Human rights volunteer roles

About Reprieve

Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation. Our aim is simple: to consign the death penalty and abuses carried out in the name of “counter-terrorism” or “national security” to history, drawing public and political attention to these past harms with a view to preventing them from occurring again.

In our view, you can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. Founded in 1999, we provide free legal and investigative support to people facing the death penalty and those victimised by states’ abusive counter-terror policies – rendition, torture, arbitrary detention and extrajudicial killing.

We fight our clients’ cases in courts around the world; investigate their mistreatment; and advocate on their behalf, encouraging public and political debate of human rights issues.

Reprieve’s main office is in London, UK. Reprieve also supports full-time Fellows, who work as lawyers, investigators and campaigners in the countries in which we work. We work closely with a number of partner organisations in jurisdictions all over the world, who provide access to clients, expertise, knowledge and guidance on specific issues or regions. We work in cooperation with relevant government officials, individual lawyers and human rights defenders, as well as individual, corporate and foundation funders to further the cause of our shared goals.

Reprieve works in close partnership with its independent sibling organisation Reprieve US.  This collaboration is mutually beneficial to both Reprieve and Reprieve US as it enables each organisation to work more effectively and take advantage of the strategic locations to increase the impact of our work.

About the Role

Our work would not be possible without the highest levels of governance provided by our Board of Trustees and its Chair.

The Board meets four times a year (normally January, May, July and October). Two Board meetings are in person, and we ask that the Chair attends other events when they can to meet staff and other key stakeholders, including donors. 

Day-to-day management of Reprieve is provided by the Senior Management Team. 

About You

Our new Chair will be passionate about our vision and mission and will be able to bring inclusive and knowledgeable insight to the Board and the Executive. They will have a keen sense of strategic purpose and an inclusive leadership style that inspires and supports other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate. They will be comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative Board environment. They will be able and willing to act as a figurehead and ambassador, and champion Reprieve’s work through personal networks, social media (if appropriate), and other channels.

They will be willing to lead according to Reprieve’s values and have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

They will have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

Responsibilities

Your main duties will include:

• Leading the Board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Reprieve
• Chairing and facilitating Board meetings including giving direction to board policy-making and ensuring that decisions taken at meetings are implemented
• With the Executive Director:
  • Planning the annual cycle of Board meetings
  • Setting agendas for Board meetings
  • Developing the Board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
  • Addressing conflict within the Board and within Reprieve, and liaising with the Executive to achieve this
  • Liaising with the Executive Director to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate
• Being an ambassador and figurehead for Reprieve.

Person Specification/ Criteria

• A willingness to speak your mind and challenge both the Executive and the Board
• A keen sense of strategic purpose
• An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate 
• Experience constructively challenging and appraising senior leadership
• A willingness to be available to the Executive and staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis
• A clear commitment to Reprieve’s vision and mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to commit two days a month to the role
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, as they apply to the Chair of the Board
• Experience of fundraising and its importance to a charity 
• Experience of committee work or being on a charity board.

Our partner is a leading alliance of organisations working to improve the lives of workers in global supply chains. Their mission is to promote human rights at work, uphold dignity, and eliminate exploitation and abuse.

They are seeking a qualified accountant to join the Board as Treasurer. The ideal candidate will have senior financial management experience, a clear and confident communication style, and a strong interest in ethical trade and workers' rights. Prior experience in the not-for-profit or international development sectors would be an advantage.

The Treasurer oversees the organisation’s financial health and sustainability, reviews and presents budgets and accounts, advises on financial strategy, reserves, and investment policies, and ensures robust financial controls. The role also involves chairing the Finance & Remuneration Sub-Committee and advising the Board on its financial responsibilities and risks.

Board and Committee meetings are held quarterly, in-person in London - although occasional remote attendance is possible.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website

English PEN is the founding centre of PEN International, a worldwide writers’ association with over 135 centres in more than 90 countries. English PEN is one of the world’s oldest human rights charities and works to promote literature and the right to freedom of expression through a wide range of campaigns, events, projects and publications.

