Christian volunteer volunteer roles

Join the Savio House Retreat Team 2026-27, and work with young people at our Youth Retreat Centre at Bollington, Cheshire.

Why Savio House? Well, wouldn't you love to …

• • Live in a Christian community that works for young people
  • Wake up each day in a fantastic location in the Pennine hills
  • Develop skills in working with young people
  • Develop team working skills alongside qualified leaders
  • Develop valuable planning and leadership skills
  • Learn to create totally new resources
  • Get free training in first aid, food hygiene, fire prevention training, health and safety etc.
  • Explore accreditation paths towards a future career working with young people
  • Search out the answers to some of your deeper life questions
  • Join a world-wide Salesian network of youth workers
  • Receive a weekly allowance
  • Have all food, accommodation and laundry provided
  • Enjoy national conferences/events and meet up with other volunteers
  • Have regular mentoring and support through the whole year- September- July

Job description - Main duties and responsibilities:

• Live in Roman Catholic religious community

• Share faith with hundreds of young people on retreat

• Assist to lead and organise Salesian retreats

• Work as a team to enhance the retreat experience for those who attend

Skills, qualifications and experience needed for the job:

Mandatory:

• Must be 18 or over

• Be able to communicate in English

• Must be willing to provide police check and 2 character references

Desirable:

• Experience of working with young people

• Experience of working within a Salesian or parish setting, or be willing to participate with one of our provinces outside of the UK

Summary

Could you combine nursing skills, compassion and faith to offer care in body, mind and spirit?
Could you support people experiencing homelessness?

Detailed description

You could be part of our exciting pilot project as a volunteer Parish Nurse offering life-transforming whole-person healthcare, working alongside Chaplains, Complex Needs and Housing Support Workers.

 As a YMCA Parish Nurse you would:

• Help service users identify issues and self-manage their wellbeing so they flourish in body, mind and spirit. This might be 1:2:1 or in a group setting.
• Signpost, support, and provide information and reassurance enabling service users to access NHS and other professional or community support as well as internal support from YMCA colleagues and projects.
• Offer spiritual care from a Christian perspective, such as prayer or acts of worship
• Be instrumental in supporting the project develop in this pilot phase

Training for this role is provided by PNMUK as part of their on-going programme of support and personal development for Parish Nursing nationally. The next course is 15-17th November with follow-up online sessions.

This project is being developed and lead by One YMCA’s Chaplaincy Team, together with our Medium Complex Intensive Support Service (MCISS) and supported by Parish Nursing Ministries UK (PNMUK).

The Chaplaincy Team offer life-transforming spiritual care and pastoral support. For us Chaplaincy is about journeying with people, inspired by the life, example and teaching of Jesus. Our vision for Chaplaincy is to see even more of our service users and staff thriving through experiencing the love of God for themselves. Following a re-shaping of our work, Chaplaincy is now part of the newly formed Christian Mission team, which is at the heart of this growing charity. 

YMCA enables people to develop their full potential in mind, body and spirit. Inspired by and faithful to our Christian values, we create supportive, inclusive, and energising communities where young people can truly belong, contribute, and thrive.

What volunteers need�� Disclosure and Barring Service

What we will provide to volunteers

�� Reimbursement of costs�� Extra support

Tools With A Mission, a Christian charity, is looking for a volunteer Van Coordinator to help organise and support the smooth running of our van collections across Northern England.

Our vans play a vital role in collecting and transporting donated tools from the public, which are refurbished and sent overseas to support livelihoods and transform communities.

This is a voluntary position, ideal for an organised and reliable individual who wants to make a meaningful contribution to a charity making a global impact.

We are looking for Welcome volunteers to staff the welcome desk and be first point of contact for our visitors. Our volunteers play an important and valuable role in our cathedral community. Volunteering  can be a wonderful way to find a sense of purpose and belonging. You can use your skills, build your confidence and develop as part of a supportive and caring team. You’ll have the opportunity to work in an exciting and vibrant place of Christian worship, surrounded by beautiful architecture and our world-famous stained-glass windows.

Our volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and each person has their own reasons for wanting to volunteer. We welcome applications from anyone interested in being a part of what we do, and will work with you to ensure that your volunteering experience is as inclusive and accessible as possible.

