Advocacy Volunteer Roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking forward to welcoming up to three new trustees to our board. The Trustees are jointly responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals. This is an opportunity to be part of a regenerating charity with a key role in the town focused on alleviating poverty locally.
We have identified that our organisation will particularly benefit from skills in fundraising, marketing, finance and an understanding of the challenges around the running of a small charity that is growing. We are also fully committed to increasing the diversity of our board.
The duties and responsibilities of our trustees are as follows:
· Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy
· Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (i.e. the trust deed, constitution or memorandum and articles of association), charity law, company law, employment law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
· Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public
· Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets
· Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation
· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration and governance of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
· Understanding the responsibilities and liabilities of being a trustee
· Undertaking induction and relevant training as identified for the role
· Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation
· Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
· Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the Chief Executive
· In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, supporting working groups, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.
Person Specification:
• A commitment to the organisation
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• A willingness to listen to others and share your views and opinions
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgement
• An ability to think creatively
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
We are here to prevent and relieve poverty, hardship and distress.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
- ROLE TITLE: Trustee of the Board of Directors
- SPECIALISM: Finance / Treasurer
- LOCATION: Grimsby
- HOURS OF WORK:4 - 6 hours per month.
- MEETINGS: 6 Board Meetings and 6 Sub-Committee Meetings per year.
All Trustees are expected to make an active and dynamic contribution to the Board, the organisation and to supporting our work. Trustees have wide-ranging skills, knowledge, and experience appropriate to governance and strategy.
The overall role of the Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the Charity’s affairs, our strategic planning and to provide guidance to help ensure financial viability and support the requirements underpinning proper financial governance and procedures.
This key role will provide assurance to the Board that the financial resources of YMCA Humber meet its present and future needs, working with the CEO to ensure the Charity complies with relevant legislations, through efficient administration and best practice in good governance.
The ideal candidate will possess:
- Strategic vision, and a solid understanding and acceptance of the legal responsibilities of Trusteeship.
- Financial or accountancy experience.
- Good independent judgment, and a high level of credibility within the community.
- Strong leadership skills and a commitment to the work of the Charity.
- Open and transparent approach.
- Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
- Knowledge of Charity finance or housing association finance.
- Skills to analyse proposals and examine the financial consequences.
It should be noted that the focus of this Trustee role is strategic, and the Treasurer will not be managing the organisation’s finances on a day-to-day basis; however, regular contact and liaison with the Chief Executive Officer and Head of Finance is expected.
Initially we’d like to set-up an informal conversation prior to completing any application.
After this, if you feel that a trusteeship with YMCA Humber would be a good fit for you, we’ll invite you to submit a personal statement and submit your CV, that will be reviewed by the current board of trustees.
Our mission is to develop an extended YMCA family, which allows people to have a fair chance to discover who they are and what they can become.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about mental health support and peer advocacy? Do you possess financial expertise and a desire to make a difference in the lives of others? If so, we invite you to become our Treasurer/Finance Trustee at The Anthony Seddon Fund!
At The Anthony Seddon Fund, we are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive space for individuals to connect, share experiences, and receive peer-driven mental health support. Our mission is to empower individuals on their journey towards mental wellness, and as Treasurer/Finance Trustee, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of our organisation.
Why Join Us?
· Meaningful Impact: Your financial oversight will directly contribute to the continued growth and effectiveness of our peer support programmes, positively impacting the lives of those we serve.
· Flexible Commitment: With an approximate time commitment of 8-10 hours per month, this role offers flexibility to accommodate your schedule while still making a significant difference in our organisation.
· Collaborative Environment: Work alongside dedicated peers and volunteers who share your passion for mental health advocacy and support.
Key Responsibilities
· Financial Management: Oversee the financial operations of The Anthony Seddon Fund, including budgeting, financial reporting, and fiscal planning.
· Budget Oversight: Collaborate with the Board of Directors to develop and monitor annual budgets, ensuring alignment with our mission and strategic goals.
· Fundraising Support: Assist in developing fundraising strategies and initiatives to support our programmes and services, including grant applications and donor stewardship.
· Compliance and Governance: Ensure compliance with financial regulations and best practices for nonprofit organisations, providing guidance on financial policies and procedures.
Qualifications
· Financial Expertise: Demonstrated experience in financial management, accounting, or related fields.
