Volunteer roles

About the project: 

The Helpdesk Project is a unique initiative where trained volunteers offer information on local services and peer support to people attending MS clinics at the Walton Centre in Liverpool.

More than 130,000 people live with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the UK. Every one of them shares the uncertainty of life with MS.

People are most likely to find out they have MS in their thirties, forties and fifties; news that can be worrying and heartbreaking. Having somebody who has local knowledge and can signpost to information and services can provide vital support to people at the start of their MS journey.

About the role:

Do you have good organisational and communication skills?

We are looking for a volunteer who could help with supporting people with MS at the support desk. Please see the Role Description for more details about the tasks you may be involved in.

Time and Commitment

This role will take place at the Walton Centre Hospital.

We are looking for volunteers who can offer two or three hours a week, where you would attend the hospital help desk.

There will also be quarterly volunteer support sessions you will be asked to attend.

Training and support:

You’ll receive role-specific training and support from the MS Support Team and the Regional Development Officer.

Purpose

To plan, create, and develop high-quality, neuro-affirming social media that grows our audience, drives enquiries for services and groups, and protects the wellbeing and dignity of our community.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & Planning

  • Develop a simple, channel-specific content plan (quarterly themes; monthly calendar; weekly posts).

  • Align content with the organisational strategy, campaigns, and fundraising/activity cycles.

• Content Creation & Publishing

  • Write clear, accessible copy; produce short-form video, graphics, and carousels consistent with brand guidelines.

  • Schedule and publish across core platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, X) using approved tools.

  • Ensure accessibility (alt text, captions, readable layouts) and apply a neuro-affirming style.

• Community Management

  • Monitor comments and messages; respond or triage sensitively using agreed tone and response scripts.

  • Enforce house rules; escalate safeguarding concerns via the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).

• Campaigns & Partnerships

  • Support campaign roll-outs (service launches, recruitment, fundraising); coordinate with colleagues and partners.

  • Source and manage consented user stories; maintain a compliant photo/video asset bank.

• Insights & Reporting

  • Track core metrics (reach, engagement, click-throughs, conversions to sign-ups or enquiries).

  • Produce a concise monthly dashboard with highlights, risks, and next steps; test and learn.

• Governance & Compliance

  • Uphold safeguarding, confidentiality, and data-protection standards (GDPR/ICO).

  • Follow brand, style, and approvals processes; maintain a crisis-communications/escalation log.

  • Avoid clinical advice or individual case discussion on public channels.

Person Specification

Essential

• Clear, audience-centred writing and editing skills; confident with short-form video and basic design.

• Working knowledge of at least two platforms listed above and a scheduler (e.g., Meta Business Suite/Buffer).

• Sound judgement online; able to moderate calmly and escalate concerns appropriately.

• Commitment to accessibility, equality, diversity, and inclusion; comfortable with a neuro-affirming approach.

• Organised, reliable, and able to meet light weekly deadlines with minimal supervision.

Desirable

• Familiarity with analytics, UTM links, and simple reporting in spreadsheets or dashboards.

• Experience in a charity/VCSE, education, health, or workplace inclusion context.

• Basic Canva/Adobe skills and simple video editing on mobile/desktop.

• Understanding of safeguarding in digital spaces; MHFA or similar is a bonus.

• Lived experience of ADHD or neurodivergence (welcomed but not required).

Safeguarding & Data Protection

• This rôle interacts with the public online. You will complete safeguarding and data-protection briefings and follow our escalation procedures. A DBS check may be requested depending on activity (e.g., direct engagement with young people or vulnerable adults at events).

Induction, Support & Benefits

• Induction covering brand, tone, safeguarding, data protection, and tools.

• Named supervisor (Managing Director or Marketing & Communications Lead) with regular check-ins.

• Training resources (accessibility, inclusive language, social media best practice).

• References and portfolio credit for significant campaigns.

Success Measures (first 3–6 months)

• Consistent content cadence delivered against the calendar.

• Month-on-month growth in reach/engagement and click-throughs to priority actions (event sign-ups, enquiries).

• Evident improvement in accessibility and brand consistency.

• Clear moderation record with timely escalations and zero unmanaged risks.