We are looking for a new Treasurer to join our established Board of Trustees and help guide and advise us on financial affairs. The role of Treasurer is to oversee the accounts of the charity, chairing the Finance and Audit Committee, and acting as a point of liaison between the Board and the Director and Head of Operations. It does not involve day-to-day responsibility for the finances.

Duties and responsibilities

The Treasurer will provide financial expertise and oversight to help the Board carry out its financial responsibilities.

Specifically, they will:

• Chair the Finance and Audit Committee
• Work closely with the Director and the Head of Operations to monitor the financial stability of the charity
• Liaise with auditors and sign off the annual accounts
• Present the annual accounts to members at the annual general meeting
• Engage with PEN International on relevant matters

Join Videre as a Trustee 

Help affected communities gather evidence and drive change 

This is a critical moment for human rights. It demands a radically different approach - we are meeting the moment by catalysing a radical evolution of the human rights ecosystem in service of affected communities. Our approach emphasises collaboration, decentralisation, and long-term impact. We are bold, empathetic and collaborative.  

We work with communities on the frontlines of oppression to equip them with the tools, training, and networks they need to document abuse, demand accountability, and drive change. 

Why join us? 

As a trustee, you’ll help safeguard our mission, and ensure our governance is robust, inclusive, and future-focused. You’ll join a committed, collaborative board working closely with our leadership team to ensure Videre delivers meaningful, sustained impact for those we serve. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome applications from all backgrounds and experiences. You do not need prior board experience - we value fresh perspectives and lived experience alongside professional expertise. 

We are particularly seeking trustees who: 

1. Have experience of living in an occupied or oppressed community 
2. Have fundraising and/or networking experience 
3. Have financial management expertise (for a Treasurer role) 

If you can add value to our work, please apply. 

Your role as a trustee 

1. Safeguard Videre’s vision, mission, and the pursuit of our strategic objectives 
2. Ensure legal, financial, and regulatory compliance 
3. Contribute expertise and insight to board discussions and decisions 
4. Act as an ambassador for our work, including at events or in networks 
5. Support the CEO and team with advice, connections, and oversight 

Time commitment 

1. 4 board meetings per year (half-day each, virtual or in person in London) 
2. Finance Committee (for relevant members) — 4 meetings per year (2 hours each) 
3. 1–2 brief ad-hoc meetings annually 
4. Regular updates and engagement via email between meetings 

This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed. Induction and training are provided, and you will be supported by experienced board members. 

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion 

We are committed to building a board that reflects the diversity of the communities we work with. We strongly encourage applications from people from under-represented groups. 

The Creative Arts and Skills Programme (CASP) is a wide-ranging range of classes and groups focused on providing development opportunities for our clients as well as supporting their improved integration into the community. It is a creative outlet, a community, and an opportunity for clients to learn new skills.

The textiles group runs weekly and provides an opportunity for our clients to learn useful new skills and meet new people. We are looking to recruit two new volunteers for this group, who will work together with the existing group volunteer to teach dressmaking skills to our clients and support them to work on various textiles projects.

Main tasks and activities

· Working together with our current Textiles group volunteer to teach sewing, pattern cutting, dressmaking and upcycling skills to clients;

· Supporting clients to develop and carry out their own textiles projects;

· Coordinating the clients and taking the register on a weekly basis;

· Setting up and packing away the sewing machines, fabrics and other equipment before and after the session;

· Raising any issues which the clients face with the Community and Integration Manager

Skills and experience needed

· Understanding of, and commitment to, the objectives of the Helen Bamber Foundation;

· A demonstrable empathy for our vulnerable clients, including asylum seekers, refugees and survivors of torture and trafficking;

· Dressmaking skills essential;

· Experience of teaching or instructing people in dressmaking skills (desirable);

· Awareness of confidentiality and the importance of it in regards to our clients;

· Punctual, reliable and self-motivated with a positive, ’can-do’ attitude;

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to create a warm and welcoming community environment;

· Demonstrable experience of working within a team.

