We have volunteer opportunities available at Oakley, 4 High Street, Bedford. We are a residential care service for adults with learning disabilities, and we are currently looking for people who are enthusiastic, reliable and committed, to join our team and help deliver fun and engaging sessions.

Do you know your way around the kitchen, or would you like to share your baking skills? We have volunteer opportunities available for you to teach our residents cooking skills, anything from a pizza, a pasta bake, or even a cake.

Do you have green fingers? We have a lovely garden here at our service and we’d like someone to help us maintain our sensory garden for us to enjoy during the Spring and Summer months.

We are also looking for activities assistants to help create and deliver arts and crafts sessions, including games, painting, and general crafty fun.

Do you enjoy music? You could share your music skills with us, and arrange a disco!

As a volunteer with Creative Support we offer training for your role, access to a volunteer supervisor, an induction, a monthly Volunteer newsletter, and an online volunteer’s peer support group. Together we can make a difference.

Suggested Time Commitment: 2-4 hours per week

Creative Support is a passionate, inclusive, and anti-racist organisation. We are a Stonewall Diversity Champion, Disability Confident Employer who have recently received Investors in People Silver award. We actively encourage applications from candidates from all backgrounds and cultures.

We would encourage you to apply to us even if you have not yet had your COVID 19 vaccine. You will be required to have your first COVID 19 vaccine prior to your interview and your second vaccine before you start volunteering with us.

Looking for a qualified or traninee accountant that can support us with finance and accountancy.

What will you be doing? We are looking for someone to ensure the submission of annual returns and basic bookkeeping. Someone that could provide guidance and support through the year and being imaginative at problem solving for the union which is growing. 

You will work directly with the union elected committee, the role can eventually be remote.

The role is flexible in terms of volunteer hours

What are we looking for?

• Qualified  Accontant • Excellent Excel skills

• Strong knowledge of accounting and bookeeping procedures

What difference will you make?

Taking the day to day administration and year to year financial documentation would take the burden off us and will allow our limited resources to focus on other areas in order to grow and further our cause.

The App Drivers & Couriers Unions (ADCU), founded in 2015, is a truly member led trade union which has now grown to become the largest union for gig workers and those in precarious employment. Our membership, focused on workers in the private hire and courier sector, is distributed nationwide with a sizable concentration in London. The ADCU is a truly
democratic, grass roots trade union serving an overwhelmingly BAME membership base. We are proud to say that our union is 100% funded by member subscriptions. Our union is passionately built on the belief that collective power of workers will in the end, lead to the end of workplace injustice and a healthier society. Our union therefore is organised from the workplace up with elected committees in most major UK cities. The ADCU has a nationwide membership with local branches in London, Birmingham, Bristol, Northampton, Nottingham, Sheffield, and Glasgow. Over the years we have organized multiple high profile actions including strikes, protests, and strategic litigation. Last year, our union won a landmark worker rights claim against Uber at the UK Supreme Court and is currently involved in further litigation against Uber. We have also brought litigation against other industry employers. 

Trustees - London Early Years Foundation (LEYF)

The Board of Trustees of the London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) is looking for a talented individual to join our Board. You will join LEYF at a critical time for the childcare and Early Years development sector as it seeks to address key issues including funding, gender diversity in nursery provision and achievement of high-quality outcomes.

The Organisation

London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) is one of London’s largest and most successful charitable social enterprises, operating 39 award-winning nurseries, including some in London’s most disadvantaged areas. We are committed to giving all children access to high quality childcare, and LEYF invests all profits back into the business.

Many of the LEYF nurseries include a mix of children from different socioeconomic backgrounds. This is proven to have a positive effect on the development of all children, but particularly those from poorer backgrounds. Where possible, LEYF employs local staff and recruits apprentices which brings an economic benefit to disadvantaged communities.

The Role

We are now seeking a new Trustee to join our Board and Finance Committee to contribute to the strategic development and further success of LEYF. It is an exciting time to join our organisation as we move forward with the next chapter of our growth. We have recently aligned as a Board and Executive Team on an ambition to reach more than double the number of children in the next 7 years.

Person Specification

•  The successful candidates will be passionate about LEYF’s ambition and will bring experience of organisational change to support and guide us through this critical period. 
•  A strong commercial background with a deep understanding of business in a similar size organisation.  
•  Experience and understanding of the complexities of commercial growth. 
•  Ability to blend strategic thinking with operational expertise - we are interested to understand how you have done this in a variety of roles and organisations. 

