are not exhaustive or rigidly defined; an exact role profile is dependent on the skill set of individual applicants. An average day might see you talking to students in a camp to tell them about a new class, or supporting in the writing of a grant proposal. Tasks could loosely fall within 4 key areas:

Programmes:

• Supporting programme coordinators in maintaining the day to day running of their activities with the Youth Wellbeing or Adult Education Programmes
• Supporting our children’s teachers or workshop facilitators in the planning or delivery of classes or excursions outside of camps
• Communicating key messages about our programmes to our students in camps or urban areas

Admin, Finance & Logistics:

• Supporting the management in liaising with external partners
• Maintaining organisation wide financial processes
• Coordinating the arrival and housing of incoming volunteer

Fundraising:

• Supporting the planning and implementation of Second Tree’s fundraising initiatives, such as campaigns
• Organising and maintaining regular communications with Second Tree’s donors (newsletters, thank you letters)
• Supporting in the identification of relevant grants
• Supporting in grant writing activities

 Digital communication:

• Contributing to the written/visual content of Second Tree’s social media output
• Developing social media strategies to expand our reach and impact
• Producing regular reports on performance
• Website maintenance

 Skills desired: 

While there are no experience or skill-specific applicant requirements for this position, candidates must:

• Be accountable and efficient, making sure that tasks that you take up are completed on the agreed timeframe
• Be honest and transparent, being able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way possible
• Have a strong sense of humour, being able to make fun of yourself is key
• Care for people; the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern
• Instil the values above in the people that work with you
• Have keen problem-solving abilities, and a good understanding of what questions to ask, and when
• Communicate in English, both written and orally
• Learn quickly, managing a wide-ranging and intense workload

We offer:

• Accommodation in a shared house
• Transportation to/from work
• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the volunteer houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the volunteer houses are full, this would allow us to offer a volunteering opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Farmhut aims to address the challenges faced by small-scale farmers in accessing finance and insurance services. Many farmers lack a digital record of their farming activities, making it difficult for lenders to assess their creditworthiness. In addition, the high cost of traditional insurance products makes it difficult for farmers to protect their crops and livestock from natural disasters and other risks. Farmhut's platform provides APIs for financial institutions to assess and finance farmers, as well as tailored loan products and insurance cover at affordable rates. The platform also provides farmers with a user-friendly interface to manage their financial and insurance needs.

Farmhut provides accessible and customizable financial solutions for small-scale farmers through APIs and tailored loan products. By leveraging technology and partnerships with financial institutions and insurance companies, Farmhut helps farmers access financial services that were previously unavailable to them. The platform also offers a user-friendly dashboard for lenders to manage their loans effectively, making the lending process more efficient and cost-effective. Through these efforts, Farmhut aims to bridge the funding gap and improve financial inclusion for small-scale farmers, ultimately helping to alleviate poverty and promote sustainable agriculture.

GRANT FINDER

• Research and identify grant opportunities that align with our organization’s mission and goals; maintain a comprehensive understanding of the grant landscape, including federal, state, local, and private funding sources; develop strategies to secure funding from various grant programs; prepare and submit grant applications in a timely manner; collaborate with team members to gather necessary information for grant applications; and, monitor and manage grant applications, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.
• Volunteer 4-6 hours per week for 6 months

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Visitor?

SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

With the gift of time and a listening ear you can improve someone’s quality of life for far longer than the hour or so you might spend with them. We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us to help more people!

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need a driving licence and access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or elsewhere.

Some volunteers will visit more people than others. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period, you will not be developing the kind of relationship where you would provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them regularly at their home or care home for uninterrupted conversation.
• Letting the divisional secretary know of any concerns for your or the client’s safety.
• Arranging for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support as required.
• Chatting, making a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at photo albums, military mementos etc
• Helping your client to think about ways to reduce their isolation and support them to put these into practice.
• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and Data Protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background using your patience, time, and empathy.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression.

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – confidentiality and boundaries, friendship, and befriending. This training would take approx. 4 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local Induction
• Access to the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience, and a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to friendship, finances etc.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep regular appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely (within SSAFA policies)
• Willingness to travel by public transport or car to appointments with clients.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer This role requires an enhanced check.

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You don’t need a military background, just patience, and an ability to get on with people from different backgrounds and age groups. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Visitor?

SSAFA Visitors provide support to isolated people living at home or in residential care. Whilst a friendly chat about the old days over a cup of tea is an important aspect of the role you will also be able to recognise any other support needs and explore how to link your client into their local community.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

With the gift of time and a listening ear you can improve someone’s quality of life for far longer than the hour or so you might spend with them. We need you to join your local SSAFA team to help us to help more people!

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need a driving licence and access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or elsewhere.

Some volunteers will visit more people than others. Whilst you will visit a client on a regular basis for a period, you will not be developing the kind of relationship where you would provide personal care, handle money or support someone in an emergency. SSAFA can help clients to arrange other types of support if needed.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting clients and arranging to meet them regularly at their home or care home for uninterrupted conversation.
• Letting the divisional secretary know of any concerns for your or the client’s safety.
• Arranging for a SSAFA caseworker to assess the client for other support as required.
• Chatting, making a cup of tea, playing cards, looking at photo albums, military mementos etc
• Helping your client to think about ways to reduce their isolation and support them to put these into practice.
• Keeping in touch with your branch so they know your availability.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and Data Protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Support people in your community with a military background using your patience, time, and empathy.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression.

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – confidentiality and boundaries, friendship, and befriending. This training would take approx. 4 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local Induction
• Access to the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with good listening skills, patience, and a cheerful attitude
• Good spoken English
• Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with clients, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.
• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role with regards to friendship, finances etc.
• Reliable attitude, contact clients promptly, keep regular appointments, update the branch regarding your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely (within SSAFA policies)
• Willingness to travel by public transport or car to appointments with clients.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer This role requires an enhanced check.

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered.