Advocacy Volunteer Roles in South East
Responsible to: Chair of Trustees
Start date: November/December
Who We Are
M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.
We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.
The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.
Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work. You can also find more details on this position here.
Why Join Us
At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives.
Open Trustee Positions
We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:
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Income generation
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Lived experience of a rare condition
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Healthcare education
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Clinical practice
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Lived experience of health and/or social inequality
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Lived experience of societal marginalisation
Key Responsibilities
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Ensuring the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by supporting the development of - and agreeing - a long-term strategy
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Ensuring that the organisation complies with its CIO constitution, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
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Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of the public
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Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets
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Safeguarding the reputation and values of the organisation
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Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
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Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation
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Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
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Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal, and remuneration of the Chief Executive
Why this Role is for You
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You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.
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You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.
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You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.
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You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease.
Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:
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4 online Trustees meeting per year;
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1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and
-
Some ad hoc committee work.
However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.
Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role.
We look forward to hearing from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Responsible to: Board of Trustees
Start date: November/December
Who We Are
M4RD is a UK charity that is advancing rare disease training for medical professionals. The aim of our work is to help reduce diagnostic delay and improve patient experience for those impacted by rare conditions.
We work with an extensive network of patients, carers, advocates and advocacy groups to deliver training to medical schools, foundation schools, royal colleges, hospitals and trusts.
The charity is small and consists of a friendly group of staff and Trustees. The work can be intense but is very rewarding, as the charity responds to the needs of the rare disease political landscape.
Please take a look at the M4RD website for more information on our team, and our work.
Why Join Us
At M4RD we are not just talking about change; we are making it happen - as evidenced by the attitude change towards rare disease training in healthcare driven by M4RD for the last five years. By becoming a Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of healthcare for people with rare conditions. Working with a dedicated team committed to systemic change in medical education, you will bring skills, experience, and knowledge that will support M4RD in achieving their objectives.
Open Trustee Positions (multiple Trustees & Chair)
We are expanding our board and seeking individuals with specific expertise to help us achieve our mission. Our new Trustees will be passionate about supporting the charity to deliver its objectives, and have skills and/or experience in one or more of the following areas:
-
Income generation
-
Lived experience of a rare condition
-
Healthcare education
-
Clinical practice
-
Lived experience of health and/or social inequality
-
Lived experience of societal marginalisation
Key Responsibilities - Chair of the Board of Trustees
In addition to the general responsibilities of a Trustee, duties of the Chair include:
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Providing leadership to the organisation, and the Board, by ensuring everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to benefit the public
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Chairing and facilitating board meetings
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Giving direction to board policy-making
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Ensuring decisions taken at meetings are implemented
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Representing M4RD at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate
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Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making
With the Chief Executive:
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Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required
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Setting agendas for board and other general meetings
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Continuous development of the Board of Trustees
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Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation
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Liaising with the Chief Executive to maintain an overview of the organisation’s affairs, and to provide support as appropriate
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Leading the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the Chief Executive
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Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels
Why this Role is for You
-
You are passionate about the landscape of rare disease.
-
You have the skills and experience M4RD is looking for.
-
You are prepared to challenge systemic inequities within healthcare and medical education.
-
You are ready to make a long-term commitment to improving the lives of people impacted by rare disease.
Time Commitment: The expected time commitment is:
-
2 online meetings per month with the CEO;
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4 online Trustees meeting per year;
-
1 face to face strategy meeting or event; and
-
Some ad hoc committee work.
However, we are also keen to invite those who are passionate about the charity's work and able to support in other areas.
Please take a look at the Job Description for more details on this role.
We look forward to hearing from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
MUSLIM VOLUNTEER MENTOR
Can you offer your support to a young person via mentoring?
FCCT are looking for volunteers to play a supportive role by actively mentoring young offenders (aged 15-21 in HMP/YOI Feltham) and to offer support under the ‘7 pathways to Reducing Reoffending’:
FCCT offer support under the seven pathways to reducing reoffending including signposting to relevant organisations:
- Accommodation
- Education, Training and Employment (ETE)
- Health
- Drug and Alcohol Misuse
- Finance, Benefits and Debts
- Children & Families
- Attitudes, Thinking and Behaviour.