Our volunteers need to be sympathetic to our vision, mission and values, but you do not need to be a Christian to join our team.

Tasks include: 

· To greet visitors entering the cathedral and offer a first-class welcome

· To open positive conversations and demonstrate the welcoming nature of the cathedral

· To provide information and signpost as requested by the visitor, details and basic history of the cathedral, location of toilets etc.

DBS Check and Training to be completed / provided:

• Basic DBS check
• Basic Awareness and Foundation level safeguarding training.
• ACT Counter Terrorism training.
• In-house additional training as required.

Ensuring the safety of everyone who comes into the cathedral is Birmingham Cathedral Chapter’s highest priority. All volunteers must also complete our Safeguarding training before they can start working with us.

What this volunteering opportunity will provide you with:

• Knowledge of the international significance of the windows, the artists Edward Burne-Jones and William Morris and their links to Birmingham.
• Experience working with people from a diverse range of backgrounds.
• Insight into the workings of the cathedral, and experience working in a sacred building and place of faith.
• The opportunity to practice speaking in various foreign languages dependent on the nationality of visitors you encounter.
• Opportunities to volunteer in further roles in the cathedral team.
• Experience working alongside a team of skilled and knowledgeable individuals both clergy and non-clergy
• Safeguarding and ACT training (this is a requirement)

Depending on the nature of the volunteering role you undertake with us, we may need to carry out an Enhanced Disclosure in accordance with the Disclosure and Barring Service Rules.

All information provided by volunteers with be held in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation within the Data Protection Act 2018.

Holyport C of E Primary School is seeking to appoint governors who have a particular focus on maintaining the Christian ethos of the school and to play an active role in the strategic direction of the school, which is part of the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust.

Volunteering as a governor provides the opportunity to contribute to the local community. In return, we can offer the chance to:

· develop leadership and networking skills;

· support a local school and its wider community;

· work as part of a team who are passionate about providing the best possible opportunities for children and young people.

Holyport's governing body meet up to 6 times a year, and governors also attend committee meetings and can take on specific areas of responsibility. No previous experience or involvement in a school setting is necessary, and training would be available, at both school and trust level.

The school’s vision is to provide an inclusive and quality learning environment that bases relationships on Christian values. The curriculum is rooted in the vision of ‘life in all its fullness’ and is designed to equip children to be curious and confident independent learners but also active, healthy, responsible and caring citizens in their community. 

If you are interested in finding out more about the role please contact our Chair of Governors, Paul Mew, using the contact details on the school's website.

Our management committee has succession needs. We seek a trustee to chair it and build on our strong heritage and renew for the next generation, a people-person who can attract and develop a team of custodians with diverse skills to give management oversight and strategic direction.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for someone who will enjoy being part of our community and who has the drive to help renew and guide the work at our Dorset retreat centre.

Our Dorset centre has recently undergone very successful updating of some of the facilities. We have a loyal visitor base who respond generously to appeals for donations.  We are looking to recruit a Trustee who can join a team of people with varied expertise to make steady and sustained progress to ensure that this much loved centre, with 100 years of history is a treasured resource for the next generation.

Our vision is to be a place for both environmental awareness and inclusive Christian theology, experienced by the way we live, the programme of events that we hold and how we run and renew the buildings and land; practical hope in action.

The charity is well governed with Trustees taking responsibility for the finances, health & safety and safeguarding. We have good accountancy support and our financial reserves are adequate.

As Chair of the Centre Management Committee you have responsibility for the Burton Bradstock  centre but also as a Trustee of the whole charity with providing strategic direction of the whole charity.

The Centre Management Committee meets 2x in person at the centre each year and overnight accommodation is available.  The whole board of Trustees meet online quarterly (a weekday evening 1.5 hours) and have two residential weekend meetings per year, one at each centre (Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex and Burton Bradstock, Dorset). The charity covers all out-of-pocket expenses.

What are we looking for?

Most importantly the energy, time and enthusiasm to support the flourishing of the Retreat Centre; after that then one or more of the following would be helpful:

• Line management experience
• Working within Charity Commission guidelines
• Operational or facilities management experience
• Previous Trustee experience or similar (nice but not a requirement)

A fuller description of the role is provided in the accompanying PDF.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of the the Centre Management Committee you will support and shape the ongoing development of staff and operations of the retreat centre.

