Volunteer roles in east midlands

Senior Policy Advisor

Youth Advantage UK

Remote

Unpaid role, expenses not paid

Voluntary

Job description

Youth Advantage UK (YAUK) is seeking a Volunteer Senior Policy Advisor to support its Long-Term Research & Policy Team in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to grow its impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring research developed by YAUK can be moulded into policy positions capable of influencing and informing policy makers. Working closely with the Heads of Policy, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to develop convincing narratives to achieve the aims of the organisation. They will should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

Responsibilities:

•    Taking raw research and developing a convincing narrative that will convince policy makers to take action based on our evidence-based recommendations.
•    Develop recommendations for policy makers based on evidence and aligning with the political priorities of the targeted policy makers.
•    Work effectively with members of YAUK’s research team to turn their research into succinct policy documents.
•    To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategic policies and focus.
•    Support the Head of Policy in delivering the policy team’s wider goals and priorities.
•    Aid junior policy colleagues in completing their work and provide direction in support of the Head of Policy.
•    To work closely with the organisation’s Communications Team in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.
•    Support the creation of blogs and articles on policy related issues and to support with the development of academic articles and reports.
•    Ensure that policy documents developed by the team are of high quality and present YAUK and its work in a good light.
•    To find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

Requirements:

•    Experience or knowledge of how the policy development process works.
•    Knowledge of issues affecting children and young people in the UK.
•    Knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to applying research and development in public policy.
•    Experience of writing or contributing to briefings and other policy documents.
•    Excellent writing and speaking skills.
•    IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
•    Ability to work well independently and in a team.
•    Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
•    Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits
•    Gain valuable experience in influencing policy makers.
•    Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
•    Flexible working hours.

We're keen to hear from you if you'd like to share your experiences as a blind and partially sighted person and help build a world which understands the impact of living with sight loss.

In this role, you will be:

• Delivering talks to groups of sighted people about your lived experience of sight loss to challenge their perceptions and behaviours. Audiences will vary but may include local businesses, community, faith and voluntary groups.

• Making links with your own existing groups and networks in your local community that may want to be involved in reducing barriers to blind and partially sighted people.
• Building relationships with people or local businesses you know.
• Taking part in and sharing information about specific campaigns and initiatives to help remove barriers to blind and partially sighted people.
• Delivering talks on behalf of RNIB’s Social Action Team.

What you'll gain from the role:
• A chance to make a difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people with a sense of achievement.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people.
• To make an impact by speaking to groups of people.
• An opportunity to develop your role into delivering talks independently as your confidence and skills grow.
• An opportunity to improve public understanding, helping change perceptions and behaviours, building a world which understands sight loss.
• An opportunity to explore different volunteer roles within our organisation and have access to internal employment opportunities.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• Induction to the role and organisation.
• Training in public speaking and telling your story.
• A supportive volunteer manager.
• Regular catch-ups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

At St John Ambulance, we are looking to develop our volunteering offer and become an even more integral part of our communities through delivering community first aid and education. 

We need people who have a passion for helping others, care about their communities and want to make a difference, supporting them to become safe and more resilient by sharing your first aid skills and knowledge. As a Community First Aider, you’ll deliver first aid to those in need through local events, as well as provide education to the public so that the ripple effect of First Aid grows.

Through supporting the growth of community partnerships, you will bring people along to our cause, growing our membership and fundraising base and spreading the message that First Aid Saves Lives. 

Through volunteering as a Community First Aider, you’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

We will make sure you will have access to a proper induction to volunteering with SJA and the training you need for the role you take on. We will also provide you with a supportive environment while you are volunteering with us. Information about our volunteer roles are included in the role descriptions. What you can expect from SJA, and what we expect from those who volunteer with us, is included in the volunteer charter.

Must be available to attend training on the dates specified and be physically fit and capable. See role description.

Interview to be held in the first two weeks of February and training will be a mixture of online learning and face to face training at the end of April.

Closing date for these opportunities is: 31/01/2026

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?  ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy. Join us!

What will you be doing?

In addition to the responsibilities of all board members, the Treasurer will: 

1. Support the Board to review and monitor ECU’s financial performance and sustainability
2. Ensure the Board receives timely, accessible and accurate financial information
3. Support the team to develop and maintain robust and proportionate financial policies, processes and risk management systems

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to ECU’s mission and values
• Commitment to the legal duties and responsibilities
• Financial management experience, policies, risk
• Qualifications
• Able to interpret, interrogate and communicate financial information
• Work as part of a diverse team, and devote the time 

Desirable - treasurer experience

What difference will you make?