What you will get out of the role

· A strong understanding of how HBF’s integration programmes contribute to the well-being of our clients;

· An appreciation of the processes and systems that asylum seekers and refugees deal with in the UK;

· Increased experience and confidence in teaching dressmaking and textiles skills;

· Increased teamwork skills;

· An ability to multi-task between competing priorities.

We are seeking a new Treasurer to oversee the charity's financial affairs, ensuring financial viability, and making sure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

About ASIOX

Based in Oxfordshire, ASIOX is uniquely placed to offer bespoke support to survivors of modern slavery and human exploitation across Oxfordshire and the wider Thames Valley. We continue to deliver on our stated mission to raise awareness and equip individuals in identifying exploitation and to foster the restoration process of survivors.

What will you be doing?

We have recognised the need for an experienced Finance professional to join our Board and to provide strategic input and ensure that our financial position supports our objectives. As Treasurer, your attention will be on overseeing our financial health, ensuring robust financial practices are in place and aligning our fiscal strategies with long-term objectives.

Treasurer Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Oversight and Strategy

2. Budgeting and Financial Planning

3. Reporting and Compliance

4. Financial Transactions and Controls

5. Liaison with External Stakeholders

6. Governance

7. Support and Training

The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the Board of Trustees and supports the charity's mission through sound financial management.

Time commitment:

Overall, we estimate your ASIOX responsibilities may require one-two hours per week of your time.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a person willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board.

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Essential:

· A strong commitment to the mission and values of ASIOX, as well as to social justice and the fight against human exploitation. 

· Qualified accountant with hands on experience of managing the finances of an organisation (or equivalent level, Qualified by Experience). 

· Experience in financial planning and budget management. 

· Strong analytical skills and attention to detail. 

· Ability to communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders. 

· Commitment to developing a knowledge of Charity Finance regulations and practices (guidance will be provided).

What difference will you make?

As a small charity, ASIOX deeply values the dedication, time, and expertise of our Trustee Board. If you join us, you can expect: 

· A warm and supportive welcome. 

· The satisfaction of knowing you're making a real difference.

· Opportunities to develop your leadership capabilities. 

· The power of collective action – achieving more together than alone.

· A meaningful way to apply your skills and experience within the voluntary sector.

Our partner is a highly respected professional membership organisation and charity working to shape fair and effective immigration and asylum law, supporting over 1,000 legal professionals and advocate for justice and human rights.

They are seeking a qualified accountant with strong financial oversight experience, with some charity sector experience, to serve as Treasurer. The post holder will have solid experience in financial management and governance, with the ability to communicate financial matters clearly, as well as a strong interest in social justice.

The Treasurer will monitor the organisation’s financial health, guide long-term planning, chair a funding decision panel, and ensure robust financial controls are in place. They will review budgets, management accounts, and annual reports, and act as a signatory for major transactions.

The Board meets eight times a year (for approximately 2 hours), and the funding panel meets six times annually. Most meetings are held online, with occasional in-person meetings in London. The total estimated time commitment required for the role is 1-3 hours per month.

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For more Trustee and Treasurer roles, please visit the AfID website.

Are you a qualified accountant, looking to make a real difference to a human rights charity?

The Restraint Reduction Network (RRN) is looking for a dedicated and passionate honorary Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees.  

About the RRN Treasurer role

This is an exciting opportunity to volunteer with the RRN in a vital governance role: the Treasurer maintains an overview of the RRN’s financial affairs, ensuring effective and appropriate financial measures, controls and procedures are in place. As a member of the Board of Trustees, the Treasurer also supports good governance helping set the strategic direction of the charity for the years to come.

The role would suit a qualified accountant with some knowledge of charity accounting and the ability to communicate financial information to the wider board in a clear and accessible way. 

With a passionate Board of Trustees and a committed staff team, you’ll join an organisation focused on positive change.

This is a voluntary role. Any expenses incurred while carrying out the duties of the role will be reimbursed.