How to Apply

Please send a short CV or LinkedIn profile and 2–3 examples of posts/reels/graphics you have produced (links or files). In a brief covering note (max 300 words), outline:

1. a channel you enjoy and why,

2. a quick idea for a one-month content theme for ThriveSpark, and

3. your typical availability.

ThriveSpark CIC is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage those with lived experience of ADHD or neurodivergence to apply. Adjustments are available throughout recruitment and volunteering.

The role

We are seeking a methodical, security-minded volunteer to keep our digital estate reliable, fast, and accessible. You’ll be the go-to person for our website and light technical administration - balancing day-to-day maintenance with small improvement projects that make a visible difference.

Key responsibilities

Website (primary)

• Maintain and update our CMS (e.g. WordPress), including core, theme, and plugin updates, and manage staging/production releases.

• Publish and tidy content (pages, posts, images), ensuring brand consistency and WCAG 2.2 AA accessibility.

• Monitor performance and uptime; investigate issues and optimise Core Web Vitals.

• Manage backups, security scans, and incident logs; liaise with hosts when required.

• Implement privacy and cookie compliance (CMP), and maintain policies (privacy, cookies, accessibility).

• Track performance with Google Analytics 4 and Search Console; support basic SEO (metadata, redirects, indexing).

Technical administration (supporting)

• Look after domains, DNS, and SSL/TLS certificate renewals.

• Support email administration (Microsoft 365/Google Workspace), including aliases and deliverability (SPF/DKIM/DMARC).

• Maintain integrations (e.g. forms ↔ CRM/newsletter tools), and keep contact lists healthy and GDPR-compliant.

• Document processes and maintain a simple change/request queue.

• Champion data protection: retention, least-access principles, and secure handling.

Projects you might lead

• Accessibility uplift to WCAG 2.2 AA.

• Microsites or landing pages for campaigns and events.

• Light automation (e.g. Zapier/Power Automate) to reduce manual tasks.

• Ticketing/newsletter tooling refresh and improved analytics dashboards.

Person specification

Essential

• Confident with a mainstream CMS (ideally WordPress) and basic HTML/CSS.

• Practical understanding of hosting, DNS, and SSL; able to troubleshoot calmly.

• Awareness of accessibility standards and GDPR in a charity context.

• Comfortable with GA4/Search Console and basic SEO hygiene.

• Organised, responsive, and able to write clear documentation.

Desirable

• Experience administering Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace.

• Familiarity with email deliverability and newsletter platforms (e.g. Mailchimp, Brevo).

• Experience with performance tooling (e.g. PageSpeed Insights, Lighthouse) and security hardening.

• Basic JavaScript or low-code automation (Zapier/Power Automate/Make).

• Prior voluntary sector experience.

What you’ll gain

• Real-world ownership of a live digital estate and measurable results for your portfolio.

• Supportive onboarding, reference on successful completion, and reasonable training where appropriate.

• Flexible volunteering you can fit around work or study.

We’re looking for reliable, tech-savvy people who’d like to use their digital or IT skills to help improve our online systems and website.

As a Web and IT Support Volunteer, you’ll help us keep our website up to date, support digital record-keeping and assist with maintaining efficient systems that help us work effectively. You’ll play an important role in helping us stay connected, accessible and organised across our programmes.

This role is ideal for someone with an interest in IT, websites or digital operations who wants to make a practical contribution to community-focused work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Updating website pages with new events, news and programme information
• Supporting the layout and accessibility of website content
• Uploading photos, articles or updates to digital platforms
• Helping staff and volunteers use digital tools
• Assisting with digital forms, data collection and record management
• Providing basic troubleshooting support or referring technical issues to the appropriate person
• Helping test and improve the digital tools and systems used by the team

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Confidence using websites, IT systems and digital tools
• Good understanding of basic data management and online platforms
• Problem-solving and attention to detail
• Clear communication and teamwork skills
• Reliable and organised approach to tasks
• Awareness of data protection and confidentiality principles

What You’ll Gain

• Experience supporting the digital operations of a community charity
• Opportunities to develop IT, web management and problem-solving skills
• Insight into digital tools used in the voluntary sector
• The satisfaction of helping improve online access and efficiency

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for organised, reliable people to help keep our programmes running smoothly behind the scenes and on the ground. 