We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue.

Before you apply

• Your interest in this role and what you could bring to it
• What would you want to learn and gain?

Interview 25 Feb in London (expenses paid)

We at Birmingham Cathedral would warmly welcome hearing from experienced professionals with an interest in cathedrals, and the time and specialist skills to serve on our voluntary Fabric Advisory Committee (FAC) that helps to shape the conservation and development of our cathedral building.

Serving on Birmingham Cathedral FAC offers a unique chance to form a special bond with one of England's great buildings and with the people who use and care for it day to day. These roles are voluntary but reasonable expenses will be paid. The commitment typically involves three meetings a year, plus time to read and respond to application documents and advice requests.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility,

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility gives you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in your community by helping others ensure their voices are heard and valued. The roles we offer are deeply rewarding and may challenge you in new ways. You’ll develop your communication skills, meet new people, and gain a greater understanding of others, while enjoying a sense of personal fulfilment along the way!

We ask for a minimum commitment of just 3 hours per week, but you’re welcome to volunteer for more if you’d like. Whether you're looking to give back to your community, learn something new, or simply enjoy connecting with others, we’d love to have you on board!

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care. 

As a RPR support volunteer, you might:

• As an RPR Support Volunteer you might: 
• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support 
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes 
• Raise concerns 
• Keep detailed notes and records 
• Make a real difference to someone’s life 

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.

As a hospital volunteer, you might: 

• hold drop-in sessions
• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities
• share information
• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre

All volunteering will take place Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK. Please note that there is no opportunity to volunteer at weekends or in the evening.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact the Volunteering team for further options.

To find out more click “Apply Now”.

Could you be one of our new trustees?

We currently have space on our Board for up to eight new Trustees who want to work with us to help improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.

At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact. 

You may be thinking that you don't have the experience because you haven't been a trustee before, or because charity governance isn't your field. Think again!

Here's what you DO NEED need: 

• Commitment to our vision - a world where no student is held back by their mental health

• Experience in 1 or 2 of the following areas: 

  • Current higher education students

  • Professional higher education sector expertise

  • Legal expertise 

  • Fundraising and income generation expertise

  • Equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, intersectionality and anti racism expertise

  • AI and technology expertise 

  • Campaigning, advocacy, community organising and/or public affairs expertise 

  • Marketing and brand awareness expertise 

  • People and culture, HR, organisational development or leadership development expertise 

And what you DON'T need:

• Previous experience of trusteeship

• Experience in charity law or working with a charity

Both experienced and aspiring trustees have much to bring to our table: we are looking for fresh perspectives and seasoned knowledge alike.

Key responsibilities

Student Minds Trustees are expected to commit to the following: 

• Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm. 

• Preparation and attendance at two board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. Board away days are in person and usually take place in Leeds. Travel expenses can be claimed.

• Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior management team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.

If appointed, you will receive the training and onboarding you need to be a confident, contributing member of the board. We are also able to provide you with a board buddy to support you in your first few months. 

So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!

How to apply?

1. For more information about the role responsibilities please follow the link

2. Download and complete our application form, which is available on the link

3. Complete the Equality Monitoring Form. 

Application process

• Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date

• Interviews: 29th or 30th January (general Trustees) or 5th February (Student Trustees) with a Trustee and CEO

• Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board. 

Could you be our new Chair?  

Our fantastic Chair’s tenure will be coming to an end in 2026, so we are looking to appoint her successor to help Student Minds improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.

At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact. 

We are open-minded about the professional background of this individual and are mostly looking for someone with experience of leading effective, inclusive teams, of chairing complex organisations or meetings, and in building influential cross-sector partnerships.

Key responsibilities

Student Minds Chair is expected to commit to the following: 

• Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm. 

• Preparation and attendance at two in-person board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. These usually take place in Leeds and include a lunchtime or evening social.

• Monthly supervision calls with the Chief Executive

• Annual in-person appraisal of the Chief Executive 

• Support with board appraisals and recruitment 

• Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior leadership team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.

• Attendance at relevant task-group meetings and/or committees.

So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!

How to apply?