Our aim is to help young people overcome hardships and make the positive transition back into wider society and to help to reduce reoffending rates.
Scope of Volunteer Main Role and Duties (not exhaustive):
Mentoring Arm:
- Work through a ‘Discharge List’ systematically, cross referencing with the Operations Manager, so as not to duplicate any work or contact with the young people (primarily of Muslim faith).
- Hand out and (where needed) help complete ‘Survey Questionnaires’ given to young people from the ‘Discharge List’, in order to ascertain what type of job or education sector the young person would be interested in going into. Forms to be given to the Operations Manager afterwards.
- Follow up with a one-to-one session – register the young person to the FCCT programme and completing relevant paperwork, which will include our ‘Client Profile Form’ and ‘Consent Form’.
- Update a shared ‘Client Spreadsheet’ which will be used to capture data information, as to the young people that FCCT are engaging with.
- Identify relevant Mosques etc for the young people to attend post release and contact said religious establishments, to understand their referral criteria and then make relevant referrals, where required.
- Collect testimonials from the young people in relation to the support FCCT have offered them.
- Mentoring of young people
- Make or facilitate family contacts for resettlement purposes, in relation to the young people.
We are looking for individuals who demonstrate the following attributes:
- Commitment: Shows commitment to the organisation, its values and its clients, understanding that the building of trust and consistency is key, in terms of the clientele FCCT work with.
- Communication: Communicates well both verbally and in writing. An ability to communicate effectively with young people would also be an added benefit.
- Resilience: Demonstrates patience and understanding in the face of challenges.
- Professionalism: Complies with all FCCT policies and procedures, particularly regarding Safeguarding, GDPR etc.
- Non-judgemental: Demonstrates empathy and openness and does not impose personal values or conscious or unconscious bias.
- Solution focused: Can help to identify issues and meets challenges with optimism and offers solutions, seeing them as an opportunity to learn.
Training and Support
We will provide all the necessary training. Training will be provided on an ongoing basis and volunteers will be given a full induction of the organisation and how the projects run.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you have 3 hours a week to provide companionship to those living with a terminal or life limiting illness, Companion volunteers provide a listening ear, emotional support and short respite for carers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We Are Family is hiring! We have an exciting role within our adopter peer support community to join us as our Chair of Trustees.
We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees with a strong understanding of the challenges facing adoptive parents and who shares our commitment to supporting adopters and prospective adopters throughout their adoption journey. Ideal candidates will have strong governance knowledge, the capacity to think strategically, work collaboratively and lead the Trustees in making significant contributions to our future.
You will join the Board as the organisation heads into its second decade, with established services, partnerships and a growing membership base. Our quality and consistency of service provision is leading to exciting conversations nationally, and we are looking for our new Chair to help steer us through this next stage of growth.
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 applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
A Little Bit of Sunshine UK (ALBOS UK) is seeking to recruit Policy and Campaigns volunteers to support the charity at an important point in its development, its second year of operation, supporting young people to be at the heart of decision making in support services.
We expect everyone who is part of our organisation to be committed to our values and share our ambition to become a more diverse and inclusive charity. Our vision, mission and values can be found on our website.
What we do
We work closely with young people and communities to shape a future where every young person can access mental health support, feel connected, and live without stigma.
Our policy and influencing work aims to create lasting change by addressing systemic barriers to youth mental health care. We advocate for policies that prioritise mental health, ensure adequate funding, and promote accessibility.
About the role
As a Policy and Campaigns Volunteer, you will play a key role in supporting our efforts to influence policy, raise awareness, and advocate for improved mental health services for young people. You will work closely with our Policy and Campaigns team to help shape and deliver impactful campaigns and contribute to policy development aimed at creating lasting change.
We are looking for dynamic volunteers who will help us to advocate for change, and work collaboratively with other Policy Volunteers and across the wider charity, to plan, create, and roll out policy and campaigns.