As a Programme Support Volunteer, you’ll help with the coordination and delivery of our community projects and activities. You’ll assist with planning, preparation, data collection and general support across our programmes to ensure everything runs efficiently and participants have a positive experience.

This is a varied and rewarding role for anyone who enjoys helping things run well and being part of a supportive, community-focused team.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the planning and coordination of programme activities and events
• Helping prepare materials, resources and schedules before sessions
• Assisting with registration, attendance and record-keeping
• Collecting feedback and evaluation data to support monitoring and reporting
• Communicating with participants, volunteers and staff to share updates
• Providing general administrative and logistical support as needed

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Good organisational and communication skills
• Teamwork and reliability
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office or Google Workspace)
• Attention to detail and accuracy when handling information
• Flexible and adaptable approach to changing needs
• Respect for confidentiality and safeguarding principles

What You’ll Gain

• Experience supporting the delivery of community projects and events
• Opportunities to develop coordination, communication and admin skills
• Insight into how charities plan, monitor and evaluate programmes
• The satisfaction of helping projects run smoothly and effectively

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for creative and organised people who enjoy visual design and want to use their skills to support meaningful community projects.

As a Creative Design Volunteer, you’ll help create eye-catching digital and print materials that promote our programmes, campaigns and events. From social media graphics to posters and newsletters, your designs will help us communicate clearly and consistently with our audiences.

This is a flexible opportunity for anyone who enjoys bringing ideas to life through design and wants to use their creativity for social good.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Designing digital and print materials such as posters, flyers and social media graphics
• Creating templates and layouts for newsletters, presentations or reports
• Adapting designs to meet accessibility and brand guidelines
• Supporting the visual design of campaigns and community events
• Helping organise and manage design files and templates
• Contributing creative ideas for visual storytelling and community engagement

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Creative eye for layout and design
• Confidence using design tools such as Canva, Adobe Creative Cloud or similar
• Attention to detail and ability to follow brand guidelines
• Good communication and collaboration skills
• Reliable, organised and able to manage time effectively
• Interest in community, social impact or charity communications

What You’ll Gain

• Experience designing materials for community campaigns and events
• Opportunities to develop and showcase creative skills
• A chance to build a portfolio of design work for a good cause
• The satisfaction of helping a charity communicate its impact

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for creative, enthusiastic people who enjoy photography, storytelling and social media to help share the work we do and the difference it makes in our communities.

As a Digital Media Volunteer, you’ll help capture and share real stories from our projects and events, creating engaging content for social media, newsletters and other digital platforms. You’ll play a key role in helping us celebrate achievements, highlight opportunities and inspire others to get involved.

This is a flexible role for anyone who enjoys being creative and wants to use their digital skills for a positive cause.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Creating and scheduling social media posts across platforms
• Taking photographs or short videos during activities and events
• Writing captions, stories or updates that highlight community impact
• Helping prepare content for newsletters, blogs or website updates
• Supporting engagement by monitoring comments and interactions online
• Organising photos, videos and creative assets for use in campaigns

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Creative eye for photography, video or design
• Confidence using social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn
• Good writing and communication skills
• Basic knowledge of tools like Canva or other editing apps (training can be provided)
• Organised and reliable with good attention to detail
• Respect for safeguarding, consent and confidentiality when sharing media

What You’ll Gain

• Experience in digital communications and social media for a charity
• A chance to develop creative and storytelling skills
• Opportunities to build a portfolio of photography or content work
• The satisfaction of helping promote community stories and impact

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for detail-orientated, proactive people who’d like to use their research or writing skills to help strengthen our funding applications and impact reporting.

As a Research and Bid Support Volunteer, you’ll help identify funding opportunities, gather data and evidence, and support the preparation of grant proposals. You’ll also assist with compiling feedback and monitoring information that helps us demonstrate the difference our work makes.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys research, analysis and writing and wants to gain experience in how charities develop projects and secure funding.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Researching grant opportunities that align with our programmes and priorities
• Helping gather data, statistics and community evidence to support funding applications
• Reviewing funder guidelines and eligibility criteria
• Assisting with drafting or formatting sections of funding proposals
• Collecting quotes, case studies and outcomes to demonstrate impact
• Supporting report preparation and data organisation for monitoring and evaluation

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Strong written and research skills
• Attention to detail and ability to analyse information clearly
• Organised and methodical approach to work
• Confidence using digital tools and online databases
• Interest in community development, funding or project design
• Discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information

What You’ll Gain

• Experience contributing to real funding applications and impact reporting
• Insight into charity fundraising, project development and evaluation
• Opportunities to build research, analysis and writing skills
• The satisfaction of supporting projects that bring lasting community benefits

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

We’re looking for enthusiastic, motivated people who’d like to help raise awareness and vital funds for local projects that make a real difference.