1. For more information about the role responsibilities please download our recruitment pack that is linked

2. Download and complete our application form which is available via the link

3. Complete the Equality Monitoring Form. 

Application process

• Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date

• Interviews: 27th January, with our Chair, Trustee and CEO

• Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board

Help lead the Real Farming Trust into its next chapter as Chair of the Board of Trustees

Type: Voluntary (Expenses Paid)
Time Commitment: Approx. 1-2 days/month, plus annual retreats and sector events

Be part of a movement for food justice and ecological transformation

The Real Farming Trust (RFT) is a pioneering UK charity whose purpose is to connect and support people who are transforming our food system through agroecology. Since starting the Oxford Real Farming Conference (ORFC) in 2010, the RFT has grown into a dynamic organisation with a turnover of ~£1M.

As the organisation enters a new strategic cycle through to 2030, it is seeking a new Chair to guide the board and support the executive team in delivering bold, systemic change in food and farming. This is a unique opportunity to lead an organisation at the heart of the agroecological movement, convening grassroots voices, shaping policy discourse, and investing in community-led solutions.

Why This Role Matters

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership during a pivotal phase of growth and transformation and enable the charity to fulfil its purpose.
• Champion equity, diversity, and inclusion across programmes and governance.
• Support the Executive Directors and staff to foster a resilient, values-led organisational culture.
• Represent RFT externally, including speaking at the ORFC and other sector events.
• Guide the board through governance best practice and renewal.

Who We're Looking For

We're seeking a visionary leader with:

• Board-level chairing experience in the charity or social enterprise sector with a detailed understanding of the principles and practice of good charity governance.
• A values-led, inclusive leadership style - humble, strategic, emotionally intelligent.
• Deep commitment to agroecology, food sovereignty, climate justice, and equity.
• Experience in or knowledge of food systems, farming, and agroecology.
• The strategic skills and experience to lead a significant and growing national charity.

What You'll Gain

• A defining role in shaping the future of food and farming in the UK.
• The opportunity to amplify grassroots voices and drive systemic change.
• A platform to demonstrate inclusive leadership and transformative impact.
• Connection to a vibrant, mission-driven team and a national network of changemakers.

Recruitment Timeline:

To ensure equitable access to information and uphold its commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), the RFT will be hosting a Q&A webinar on Thursday 4th December from 11-12pm in place of individual informal calls with the Chair and Executive Directors. We encourage all interested candidates to submit questions in advance, which will be addressed during the session. Please register your interest in attending this webinar, and we will send you a link..

Application deadline: Thursday 15th January 2026

First round interviews - Online: w/c 9th February 2026

Final interviews - In-person (Oxford): w/c 16th February 2026

How to Apply

Charity People Ltd is acting as recruitment advisor to RFT on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited initially to submit a CV to to receive the candidate pack, which has the full application details and a link to the webinar.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People.

We are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. If you require any assistance or adjustment to make the application process work for you, please let us know.

About the Charity
The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre is a small, registered charity (Charity Number 1210189)
established to care for, rehabilitate, educate, and treat ill, injured, and unwanted reptiles in
Sussex County and its Surrounding areas.
Aims and Objectives
 To improve public perception of reptiles and amphibians
 To promote responsible pet ownership and exemplary animal welfare
 To deliver education that is “inclusive for all.”
 To promote positive values regarding companion animals and the responsibility of
pet care
What we do
 Reptile Rescue and Rehoming Services
o Taking in Sick, injured and unwanted reptiles -Finding, vetting and rehoming
reptiles
 Advice and Guidance
o Providing Advice and Guidance to reptile owners.
 Outreach and Education
o Going to Youth Clubs, Schools and Clubs to educate children/young people
about Reptiles
o Hosting events for the community, which will raise awareness of the charity
and the work we do.

About the role
We are looking for a qualified veterinary surgeon/professional to support The Sussex
Reptile Rescue Centre as a trustee & advisor.

Our trustees play a vital role in ensuring the Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre achieves its core
charitable purpose, overseeing the charity’s overall management and administration.

By joining as a trustee, you will help determine the charity’s overall direction and development
as a strong advocate for The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre and our work.

As you champion our cause, you’ll continuously strive for best practice in all areas of your
role whilst effectively evaluating and mitigating risks, and ensuring compliance to legal
obligations under charity law.

To lean more about becoming a trustee with us (and your commitments as a trustee), please
 

Qualifications and accreditations

• A qualified veterinary professional, with a specialisation in reptiles
•  Specialisation working with amphibians is a bonus, but not essential.
•  Experienced committing to the requirements and expectations of a charity trustee

Skills and qualities

• Have excellent communication skills, with a willingness to participate actively in discussion and exercise sound independent judgement
•  Able to offer well-informed and pragmatic advise regarding the animals in our care,

putting their wellbeing and quality of life at the forefront.