· Commitment: Willingness to dedicate approximately 8-10 hours per month to fulfil the responsibilities of the role.
· Team Player: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with fellow trustees, staff, and volunteers.
· Passion for Mental Health: A genuine commitment to our mission of promoting mental wellness and peer support.
How to Apply
If you are ready to contribute your financial expertise to support our peer-driven mental health initiatives, we would love to hear from you! Please submit your resume and a brief statement of interest outlining your relevant experience and why you are passionate about joining our team.
Join us in making a difference in the lives of individuals living with mental health challenges! Together, we can create a community of support and empowerment.
To provide a safe space that promotes social interactions and support networks to aid prevention, recovery and management of any mental health issue
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are hiring! Trustee vacancy
- Time Commitment: typically, 4 hours per month, for a term of 3 years (initial 12-month period)
- Location: Board meetings are held 4 times per year, and we work to find times that are accessible for Board members, which could include evenings and weekends. We meet twice a year in person in Oxford, and twice a year via Teams
- Renumeration: this is a voluntary role and reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed
About Us
An independent charity, The Centre for Sustainable Healthcare (CSH) has been leading efforts to incorporate the values of environmental sustainability into the health sector since its establishment in 2008. Our work is underpinned by CSH’s Principles of Sustainable Clinical Practice: prevention; patient empowerment; lean care systems; low carbon alternatives.
CSH has a particular focus on:
- engaging those on the front line of patient care and promoting the concept of ‘sustainable clinical practice’
- enabling the use of the natural environment at NHS settings to be used as ‘nature-based solutions’ in healthcare.
As a trustee of our charity, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in shaping our organisation's future direction. The Board culture is friendly and lively, with an openness to creative ideas and input. There is a focus on core mission and values to inform decision making processes. The meetings will be focused, effective and inspiring, and led in line with CSH’s overarching aim to transform healthcare for a sustainable future. The Board values diversity and welcomes applicants from a range of backgrounds.
About You
We particularly welcome new trustees who could bring skills and experience in financial management or legal and IP transfer. Though please do not be put off from applying if you do not have any of these skills or if you have never been a Trustee before.
How To Apply
For an informal conversation about the opportunity, please contact us.
To apply, please send an up-to-date CV (or Linkedin profile) and simple covering letter answering two questions:
- why you’re interested in supporting CSH
- what you hope to bring to the Board
Or if you prefer to record your cover letter, verbally or with video, that’s also welcomed. Please contact us if you have any other accessibility needs or if you would like help with applying.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee of Christians Against Poverty (CAP). Trustees play a vital role in guiding and shaping the future of our organisation, ensuring that we continue to fulfil our purpose and make a positive impact in the UK.
This attached pack has been carefully curated to provide you with detailed information about CAP, our purpose, mission, values, and the responsibilities and expectations associated with being a Trustee. We believe that by joining the Board of Trustees, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute your skills, expertise and passion to drive forward our charitable objectives and make a meaningful difference to the lives of those we serve.
We’re looking for individuals who are committed to our cause, who possess diverse skills and experiences, and who are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of governance and ethical conduct. Whether you have previous Trustee experience or are considering this role for the first time, we welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our vision and values.
As you explore the pack, we encourage you to learn more about CAP and the important work we do. Should you have any questions or require further information, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you as a valued member of our Trustee team and working together with you to make a positive difference across the UK.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to serve as a Trustee of CAP.
Your CV should include educational and professional qualifications, showing the more significant positions, responsibilities held and relevant achievements.
We appreciate covering letters of no more than two pages. Please outline your motivation for becoming a Trustee for CAP, relevant experience for the role, and a little about your Christian faith.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Description
Role: Research Assistant (Volunteer, unpaid)
Supported by: Business Development Consultant, Resource and Training Lead, Charity Director
About White Ribbon Alliance UK: We prioritise the eradication of gender-based violence and the promotion of gender equity in sexual and reproductive health and rights, especially for marginalised and underrepresented communities. We enable access to unbiased and evidenced-based resources, education, and support for women, girls, and trans individuals. We influence healthcare professionals, hospital systems, policy makers, and the public to centre the human rights of women, girls and trans men, intersex, and non-binary people throughout the lifecycle of their sexual health needs.