Key Responsibilities
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Assist in research, analysis and drafting of policy papers, briefing notes, and reports related to mental health issues affecting young people.
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Support the development and creation of campaigns that raise awareness and push for reforms in mental health services
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Monitor relevant policy developments, governmental reports, and key discussions within the mental health sector.
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Help with the development of training materials or toolkits for volunteers and supporters to increase awareness and engagement around mental health policy.
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Attend and contribute to team meetings and brainstorming sessions for campaign strategies and policy priorities.
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Contribute to the drafting of letters, petitions, and policy submissions aimed at influencing decision makers.
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Engage with young people to ensure their voices are heard and included in policy recommendations and campaign efforts.
If you would like to expand your skills in policy work and campaigning and can commit to volunteering 4–6 hours per week, then we would love to hear from you.
If you would like to have an informal conversation with a member of our team please get in touch with us [email address in Role Description].
Closing date: 14/10/2024 at 10am
Informal interviews will be held as and when suitable applicants apply, but all applications before the closure of the advert will be reviewed.
Please note that you must be 16 or over and be willing to undergo the DBS process to be appointed to this volunteer role.
Please complete our Online Application Form providing as much detail as possible. The contents of this form will then be sent to the hiring manager for review.
If you have any questions, or think that a written application may not work for you then please get in touch with us.
We’re the youth-led charity uniting young voices with decision makers to address the mental health crisis. | Join us in making a difference!
Job Title: National Domestic Abuse Helpline Volunteer
Location: Home-based
Refuge is the UK’s largest provider of specialist services and we are proud to be a leader in our field and an employer of choice, with leading edge systems for supervision, quality management and development.
We are recruiting 20 *female Helpline Volunteers to support our National Domestic Abuse Helpline Team in providing high-quality, empowering, emotional and practical support, to predominantly women survivors of domestic abuse, but also their friends, family members, and other service professionals through our services.
Initial training for this Helpline Volunteer role will be focussed on how to provide support to those using our Live Chat Service.Additional training in our telephone and email services will be available to successful applicants after 3 months of commitment in this role.
Our volunteers are essential in supporting us to meet the demand for the Helpline services and are an important part of the Helpline Team. This is a stimulating role that offers positive challenges and rewards to the right applicants.
This post is restricted to women due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.
Closing date: 9am on 23 September 2024
Interview dates: 14-17 October 2024
Benefits
All successful applicants undergo an extensive training and shadowing programme, where you will learn about how to effectively support the women who contact our service.Attending all three stages of training is an essential requirement of this role.
Here the dates for the next training programme:-
1. Induction Training - Attend 9.30am-4.30pm daily
Mon 28th Oct – Fri 1st Nov (inclusive)
2. Platform Training – Attend 1x 3hr session
between Mon 4th Nov – Thu 8th Nov
Morning, afternoon and evening slots available.
3. Practise Sessions - Attend at least 3x 3hr practise sessions between Mon 13th Nov – Thu 30th Nov
Morning, afternoon and evening slots available.
After 3 months, you will be offered the opportunity for further training to support other National Domestic Abuse Helpline services, namely those provided by telephone. Helpline Volunteers are also eligible for other Volunteer Learning and Development opportunities available throughout the year.
Our passionate and experienced Helpline Staff are always available to support you while you are on your shift with any questions you may have and you will also have regular supervisions and catch ups with the Volunteer Coordinator. We also ensure we recognise our volunteers’ contribution with celebration events throughout the year.
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.
Are you a dedicated professional with a passion for community advocacy and helping organisations to be even better? Planning Aid for London is looking for new trustees to help us deliver our ambitious strategic plan for the next five years.
PAL is working towards becoming independent, therefore applicants with experience in fundraising, charity finance and providing services through volunteers are especially welcome. The role is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about helping residents to have a voice in planning the future of their neighbourhoods and working with other trustees to make that happen.