•  A strong advocate for the charity’s work and what we do, with an enthusiasm for the

Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre’s vision and goal

•  Be willing and able to attend regular trustee meetings (6 per annum, held remotely)

The Media & Communications Director will play a pivotal role in developing communication strategies to enhance awareness and recognition of mountain rescue and the teams within the UK, and supporting internal communication to enable effective dissemination of information and news for Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW), supporting 47 active mountain rescue teams across the region. This voluntary position is responsible for devising and implementing a robust plan, working alongside a range of partners and colleagues.

Reporting to the CEO, the person will need to contribute to the MREW’s overall future strategy. There will be a need to understand the MR structure and to have the ability to work as part of the MREW Senior Management Team, and alongside trustees, liaison team, regional structure and local teams. 

Mountain Rescue England & Wales (MREW) is a voluntary organisation that provides mountain rescue services 24/7, 365 days a year, and offers support to communities during other crises. It consists of 47 independent volunteer search and rescue teams that operate across eight geographical areas. The organisation serves as the national body to represent the whole organisation, acting as an advisory body, linking with partner organisations and helping to standardise training and share information.

Objectives

 The overarching activities for this role are:

• Development of external communication to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts and ‘new explorers’ taking an interest in the great outdoors. 
•  Leadership of a small team plus the wider Media and Communications Network (MCN) of MR volunteers to develop and deliver a Media and Communications Strategy and programme of activity
  • Publications and online communications (all social media)
  • Website development
  • Development of key messages, inc. support to MREW spokespeople (messages, materials and training) to enable effective stakeholder communications.
•  Leading and planning for effective reactive communications in challenging situations, including issues management, messaging and spokesperson briefing.
• Liaison with external partners (PR, Magazine Editor, Public Affairs), relevant media and stakeholders, including a process for responding to incoming enquiries and interview requests and a process for planning proactive media activities.
•  Development of key messages inc. safety messaging
• The development of effective Internal communications to support knowledge of MREW and to enable consistency of message from the family of Teams.
• Represent MREW at relevant external meetings.

Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to inspire and influence a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Strong relationship management skills, with the ability to foster trust and accurately represent MREW’s mission and goals.
•  Ability to work alongside colleagues and manage competing priorities.
• Creativity, imagination and intuition.
• Excellent communication skills, written and spoken.
• Good organisational and project management skills.
• An ability to develop, negotiate and work within a financial budget.
• A strategic approach to the reputational management of mountain rescue in England and Wales (at all levels).
• Knowledge and understanding of the various forms of media, including broadcast and print, digital and social, so as to be able to meet their differing needs and ensure that there is a clear process for the handling of approaches or enquiries to MREW from outside media organisations, agencies or individuals.

Personal Attributes

• The ability to lead and motivate a team that combines volunteer and professional roles and that covers a range of disciplines, skills and platforms.
• Capable of working under pressure, within constraints and meeting deadlines.
• The ability to build and maintain relationships, internally and externally, based on integrity and trust.
• The ability to delegate to others, engaging and involving appropriate support from the wider network.
• Strong personal creativity, imagination and intuition in dealing with challenges, opportunities and people.
• A proactive attitude, with the drive and enthusiasm to initiate and carry out projects to conclusion, involving others, on time and on budget.
• Resilience, particularly when faced with challenges, uncertainty and setbacks.

Management responsibilities:

• To contribute to the management of MREW through regular business meetings, ensuring that the media and communications aspects of activity are considered in planning and decision-making.
• To ensure all network members are treated fairly, in line with MREW policies and also its mission and values.
• To develop an approach to the sustainability of the Media and Communications function, including succession planning for key roles and the strengthening of the dispersed network.

We are looking for a motivated, self-starter with a proactive attitude, drive and enthusiasm to carry out projects to conclusion. You will need to demonstrate commitment to the mission and cause of the charity. 

Qualifications

• Essential to this role is an awareness of the internal character of MR and the external environment in which it operates, and an ability to identify and anticipate communications priorities.
• Practical experience in a media or communications management role is also desirable, for instance, such as journalism, PR, marketing, or online media.
• An ability to plan proactive media and communications activities and to develop ways of measuring their effectiveness.
• Experience of issues and crisis management, enabling anticipation and support to management and others on the development of plans, messages and position statements.

