Volunteer roles

Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Branch Fundraiser?

As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.

Why do we need you?

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

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

SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity, and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

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

This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Be part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
• Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g., handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
• Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
• Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

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

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - fundraising workshops.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, fundraising guidance, and marketing materials
• Local Fundraising Coordinator
• Fundraising Manager (per region)
• Access to the Fundraising and Marketing teams based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face.
• Reliable attitude, staying connected the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events.

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

Minimum Age: 16

Please note: If you are under 18 you are not allowed by law to volunteer at a street collection, raffle or an event serving alcohol. If you are under 16, please contact us, you will need to volunteer with a parent or adult responsible for your safety.

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

Head of People and Culture - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Can you build a team and foster a culture of passion and purpose?

We need a pro bono Head of People and Culture to shape our organisation's most important asset: its people. You will be responsible for developing our recruitment strategy, building a strong volunteer team, and fostering a collaborative and supportive culture. If you are an experienced HR professional who believes in the power of a dedicated team, help us build a community that feels like a family.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Help us build the team that will build a better future.

Head of Delivery - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Are you a doer with a heart for people?

Unlock YOUR Potential needs a pro bono Head of Delivery to manage and scale our core programmes. You will be responsible for ensuring our mentoring and skills-training programmes are delivered with excellence, directly impacting the lives of our beneficiaries. If you have experience in programme management and are passionate about creating tangible, positive outcomes, this is your chance to lead from the front.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Lead the charge on the front lines of social change.

CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Can you craft a story that inspires a movement?

We are searching for a creative and strategic pro bono CMO to shape our brand and amplify our mission. You will be responsible for developing our marketing and communications strategy, engaging our community, and raising our profile across the UK. If you are a visionary marketer with a passion for social change, help us tell a story that changes lives.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Turn our mission into a message that resonates with the world.

CFO (Chief Financial Officer) - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Do you have a passion for purpose and a talent for numbers?

Unlock YOUR Potential is looking for a pro bono CFO to oversee our financial strategy and governance. Your expertise will be critical in managing our budget, securing funding, and ensuring every penny is used to maximize our impact. If you are a qualified financial professional with a strong ethical compass and a desire to contribute your skills to a meaningful cause, your leadership is what we need.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Invest your financial expertise in a mission that pays dividends in human potential.

COO (Chief Operating Officer) - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Are you an operational maestro who thrives on building systems that work?

We need a dedicated pro bono COO to build the operational backbone of Unlock YOUR Potential. You will be responsible for creating and scaling the processes that ensure our programmes run smoothly and efficiently. If you are a problem-solver with a knack for turning vision into reality and have a proven track record in operational leadership, join us and help create the engine that drives our impact.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Help us build a strong foundation for a brighter future.

CEO (Chief Executive Officer) - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Are you a visionary leader ready to build a movement from the ground up?

Unlock YOUR Potential is seeking an exceptional pro bono CEO to lead our mission to dismantle barriers to social mobility. We are looking for a strategic, inspiring, and hands-on leader to drive our growth, secure foundational partnerships, and bring our vision to life. This is more than a leadership role; it's a chance to build a legacy of change. If you have the passion, resilience, and executive experience to guide a start-up charity to success, we want to hear from you.

Welcome to Unlock YOUR Potential, a bold new start-up charity on a mission to transform lives and empower individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. As we prepare for our official charity registration, we are laying the groundwork for a movement that will redefine opportunity, inclusion, and personal growth.

Apply now and help us build a future where potential is never wasted.

Are you happy to get stuck in with loads of enthusiasm? Fundraisers here at Ickworth are a diverse bunch and through talks, 2nd hand books, internal events and much more we help towards the conservation of this special place 

 This role will suit you if you are:

• Someone who enjoys talking to members of the public and can engage in a meaningful conversation.
• Comfortable lone working at times, as well as working in a team.
• Up for a challenge and like to reach a target.
• A person that enjoys giving excellent service.
• Happy to volunteer on your own. However, someone will always be available to support.
• Confident building new relationships with people.