Purpose of the Role: The Volunteer Research Assistant will support White Ribbon Alliance UK's efforts to improve maternal and reproductive health by conducting research, analysing data, and contributing to reports and publications. This role is crucial for informing our advocacy and program development.
Our aspirations for activities the volunteer would perform:
-
Assist in designing and implementing research projects, including survey design.
-
Perform desk research, literature reviews, data collection, and analysis.
-
Contribute to research reports, briefs, and presentations.
-
Manage administrative tasks to support research projects.
-
Contribute to the development of research reports, briefs, and presentations.
-
Utilise SharePoint and Microsoft Teams for collaboration and document management.
-
Support the dissemination of research findings through various channels including but not limited to social media, websites, and blogs.
Ideal skills and qualifications:
-
Interest in sexual and reproductive health.
-
Strong understanding of, and passion for intersectional feminism.
-
Effective communication and collaboration skills.
-
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
-
Strong analytical, research, and organizational skills.
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, or similar platforms.
-
Current enrolment in, or completion of, a relevant university degree program (e.g., public health, mental health, social sciences, midwifery, nursing, social justice, sexual reproductive health, human rights, etc.)
Why volunteer with us?
-
Opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects in the SRHR space
-
Development of research, analytical, and administrative skills.\Experience working in nationwide non-profit organization.
-
Network with professionals and activists in the field.
-
Personal and professional development opportunities.
-
Flexible volunteering hours to suit your schedule.
Diversity and Inclusion: We highly value diversity and strongly encourage applications from individuals in underrepresented communities, such as Black, Asian, disabled, chronically ill, LGBTQ+, and retired individuals. .
ALL APPLICANTS RESIDING INSIDE OF THE UK must already have the eligibility to work in the United Kingdom. The charity cannot sponsor any visas. We are particularly keen to have volunteers located in Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland join the team; however, those residing in England are equally welcome.
APPLICANTS RESIDING OUTSIDE OF THE UK may volunteer if the laws in your resident country allow you to perform the activities mentioned in this role description and to volunteer outside of your resident country.
To transform sexual & reproductive healthcare by emphasising wellbeing & human rights, eradicating gender-based violence and promoting gender equity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are recruiting volunteers to oversee and help at Pride stalls across the UK.
It Gets Better UK envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals. We strive to tell the stories of LGBTQ+ people and to provide positive and reassuring messages to LGBTQ+ youth.
At Pride, we share positive stories from members of the LGBTQ+ community. We encourage attendees to share their story, message to their younger self, or message of support. The conversations we have are uplifting and often emotional.
What will I be doing?
-
Choose one or more Pride events which you commit to attending with us.
-
Help set up and tidy up stand at beginning/end of event.
-
Welcome people to the stall, invite them to learn about stories from others in the community, and share their own stories.
-
Support fundraising and raising awareness with our branded badges.
-
Engage event participants in positive messaging opportunities and story-collecting via our whiteboards: “a message to my younger self”.
-
Get photo consent from participants so that we can share their messages on our platforms.
-
Help produce video messages, recording participants' stories of hope.
-
Promote volunteering roles within It Gets Better and let people know to how to get involved.
-
Signpost people to our resources and how we can support them.
-
Listen to stall attendees’ stories with warmth and respect.
What skills / experience do I need?
-
A personable and friendly manner
-
Confidence in crowds, speaking to strangers and members of the public
-
Sensitivity to, awareness of LGBTQ+ issues
Which Pride events will It Gets Better UK be at?
-
We have a rolling list - currently we're planning to be at:
-
Brighton: 3-4 Aug
-
Bristol: 13 July
-
Cambridge: 15 June
-
Edinburgh: 22 June
-
London: 29 June
-
Trans+ Pride London: 27 July
-
UK Black Pride London: 11 Aug
-
Walsall: 24 Aug
-
-
Don’t see us at a Pride near you? Contact us about becoming an It Gets Better Regional Ambassador and running a stall with our support!
Time commitment: Pride events are usually Saturdays in June, July, August. Full-day or half-day.
Support for you: You’ll receive our Volunteer Handbook and attend a briefing. Each stall will have multiple volunteers so nobody is alone.
What will I gain?
-
The satisfaction that you are helping to inspire and empower LGBTQ+ youth
-
Being part of an international movement
-
The opportunity to use your existing skills as well as develop and learn new ones
-
It Gets Better UK will act as a referee for you after your successful participation
-
Reimbursement of expenses incurred (with prior agreement)
How do I apply?