Whatever your experience, we are committed to enhancing the diversity of our Board, particularly in terms of the representation of our staff and families, over 50% of whom have black and other ethnic minority backgrounds. Prior experience as a trustee or non-executive director is welcome, but not essential. We particularly value what lived, and life experience can bring to our board too.
 
For a full role description and person specification, please see the Candidate Information Pack.

Time Commitment:

This is a voluntary, unpaid role. The LEYF Board of Trustees meet in central London for 4 (quarterly) Board meetings, typically outside working hours, and 1 strategy day. The Finance Committee meets virtually six times a year (more frequently where needed). In normal circumstances, each year you will commit to around 2 days per month including attending Board and Committee meetings, our annual Board strategy day and LEYF events and conferences.  

Closing date for applications: Wednesday 20th July 2022
Preliminary interviews with Trustees Unlimited: w/c Monday 25th July 2022
Interviews with LEYF: Monday 15th August and Tuesday 16th August 2022

We look forward to receiving your application.

Philly & Friends aims to tackle the issue of racism and inequality by promoting diversity in the playroom. We aim to add a drop of colour to the sea of children's products. Introducing diversity to our homes, particularly the playroom, plays a significant role in the fight for equality, inclusivity and acceptance. By ensuring our children's toy box and bookshelf are diverse, we are teaching them to love genuinely, to understand differences and embrace diversity. We are giving them a beautiful gift of representation.

We believe that children need to see themselves and others represented in the books they read, the toys they play with and the media they consume. Positive representation helps children grow up with a secure self-image, appreciating themselves as they are and learning to respect others. We create beautifully illustrated books, wall art, and toys designed to instill self-love and confidence while providing representation. Each book sold sponsors a book into the hands of an underprivileged child through our partnership with Books2Africa.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

• Philly & Friends is on a mission to add a drop of colour to the sea of children's products. You will be helping Philly & Friends in making a global impact as all children deserve to see themselves and others represented in the books they read, the toys they play with and the media they consume. You would help us establish relationships within the retail sector and kids entertainment sector. Help develop plans for business and revenue growth. Plan and implement new target market initiatives and partnerships. Develop strategy for international expansion.

• Volunteer 8 hours per week

Why we want you:

Fairtrade is a movement for change that works directly with businesses, consumers and campaigners to make trade deliver for farmers and workers.

Fairtrade is a global movement with a strong and active presence in the UK, represented by the Fairtrade Foundation.

The international Fairtrade system (of which the Fairtrade Foundation is a member) works on behalf of farmers and workers to drive sustainable livelihoods, empower producers and workers, and make trade fair.

The Fairtrade Campaigns team:

We co-ordinate a network of grassroots campaigners across the UK made up of community groups, schools and universities as well as individual supporters. Each of our sub-teams focuses on a specific audience; Education (schools and universities), Communities (Fairtrade towns and faith groups) and Supporters (individuals).

The aim is to increase availability of Fairtrade products and raise awareness of Fairtrade across the community. The grassroots Fairtrade movement has built a strong understanding of Fairtrade across the UK and inspired other countries to start similar national Fairtrade campaigns.

In this role, you will be working with our Education team supporting with the facilitation of the awards scheme for schools through assessing applications.

This role is aimed at those who would like to volunteer remotely, ideally, we would be looking for someone to be able to commit a few hours each week to assess at least one school application, but this can be flexible and there are opportunities to do more if you so wish to.

This arrangement is not intended to be legally binding or to create a contract.

What you will be doing:

• Assessing applications and renewal applications across supporter groups (primarily schools, but with scope for communities and faiths) against the goals set by the Fairtrade Foundation.
• Writing feedback reports based on all campaign areas application forms, detailing recommendations for improvement and/or the extent to which each goal has been achieved (supported by the Campaigns staff). 

The skills you need:

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral).
• Self-motivated and pro-active approach to work, within a team setting. 
• A passion for grassroots campaigning for social change/justice issues.
• Experience of/ interest in campaigns and/or community organisations an advantage

What’s in it for you:

• Experience of working in a fast-paced, successful development organisation. 
• An understanding of the international Fairtrade system, and particularly the role of the UK movement.
• Understanding of grassroots, cross-community, campaign activities.
• A volunteering reference on request.