Our guests value the experience of inclusive community, spirituality, and practical creativity joining retreats, workshops, family holidays and a range of other events. We pursue a vision of openness and inclusion, for people of all faiths and none, affirming mutual respect and understanding.

People of all ages come to Othona to be themselves, valued for who they are. They find support through difficult times e.g. bereavement, family breakdown, ill health, find a new direction, feel restored. This experience of community, affirms people and contributes to social re-connection while at Othona and back home. People make friendships at Othona that last for years.

Before you apply

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Interested applicants please message us via REACH.  Application is by letter accompanied by a CV.  Shortlisted candidates will be invited to visit the Retreat Centre. Interview will be by 2 Trustees. References will be required, as will a basic level DBS check, a declaration that you have not been barred from becoming a Trustee or Director. A role description is attached.

Perinatal Support Volunteers provide one-to-one support to parents during pregnancy and up to nine months after the birth. These parents either have mental health issues or are at risk of developing them.

Perinatal Support Volunteers visit these families once a week (usually weekdays during working hours) for 2-3 hours, providing emotional support and practical help in the family’s home or local community. Support is aimed at empowering parents and building resilience beyond the support period.

The type of support Perinatal Support Volunteers provide to parents may include:

• An empathetic and non-judgemental listening ear
• Support to prepare for parenthood
• Support to build confidence in parenting skills
• Support to develop a positive relationship with their infant
• Support to establish daily and weekly routines
• Support to take time for self-care
• Support to manage the things that are causing stress
• Support to access relevant services
• Support to access local green spaces
• Support to make connections with other parents

No special qualifications are necessary to become a Perinatal Support Volunteer, but Home-Start volunteers are usually either parents or grandparents themselves, or people with experience of young children and family life. We particularly welcome volunteers with lived experience of perinatal mental health challenges.

The Cathedral Safeguarding Committee acts as ‘critical friend’ and provides constructive challenge to the Chapter of Worcester Cathedral regarding the safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults. Its role is to support Chapter in meeting their safeguarding obligations for the Cathedral and its activities, including safer recruitment, and to provide assurance to Chapter that the Cathedral’s safeguarding arrangements are fit for purpose.

The duties and responsibilities of the Safeguarding Committee are laid down in the Safeguarding Committee Terms of Reference.

Responsibilities

• to provide independent perspectives on safeguarding policy and practice at Worcester Cathedral.
• to work with the chair and Cathedral staff to ensure that the Cathedral’s safeguarding functions are being carried out effectively.
• to offer support and challenge to executive members of the committee to ensure the centrality of a robust safeguarding culture in the Cathedral’s mission and its operations.
• to take a full part in Safeguarding Committee meetings and in agreeing and monitoring of strategic and operational plans to ensure effective performance and achievement of national standards.

Commitment 

Meetings: The Safeguarding Committee meets formally 4 times per year (usually during the daytime, although times may vary). The duration of meetings is a maximum of two hours.

Papers are received in advance and all members of the Safeguarding Committee are expected to have read the papers and be prepared to contribute as needed to discussion.

Expenses can be claimed for attendance at meetings or carrying out functions on behalf of the Committee.

Qualifications, knowledge and experience

Essential

1. Recent, direct and extensive professional safeguarding experience and expertise at a senior level in a relevant statutory, voluntary or judicial agency (for example Local Authority Children and Adult Service, Police, National Children’s Charity).
2. A willingness to promote and represent as needed the work of the Safeguarding Committee in the Cathedral and outside.

Desirable

1. Experience of child or adult safeguarding in a church / faith context.
2. Experience of case reviews, risk management and engagement and leadership of strategic partnerships.

Skills, competencies and abilities

Essential

1. Experience of analysing complex situations and advising appropriately.
2. Experience of working constructively with a wide range of parties, including staff in the statutory and voluntary sectors.
3. Experience of dealing sensitively and appropriately with confidential information.

Personal Qualities

Essential

1. A strong commitment to safeguarding as an essential part of the Cathedral’s work.
2. To be supportive of the mission and ministry of the Church of England and the vision and values of Worcester Cathedral. This does not mean that attendance at or membership of any Church of England worshipping community is required.