Please contact us via Charityjob or our website - We’ll then meet online for an introductory conversation, seek a reference, and share our resources for you to read.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About We Are Family
We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years.
You can find out more about us here.
The Role
We are looking for new trustees to strengthen and enhance our board. The key responsibilities of the role include, governance, overseeing policy and direction, financial oversight and assisting with the leadership and general promotion of We Are Family to support the organisation’s Vision, Mission, Values and needs.
This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses - such as travel / childcare - covered by We Are Family. Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK.
Commitment
Trustee capacity to devote the time needed for the following is essential:
-
4 Board meetings per year
-
2 Board away days per year (on a Saturday)
-
Membership of at least one sub-committee (which also meet 4 times a year)
We estimate 8-10 hours for the charity per month. The duration of membership for a new Board member is for three years in the first instance, with the possibility of appointment for a further three year term.
Skills and Experience
All applicants should be able to demonstrate the following:
-
Be able to show high levels of professionalism and an ability to work collaboratively with others, including Trustees, our core team and the wider Volunteer network at We Are Family
-
Be well-organised, with good written and verbal communication skills.
-
Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. A thorough induction, and further trustee training as appropriate, can be provided.
We are particularly interested candidates with the following experience:
-
Working as a professional with or in the adoption sector,
-
Advocacy and/or research work;
-
Finance/charity finance
-
Leadership within a charity
-
Education
-
Legal.
Although many of our current trustees are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.
One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board.
To Apply
If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please get in touch!
Refer to our job ad for the Applications email address and email our team. If you would like an informal conversation about the opportunity, please let us know.
Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role: Youth ‘GRS’ casework volunteer
Team: Casework
Supervised by: Youth caseworker
Location: Tooting Hub on a Wednesday afternoon (between 12:30-18:00pm)
Time commitment: 2.5 hours a week, we ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 6 months
About CARAS :
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation, we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About CARAS Casework:
CARAS works with adults and young people of a refugee and asylum seeker background to find solutions to their problems. There are two separate sub-teams within the Casework team; young people and adults. We support young people to navigate the asylum system, understand their rights and entitlements, access education, connect with services and realise their goals. We are a non-specialist casework and advocacy service, so we work in close partnership with other local organisations to whom we refer people with more complex issues.
Using the empowerment model, our casework service embodies CARAS’ values of ‘with not for’, always striving to ensure people are armed with the information and resources they need to make decisions and take action for themselves.
About CARAS GRS:
CARAS runs a “Get Ready for School” (GRS) programme for newly arrived Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children who are eligible for statutory education but do not yet have a place in school or college. The programme helps young people prepare for mainstream education by offering six hours a week of classroom-based ESOL learning alongside numeracy, digital literacy, and study skills. These sessions take place on a Monday and a Wednesday.
Under statutory guidelines, a looked-after child in year 11 or below must be placed in full-time education within 20 school days.1 If the young person is out of education for longer than four weeks, they can continue attending Get Ready for School for up to 12 weeks, with CARAS additionally offering the young person and their support network help from our Casework team to ensure that they are accessing full-time education as soon as possible.
About the Role:
We are currently recruiting for 3 volunteers to join our Youth Casework team as a GRS needs assessment caseworker.
The purpose of the Youth ‘GRS’ Casework volunteer role is to support young people with a refugee or asylum-seeking background to understand their rights, access information and services, and ultimately, take control of their own lives. You will work with individuals to complete a needs assessment to establish what support they may need alongside GRS. You will work with individuals to address problems they may face relating to, among other issues, asylum information, accessing healthcare and education, accessing support from their local authority, and finding activities and opportunities. There are often supplementary referrals that come out of the GRS needs assessments that will need equal care and attention from volunteers.
On occasion, you will offer support to the GRS team to support young peoples’ learning journey and develop a wider understanding of the GRS programme.
You will start from an understanding that individuals are always best placed to solve their own problems, and often need nothing more than to talk out a problem and find the solution themselves. When helpful, you will provide information to clarify and support to take action.
The GRS volunteer will attend our community space in Tooting Hub on Wednesday afternoons for 2.5 hours between 12:30-18:00pm. Volunteer caseworkers have 1:1 appointments, either in person or by phone, with CARAS members. Volunteers also support administrative tasks such as updating our databases, collating resources, and creating information guides.