About the RRN

RRN is a national charity with an ambitious vision to eliminate the unnecessary use of restrictive practices across health, social care and education. We want to develop a culture of respect for human rights across services.

If you share our vision, we would love to hear from you.

Refugee Action has spent over 40 years supporting refugees and people seeking asylum to live with dignity and build safe, fulfilling lives in the UK. We stand up for rights, challenge injustice, and work alongside communities to create lasting change. 

Our current strategy is our most ambitious yet. We are delivering innovative services that refuse to compromise on best practice, strengthening and supporting hundreds of community-based organisations, and advocating for systemic change – intentionally led by the voices of people with lived experience. 

We are proud to have a majority of trustees with lived experience of forced displacement, and to be on a continuing journey to embed anti-racism into all we do. The Board is united in its mission, committed to inclusive governance, and determined to meet the challenges of a complex political and funding environment. 

Refugee Action is seeking a new Chair (or Co-Chairs) who can lead the Board into our next chapter – someone with governance experience, sound judgement and a deep understanding of commitment to the rights of refugees and people seeking asylum through their own lived experience of forced displacement. You will work closely with our Chief Executive to steer the organisation through both opportunity and challenge, helping ensure we remain bold, independent and effective in all we do. 

You will be the right candidate if you share our values, can bring your understanding of your own lived experience of forced displacement, and apply this to help shape the future of Refugee Action.  

Closing date: midnight, Sunday 28 September 2025. 

Volunteer Co-chair at Watford and Three Rivers Refugee Partnership (WTRRP)

Job summary: 

We're looking for a Co-chair to lead and shape the strategic vision of WTRRP as we move forward into our 25th year as a charity. We are looking for someone to support us with our strategy in line with our mission and our values. In this role, you will act as one of two Trustee committee co-chairs of the charity, responsible for the agenda and actions of Trustee meetings and AGM, improving good governance and acting as a senior ambassador of the organisation. We are looking for someone with enthusiasm, availability and leadership skills to work collaboratively with staff and volunteers.

WTRRP exists to support asylum seekers and refugees in Watford and Three Rivers who do not yet have settled status in the UK or may have specific needs relating to their application process or welfare. The main services of the charity are a drop-in session and social hub every Tuesday (at St Mary’s Church in central Watford), ESOL classes, providing financial support and advice to its clients and assisting them to integrate into the local community.

The Partnership has grown dramatically over the past 5 years, which is why we are looking for a co-chair to join us. WTRRP is run by a committee that meets typically every 2 months and it also provides supervision to our 3 staff members and support to our 70 volunteers.

We would welcome applicants with any of the following experience:

• Governance and previous Committee experience
• Business development and charitable fundraising
• Human resources and people management
• Lived experience of being a Refugee or Migrant
• Financial background

Principal responsibilities:

1. Be part of the Committee, supporting the organisation as it grows and develops.
2. Have availability to regularly attend the Tuesday hub at St. Marys church from 11- 2pm to support the team and be present.
3. Oversee the administration and coordination of sub-committees.
4. Serve as line-manager to the Caseworker and conduct planned supervision and appraisals.
5. Represent the Partnership as required to the public or external parties such as funders and Community groups.

This is an important role that will support the charity as we adapt and change. If you feel that you may have some of the skills we are looking for and want to have an initial chat with our chair, then please contact us.

Why we need you

Casework triage volunteers help our caseworkers manage demand at our partner day centres by welcoming people, and assessing what issues they need support with. They then signpost people to other services where appropriate, help them access the day centre facilities, and help caseworkers to prioritise the most pressing guest needs.

When and where

Our partner day centres at the Ace of Clubs, HTB, the Upper Room, and Chelsea Methodist Church all have casework triage volunteers, who volunteer on the same day each week, usually for a 3hr shift.

What experience do I need?

It's the perfect volunteering role if you:

· Have some experience directly working or volunteering with vulnerable people,

· Are confident, friendly, and can think on your feet,

· Want to dedicate half a day weekly to volunteering in a frontline service.

What would I gain?