Additional notes

• To work with the CEO to plan for future activity and to ensure that a planned communications approach is developed.
• To ensure all committee members are treated fairly through MREW Equal Opportunities Policy.
• To work with other national teams to release internal communications, press statements and support campaigns as required.
• This is a voluntary role within MREW, elected annually; it is expected that the applicant will serve a term of 5 years, with a possible extension of a further 5 years if desired.
• Travel during the working day may be required, with occasional absence from home overnight, as meetings with partners, colleagues, and other stakeholders may cover a large geographical area. Out-of-pocket expenses can be reclaimed in line with the MREW Expenses Policy.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops and warehouses, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• If you are volunteering in one of our warehouses there may be some variation in your role
• We are looking for ebay listers, including researching items, help with processing and packing our online shop orders.
• Support with our van drivers, collecting and delivering stock to our network of shops and also helping with local street collections.
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.

Social Media & Fundraising Volunteer

Support a rare disease charity and build your professional experience

Are you a student or early-career professional looking to gain hands-on experience in social media, communications, and charity work? SLC6A1 Connect UK is seeking a Volunteer to help us grow our online presence and connect with families affected by the rare neurological condition SLC6A1.

This opportunity is available on a short-term basis (for example, 6 months) for those seeking experience, or for individuals interested in making a longer-term contribution to a small rare diseases charity.

What You’ll Do

• Create and schedule engaging social media content across platforms, including LinkedIn
• Help us raise awareness of SLC6A1 and our community’s needs
• Support campaigns, events, and fundraising efforts
• Collaborate with trustees and families to share stories and updates

Why Join Us?

• “The charity gives me hope and comfort that someone is working tirelessly to help find a cure for our children.” - Dan, parent of a six-year-old diagnosed with SLC6A1
• “The charity is the only resource available to myself and my family with knowledge of my son's rare genetic disease. It provides emotional support, in addition to offering relevant information and referrals to other professionals and families. By collaborating through this network, we are better positioned to pursue a cure or treatment.” - Helen, parent of an individual diagnosed with SLC6A1 at the age of 30
• “Volunteering with SLC6A1 Connect UK has given me a sense of purpose and belonging during a journey that can often feel isolating. Being part of this community means connecting with others who truly understand, sharing hope, supporting vital research, and working together to create a better future for our children.”

You’ll be joining a charity that is:

• Led by lived experience
• Focused on impact and innovation
• Ready to grow with your guidance

What We Offer

• Flexible hours to fit around your studies or work
• Mentorship and support from experienced trustees
• A chance to gain experience and references for future employment
• Real impact in a community that needs your voice

FAQs

“I don’t have much time.”
We’re looking for someone who can commit around 2-4 hours per week, but we’re flexible.

“I’ve never worked in a charity before.”
No problem! We’ll support you and help you learn as you go.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

We’re Mind, the leading mental health charity. We won’t give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets support and respect. We provide advice and support to empower anybody experiencing a mental health problem and we campaign to improve services, raise awareness, and promote understanding.

Our volunteers are a fundamental part of our shops. Any time which they volunteer at our shops, help us be there for more people who are experiencing a mental health problem. 

About the volunteer role

To provide our volunteers with opportunities to gain a variety of skills and experience, we offer them a range of volunteer roles to choose from, which include:

• Stock preparation volunteer
• Volunteer shop sales assistant
• Volunteer stock generation assistant
• Volunteer window dresser/Merchandiser
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (antiques and collectables)
• Specialist knowledge volunteer (books and entertainment)
• Housekeeping volunteer

Key tasks

There is a variety of tasks within the above mentioned roles that our volunteers get involved with, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers with their purchases, providing them with great customer service and a delightful shopping experience
• Receiving donated items from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated items for sale
• Creating visually appealing window and in-store displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, clean and coordinated
• Processing sales and serving at the till
• Signing up gift aid donors
• Stock rotation
• Identifying special or valuable items within donated stock

About you

• Passionate about customer service 
• Good communication skills 
• Friendly and helpful
• Respectful of others and their diversity

Experience & skills you will gain

• Experience of working as part of a team
• Retail experience 
• Stock organisation
• Selling skills 
• Customer service skills 

Our Commitment

We are committed to becoming actively anti-racist in everything we do. This is a critical priority for Mind. We embrace diversity and understand that being an inclusive organisation, recognising different perspectives, will enable us to provide excellent services. We are committed to ensuring all our employees are treated fairly and equitably at work and promoting equity in physical and mental health for all.