Youth Casework Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities:
Working in an empowering way with individuals and promoting their independence through goal-setting.
Supporting people to develop their knowledge of rights and entitlements.
Assisting with filling out forms.
Signposting and referring to other services and organisations.
Gathering information from experts and disseminating information to people in an accessible manner.
Engaging in collaborative internet and phone research on services, organisations, and grants.
Flagging safeguarding concerns and other issues where further support is required.
Keeping accurate case notes.
Supporting to maintain our signposting database.
Researching and collating resources.
Working collaboratively as a team and assisting in shaping the Youth Casework project.
Adhering to CARAS Confidentiality Policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements (all experience can be from paid or voluntary roles):
Essential:
Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English.
Confidence in using IT (Microsoft Office, Outlook, Zoom, Google Search, online forms)
To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;
A commitment to confidentiality and data protection
Thorough with good attention to detail
Reliable
A high level of spoken and written English
Ability to gather information from people in a sensitive way
A calm, friendly, kind, and patient approach
Enjoyment in speaking to new people
A commitment to working in an empowering way
Able to maintain boundaries
Able to work autonomously
Currently resident in the UK
Desirable:
Experience in doing 1:1 advice work/casework
Working knowledge or experience of relevant law and policy around asylum support, the asylum process, rights, and entitlements for people seeking asylum.
Direct experience of the UK immigration system.
Past experience of working with people seeking asylum.
Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Oromo, Pashto, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tigrinya, Urdu, or Vietnamese.
We will prioritise applicants with lived experience of the asylum process.
Benefits of Volunteering:
· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum.
· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team.
· Develop your skills and competencies.
· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
Obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months regular volunteering.
All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role.
To Apply:
Applicants will have an informal meeting with the Youth caseworker, and one with community members, to assess compatibility to the role. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP.
Successful applicants will be required to complete 2 hours of online general CARAS induction and 2 hours of online safeguarding training and specialist Casework volunteer training before commencing their placement.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role: Youth casework volunteer
Team: Casework
Supervised by: Youth caseworker
Location: Tooting Hub on a Wednesday afternoon (13:30-16:00pm or 18:30-21:00pm)
Time commitment: 2.5 hours a week, we ask that volunteers commit for a minimum of 6 months
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community.
Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation, we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives.
We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support.
Our values are at the centre of all our work:
• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests.
• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society.
• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes.
• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do.
About CARAS Casework:
CARAS works with adults and young people of a refugee and asylum seeker background to find solutions to their problems. There are two separate sub-teams within the Casework team; young people and adults. We support young people to navigate the asylum system, understand their rights and entitlements, access education, connect with services and realise their goals. We are a non-specialist casework and advocacy service, so we work in close partnership with other local organisations to whom we refer people with more complex issues.
Using the empowerment model, our casework service embodies CARAS’ values of ‘with not for’, always striving to ensure people are armed with the information and resources they need to make decisions and take action for themselves.
About the Role:
We are currently recruiting 3 volunteers to join our Youth Casework team.
The purpose of the Youth Casework volunteer role is to support young people with a refugee or asylum-seeking background to understand their rights, access information and services, and ultimately, take control of their own lives. You will work with individuals to address problems they may face relating to, among other issues, asylum support, accessing healthcare and education, access to legal advice and finding activities and opportunities.
You will start from an understanding that individuals are always best placed to solve their own problems, and often need nothing more than to talk out a problem and find the solution themselves. When helpful, you will provide information to clarify and support to take action.
The Youth Casework team hold a support session at our community space in Tooting Hub on Wednesday afternoons from 13:30-16:00pm and evenings from 18:00-21:00pm. Volunteer caseworkers have 1:1 appointments, either in person or by phone, with CARAS members. These can be related to a range of topics. Currently, our biggest areas of work are around social care, the National Transfer Scheme, access to college, nursery/school places for children, referrals to mental health providers, searches, and signposting to activities, finding solicitors and supporting people to apply for bus passes and ID cards. Volunteers also support administrative tasks such as updating our databases, collating resources, and creating information guides.
Youth Casework Volunteer Tasks and Responsibilities:
Working in an empowering way with individuals and promoting their independence through goal-setting.
Supporting people to develop their knowledge of rights and entitlements.