Disclaimer:

This volunteering arrangement is not intended to be legally binding or to create a contract. 

We regret that we are unable to assist non-UK residents who are planning to volunteer during a short stay in the UK with visa applications, finding accommodation etc.

The Fairtrade Foundation is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Why we want you:

Fairtrade is a movement for change that works directly with businesses, consumers and campaigners to make trade deliver for farmers and workers.

Fairtrade is a global movement with a strong and active presence in the UK, represented by the Fairtrade Foundation.

The international Fairtrade system (of which the Fairtrade Foundation is a member) works on behalf of farmers and workers to drive sustainable livelihoods, empower producers and workers, and make trade fair.

The Fairtrade Campaigns team:

We co-ordinate a network of grassroots campaigners across the UK made up of community groups, schools and universities as well as individual supporters. Each of our sub-teams focuses on a specific audience; Education (schools and universities), Communities (Fairtrade towns and faith groups) and Supporters (individuals).

The aim is to increase availability of Fairtrade products and raise awareness of Fairtrade across the community. The grassroots Fairtrade movement has built a strong understanding of Fairtrade across the UK and inspired other countries to start similar national Fairtrade campaigns.

In this role, you will be working across various supporter groups (schools, communities and faiths) supporting with the facilitation of the awards schemes and wider engagement with those audiences.

Ideally, you would volunteer for 10-15 hours per week for at least 6 months.We are open and flexible for these hours to be spread across any pattern within Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.This arrangement is not intended to be legally binding or to create a contract. 

What you will be doing:

• Assessing applications and renewal applications across supporter groups (schools, communities and faiths) against the goals set by the Fairtrade Foundation.
• Writing feedback reports based on all campaign areas application forms, detailing recommendations for improvement and/or the extent to which each goal has been achieved (supervised by the Campaigns staff). 
• Drafting letters and corresponding with applicants to inform them of the Foundation’s decisions.
• Assisting and answering enquiries via phone and email from prospective/current campaigners regarding applications across supporter groups (schools, communities and faiths).
• Regularly assisting in Supporter Service functions such as managing email inboxes, ensuring emails are responded to promptly.
• Contributing towards the upkeep of data management and streamlining supporter groups by using Customer Relationship Management tools and databases.
• Supporting the Schools and Communities sub-teams with administration and logistics for network development.
• Assisting with other research and creative projects relating to the Fairtrade Campaigns movement.

The skills you need:

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral).
• Good IT skills: Primarily Microsoft Office package, though training will be given for more advanced features and programmes as required.
• Self-motivated and pro-active approach to work, within a team setting. 
• A passion for grassroots campaigning for social change/justice issues.
• A flexible and enthusiastic approach to work, with ability to manage priorities.

What’s in it for you:

• Experience of working in a fast-paced, successful development organisation. 
• Advanced office, administration, database and campaigner support experience. 
• An understanding of the international Fairtrade system, and particularly the role of the UK movement.
• Understanding of grassroots, cross-community, campaign activities.
• Specific skills development such as web management, copy writing, events support as determined by you.
• Contribution to specific projects and campaigns.
• A volunteering reference on request.

Disclaimer:

This volunteering arrangement is not intended to be legally binding or to create a contract. 

We regret that we are unable to assist non-UK residents who are planning to volunteer during a short stay in the UK with visa applications, finding accommodation etc.

The Fairtrade Foundation is committed to equal opportunities and welcomes applications from all sections of the community.

Do you enjoy driving? 

Would you like to make a difference to the people we support in your community? 

We are looking for friendly drivers to join us! 

You will meet some amazing people, whilst making a positive impact to their lives by helping them get to the activities and appointments that are important to them.   

Activities will include: 

• Driving the people we support between their homes and services in a safe manner, in accordance with UK law. 
• Driving the cars owned by the people we support
• Driving around the Worcester area, which will be the start and end point of the majority of journeys 
• Assisting people we support in and out of vehicles and locations – with assistance from trained Dimensions staff. 
• Driving in a manner that is sensitive of physical and emotional requirements of the people we support. 

Activities will NOT include: Personal care, medication or financial assistance.

We are looking for drivers who: 

• Are aged 21 or over, with at least 2 years driving experience 
• Hold a full, clean and current UK Driving License (or equivalent) 
• Have the ability to understand verbal and written instructions in relation to journeys 
• Are friendly with the people we support and our support staff 

• Are willing to commit to volunteer regularly (times and days can be discussed) 

A DBS check and two character references will be required for this role.