As a trustee, your role will involve:
· Overseeing the implementation of our strategic plan
· Offering an external perspective and challenge
· Providing support to the staff and volunteers
Time Commitments for trustees:
· The board meets a minimum of five times a year, usually online and from 6.00pm-7.30pm
· There are sometimes ad-hoc meetings, but these will be agreed with the board separately
· Trustees are encouraged to attend the AGM and to help with outreach events from time to time
What we offer:
As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to help steer Planning Aid for London’s work and help to make the organisation even better. You will also meet other professionals from across the built environment who are committed to helping communities in London to participate meaningfully in the planning process.
Person Specification
Essential Skills
· Commitment to Planning Aid for London’s mission
· Ability to work with others and think creatively
· Willingness to attend meetings and undertake the actions that arise from them
Desirable Skills
· Experience of fundraising
· Experience of charity finance
· Previous experience as a trustee
· Experience working with community groups
· Experience of working in the built environment
Deadline: Thursday 10 October 2024
Diversity Statement
Planning Aid for London’s main aim is to help support greater diversity and inclusion in the planning system. We work to empower people to have real influence over decisions about their environment and communities and welcome opportunities from anyone who would like to help us to achieve that.
Planning Aid for London is aware that discrimination based on sex, race, ability, sexuality, class, gender, religion, age, maternity, parenthood or other characteristics can be consciously or subconsciously replicated in its undertakings and seeks to eliminate any form of discrimination in its activities. To achieve this Planning Aid for London regularly reviews and monitors its work and practices.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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.
Founded in 2010 in America, the It Gets Better Project has since grown into a global movement, with affiliated charities in 20 different countries. We launched in the UK in October 2018 and have grown significantly since then. Our rapidly expanding organisation now includes a newly appointed staff team consisting of a CEO and a Volunteer Coordinator, alongside a dedicated team of volunteers across the UK.
As we continue to grow, we are seeking dynamic and committed individuals to join our Board of Trustees. We are particularly looking for expertise in the following key areas:
Key areas of expertise and desired backgrounds
- Corporate Partnerships and Strategic Fundraising:
- Experience in securing and managing corporate partnerships, preferably within the charity sector. Knowledge of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and strategic fundraising initiatives that drive financial support and long-term relationships.
- Experience in securing and managing corporate partnerships, preferably within the charity sector. Knowledge of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and strategic fundraising initiatives that drive financial support and long-term relationships.
- Charity Law:
- Extensive knowledge of UK charity law, with experience in providing legal advice on governance, compliance, contracts, and safeguarding within a charitable context.
- Extensive knowledge of UK charity law, with experience in providing legal advice on governance, compliance, contracts, and safeguarding within a charitable context.
- Small Charity Growth and Development:
- Proven track record in leading or advising small charities through periods of growth. Expertise in strategic planning, resource management, volunteer engagement, and scaling operations sustainably.
- Proven track record in leading or advising small charities through periods of growth. Expertise in strategic planning, resource management, volunteer engagement, and scaling operations sustainably.
- Community Engagement and Advocacy:
- Deep understanding of the LGBTQ+ community, with experience in community organising, advocacy, or public engagement. Ability to build strong relationships with community stakeholders and effectively represent the charity’s mission.
Roles and responsibilities
As a trustee, you will play a critical role in guiding our strategic direction, ensuring good governance, and supporting the delivering of our mission. Your responsibilities will include:
- Strategic Oversight: Collaborate with fellow trustees and staff to develop and implement strategies that align with the charity’s goals and ensure its sustainable growth.
- Advisory Role: Provide expert advice in your area of expertise, whether that be corporate partnerships, legal matters, charity growth, or community engagement.
- Support and Advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting our work and engaging with key stakeholders to advance our mission.
- Operational Input: While our board is transitioning from an operational to a more strategic focus, trustees will still be expected to take on functional roles as needed, especially in areas where the charity requires additional support
Qualifications and skills
We are looking for individuals who are passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ youth and can bring the following skills and experience:
- Demonstrated commitment to advancing equality and inclusivity within the LGBTQ+ community.
- Relevant professional experience in one or more of the key areas listed above.