Candidates need not meet all of the person specification criteria to apply. However, there is an expectation that all candidates will be able to demonstrate suitable knowledge and experience

Are you a parent, grandparent or have experience of caring for children?

Do you have 2-3 hours per week to spare? Use your experience to support a family facing challenging times.

Our Home-Visiting Service supports families who are experiencing difficulties or suffering stress and who have at least one child under the age of five years.

Our aims are:

To increase the confidence and independence of the family by:

Offering support, friendship and practical assistance

Visiting families in their own homes and in their community, where the dignity and identity of each adult and child can be respected and protected

Reassuring parents that difficulties in bringing up children is not unusual and encouraging them to enjoy family life.

Developing a relationship with the family in which time can be shared and understanding can be developed. This approach is flexible to take account of different needs.

Encouraging parents’ strengths and emotional wellbeing – for the ultimate benefit of their children.

Encouraging families to widen their network of relationships, and to effectively use the support and services available within the community.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Role Title: Charity Youth Volunteer Worker
Organisation: Morning Star International Church (MSIC)
Location: Croydon, United Kingdom
Compensation: Voluntary (no salary). Reasonable accommodation and subsistence support may be provided in accordance with charity guidelines.

ABOUT MORNING STAR INTERNATIONAL CHURCH (MSIC)

Morning Star International Church (MSIC) is a Christ-centred Pentecostal church based in Croydon, United Kingdom. The church serves a diverse, multi-ethnic and multi-generational congregation and is committed to sharing the love of Christ through worship, discipleship, community outreach, and pastoral support.

As part of our charitable mission, the church provides programmes that encourage spiritual growth, youth engagement, and community support.

Morning Star International Church is seeking Charity Youth Volunteer Workers who feel called to support the ministry’s day-to-day activities and assist in youth-focused programmes on a temporary voluntary basis.

SUMMARY OF ROLE

The Charity Youth Volunteer Worker will support the ministry by assisting with non-pastoral, non-salaried, and supportive duties within the church.

Working under the supervision of the ministry leadership team, the volunteer will assist with youth activities and help facilitate a welcoming and supportive environment during church programmes and events.

This role is designed to support the charitable objectives of the church while providing the volunteer with meaningful experience in ministry and community service.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Charity Youth Volunteer Worker will support the church through the following voluntary activities:

• Helping create a warm, welcoming, and inclusive environment for young people attending church programmes.
• Supporting youth during group discussions, activities, and fellowship sessions.
• Assisting in organising and preparing youth meetings, events, and church gatherings.
• Encouraging participation and engagement among young attendees.
• Providing general support to church leaders and volunteers during services and ministry activities.
• Assisting with practical arrangements during church gatherings to ensure a smooth and positive experience for attendees.

All duties will be carried out under supervision of the church leadership team.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Attributes

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A genuine heart to serve others with humility and dedication.
• A personal commitment to the Christian faith and the mission of the church.
• Willingness to work collaboratively as part of a team and under supervision.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• A flexible and adaptable approach to volunteering.

Desirable Attributes

The following qualities would be advantageous:

• Previous experience in church, ministry, or community volunteering.
• Familiarity with Pentecostal worship practices.
• Ability to communicate effectively in English (spoken and written).
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity to diverse backgrounds.
• Knowledge of additional languages (e.g., Swahili) would be an asset.

Important Notes

• This is a voluntary position and does not constitute employment.
• No salary or wages will be paid.
• The role is intended to support the charitable and religious objectives of Morning Star International Church.
• Volunteers may receive reasonable accommodation or subsistence support, where applicable, in line with charity regulations and policies.
• All volunteers are expected to adhere to the church’s safeguarding policies and code of conduct.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Interested applicants should submit the following documents:

• A current CV
• A cover letter outlining their interest in the role and availability
• Two references (preferably from church or ministry leaders)

Please include the following reference code in your application:

Reference Code: MSIC/CYW26

Position Title: Treasurer Trustee

Location: Hope Nottingham CIO

Reports To: Board of Trustees

Term: 3 year term up to a maximum of 3 terms

Time Commitment: Bi-monthly evening Board Meetings in Beeston, Nottingham. Monthly review of financial reports, ongoing auditing through spot checks. Bi-monthly finance sub committee meetings, can be online or in person in day or evening to suit the right candidate.