PBI UK is recruiting a new Communications Intern to join our UK team either in London or remotely. We are looking for someone with experience in creative approaches to digital communications and a passion for promoting human rights.

1. Organisational overview 

Peace Brigades International (PBI) is a non-governmental organisation, which protects human rights and  promotes nonviolent conflict transformation. PBI provides protection for threatened human rights defenders striving to promote social justice and human rights in areas of violent conflict.

PBI currently has field operations in Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, Kenya, Indonesia, Mexico, Nepal and  Nicaragua. PBI project work is supported by a network of 13 offices like ours in the UK, which carry out volunteer recruitment and support, advocacy and fundraising.

2. The Role

Communications are key to PBI’s strategy to advocate for the protection of human rights defenders and encourage support for our work. As Communications Intern, you will support the team in developing a communications strategy, based partly on social media, while gaining valuable skills and experience in an international non-governmental organisation. The PBI UK office is a small and caring team where new ideas are welcomed and valued. We accept candidates searching for part-time or full-time internships, and work can either be remote or in our London office. Occasional travel to London may be necessary and UK-based candidates might be priortised.

3. Key Responsibilities 

i) Development of PBI UK’s communications strategy

• Review previous PBI UK communications strategy, consultancies, and current work plan to identify areas for improvement and best opportunities of focus in the next 12 months 

• Build branding and vision-focused social media strategy plan to support a long-term strategy with the goal of raising awareness of, and engagement in, PBI UK's projects and initiatives

• Develop a brand persona for PBI UK, which should easily be used for building new social media posts and email communication

ii)  Build and manage a Social Media strategy

• Review PBI UK’s social media outputs, content and messaging, and identify areas of improvement and focus with the goal of raising awareness of, and engagement in, PBI UK's projects and initiatives 

• Review similar organisations’ social media to understand common and effective practices in the field

• Review PBI UK's main audiences and target audiences to understand ideal focus groups, taking into account factors such as demographics, topics and communication styles of interest, as well as their online behaviours and perception of the organization

• Identify, segment and manage PBI UK's a audiences, based on which communication type should be focused on who, and how to engage them

• Build a social media plan for each audience for the next 12 months with the goal of raising awareness of PBI UK's projects and initiatives

• Build and edit specific social media posts and templates, including video and graphics development, based on current and old materials from specific projects 

iii) Build and manage Email strategy

• Identify, segment and manage PBI UK's email audiences, based on which type of communication should be focused on who and how to engage them

• Build and implement an email newsletter plan for each audience for the next 12 months with the goal of raising awareness of, and engagement in, PBI UK's projects and initiatives

iv) Support other communication strategies

• Work with PBI partners to share capacity and learnings across the organisation

• Support public communications activities by drafting talking points and pitches for use by PBI UK staff

• Identify and pursue press coverage opportunities

• Review and categorise PBI’s digital assets,; collate and develop a centralised photographic library

• Author case studies and create visual products (including graphics) to communicate them

4. Essential general skills 

• Hold, be pursuing, or intend to pursue, a Masters Degree in strategic communications or a related field;

• Have strong writing, proofreading and analytical skills;

• Be familiar with web editing (especially WordPress and MailChimp);

• Be able to meet tight deadlines;

• Be able to think independently and take proactive responsibility;

• Have the desire and courage to contribute your own ideas, creativity and personality;

• Political awareness and familiarity with global issues relating to peace and human rights;

• Commitment to and understanding of the principles and mandate of PBI.

5. Desirable skills

• B2 level in Spanish 

6. Expenses

PBI can cover travel and lunch expenses on working days.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Communications Volunteer for the Coventry and District Group. As our Communications Volunteer you’ll make sure people know they have a local MS Society group to turn to.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your writing skills, and gain an experience of communicating across a range of digital channels. 

Time commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Job Title:

Volunteer Shop Assistant

Charity:

Age UK

Division Name:

Age UK Trading

Location:

Retail

Type of role

Volunteer

Job Title of Line Manager:

Shop Manager

Job Purpose:

This role would suit anyone looking to use their skills within a retail environment, gain new skills or looking for an opportunity to give something back to their community, whilst meeting people from all different walks of life.