- Strong strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to high-level decision-making.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team.
- Willingness to dedicate time and expertise to the charity’s success.
Time commitment
- The Board meets at least four times a year.
- It is expected the trustees spent at least two hours a week on their duties.
- As we continue to transition our board to a more strategic focus, trustees may be asked to support operational tasks on an as-needed basis.
It Gets Better UK envisions a world where all LGBTQ+ youth are free to live equally and know their worthiness and power as individuals.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.
The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK. We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.
Who are the IMB?
We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month. Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings. Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government.
About the role
With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.
Why join us?
More than anything else, this is a rewarding opportunity that makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of prisoners, detainees and our wider society. Ministers are obliged to respond to the issues raised in your Board’s report. The environment may seem intimidating at first, but you will be fully supported through your training and accompanied during your visits until you feel ready to manage independently. This highly recognised and respected role could provide the experience that opens doors into other careers within the justice system.
Who are we looking for?
There is no one type of person who could be right for the IMB because it’s not about background or skillset. It’s about having the dedication and passion to ensure all people are being treated fairly. For that reason, we’re looking for individuals from all walks of life who will approach the role with no preconceptions. You will need to be willing to work within a challenging environment and have the confidence to report your findings to senior figures. Most importantly, you will be able to talk to people in a way that makes each prisoner or detainee feel respected and reassured.
Closing date for completed applications is 14 October 2024.
Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.
The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England and Wales, and at short term holding facilities across the UK. We are looking for people who live within approximately 30 miles (or one hour) of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.
Who are the IMB?
We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month. Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings. Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government.
About the role
With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.
Why join us?
More than anything else, this is a rewarding opportunity that makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of prisoners, detainees and our wider society. Ministers are obliged to respond to the issues raised in your Board’s report. The environment may seem intimidating at first, but you will be fully supported through your training and accompanied during your visits until you feel ready to manage independently. This highly recognised and respected role could provide the experience that opens doors into other careers within the justice system.
Who are we looking for?
There is no one type of person who could be right for the IMB because it’s not about background or skillset. It’s about having the dedication and passion to ensure all people are being treated fairly. For that reason, we’re looking for individuals from all walks of life who will approach the role with no preconceptions. You will need to be willing to work within a challenging environment and have the confidence to report your findings to senior figures. Most importantly, you will be able to talk to people in a way that makes each prisoner or detainee feel respected and reassured.
Closing date for completed applications is 14 October 2024.
Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to people in immigration detention and prisoners, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.
The IMB is recruiting for new members at numerous prisons and at immigration detention centres across England, Wales, and Scotland and at short term/residential holding facilities across the UK. We are looking for people who live within approximately 40 miles of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be slightly higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.
Who are the IMB?
We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month. Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings. Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government.
About the role
With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.
Why join us?
More than anything else, this is a rewarding opportunity that makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of prisoners, detainees and our wider society. Ministers are obliged to respond to the issues raised in your Board’s report. The environment may seem intimidating at first, but you will be fully supported through your training and accompanied during your visits until you feel ready to manage independently. This highly recognised and respected role could provide the experience that opens doors into other careers within the justice system.
Who are we looking for?
There is no one type of person who could be right for the IMB because it’s not about background or skillset. It’s about having the dedication and passion to ensure all people are being treated fairly. For that reason, we’re looking for individuals from all walks of life who will approach the role with no preconceptions. You will need to be willing to work within a challenging environment and have the confidence to report your findings to senior figures. Most importantly, you will be able to talk to people in a way that makes each prisoner or detainee feel respected and reassured.
Closing date for completed applications is 14 October 2024.
Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Job Description
Volunteer monitoring work with the IMB gives you the opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives. You will listen to prisoners and people in immigration detention, talk to staff and see for yourself what is actually happening behind the walls.
The IMB recruits regularly for new members at numerous prisons in London. We are looking for people who live within one hour of their closest establishment and can commit the time to make 2 to 3 visits per month, although this may be higher during the first year of training and this can be flexible depending on the needs of the Board and the individual. Please visit the IMB website for a full list of all locations we are recruiting to.
