Policy/Research Volunteer Roles

HR MANAGER - VOLUNTEER ROLE

We are looking for a volunteer to join us at Unlock YOUR Potential in the volunteer role of HR MANAGER (Remote), where you will lead on Unlock YOUR Potential's HR aspects and function, ensuring an amazing organisational culture and team spirit.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a dynamic and impact-focused startup charity committed to empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to provide meaningful programmes that span employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and holistic support. We believe in building new pathways for those seeking positive change.

Role Overview:

As the Volunteer, HR Manager, you will play a crucial role in setting up and managing our human resources, with a focus on recruitment and retention of volunteers. This is a remote position, with meetings done via telephone or online via Zoom or other platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Setting Up the HR Department: Establish HR systems and processes tailored to a startup charity.
2. Ensure compliance with legal requirements.
3. Onboarding and Offboarding: Welcome new team members and manage their transition. Handle offboarding processes professionally.
4. Develop and implement HR policies and procedures and address team members’ queries related to HR policies.
5. Organise interviews and recruitment processes and support the recruitment process by creating job/role descriptions and preparing interview questions.
6. Implement a learning and development policy and foster talent growth and succession planning.
7. Drive HR strategy in alignment with our overall mission.
8. Contribute to organisational success through effective HR practices.
9. Other duties required of a HR Manager.

Qualifications and Experience:

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities. We are especially interested in candidates who have:

• A recognised UK HR qualification and relevant experience.
• Experience developing and implementing HR policies and procedures.
• Ability to Set Up an HR Department: Proficiency in establishing systems and processes for a startup charity.
• Collaborative Approach: Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Commitment to the vision and values of Unlock YOUR Potential.

Time Commitment:

Approximately 6 hours per week (flexible). This can be spread over evenings and weekends.

Join Us:

If you are ready to make a lasting impact, drive positive change, and lead with purpose, we invite you to apply. Together, we can unlock potential and transform lives.

Unlock YOUR Potential is an equal opportunity organisation.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER - VOLUNTEER ROLE

Unlock YOUR Potential is on the lookout for a visionary leader to join our team as our Chief Operating Officer (COO) in a volunteer capacity. This remote role is pivotal in steering our operations, fostering an exceptional organisational culture, and amplifying our impact.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a vibrant, impact-driven startup charity dedicated to uplifting individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. We are committed to delivering impactful programmes that encompass employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and comprehensive support. Our goal is to carve out new avenues for those in pursuit of positive transformation.

Role Overview:

As the COO - VOLUNTEER ROLE, you will be instrumental in overseeing our operations and ensuring the smooth execution of our mission. Your leadership will be key in nurturing our team and advancing our strategic objectives. This role is remote, with collaboration conducted via telephone or online platforms like Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guide the charity’s operations, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in all aspects.
• Collaborate with the CEO and board to set ambitious yet achievable goals.
• Streamline processes to enhance productivity and resource allocation.
• Lead our passionate team, promoting a culture of excellence and continuous improvement.
• Implement robust systems to track progress and drive organisational success.
• Work closely with the finance department to safeguard the charity’s financial health.
• Ensure adherence to legal standards and proactive risk mitigation.
• Foster strong relationships with partners, donors, and the community.
• Be an ambassador for Unlock YOUR Potential, advocating for our mission and values.
• Carry out of duties that support the running of Unlock YOUR Potnetial and your role as COO.

Qualifications and Experience:

We encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds, ages, and skill sets to apply. Ideal candidates will possess:

• Proven track record in a management role, preferably within the non-profit sector.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee complex operations and drive strategic initiatives.
• Understanding of financial management principles and budgeting.
• Exceptional ability to communicate and engage with various stakeholders.
• Dedication to the ethos and aspirations of Unlock YOUR Potential.

Time Commitment:

The role requires a commitment of approximately 8-10 hours per week, which can be accommodated during evenings and weekends, offering fantastic flexibility to fit around your life.

Join Us:

If you’re eager to make a significant contribution, inspire change, and lead with conviction, we welcome your application. Together, let’s unlock potential and enact meaningful change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is proud to be an equal opportunity organisation.

TREASURER - VOLUNTEER ROLE

We are looking for a volunteer with experience in UK accounting to join us at Unlock YOUR Potential in the volunteer role of TREASURER (Remote), where you will lead on the financial management and controls of Unlock YOUR Potential. This includes attending regular meetings via telephone or via Zoom and be able to commit to 6 hours per month as part of the TREASURER duties.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a dynamic and impact-focused startup charity committed to empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to provide meaningful programmes that span employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and holistic support. We believe in building new pathways for those seeking positive change.