Hope Nottingham began as a small drop-in café, with a dozen volunteers in 2010. It has now grown to encompass 2 community hubs, a network of foodbanks, with eleven staff and 350+ volunteers. We support communities across Nottingham, seeking to offer holistic and life changing support to thousands of people. We hold the East & West Nottingham Trussell franchise and partner with many churches and organisations such as Citizens Advice.

If you are looking to make a real difference in your community, this could be the opportunity for you! Now in our 15th year, Hope Nottingham seeks a new Treasurer.  With the other Trustees, you will be responsible for our overall governance, strategic direction, and our financial health and activities. Whether you are an experienced Trustee, or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we are particularly keen to recruit members of the local community with financial skills.  We have a strong Senior Leadership team, are in a good position financially and have recently invested in an external independent financial review, with the need for a Treasurer being the main recommendation. Could you be the right person to join our team?  We are a Christian charity but welcome those of all faiths or none, we just ask that you will uphold our Christian values. We are also always looking to increase the diversity of our board.

Overview of role

The Treasurer is a key member of the Board of Trustees. In addition to their general trustee duties, they are responsible for overseeing the financial governance and health of the charity. This includes ensuring (via auditing and review) that the charity's finances are well-managed, transparent, and in compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. The Treasurer works closely with the Chief Executive Officer, and other members of the Board to ensure sound financial planning, risk management, and reporting. The Treasurer also leads the Finance Committee and reports to the trustees on all financial aspects of Hope.

Key Responsibilities (with specific tasks highlighted in italics)

1. Financial Oversight and Governance

• Ensure the charity has appropriate financial policies and procedures in place to safeguard its financial resources.Review the financial controls policy and manual at least annually
• Keep the Board informed of its financial duties and responsibilities
• Provide leadership in setting and maintaining high standards of financial governance and accountability.
• Ensure the charity operates within its budget and is managing resources efficiently, while safeguarding its long-term financial sustainability. Review of monthly financial reports with the CEO before the Finance Committee meeting.
• Act as a bank signatory and oversee banking procedures  Authorise payments as required, review bank reconciliations and approve mandate changes

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

• Oversee and approve the annual budgeting process, ensuring that financial planning supports the charity’s strategic goals. Review and input into annual draft budget with CEO and finance committee members
• Provide advice and guidance to the Board on financial matters, helping trustees to understand financial reports and implications of financial decisions. Input into finance sub-committee meeting and report back to Board
• Review and approve the budget and financial forecasts, ensuring they align with the charity’s priorities and objectives and financial position. Review performance against budget through the year via monthly financial reports

3. Financial Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of regular financial reports ensuring they are accurate, timely, and in line with the charity’s financial policy.  Review financial reports presented by CEO before discussing at the Finance Committee meeting and presenting a summary report to the trustees
• Present financial updates to the Board of Trustees, highlighting any concerns or issues that need attention.

4. Audit and Compliance

• Monitor cash flow, income, and expenditure, ensuring that the charity remains financially solvent and sustainable.
• Oversee Quick Books access  Treasurer has administrator level access and approves users and their access
• Oversee bank reconciliationsCEO completes reconciliation after end of month and informs Treasurer for their sign off
• Oversee the payroll process to ensure staff payments, PAYE and pension are processed and reported as required CEO will report by exception as payments generally do not change save for contract or pay change, minimal overtime. Treasurer has access to BrightPay and TPT Pension portal and can view any documents there.  
• Oversee the annual audit process, liaising with external auditors when required and ensuring the charity’s financial statements are audited in a timely and accurate manner.  A shared mailbox is used for all audit communications to keep Finance Committee in loop of any queries. Any meeting with auditor, Treasurer to attend.
• Review the audited financial statements for accuracy and recommend their approval to the Board at the Annual General Meeting. Draw attention to important points in an easily understandable way and sign off when audit is completed by the external auditors
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations, including charity law, tax law, and Charity SORP financial reporting standards, including charity accounts being kept up to date on Charities Commission website. Review and keep up to date with Charity SORP requirements