As a Fundraising Volunteer, you’ll support our fundraising activities, from community events and local partnerships to online campaigns. You’ll help inspire support for our programmes that empower people, promote wellbeing and build stronger communities.

This is a flexible, rewarding opportunity for anyone who enjoys connecting with people, being creative and helping a good cause grow.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the organisation and delivery of fundraising events and activities
• Helping prepare materials such as posters, donation forms and thank-you messages
• Promoting campaigns and community events online or in person
• Engaging with local businesses, schools or groups about partnerships or sponsorships
• Assisting with donation recording and simple reporting tasks
• Helping share stories that highlight how donations make a difference

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Confidence speaking with the public and representing the charity positively
• Creativity and enthusiasm for community fundraising
• Teamwork and reliability
• Basic digital skills (social media or online tools)
• Attention to detail when handling information or donations

What You’ll Gain

• Experience supporting fundraising and community engagement activities
• Opportunities to build confidence and communication skills
• Insight into how charities raise funds and engage supporters
• The satisfaction of helping local projects continue and grow

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

Do you have an entrepreneurial streak? A knack for networking, for making money?

Norwich Pride is coming of age! 

We’re turning 18 in 2026 and to make it happen we need more volunteer Organisers. 

Can you write successful grant bids? Create sponsorship packages and work effectively with partner organisations?

Are you a good communicator, skilled across a range of software?

Are you local to Norwich and would you like to join the team that brings Norwich Pride to the city each year?

Our vision is to turn Norwich into a rainbow and you could be just who we are looking for to help us achieve that goal as our new ‘Head of Fundraising’.

Norwich Pride is a group of friendly, creative, enthusiastic volunteers from the local lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans (LGBTQIA+) community.

We organise Norwich Pride on the last Saturday each July. A free and community led event that helps to ensure Norwich is a city where everyone feels safe and proud to be themselves.

NB Location: Norwich Pride is rooted in the local community and members of the Organising Team will need to be available for some centrally based face-to-face meetings as well as event preparation nearer the time. Our preference therefore is for local volunteers (Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambs).

Volunteer opportunities are worthwhile and give us all the chance to help important causes in our local community, but you, the volunteer, will also gain from donating your time. Volunteering can help you make friends, grow your CV/career, develop a new skill set, and of course, make a difference.

NB Remuneration: In recognition of the importance of this role to the success of the Norwich Pride event this is the only role within the organisation which attracts a small ‘honorarium’ payment. Norwich Pride Trustees have agreed the amount will be dependent upon the successful candidate’s knowledge, skills and experience.

Good luck, we look forward to receiving your application.

We’re looking for patient, supportive people who’d like to spend a few hours each week helping others to learn and develop new skills.

As a Learning Support Volunteer, you’ll be part of a welcoming team that helps adults and young people take part in our learning, employability and personal development sessions. You’ll provide encouragement, guidance and reassurance to help participants build confidence and progress at their own pace.

This is a flexible, hands-on role for anyone who enjoys supporting others and wants to make a difference in their community.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting learning and skills sessions led by tutors or facilitators
• Assisting individuals or small groups with practical tasks and exercises
• Encouraging participation and helping build confidence during activities
• Helping prepare materials, resources and session spaces
• Providing friendly reassurance and guidance to learners throughout sessions
• Assisting with feedback collection, attendance and evaluation records

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Good communication and listening skills
• Patience, empathy and a supportive approach
• Confidence working with people from different backgrounds
• Teamwork and reliability
• Organised and attentive to detail
• Willingness to follow guidance and safeguarding procedures

What You’ll Gain

• Experience supporting learning and employability programmes
• Opportunities to develop communication, facilitation and teamwork skills
• The satisfaction of helping others grow in confidence and independence
• A chance to meet new people and contribute to positive community impact

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

Are you are looking for a role where you can have a positive impact on the lives of people affected by their mental health?