Role Overview:

As the Volunteer, Treasurer, you will play a crucial role in managing the financial affairs of our charity. Your expertise will ensure compliance with legal accounting practices, effective financial management, and strategic decision-making. This is a remote position with meetings taking place via telephone or via Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Monitor and safeguard charity funds, including being a key signatory of the charity bank accounts.
2. ​Prepare accurate financial reports and records. Ensure compliance with financial regulations.
3. Prepare budgets and financial statements, submit forecasting and financial reports and implement legislative and financial policies.
4. Lead the charity in all financial matters and aspects.
5. Work closely with the CEO and Finance Manager and other Trustees to ensure the sound financial management of Unlock YOUR Potential.
6. Carry out essential Trustee duties, including those in your role as Treasurer.

Treasurer ​Qualifications:

• Previous UK finance/accounting experience.
• Proficiency with financial software systems.
• Strong communication and forecasting skills.
• Knowledge of financial legislation.​

Trustee Attributes:

• Passion for Social Impact: You believe in creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.
• Collaborative Approach: You appreciate teamwork and value diverse perspectives.
• Strategic Thinker: You can envision long-term goals and contribute to effective planning.
• Excellent Communication: You can articulate our mission compellingly to various audiences.

Time Commitment:

Approximately 6 hours per month. This includes quarterly board meetings and additional tasks as needed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 1-year term, with the option of renewal after the term comes up.

Join Us:

If you are passionate about making a difference, ready to contribute your skills, and eager to serve our community, we invite you to apply. Together, we can unlock potential and create positive change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is an equal opportunity organisation.

TRUSTEE - VOLUNTEER ROLE

We are looking for volunteers to join us at Unlock YOUR Potential in the volunteer role of TRUSTEE (Remote), where you will attend regular quarterly Trustee meetings via Zoom and be able to commit to 3 hours per month as part of the TRUSTEE duties.

About Us:

Unlock YOUR Potential is a dynamic and impact-focused startup charity committed to empowering individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Our mission is to provide meaningful programmes that span employment, education, life skills, mentoring, personal development, and holistic support. We believe in building new pathways for those seeking positive change.

Role Overview:

As a Volunteer, Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction and governance of our new startup social mobility charity. Your expertise and commitment will contribute to our mission of unlocking potential and transforming lives. This is a remote position with meetings taking place via Zoom.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Support Unlock YOUR Potential by carrying out essential Trustee duties.
2. Collaborate with fellow trustees to develop and review long-term strategies, policies and plans.
3. Uphold effective governance practices.
4. Actively engage in board meetings and decision-making.
5. Represent Unlock YOUR Potential externally. Cultivate relationships with stakeholders and partners.
6. Carry out regular Trustee duties within your 3 hours per month.
7. Support, advise and assist the CEO and Team, ensuring they have all the needed resources to carry out their roles.
8. Assist and in some cases lead on income generation, such as grant/bid writing.

Qualifications and Attributes:

We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds. While specific qualifications are not mandatory, we value the following attributes:

• Passion for Social Impact: You believe in creating opportunities for those facing socio-economic challenges.
• Collaborative Approach: You appreciate teamwork and value diverse perspectives.
• Strategic Thinker: You can envision long-term goals and contribute to effective planning.
• Excellent Communication: You can articulate our mission compellingly to various audiences.

Time Commitment:

Approximately 3 hours per month. This includes quarterly board meetings and additional tasks as needed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 1-year term, with the option of renewal after the term comes up.

Join Us:

If you are passionate about making a difference, ready to contribute your skills, and eager to serve our community, we invite you to apply. Together, we can unlock potential and create positive change.

Unlock YOUR Potential is an equal opportunity organisation.

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) is here for people working to make lasting change, whether in their community, across society, or for our planet.

We support change-makers by sharing the latest thinking and advice. We connect the campaign community to grow solidarity, share ideas, and find common cause. And we act as a powerful champion for the right to campaign.

We are looking for 3 new Trustees to join our Board.

Are you passionate about taking action on climate change, biodiversity loss and social equity?

Do you believe that it's possible to meet today's needs without compromising those of future generations?

If you combine these beliefs with leadership skills and governance experience, we want to hear from you. Our Board of Trustees needs you to help us put Sustainability First in the UK.

Who we are

We’re a small, highly regarded think-tank and charity that promotes practical, sustainable solutions to improve environmental, economic and social wellbeing.