Main Responsibilities:

• Shop floor work
• Till work
• Stock processing
• Customer service
• Merchandising
• Housekeeping
• Stock rotation
• Supporting raffle ticket sales and promotion of gift aid.

Relevant training and support will be provided to volunteers.

Processing stock will sometimes involve carrying and moving (sometimes heavy) bags of stock.  Please let us know if you may find this difficult.

What we expect from our volunteers:

• To support and be a part of the paid shop team in creating a friendly and welcoming environment for all customers, staff and volunteers
• To adhere to and embrace our Age UK values.
• To undertake mandatary online compliance training including health and safety, safeguarding, gift aid and any other relevant training.
• To carry out the volunteering tasks to the best of your ability
• To adhere to any Covid-secure restrictions and guidelines outlined.

What our volunteers can expect from us:

• The chance to meet new people and be part of a supported and friendly team.
• Travel and meal expenses (restrictions apply)
• Discounts on donated stock in their ‘base’ shop
• Retail experience to enhance your CV

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the Coventry and District Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills. Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Finance Volunteer

We’re the MS Society – a community of people living with MS, scientists, campaigners, listeners, organisers, ambassadors and fundraisers. Our volunteers are a key part of achieving our goals and their support is vital. Join us.

About this opportunity
We are looking to recruit a Finance Volunteer for our Coventry and District Group. As a Finance Volunteer, you would be joining a coordinating team of volunteers to plan and deliver services and activities to support people locally.

You will maintain and approve income and expenditure records and explain financial information clearly to other group members. You would ensure our financial requirements and policies are followed, and that money is spent in a cost effective manner.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience with a large charity, develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be comfortable with figures, preferably with an accounting or business background.

Apply 

Read through the role description carefully

Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Warehouse Volunteer

Are you someone who would like to stay in shape, help save the planet and raise funds to save lives? Volunteering in one of our local furniture store warehouses could be the answer.

We need warehouse operative volunteers to keep our stock moving by hand from the van to the warehouse and shop floor, and back to the van for delivery as items sell on the shop floor.

This role is physically active as it involves carrying furniture by hand but it’s not just moving furniture around. There are other opportunities to help in our warehouse, such as warehouse logistics, booking stock in and pricing, building flat-packed furniture, and testing electrical items – you can try different roles.

Say hello to the team:

Funding for researchers begins at your local charity shop. Now, more than ever, we are in urgent need of volunteers to enable us to continue our life saving research and help the 7.6 million people in the UK living with heart and circulatory diseases. This wouldn’t be possible without our fantastic volunteers.

Our team is welcoming and friendly, and we love meeting people from all walks of life.

Typical tasks include:

• Ensuring the warehouse is always kept in a clean, safe and organised state
• Safely lifting and carrying (by hand) a range of furniture items, big or small – it all helps!
• Dealing with van deliveries to the shop and preparing deliveries for customers
• Building flat-pack furniture for display purposes, carrying out light furniture repairs if confident alongside the Warehouse Supervisor
• Re-stocking furniture on the shop floor as items are sold
• Acting as an ambassador for the British Heart Foundation

You get a lot from volunteering too:

• A chance to work in a friendly team, make new friends & meet a diverse group
• The feel-good factor of helping the British Heart Foundation beat heartbreak forever
• The time to develop your confidence and interpersonal skills
• Gain valuable warehousing experience to add to your CV and learn new skills
• Flexibility to fit with your lifestyle around your other commitments
• Reasonable travel reimbursed in agreement with the Manager
• 25% volunteer discount on donated goods

Please note - we are unable to accept volunteers aged under 16 and we cannot accept volunteers with unspent criminal convictions or who are subject to criminal registers/orders

MEA welcome compassionate individuals with experience within the health, energy, community or youth sectors to join our Trustee Board and assist our continued expansion. MEA has 25 years' experience delivering practical help and impartial energy advice to vulnerable householders in the Midlands. Collaborating with Local Authorities, installers and community groups, we deliver projects and raise awareness of the links between health and warm homes. MEA are also active in promoting sustainable energy efficient measures including whole house retrofits and our work is becoming increasingly integral as the UK makes the transition to net zero carbon. As a Trustee in a company limited by guarantee, you will be a Director with overall responsibility of MEA's operations. This voluntary role encompasses overseeing strategic and financial planning and employment practice.