Who are the IMB?
We’re a group of ordinary members of the public, doing an extraordinary job. As a passionate, personable individual, you could join us in making a difference. In this unpaid role, you’ll volunteer your talent and time towards securing a decent day-to-day life for every prisoner and detainee. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors and an extensive training programme, you’ll commit to a flexible schedule of visits to a local establishment each month. Although this is an unpaid role, we pay travel and subsistence expenses, childcare or carer costs and, in certain circumstances, contributions towards loss of earnings. Your observations will have an impact as your Board reports its findings to Ministers in His Majesty’s Government.
About the role
With unrestricted access to these unique environments, you’ll gain a rare insight into all aspects of life in custody. Impartial and highly influential, you can decide what shape your visits should take. As an independent monitor, you may spend time in a specific part of the establishment and choose to have your conversations with prisoners or detainees out of sight or hearing of a member of staff. As well as keeping a close eye on daily operations, you’ll play a crucial role in dealing with problems that arise. This could be in response to a confidential request to see a member of the IMB, or to observe the management of the more serious incidents that occur.
Why join us?
More than anything else, this is a rewarding opportunity that makes a real and meaningful difference to the lives of prisoners, detainees and our wider society. Ministers are obliged to respond to the issues raised in your Board’s report. The environment may seem intimidating at first, but you will be fully supported through your training and accompanied during your visits until you feel ready to manage independently. This highly recognised and respected role could provide the experience that opens doors into other careers within the justice system.
Who are we looking for?
There is no one type of person who could be right for the IMB because it’s not about background or skillset. It’s about having the dedication and passion to ensure all people are being treated fairly. For that reason, we’re looking for individuals from all walks of life who will approach the role with no preconceptions. You will need to be willing to work within a challenging environment and have the confidence to report your findings to senior figures. Most importantly, you will be able to talk to people in a way that makes each prisoner or detainee feel respected and reassured.
Visit our website for more information and to complete the online application form.
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Charity Board Chair
- Location: UK & remote
- Commitment: Part-time/voluntary (approximately 2 days per month)
Are you interested in the power that sport can offer young people? Does Africa inspire you? Are you in a position to dedicate some of your time to a committed UK registered charity, to understand the nuanced challenges faced by those working in the third sector – such as raising funds and tackling inequality – and the challenges faced by the young boys, girls, coaches and staff we support in Malawi? Do you have the expertise to foster positive relationships with fellow Trustees and charity partners, all in a collective effort to align on the charity’s goals and use the charity’s platform to further the development of young people and communities in Malawi?
Do you embody these values: professionalism, respect, integrity, discipline and enjoyment?
About Bhubesi Pride Foundation
Bhubesi Pride Foundation, BPF, is a youth sport and supplementary education charity supporting communities in Africa, now focused on Malawi. Through non-contact rugby, netball and other sports, we help to empower young people, providing opportunities for education, leadership and community development.
Over the last 5+ years, and in the face of multi-faceted challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, BPF has made significant progress helping to develop several core programs in rural Lilongwe, involving boys and girls in youth sports and integrated life skills activities. To enable this, we’ve worked closely with BPF Malawi – the partner NGO we registered (in Lilongwe in 2017) – to assist with organisational strengthening, policy implementation, improved operational delivery, governance, strategy, data collection and impact assessments. Since early 2022, the NGO’s staffed team has increased from two to 11 (all Malawian), 50+ Malawian youth sports coaches have been trained and over 3,000 young people actively participate in locally-led programming. Alongside in-country stakeholders, we’ve facilitated the construction of a unique sports and education facility on a 7-acre site in rural Lilongwe, on land purchased by the NGO, which is being increasingly utilised by BPF Malawi. Alongside the NGO, we’ve expanded our reach, deepened our impact and we continue to champion sport as a vehicle for positive change.