What we do

Sustainability First works towards real environmental and social change. Primarily

focussed on the energy and water sectors, we:

• undertake research

• initiate policy discussions

• make complex issues accessible to the public

• promote under-represented voices

• develop solutions to influence Players in the sector

The opportunity

You will be joining Sustainability First at a critical time, when we are stepping up our ambition to drive change in the energy and water sectors in a way that benefits people and responds to the urgent need to transition to a more sustainable future. You will work collaboratively with our Executive Director in meeting our ambitions to scale our work, drive change across the sector and embed the representation of people into decision-making.

This will include six primary responsibilities:

1 Ensure that Sustainability First has a clear strategic direction aimed at fulfilling its charity objectives and that the Strategy is regularly reviewed.

2 Oversee the governance of the Charity with:

     a. an effective, diverse and relevant Board of Trustees.

     b. appropriate policies, processes & financial management such that the Charity operates within the law, in pursuit of its Strategy and demonstrating good practice.

     c. regular and effective liaison, reporting and oversight of the Executive Director, Company Secretary and, as necessary, staff and panel of experts in order to ensure effective and proportionate planning, use of resources, monitoring and reporting by the Board of Trustees.

3 Set the agenda for and chair Board meetings to ensure engagement of, and discussion amongst Trustees based on the best possible information, input from the Executive Director and team, leading to clear and accountable decision-making.

4 Appoint, support and manage the Executive Director on behalf of the Board.

5 Ensure that the charity has an income generation strategy which is monitored and actively supported by trustees and Chair, in order to achieve the Board’s stated objective to build resilience and capacity for Sustainability First to successfully fulfil its charitable objects.

6 Represent the charity externally as required.

Skills

After many years of service to our charity, our current Chair is retiring. At a time of opportunity and challenge for our organisation, we’re looking for someone with a proven track record of leadership at board level, ideally in the UK charity sector. Your experience of running and growing a small but impactful organisation in a professional or voluntary capacity will be crucial to the work of our Board, dedicated staff and expert associates.

Not one to shy away from a challenge, you will draw on your experience of collegiate collaboration, positive decision-making and effective problem-solving to help ensure funding, organisational excellence, and ultimately environmental and social change.

PERSON SPECIFICATION FOR CHAIR

The ideal candidate will have proven knowledge/ skills/ experience in the following areas:

• Governance and board experience (essential) and in a chairing or leadership role (desirable)
• *Demonstrable leadership skills consistent with Sustainability First’s values and charitable purpose (essential)
• *Ability to both manage and support the Board and Executive Director to help achieve the best outcomes (essential)
• Support the vision and mission of the charity (essential) with experience, networks and profile in one or more of our areas of operation (desirable)
• *Sufficient time and energy to fulfil the role (essential)
• A growth mindset* (essential) and income generation experience (desirable)
• *Experience of small organisations and their particular challenges in a professional or voluntary capacity (essential)
• Experience of working within the UK Charity Sector (desirable)

In addition to preparing for and chairing the Board, the Chair will be an ex officio member of all Board Panels, will line manage the Executive Director and will represent the charity externally as requested.

The commitment is likely to average around two days per month. The appointment is for an initial three-year term with the option to renew.

How to apply

The deadline for applications is 13th May. You can read our recruitment pack in full on our website. Please send a cover letter explaining your reasons for applying, the skills and experience you would bring to this role, and a copy of your CV plus a completed EDI Monitoring Form to our Company Secretary and Head of Finance, Claire Williams.

EqualEdge Seeks Passionate Non-Executive Directors to Join its Board

EqualEdge is a for-profit company with a social mission to enable Manchester-based Disabled Peoples Organisation, Breakthrough UK to provide services to disabled people, to increase their opportunities to be employed and to reduce any social isolation. We're passionate about inclusion and diversity in the workplace, and we're expanding our horizons to revolutionise Workplace Personal Assistants, funded by Access to Work and in the future Personal care services in the UK.

The idea of a Workplace Personal Assistant (WPA) agency was conceived by Breakthrough UK, a disabled people’s organisation majority led by disabled people. Breakthrough UK discovered through lived experience that it was extremely difficult to hire and retain WPA’s in the United Kingdom and so the idea of solving the problem through EqualEdge was born.

EqualEdge believes in a world where disabled people have equal access to meaningful employment, thriving in inclusive work environments, and reaching their professional aspirations. Our mission is to bridge the gap between disabled people and their career goals by offering tailored workplace personal assistance services, fostering inclusion, and enhancing professional opportunities.