5. Risk Management

• Identify financial risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.Review Financial risks on risk register quarterly and as part of finance sub committee
• Ensure that the charity has appropriate insurance and other safeguards in place to protect its assets. Review insurance requirements with the CEO a month before renewal date to ensure we have adequate cover in place and to obtain alternative quotes if appropriate
• Advise the Board on the management of financial risks and any significant financial challenges facing the charity.
• Review any substantial or complex grant terms

6. Fundraising and Income Generation

• Input into and provide financial oversight of fundraising activities and income generation strategies, ensuring they align with the charity’s financial goals. Input into and review fundraising strategy and review effectiveness on quarterly basis
• Advise on the viability of fundraising campaigns and the allocation of resources to maximise financial returns. 
• Assist in ensuring that fundraising activities comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

7. Financial Strategy and Sustainability

• Contribute to the long-term financial strategy of the charity, helping to ensure its financial sustainability.
• Ensure the charity has an appropriate reserves policy Review reserves policy and reserves calculation annually
• Advise on diversification of income streams and opportunities to strengthen the charity’s financial position. Review income streams quarterly to highlight opportunities or risks e.g. individual / corporate / grants
• Help develop investment strategies and manage assets in line with the charity’s financial objectives, legal responsibilities and values. Review bank interest rates annually. CEO to notify on changes to interest rates or bank charges as received

8. Chair the Finance Sub-Committee

• Act as the Chair of the Finance Sub-Committee, leading agenda, discussions and decision-making on financial matters. A pre-meeting with the CEO and treasurer is required so fully informed in advance of committee meeting.
• Ensure that the Finance Sub-Committee operates effectively, reporting regularly to the full Board.

About the role:

We are currently seeking qualified, women solicitor, barrister and qualified legal executive volunteers to provide legal advice on our Sexual Harassment at Work (Employment Law) advice line. All volunteering is done remotely and you must be qualified to practice in England and Wales.

What will you be doing?

Our free telephone advice line provides vital legal advice for women experiencing sexual harassment at work, supported by legal advisors with experience in employment, discrimination and harassment law. We offer a safe space for women to talk about their situation and receive expert legal advice to enable them to make important decisions about their future.

We ask all our volunteers to:

• Provide advice on our advice lines for one 2-hour session a month (minimum);
• Attend the induction training session provided by Rights of Women;
• Give clear and accurate legal advice to callers;
• Be non-judgemental and non-discriminatory in their approach;
• Follow our procedures for making records of calls and obtaining monitoring information;
• Keep up to date with the law for the relevant advice lines;
• Attend all agreed advice line sessions (remotely);
• Inform us as soon as possible if they are unable to attend an agreed session;
• Abide by Rights of Women’s procedures, standards and policies, including equal opportunities and confidentiality in relation to staff, volunteers and users.

What are we looking for?

The qualifications and skills we look for in a volunteer are:

• A woman solicitor, barrister or CILEx member;
• A current practicing certificate;
• Ability to work remotely with adequate internet access and a private space;
• Good communication skills;
• The ability to deliver advice clearly and calmly;
• An empathetic, non-judgemental and non-discriminatory manner;
• A working knowledge of the relevant area of law for their advice line;
• Commitment to equal opportunities;
• Commitment to the aims and objectives of Rights of Women.

A feminist percpective on the law and the issues we advise on is essential.

About Rights of Women

Rights of Women’s vision is to achieve equality, justice and safety in the law for all women. 2025 saw our 50th anniversary!

Our mission is to advise, educate and empower women by:

• Providing women with free, confidential legal advice by specialist women solicitors and barristers
• Enabling women to understand and benefit from their legal rights through accessible and timely publications and training
• Campaigning to ensure that women’s voices are heard and law and policy meets all women’s needs.

What difference will you make?
For decades, our volunteers have been at the heart of Rights of Women’s advice lines. They provide trusted legal guidance, compassionate support and reassurance to women navigating complex and distressing legal situations, often during some of the most difficult periods of their working and family lives.

“I have been a volunteer with Rights of Women since September 2003, which possibly makes me one of the longest-serving telephone advisors on the evening helpline; in a way this speaks for itself! The helpline is an indispensable service and many women have told me that they consider it a lifeline.”