Assisting with filling out forms.
Signposting and referring to other services and organisations.
Gathering information from experts and disseminating information to people in an accessible manner.
Engaging in collaborative internet and phone research on services, organisations, and grants.
Flagging safeguarding concerns and other issues where further support is required.
Keeping accurate case notes.
Supporting to maintain our signposting database.
Researching and collating resources.
Working collaboratively as a team and assisting in shaping the Youth Casework project.
Adhering to CARAS Confidentiality Policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements (all experience can be from paid or voluntary roles):
Essential:
Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English.
Confidence in using IT (Microsoft Office, Outlook, Zoom, Google Search, online forms)
To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse backgrounds;
A commitment to confidentiality and data protection
Thorough with good attention to detail
Reliable
A high level of spoken and written English
Ability to gather information from people in a sensitive way
A calm, friendly, kind, and patient approach
Enjoyment in speaking to new people
A commitment to working in an empowering way
Able to maintain boundaries
Able to work autonomously
Currently resident in the UK
Desirable:
Experience in doing 1:1 advice work/casework
Working knowledge or experience of relevant law and policy around asylum support, the asylum process, rights, and entitlements for people seeking asylum.
Direct experience of the UK immigration system.
Past experience of working with people seeking asylum.
Proficiency in one or more of the following languages: Albanian, Amharic, Arabic, Bengali, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Oromo, Pashto, Russian, Spanish, Somali, Tigrinya, Urdu, or Vietnamese.
We will prioritise applicants with lived experience of the asylum process.
Benefits of Volunteering:
· Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum.
· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team.
· Develop your skills and competencies.
· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training.
Obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months regular volunteering
All volunteers must complete an enhanced DBS check for working with young people and attend training with us before starting. You will also receive training and support relevant to your specific role.
To Apply:
Applicants will have an informal meeting with the Youth caseworker, and one with community members, to assess compatibility to the role. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP.
Successful applicants will be required to complete 2 hours of online general CARAS induction and 2 hours of online safeguarding training and specialist Casework volunteer training before commencing their placement.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As a community engagement volunteer you and your fellow branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
- Organising and attending awareness and fundraising events within the community
- Identifying new fundraising and awareness opportunities
- Helping at events
- Delivering presentations to community groups, schools, etc through
- SSAFA’s speaker programme
- Event administration
- Social media marketing
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Happy to help
- Basic IT skills would be an advantage
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
As a community engagement volunteer you and your fellow branch members will create a range of activities to help spread the word about SSAFA within your community. To ensure that that our Armed Forces community know that SSAFA are here to help and that we need the public’s support to continue offering our services.
What you will be doing
- Organising and attending awareness and fundraising events within the community
- Identifying new fundraising and awareness opportunities
- Helping at events
- Delivering presentations to community groups, schools, etc through
- SSAFA’s speaker programme
- Event administration
- Social media marketing
The skills you need
- Friendly and approachable
- Happy to help
- Basic IT skills would be an advantage
What's in it for you
- Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others
- Support in your role from the team at SSAFA
- Develop your experience and skills which you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews
Disclaimer
SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
We are currently seeking a Chair to join our dynamic charity board as our current chair is coming towards the end of their term.
We are a highly engaged board who is passionate about ensuring our charity makes a big difference to Lewisham residents, especially to the most vulnerable people. We work in a collegiate way, respecting the diverse viewpoints board members bring to the table and hold ourselves to high professional standards.
The Chair will work closely with the CEO, staff, volunteers and other Trustees to support Citizens Advice Lewisham in making a difference in the lives of people who live and work in the Borough.
General Trustee duties and responsibilities
Each individual member of the Trustee Board has a responsibility to contribute to the discharging of the board’s duties. They do this by:
● Governing the charity in the best interest of the clients and in line with the governing documents.
● Actively contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance and ensuring effective oversight of the charity’s activities. This includes visiting Citizens Advice Lewisham to get to know the team and being aware of the service in action.
● Taking responsibility for their own learning and development.
● Monitoring whether the service complies with its governing document and how well the advice needs of the local community are being met.
● Supporting the development of Citizens Advice Lewisham through agreed projects and managing risk.
● Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information received.
Chair specific responsibilities
Plan the board meetings including the dates and the agenda, supported by the CEO.