To achieve this ambitious vision, we're searching for experienced and enthusiastic non-executive directors with expertise across various sectors to join our board and help us shape the future of our company.

About the Role

As a non-executive director, you will play a vital role in providing strategic guidance and oversight to our executive team. You will also be a champion for our mission of fostering a more equitable landscape and launching innovative personal care services within the UK.

We are particularly interested in candidates with strong experience in:

• Recruitment (HR): You have a proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams. You understand the intricacies of talent acquisition, particularly within the recruitment and personal care sector or a similar service industry.
• Marketing: You have a deep understanding of brand development and implementation of successful marketing strategies. You're passionate about reaching new audiences and driving growth in a competitive market.
• Personal Care: You have extensive knowledge of the UK care sector, its regulations, and best practices. You're a visionary leader with a passion for improving the quality of life for those who require personal care services.
• Finance: You have strong financial acumen and experience in overseeing financial performance. You can provide strategic guidance on resource allocation to support both national expansion and the launch of our new service line.

We are also open to applications from experienced professionals in other sectors who share our values of inclusion and innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Have a good black book of connections to allow us to build our client base and reach the people who need us most.
• Provide strategic guidance and advice to the executive team on a range of issues, including business development, marketing, and operations, with a specific focus on national expansion and the launch of our personal care services in the UK.
• Oversee the company's financial performance and ensure that we are on track to meet our financial goals, considering the resources needed for national growth and the launch of a new service line.
• Serve as an EqualEdge ambassador and help us build relationships with key stakeholders in new markets and within the UK care sector.
• Attend board meetings and actively participate in discussions, bringing a national perspective and insights relevant to your area of expertise.

You would be a great fit for this role if you have:

• A proven track record of success in a senior leadership role
• A deep understanding of the business landscape, with transferable skills applicable to our areas of focus
• A passion for inclusion and diversity, with a national mindset
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

EqualEdge is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. We recruit, select, train and promote personnel based on their skills and abilities.

We do not discriminate on the grounds of race, religion or belief, sex, marital status or civil partnership, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, age or disability.

We expect to have board meetings every month for the first year, the meeting is expected to last 1 hour. This is a voluntary role however expenses are paid.

We plan to have interviews by the end of April.

Join us and be part of shaping a more inclusive future for workplaces and revolutionising personal care in the UK!

Help us ensure that we enable every community across Solihull to feedback on their experiences of using Health and Social Care services. Support Healthwatch Solihull to reach out into communities in our city, listen to diverse and vulnerable groups, and help make their voice known.

Community engagement takes place across all areas of Solihull borough (support with travel arrangements and out of pocket costs will be provided) and will involve working as part of a small team. Work will be carried out at different venues and locations including:

• Service user support groups, steering groups, meetings etc. accessed via our Third Sector partner organisations.

• Events: freshers fairs, open days etc.

• Public Venues: Hospitals, GP surgeries, Libraries, Community Centres etc

Tasks include:
• Collecting people’s experiences of health and social care services, at focus group meetings and events.
• Helping to ensure those who are at risk of health inequalities are listened to, involved, and empowered to help influence better services
• Supporting investigations guided by our research team.
• Promoting Healthwatch Solihull within the community and raising awareness of our services.

WHAT ARE HEALTHWATCH SOLIHULL LOOKING FOR?

• Are passionate about working with the public in community settings and have a desire to improve health and social care services.
• Are enthusiastic about the work of Healthwatch Solihull
• Are interested in developing a career in health and social care and/or community work.
• Are able to communicate and work with a wide range of individuals.
• Can proactively approach individuals, building rapport and conversation.
• Are interested in ensuring that everyone’s stories are listened to and shared.
• Are keen to learn more about their local community and broaden their knowledge of health and social care systems.
• Understand diversity and are flexible in their approach to meeting the needs of a wide range of individuals.
• Want to promote equality and improve the health and wellbeing of their local community.

NB. Community Engagement Volunteer roles are subject to a DBS check.

Could you use your skills and experience to support Signals?

We’re looking for new volunteer Trustees who are interested in helping to develop the organisation.

Signals is a registered charity, established 35 years ago. It specialises in filmmaking and digital arts for social, learning and creative outputs. Signals works across the region but with a focus on Essex.

Signals works with children, young people, artists and community groups supporting creativity and learning at all levels. Signals is committed to increasing equal access to digital and creative experiences.  Signals vision is to positively impact peoples’ lives by encouraging creativity, developing skills and raising aspirations through creative digital production and education.  This work is increasingly relevant in supporting those left behind in a digital age.