Tasks and responsibilities

• Helping grow awareness and support for local & national fundraising
• Understanding different needs and interests of people and inspiring them to give in a way that is right for them.
• Supporting in our bookshop by manning the space, rotating stock, tidying and pricing books while always providing a friendly and welcoming approach.
• Attending regular meetings and suggesting fundraising ideas/feedback so we can fulfil our fundraising plan.
• Using your particular skills in creative ways to raise funds
• Answering questions people may have about the National Trust and being able to explain where donations go and impact they make.
• Ensuring we follow fundraising guidance, regulations and best practice
• Supporting big fundraising campaigns or projects.
• Being part of a team that may need to adapt and change in response to local needs, National Trust priorities or changes to government guidelines 

By getting involved you could:

• Be part of a passionate team, working closely with staff across departments raising vital funds to protect Ickworth.
• Be making a direct impact in our fundraising spaces, such as bookshop or through programming.
• Help bring the work of the National Trust to life and inspire others to get involved
• Increase your fundraising skills and experience of different ways to fundraise 

You’d also be joining Europe’s largest conservation charity and the wider National Trust team proudly looking after 780 miles of coastline, over 250,000 hectares of land, over 500 historic houses, castles, ancient monuments, gardens, parks and nature reserves (including lighthouses, villages, pubs and a gold mine!). We are a unique charity welcoming millions of people each year and with a vision to open up places for the benefit of everyone, for ever. 

 All National Trust volunteers will be asked to

• Respect and uphold the National Trust values whilst volunteering with us.
• Complete training required of all NT volunteers and any role specific training
• Adhere to relevant policies and processes including safeguarding, health and safety, and equality and diversity. 

 We want all our volunteers to feel welcome and to have an equally positive experience when volunteering with us. So, volunteers will:

• Be provided with the necessary induction, training, equipment and reasonable adjustments to do this role well and safely
• Be offered expenses to cover agreed travel costs between home and place of volunteering.
• Have remote access to support, news and rotas via our volunteer website 

Skills acquired: Advice & Guidance, Communication Skills, Community Development, Customer Service, Decision Making, E-commerce, Event Support, Fundraising, General Administration, Interpersonal Skills, Inventory Management, Market Research, Marketing & Communications, Merchandising, Public Relations, Public Speaking, Retail, Sales Process, Stock / Inventory Management, Teamwork

What we're looking for

We're looking for enthusiastic, creative and organised people across the nation to be a Community Fundraising Volunteer. Around 90 per cent of our income comes from our supporters and we couldn't continue doing what we do without them. That means, our community fundraising volunteers play a really important part in rallying people together to raise vital funds which help to protect children and prevent abuse.

What you'll do

You'll volunteer without regular time commitments, ‘as and when' volunteering! Engage with the public, organisations and local communities – promoting a positive image of the NSPCC! You'll be a valued part of one of our Volunteer Community Fundraising Teams across the UK, raising awareness and funds. We appreciate that work, family and friends come first and, with that in mind, this role offers flexibility to fit in with your lifestyle. You only need to commit to a couple of hours a month, but if you want to do more that would be great.

What you'll get

We'll support you with advice, skills and tools to help you fundraise and spread the word of the NSPCC. You'll learn more about how you're helping to protect children across the UK, and you'll have the opportunity to grow your skills and inspire others to support us. It's also a chance to spend time with like-minded people and make new friends.

Who's right for the role?

While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experiences.

• Passionate about helping young people and children
• Enthusiastic and personable
• Strong organisational skills
• Able to think on your feet
• You work well within a team
• Great communication and social skills
   

We are currently unable to accept applications from under 18's to this role, please view our other volunteering opportunities.

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

Help give animals a voice – join our Public and Guardian Involvement and Engagement (PGIE) Group.

Do you want to help shape a fairer future for animals, where progress in medicine is equal, ethical, and compassionate?

We’re looking for passionate changemakers to join our Public and Guardian Involvement and Engagement (PGIE) Group as volunteer members. Whether you’re a professional (human clinician, vet, scientist, engineer, or bioethicist), an animal guardian, or simply someone who believes in equality for all species, then we’d love to hear from you.

What is PGIE?

In human healthcare, Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) has become a powerful way to make sure research meets real patient needs. At Humanimal Trust, we’re translating this idea into veterinary medicine through PGIE – bringing together patients (in our case animals, via their guardians), the public, and professionals, to develop best practices.

By joining, you’ll be helping to guide research, so it benefits both humans AND animals.

As a volunteer member, you’ll:

• Help shape an ethical framework for One Medicine, focusing on good practice in veterinary clinical trials and collaboration between human and veterinary medicine.
• Join virtual group meetings (around 6 per year, with at least 60% attendance expected).
• Share your ideas and perspectives to support our mission and influence real change.
• Work with others to build consensus on key issues.
• Support projects and campaigns that spread the message of One Medicine.
• Occasionally represent the group at meetings and events.

What you’ll bring:

• Good listening and communication skills.
• An open mind and respect for different perspectives.
• A real passion for making a difference.
• Enthusiasm for our mission to create a fairer, kinder future for all species.