· Experience contributing to a frontline homelessness service

· Valuable experience for your C.V. and a professional reference

· All volunteers have access to our employer assistance programme, a free confidential helpline.

Travel and lunch expenses are available, and we're particularly keen to hear from people who have volunteered in a homelessness service before, or who have lived experience of homelessness.

SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCHERS (SSR)

As a member of The Working Group research team, our Social Science Researchers (SSR) study the human rights liberties and suppressions of women and girls within each country to identify and address social issues. They implement and manage research projects, collect and analyse data, and report findings of said research. Their work helps shape IWI’s policy decisions, social reforms, and human interactions.

RESPONSIBILITIES

o Understand the needs of the project, i.e. the research questions it needs to answer;

o Design an appropriate methodology to deliver the project;

o Design and write survey questionnaires;

o Apply a range of research techniques to gather relevant information, including document analysis, surveys, case studies and interviews (face-to-face, telephone and online);

o Liaise with and direct social research field interviewers to gather information;

o Gather information by directing or carrying out qualitative fieldwork;

o Conduct reviews of relevant literature and evidence;

o Analyse and evaluate research and interpret data using a range of analysis packages;

o Prepare, present and disseminate results in the form of reports, briefings, research papers and presentations;

o Offer research-based briefings and advice, which may involve writing action plans;

o Advise external bodies on social policy;

o Prepare and present tenders for new research projects or respond to research tenders prepared by others.

SKILLS

o Quantitative and qualitative research skills for undertaking tasks such as interviewing, survey design and controlled trials;

o Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills;

o The ability to think logically and creatively;

o A natural sense of curiosity to understand social issues and the impact policy can have;

o Good verbal and written communication skills, to write reports and present findings;

o Strong interpersonal skills for developing and maintaining relationships;

o Teamworking skills and the ability to work well independently;

o Confidence in using Microsoft office software and a range of digital tools and platforms;

o Project management skills to oversee all aspects of a research project right through from initial plans to the final report;

o Accuracy and attention to detail for handling data and reporting research findings;

o A flexible approach to work, with the ability to work on several different research projects simultaneously;

o Organisation skills, good time management and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

REQUIREMENTS

o Fluency in English is a MUST. Additional UN languages are a plus;

o At least 4 years of research experience;

o At least 2 years of experience working for a government authority, INGO and/or private sector.

This is an exciting time for the Helen Bamber Foundation Group as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our services for survivors of torture, trafficking, and human cruelty and those seeking protection. Our work is more crucial than ever, as we advocate for vulnerable individuals within a challenging and evolving global landscape.

This year, we are looking to find five inspirational Trustees to join the Group supporting Helen Bamber Foundation and Asylum Aid, comprising three new Trustees for Helen Bamber Foundation and two new Trustees for Asylum Aid. We are also looking for one of those new Trustees to sit on both Boards.

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

As a trustee of Helen Bamber Foundation or Asylum Aid, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of your charity. 

For details of how to apply and who to speak to get find out more about this opportunity, please refer to the Trustee Recruitment Pack. 

This is an exciting time for the Helen Bamber Foundation Group as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our services for survivors of torture, trafficking, and human cruelty and those seeking protection. Our work is more crucial than ever, as we advocate for vulnerable individuals within a challenging and evolving global landscape.

This year, we are looking to find five inspirational Trustees to join the Group supporting Helen Bamber Foundation and Asylum Aid, comprising three new Trustees for Helen Bamber Foundation and two new Trustees for Asylum Aid. We are also looking for one of those new Trustees to sit on both Boards.

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

As a trustee of Helen Bamber Foundation or Asylum Aid, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of your charity. 

At Helen Bamber Foundation we are looking for three trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:   policy, advocacy, public affairs or strategic communications; clinical or therapeutic experience; or human rights expertise.

At Asylum Aid, we are looking for two trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: finance and accounting or someone with lived experience of being an asylum seeker, refugee or having sought another form of humanitarian protection in the UK, or of statelessness.

For details of how to apply and who to speak to get find out more about this opportunity, please refer to the Trustee Recruitment Pack.