“Dealing with the legal system is often a source of great anxiety, uncertainty and confusion. I have spoken with many women in very difficult situations. It is important that they know that we are here for the and it is rewarding to help.”

– anonymous volunteers

We need the support of a Board Secretary, an important role that helps keep trustees on top of our meetings and deliverables throughout the Othona year. 

What will you be doing?

The role of the Othona Community Board Secretary is to administer the Trustee meetings,

• Take and manage the Trustee/Director Meeting minutes

• Ensure essential Board and organisational records are maintained and filed without our Cloud Storage

• Support the chair and all members of the Board in fulfilling their statutory and other duties

• Informally the Board Secretary acts as the ‘memory’ of the Board

Our Christian Community was established in 1946 and has two retreat centres on the coasts of Dorset and Essex.  We are open to those of all faiths and none and our daily life follows a pattern of work worship study and play

What are we looking for?

1. UK based
2. Experience with word processing and spreadsheets
3. Some experience organising meetings
4. Experience of the charity sector
5. Experience with office and administration management

What difference will you make?

We have a diverse board of trustees with differing skills and experience.  The board secretary role places you firmly in the middle helping to coordinate the running of the charity.  As a trustee you are party to all discussions on all issues with a vote on all matters of substance

Before you apply

Please send a short CV and a brief summary of why you would like to become a trustee and board secretary for The Othona Community.

About the role:

We are currently seeking qualified, women solicitor, barrister and qualified legal executive volunteers to provide legal advice on our Family Law advice line. All volunteering is done remotely and you must be qualified to practice in England and Wales.

What will you be doing?

We offer a safe space for women to talk about their situation and receive expert legal advice to enable them to make important decisions about their future.

For 50 years our free telephone advice lines have provided vital legal advice for women experiencing  domestic abuse on issues such as protective orders,  child arrangements, finances and divorce or separation.

We ask all our volunteers to:

• Provide advice on our advice lines for one 2-hour session a month (minimum);
• Attend the induction training session provided by Rights of Women;
• Give clear and accurate legal advice to callers;
• Be non-judgemental and non-discriminatory in their approach;
• Follow our procedures for making records of calls and obtaining monitoring information;
• Keep up to date with the law for the relevant advice lines;
• Attend all agreed advice line sessions (remotely);
• Inform us as soon as possible if they are unable to attend an agreed session;
• Abide by Rights of Women’s procedures, standards and policies, including equal opportunities and confidentiality in relation to staff, volunteers and users.

What are we looking for?
The qualifications and skills we look for in a volunteer are:

• A woman solicitor, barrister or CILEx member;
• A current practicing certificate;
• Ability to work remotely with adequate internet access and a private space;
• Good communication skills;
• The ability to deliver advice clearly and calmly;
• An empathetic, non-judgemental and non-discriminatory manner;
• A working knowledge of the relevant area of law for their advice line;
• Commitment to equal opportunities;
• Commitment to the aims and objectives of Rights of Women.

A feminist perspective on the law and the issues we advise on is essential.

About Rights of Women

Rights of Women’s vision is to achieve equality, justice and safety in the law for all women. 2025 saw our 50th anniversary!

Our mission is to advise, educate and empower women by:

• Providing women with free, confidential legal advice by specialist women solicitors and barristers
• Enabling women to understand and benefit from their legal rights through accessible and timely publications and training
• Campaigning to ensure that women’s voices are heard and law and policy meets all women’s needs.

What difference will you make?
For decades, our volunteers have been at the heart of Rights of Women’s advice lines. They provide trusted legal guidance, compassionate support and reassurance to women navigating complex and distressing legal situations, often during some of the most difficult periods of their working and family lives.

“I have been a volunteer with Rights of Women since September 2003, which possibly makes me one of the longest-serving telephone advisors on the evening helpline; in a way this speaks for itself! The helpline is an indispensable service and many women have told me that they consider it a lifeline.”

“Dealing with the legal system is often a source of great anxiety, uncertainty and confusion. I have spoken with many women in very difficult situations. It is important that they know that we are here for the and it is rewarding to help.”

– anonymous volunteers