● Facilitate the trustee board meetings by leading the meeting, ensuring that agenda items are discussed, enabling all members to contribute their views and take part and seeking clarification where necessary.
● Ensure that decisions and actions taken at board meetings are carried out.
● Ensure that the board decisions are made within the remit of the Citizens Advice membership agreement, governing documents and policies.
● Monitor attendance and commitment of all trustees.
● Provide or arrange for training or support for trustees if needed.
● With other trustees and the CEO, recruit a trustee board with a diverse range of skills, experience and knowledge with an aim to promote trusteeship to underrepresented groups that represent the local community.
● Ensure that all trustees receive an induction and the training needed for them to fulfil their role.
● Be proactive in recruiting successors to key positions such as Chair, Treasurer etc.
● Arrange or provide support and supervision for the CEO including an annual appraisal.
● Together with the Treasurer, ensure proper management and control of local Citizens Advice finances.
● Together with the CEO, represent the local Citizens Advice in relationships with funders or potential funders, local events and in the community.
● Work together with all trustees and ensure that the board is able to:
● Set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of the local Citizens Advice.
● Monitor the financial position of the local Citizens Advice ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management.
● Monitor whether the Citizens Advice service complies with its governing document and meets the required standards.
● Seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community.
● Ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers.
● Review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement.
● Work on specific projects to further the strategic objectives of the local Citizens Advice.
General Trustee skills and qualities
● Ability to meet time commitment.
● Commitment to clients and ensuring the impact of Citizens Advice Lewisham in the local community.
● Ability to fulfil governance role, specifically to manage risks, ensure oversight and strategic development of the charity.
● Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
● Willingness to gain knowledge of local needs and resources.
● Commitment to the aims, principles and policies of the Lewisham CAB service, including those relating to equal opportunities, independence, and research and campaigns.
● Ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and employers.
● Willingness and ability to learn and to develop.
● Ability to think creatively and strategically, and exercise good, independent judgement.
● Ability to build productive respectful relationships with other Trustees, staff and volunteers.
● Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the charity’s beneficiaries, staff and the Trustee board.
● Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity.
● Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively.
● Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop.
Chair specific skills and qualities
● Preferable experience in trustee board governance.
● Excellent interpersonal skills.
● Good leadership skills.
● Ability to facilitate and lead meetings.
● An understanding of the responsibilities and liabilities as trustees.
● Ability to be non-judgmental and respecting views, values and cultures that are different to your own.
● Good numeracy skills to understand financial accounts with the support of the treasurer.
● An understanding of the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice.
Time Commitment and availability to attend required meetings
a) As Chair
● Quarterly governance committee meetings (each 11⁄2 hours plus prep).
● On average half a day per week working with the organisation on chair matters.
b) As Trustee
● Quarterly evening Trustee Board meetings (each 21⁄2 hours plus prep).
● One annual Trustee Board awayday (weekend – 5 hours plus prep).
● Liaison with CEO and colleague Trustees by phone, e-mail or Skype (occasional).
● Day-time visits to our offices to understand our work and engage with staff/volunteers (occasional).
● Two annual stakeholder events (one evening event, one mid-week all-day event).
● Liaising with other trustees and CEO via email and phone in between meetings.
● Where required, leading independently on key projects.
● Any further day time visits and meetings that may arise during the year.
What’s in it for you?
● You will contribute to making a positive impact for people in Lewisham.
● You will meet people and build relationships with trustees, staff and other volunteers.
● You will build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills.
Remuneration
This is an unpaid voluntary role and reasonable expenses will be covered by advance agreement.
Diversity
We seek candidate Trustees from all backgrounds so that our board represents the diversity of our community. We welcome applications from all candidates regardless of ethnicity, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religion.
As services are delivered in a small geographic area applicants should ideally live, work or study in, or near, Lewisham or have some local knowledge of the area.
How to apply
Application: Please send us a CV highlighting relevant skills and experience you will bring to the role along with a completed Application Form
Closing date: 31 May 2024
Interviews: 17 June 2024
Contact: If you would like to have a conversation with someone about this role, please get in touch with the Head of Business & Development who can set up a chat with the Chair or CEO.
Disclosure: Applicants must complete the Disclosure and EDI Form as part of their application.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are excited to be recruiting a new Chair to build on our impactful work. You’ll be joining right at the start of a new strategic cycle which is laser focussed on impact and youth voice.