Our experiences have taught us a lot of valuable lessons about the work we do and, crucially, about our duty to Malawian communities. Future goals include increasing our sustainability, improving governance practices and building long-term partnerships which allow BPF to make even more of an impact on the communities we serve. Strengthening the charity’s relationship with BPF Malawi is also a key focus for us over the next 5 years, enabling us all to fully understand, and respond to, Malawi’s core challenges, and paving a more sustainable road ahead.
Role overview
The Chair will lead BPF’s Board of Trustees, working closely with the Chief Executive to ensure the charity continues to deliver on its mission. This is a pivotal role at a strategically important time, for all connected to our work. You will therefore help BPF shape and refine its next strategy and ensure the Board contributes effectively by supporting the charity’s goals.
Key responsibilities
- Leadership: Provide leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that the charity delivers on its mission and strategic objectives.
- Governance: Ensure strong governance practices are in place, including compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Lead on setting high standards for the Board’s performance and engagement, and appoint new Trustees to bring additional value.
- Strategic planning: Work with the Chief Executive and Board to support the development and implementation of the charity’s next strategy (closely collaborating with, and supporting, BPF Malawi).
- Fundraising and partnerships: Play a key role in helping the charity build long-term partnerships and secure new funding for the charity’s future sustainability.
- Trustee development: Inspire, support and hold BPF’s Trustees accountable for their contributions, ensuring that the Board as a whole functions effectively.
- Advocacy: Act as an ambassador for BPF, raising awareness of our work and helping to grow our profile in the international development and business sectors.
Person specification
Essential:
- Collaborative and inclusive approach: A commitment to working collaboratively with the Board, CEO, staff/volunteers, key stakeholders (e.g. charity partners and BPF Malawi) to achieve shared goals; and an inclusive intent to see that marginalised and vulnerable youth, especially girls and young people with disabilities, are given fair and equal opportunities and rights.
- International development knowledge: Experience in international development, ideally in Africa, with an understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the sector.
- Accountability and high standards: A high level of personal integrity and a focus on holding others to the highest standards of governance, effectiveness and impact – embodying and promoting BPF’s core values.
- Governance expertise: Proven track record of good governance, including understanding the legal and financial responsibilities of a charity board, bringing an open approach to how governance practices can be strengthened.
Desirable:
- Third sector experience: Knowledge and/or experience of the charity sector, within sport for development, youth empowerment, education or international development.
How to apply
If you’re interested in applying for Bhubesi Pride Foundation’s Board Chair role, please send us your CV and a covering letter by Monday 14th October 2024.
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Actively Interviewing
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PFP is a UK-based charity working in Africa and Asia since 2004, and this year we are celebrating our 20th anniversary. Our Mission is to work together with local people and filmmakers to produce, distribute and show local language educational films that give help and hope to vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. Our latest activities have primarily focused on Malawi, Sierra Leone and Kenya.
Every PFP film seeks to bring about positive change by engaging audiences with themes, characters and subjects that address important challenges facing themselves and their communities.
- We commission, fund and manage film productions
- We train and mentor local film makers
- We partner with other organisations to produce media for their charitable objectives
- We organise film distribution and viewings and promote digital engagement
- We facilitate audience conversations to encourage deeper exploration of issues
- We measure the impact of our films to ensure continued improvement
We produce a range of media from short documentaries and music videos to full-length feature dramas. Our work covers a wide range of subjects, including: health, disability and rights; social prejudice and stigma; agriculture; and environment and conservation.
See our Annual Reports on our website for more information on our work and recent activities.
Primary responsibilities
- Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings and informal catch-ups.
- Work with the Trustees and Directors in developing and advancing PFP’s vision, mission, and strategic goals.
- Contribute to the effective governance of PFP, including: ensuring PFP is accountable and carrying out its purpose for public benefit; ensuring compliance with the governing document and applicable law; and challenging the management of resources and ensuring financial stability.
- Support executive management and partners on the design and delivery of programmes across all stages, including partner engagement, filmmaking and distribution, and monitoring and evaluation processes.
- Proactively seek fundraising opportunities.
- Act as an ambassador and public representative for PFP.
- Opportunity to further contribute to the activities of the charity as much as desired.