Do you have the strategic leadership skills and experience, as a Board Trustee/NED, to enable a national charity in driving its vision and purpose?

Founded in 1984, Mental Health Matters (MHM) is a leading UK charity providing life-changing support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Our comprehensive services are delivered in communities across England, helping 15,000 people each month to overcome adversity and regain independence.
 

The Role
We are looking for two new trustees to join us early in 2026, who can bring their skills and experience to support Mental Health Matters to further develop a diverse way of thinking on our Board. You will have experience as a trustee or non-executive director in the third sector.

Our commitment is to being a diverse and inclusive organisation that reflects the communities we support. We are encouraging applications from people of all backgrounds, particularly those from underrepresented groups, and people with lived experience of mental health challenges. Whatever your story, or life experiences, we value these different perspectives which help us to see things we might otherwise miss. We will support any access requirements, or reasonable adjustments, needed during the recruitment process and once in role.

We have a particular interest in candidates who can bring relevant clinical knowledge and experience or have a good understanding of the policy and political environment in which we operate. Alternatively, if you have strong financial and commercial acumen, we are interested in hearing from you. The role is suited to strategic thinkers who are looking to make a positive impact for people experiencing mental ill health and are able to lend their leadership experience to the growth and development of the organisation. Ultimately, you will be dynamic in your thinking with a real drive and passion to make a substantial impact to our work!

To reflect our broad geographical presence, we welcome interest from candidates regardless of current location.

This is a wonderful environment where we are collaborative, caring, and ambitious but with a real focus on those who access our services. We take great pride in our work and the Charity, balancing this with a dynamic and innovative approach. If you’d like to bring your skills and expertise to support us, we’d love to hear from you.

 

For Further Details and How to Apply
The roles are unremunerated but all reasonable expenses will be covered.

We operate Safer Recruitment processes, so if you are interested in this role, you will need to apply via our online application form. You are able to upload a copy of your current CV, and please ensure you answer the shortlisting questions to show how you meet the person specification criteria.

We are an equal opportunities employer. We really value diversity and are committed to ensuring our processes are inclusive. We may ask some personal information during the application process, however, everything we ask is to ensure we can offer fair and accessible opportunities for everyone.  This will only be used for equality and diversity monitoring purposes.

Closing date - Friday 21st November 2025

We’re looking for friendly, reliable people who’d like to spend a few hours helping out in the local community by supporting our community activities, outreach and events.

As a Community Engagement Volunteer, you’ll help plan and deliver a range of activities that bring people together, from community sessions and wellbeing projects to local events and awareness campaigns. You’ll play an active role in creating welcoming, inclusive spaces where participants can connect, take part and access support.

This is a flexible, hands-on opportunity for anyone who enjoys meeting new people and wants to help strengthen local relationships and wellbeing.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Supporting the setup and delivery of community sessions, events and outreach activities
• Welcoming participants, providing friendly assistance and helping create an inclusive environment
• Sharing information about our programmes, activities, campaigns and opportunities
• Helping us reach more people through local outreach and awareness work
• Assisting with health, wellbeing or awareness events that promote active participation
• Collecting feedback and basic evaluation information to support programme improvement

Skills and Qualities We’re Looking For

• Friendly, approachable and reliable attitude
• Good communication and teamwork skills
• Confidence engaging with people from different backgrounds
• Patience, empathy and respect for others’ experiences
• Enthusiasm for community, inclusion or wellbeing work

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to meet new people and get involved in your community
• Experience supporting local projects and outreach activities
• Opportunities to build confidence and develop new skills
• The satisfaction of making a genuine difference to others

About Us

We are a community-led charity tackling poverty at its root by empowering people and communities to overcome barriers and build sustainable futures.

Our programmes support children, young people, adults and families through education, employability, wellbeing and social inclusion activities that promote confidence, connection and opportunity.

Safeguarding and Inclusion

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults involved in our work.

Safeguarding training will be provided for all volunteers and a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check may be required for this role.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and will make reasonable adjustments to support participation wherever possible.

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.