What’s in it for you:

• Be part of something truly groundbreaking – PGIE is the first group of its kind.
• Play a direct role in giving animals a voice in medical progress.
• Help build stronger connections between humans and animals in the fight against disease.
• Be part of a supportive, inspiring community of people who care as much as you do.

While this is a voluntary role, we will do our best to cover any out-of-pocket expenses related to your involvement.

Together, we can make sure that all humans and animals benefit from equal and sustainable medical progress, but not at the expense of an animal’s life. This is One Medicine.

Job description:

We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria.

About the Role

The ePDP Programme Manager is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing the Enhanced Professional Development Programme (ePDP) and managing the ePDP Liaison. This position ensures the successful delivery of the ePDP, aligning it with organisational goals and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth. The Programme Manager will work closely with senior leadership, Heads of Department (HoDs), and the ePDP Liaison to design, implement, and refine the programme, ensuring it meets the needs of participants and the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Oversight of the ePDP

• Develop and execute the strategic vision for the ePDP, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
• Collaborate with the Director: HRBP, Legal, IT & ePDP to define programme goals, KPIs, and success metrics.
• Continuously evaluate and refine the programme to address emerging needs and industry trends.

2. Team Leadership & Management

• Manage and mentor the ePDP Liaison, providing guidance and support to ensure effective programme execution.
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture, encouraging innovation and accountability.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with Heads of Department (HoDs) and external partners to ensure programme relevance and impact.
• Act as the primary point of contact for senior stakeholders, providing regular updates on programme progress and outcomes.

4. Programme Design & Implementation

• Oversee the design and delivery of ePDP content, ensuring it meets the developmental needs of participants.
• Coordinate with internal and external facilitators to deliver high-quality training sessions, workshops, and resources.
• Ensure the integration of feedback from participants and stakeholders to enhance programme effectiveness.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Establish a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to track participant progress and programme impact.
• Analyse data to identify trends, challenges, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare comprehensive reports for senior leadership, highlighting achievements, challenges, and recommendations.

6. Communication & Advocacy

• Promote the ePDP across the organisation, ensuring high visibility and engagement.
• Develop communication strategies to highlight success stories and programme benefits.

Required Skills

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align the ePDP with organisational goals and adapt to changing priorities.
• Leadership & Team Management: Proven experience in leading and mentoring teams to achieve results.
• Stakeholder Management: Exceptional relationship-building skills to engage and influence senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Project Management: Strong organisational skills to manage complex programmes, budgets, and timelines.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Communication: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to articulate programme vision and outcomes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in programme management, learning and development, or a related field.
• Experience in designing and implementing professional development programmes.

Job Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Benefits:

• Work from home

Application question(s):

• Are you sure you can commit to this being a non-paid role?
• Can you commit to 16 weeks ?
• Do you have access to personal PC or laptop?

Work Location: Remote

The Volunteer Book Scheme Coordinator will be responsible for placing and maintaining book shelves in high-traffic public areas, like shopping centres or supermarkets. You will ensure that the bookshelves are stocked with quality books, regularly maintained, and that the collection tin for donations is emptied and managed. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a difference by promoting literacy, community engagement, and supporting the NSPCC's mission to protect children.

Main Duties and  Responsibilities:

• Book Shelf Placement:
  • Identify and arrange the placement of bookshelves in high-footfall areas such as local shops, libraries, community centers, or other public spaces.
  • Ensure they are easily accessible and visible to the public.
• Book Collection & Maintenance:
  • Regularly monitor and maintain the bookshelves, ensuring they are stocked with suitable, high-quality books.
• Donation Collection:
  • Empty and manage the collection tin on a regular basis.
  • Ensure that all donations are securely handled and delivered to the appropriate NSPCC accounts or locations.
  • Ensure the QR code is intact and clearly visible
• Engagement with Local Businesses & Organizations:
  • Build and maintain relationships with local businesses or organizations where bookshelves are placed, ensuring their continued support and involvement.
• Reporting:
  • Provide regular updates to the NSPCC team on the status of the book shelves, including the volume of books donated, amount of donations collected, and any logistical challenges faced.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to work independently.
• Friendly, approachable demeanor to engage with the public and local businesses.
• Attention to detail in managing books and donations.
• Proactive, with the ability to maintain the bookshelves in a clean and orderly condition.
• Comfortable handling small amounts of cash and ensuring secure donation processes.
• A genuine passion for the NSPCC's mission and promoting literacy and child protection.
• Previous volunteer or community outreach experience is a plus, but not essential.