Khulisa has a rich history and a strong track record of delivering high-impact and high quality programmes. We initially worked in prisons and in 2011 we began working with young people in schools. Now, in 2024, we work exclusively in schools across London, focusing on supporting young people who’ve experienced multiple traumas and adversities and preventing the pipeline of exclusion to prison.
Our group therapeutic programmes in schools already support young people to surpass the national benchmarks for wellbeing and a recent evaluation schools research shows that we’re delivering statistically significant outcomes across young people’s wellbeing, resilience and self-regulation.
At the heart of our new strategy is a focus on extending these outcomes for longer and preventing exclusion while increasing attainment.
This signifies a defining moment for Khulisa - an explicit step into the education space and is a pivotal time for a Chair to help us amplify the need for Khulisa’s work and the impact it can have.
Our out-going chair Jean-Marc Morel says, “I have loved my time at Khulisa. It is a charity that is built on passion and ambition, full of inspiring and intelligent individuals who are determined to make a change. The focus on high impact and high quality is unwavering as is the commitment to centre youth voice and diversity, equity and inclusion in everything they do.”
As the Chair of Khulisa, you will be an influential champion for our cause, keen to
challenge and guide us to continually improve. Alongside the Chief Executive,
you’ll be the public face of the charity, amplifying the mission and vision and supporting opportunities for connection and collaboration. You’ll be supported by the
Deputy Chair, who will oversee the day to day governance of the charity and you’ll be
ultimately responsible for holding the Board and Senior Leadership Team to account.
This is a fantastic and rare opportunity to strengthen and grow a Charity as we embark on an ambitious and transformational journey. If you decide to commit your time, experience and networks to Khulisa you will make a lasting contribution to young people who have been underserved to the point where their emotional wellbeing, education and social life-outlook is compromised.
Together we can change that.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Summary
The Sussex Area of the Ramblers has two Countryside Officers, one for East Sussex and one for West Sussex. The primary function is to act on behalf of members where a reported planning development could have a detrimental effect on the Sussex countryside.
Description
The Ramblers works to help everyone enjoy the pleasures and benefits of walking, and to enhance and protect the places where people walk. We are committed to encouraging and supporting walking, protecting and expanding public rights of way and access land, and protecting the beauty of the countryside and other areas. We recognise the threat posed to our countryside by climate change, which could severely alter many of our cherished landscapes. Ramblers support measures to mitigate this by switching to renewable sources of energy which are sensitively sited and don’t damage precious landscapes. In addition we believe the government must focus particularly on improving energy efficiency, pursuing a range of measures to reduce the amount of energy wasted in generation, transmission and use. We are concerned about the potential impacts of onshore shale gas exploration and exploitation, both on access to the places we walk and on the beauty of the wider countryside. We will oppose such operations where we believe these impacts to be unacceptable, particularly in areas designated for their natural beauty such as National Parks (e.g. The South Downs) and National Landscapes (e.g . Chichester Harbour).
The role involves reviewing planning applications published by the Local Authority and lodging objections on behalf of Sussex Ramblers in the event that such developments are considered to have a detrimental effect on the Sussex countryside and the places where people walk. Such concerns may be expressed in writing through a response to the planning process, but could also involve site visits and on occasions attendance at public hearings.
The incumbent will work closely with other Ramblers officers such as the West Sussex Area Footpath Officer and where necessary will seek advice and guidance from Ramblers' central office. Other main contacts include the Local Authorities, Parish/Town Councils and Local Access Forum. The position reports to the Area Council.
What Impact will you have?
The Ramblers help everyone, everywhere, enjoy walking and protects the places we all love to walk. By volunteering as a Countryside Officer you will be paying a vital role in making sure we can achieve this by holding Local Authorities to account for planning decisions, and helping to ensure that our countryside and the places people walk, essential to health and wellbeing, are safeguarded.
Skills and Experience Required
You should have a passion for walking and for preservation and protection of the natural beauty of the countryside and the special qualities of urban space, and a good knowledge of the county. Experience and knowledge of the Local Authorities planning process would be a distinct advantage. The position is suitable for a mature professional individual who is highly reliable, organised, capable of taking initiative and with an ability to articulate strategic issues clearly in written form. A desire and ability to work in a team environment is essential. You will also need to be comfortable using a computer and the internet, and managing information.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.