Benefits:

• Contribute to promoting literacy and education within your community while supporting NSPCC's work with children.
• Flexible role with opportunities to meet new people and engage with local businesses.
• Develop skills in volunteer coordination, community engagement, and logistics.
• Training and support from the NSPCC team.
• Be part of a dedicated and passionate team working to make a difference in children's lives.

Time Commitment:

Flexible based on your availability. The role requires regular checks on the bookshelves and the collection tin, with the frequency depending on the specific location and the volume of donations.

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, engage with your community, and help support children's well-being.

If you have a passion for books, education, and helping others, we'd love to hear from you!

About the Role:

As a Community Fundraising Organiser, you will be responsible to putting on a minimum of two events in your local area to help raise awareness and funds for the crucial work we do at the NSPCC.

You can use your personal passions and interests to set up any event that interests you (within reason). This could be a challenge event – like a sunrise walk, a monthly club – like a running or book club or anything else. The flexibility is really there – if you are struggling with ideas, a Community Fundraising Manager will be there to help you along the way! 

This role offers a unique opportunity to turn your passion or interest into something that helps fund the fight to end cruelty to children.

Main Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Organize and manage fundraising events in your local area, such as charity challenges, social clubs, or awareness campaigns.
• Use your creativity to design events that engage your community and align with your personal interests, whether it's a sunrise walk, a running or book club, or any other fun and impactful activity.
• Promote NSPCC's mission and work, educating your community on the importance of protecting children and supporting the fight to end cruelty to children.
• Collaborate with the NSPCC fundraising team for guidance, resources, and support to ensure your event's success.
• Foster relationships within your local community to encourage long-term support for NSPCC's cause.

Skills & Qualifications:

While no specific qualifications are required, the following skills and attributes will help you succeed in this role:

• Passion for the Cause: A genuine interest in the NSPCC's mission to end cruelty to children and a commitment to raising awareness in your community.
• Event Planning and Organization: Ability to plan, coordinate, and manage community events, ensuring they run smoothly and are enjoyable for participants.
• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to promote your events, engage with potential participants, and build relationships with local supporters.
• Creativity: A willingness to think outside the box and come up with fun and innovative fundraising ideas that will attract attention and inspire others to get involved.
• Leadership and Teamwork: Ability to lead your own projects while working collaboratively with the NSPCC team and local supporters.
• Time Management: Effective time management skills to balance your volunteering responsibilities with other commitments and ensure deadlines are met.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to handle various tasks and adapt to changes or challenges that may arise during the planning or execution of events.
• Basic Marketing and Promotion: Familiarity with social media or other promotional methods to spread the word about your events and drive participation.

Previous fundraising or volunteer experience is helpful but not essential. Most importantly, a passion for making a difference in the lives of children is key to success in this role.

Benefits 

• A unique opportunity to turn your passions into meaningful fundraising efforts that help protect children.
• Flexible role with opportunities to meet new people and engage with local businesses and communities.
• Personal growth through organizing and leading events, gaining valuable skills in project management, communication, and community engagement.
• Training and support from the NSPCC team.
• Be part of a dedicated and passionate team working to make a difference in children's lives.

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause, engage with your community, and help support children's well-being. If you have a passion for the NSPCC and taking on an exciting opportunity, we'd love to hear from you! 

What we're looking for

We're looking for enthusiastic, creative and organised people across the nation to be a Community Fundraising Volunteer. Around 90 per cent of our income comes from our supporters and we couldn't continue doing what we do without them. That means, our community fundraising volunteers play a really important part in rallying people together to raise vital funds which help to protect children and prevent abuse.

What you'll do

You'll volunteer without regular time commitments, ‘as and when' volunteering! Engage with the public, organisations and local communities – promoting a positive image of the NSPCC! You'll be a valued part of one of our Volunteer Community Fundraising Teams across the UK, raising awareness and funds. We appreciate that work, family and friends come first and, with that in mind, this role offers flexibility to fit in with your lifestyle. You only need to commit to a couple of hours a month, but if you want to do more that would be great.

What you'll get

We'll support you with advice, skills and tools to help you fundraise and spread the word of the NSPCC. You'll learn more about how you're helping to protect children across the UK, and you'll have the opportunity to grow your skills and inspire others to support us. It's also a chance to spend time with like-minded people and make new friends.

Who's right for the role?

While we think this role is suitable for a whole range of people, we are particularly looking for those with the following qualities and experiences.

• Passionate about helping young people and children
• Enthusiastic and personable
• Strong organisational skills
• Able to think on your feet
• You work well within a team
• Great communication and social skills
   

We are currently unable to accept applications from under 18's to this role.

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.