Current projects include working with local migrant communities, disability groups and communities in Harwich.

Signals is seeking new volunteer trustees to diversify and bring additional skills to the board.

Signals is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from all members of the community particularly from those currently under-represented on the board including young people, Tendring residents and people from the global majority. We are also looking for those with legal, marketing, community work, funding and building management skills.

The time commitment for trustees is the attendance at quarterly evening meetings (approx. 2 hours per meeting) inclusive of the AGM, occasional attendance of subcommittee and adhoc meetings. Trustees will also be expected to review a range of reports and strategy documents and review and develop policy.


We look forward to hearing from you.

Trustee

Unremunerated (reasonable expenses paid)

4 meetings per year

Based Northampton

Passionate about the past? Interested in inspiring current and future generations? Relish the challenges presented by transformation and change?

This is your opportunity to play a crucial role shaping the future of one of the UK’s leading archaeological practices and education charities.

MOLA (Museum of London Archaeology) has been providing independent professional heritage advice and services for over 50 years across the UK and internationally. In this time, we have delivered some of the largest archaeological projects ever undertaken. This includes excavations ahead of new developments such as Crossrail, HS2 and the A14 Huntingdon to Cambridge scheme.

But that’s not all. As the only British archaeological practice to be awarded Independent Research Organisation (IRO) status, our research and its impacts are recognised worldwide. Our fieldwork and research feeds into driving our award-winning public impact programmes – inspiring current and future generations about the past and the places they live. We genuinely believe archaeology has the power to change people’s lives for the better and as such seek to embed partnership and participation throughout our work.

With a new Chair of Trustees and Chief Executive in post, we are about to embark on a significant programme of transformation and change - and have big ambitions.

Whilst archaeology deals with the past, we aim to continue leading the way when it comes to innovation and impact. Are you the right person to support us on that journey?

About the opportunity

We are seeking up to four new trustees to join our board. After a period of significant change in 2023, we are seeking innovative and experienced individuals as we enter a new and exciting period for our world-leading charity. We are particularly looking for individuals with the following experiences and skills:

·Digital and Technological Innovation – we are seeking support from an individual with a strong background in tech/digital, with the skills, knowledge, and expertise to advise and guide us on our programme of digital transformation.

 · Finance and Commercial – Although we’re a charity, 90% of our funding is generated through commercial activities. We’re looking for a trustee with a sharp eye for the numbers who can help us push the margins on our commercial activities.

We also welcome trustees from a variety of backgrounds, and we are keen to boost the following skills on our board:

· Legal and HR

· Research and grants

· H&S and environment

·Media and communication

An understanding of or a background in the archaeology sector is not necessarily required – however, a passion for the past is a must!

Commitment

We anticipate that Trustees will need to participate in a minimum of 4 meetings per year, but there will be the opportunity to play a broader role, including attending board sub-committees, staff committees and working groups.

Why become a Trustee at MOLA?

As a Trustee you can make a difference – you will play a crucial role in guiding MOLA’s strategic direction and help make important decisions that will have an impact on both our organisation and the wider archaeological sector.

Becoming a Trustee for MOLA will be a fulfilling role and you’ll have the opportunity to see and hear about some of the fascinating archaeology discoveries we encounter every day.

Find out more

If you would like to find out more about the trustee roles and for more information about MOLA and how to apply please visit the MOLA website.

 Closing date for applications is Midnight on Sunday 28th April.

WildComm is a dynamic conservation organisation dedicated to fostering the next generation of conservationists. Through affordable fieldwork training opportunities, we empower individuals to actively engage in impactful research and conservation initiatives, bridging knowledge gaps and cultivating a shared appreciation for the natural world. We offer the opportunity to develop a range of skills, which is a perfect steppingstone for your future career in conservation, or simply to take time out whilst also giving back. We are always looking for hands-on and passionate assistants to join our team and support our goals.

Key activities

We currently have a limited number of positions for participants to assist on our rhino research programme. This programme, situated in the South African bushveld of northern Limpopo, focuses on studying rhino behaviour, with a special emphasis on investigating the effects of dehorning as a method to reduce the risk of poaching. Participants will work closely with experienced staff and rangers to collect valuable data on rhino behaviour before and after dehorning procedures. Through observations, GPS recordings, and other data collection methods, participants contribute to understanding how dehorning impacts rhino behaviour and social dynamics. As a participant, you will play a pivotal role in our efforts in advancing rhino conservation efforts and ensuring a sustainable future for these magnificent creatures.

Whilst on this programme, you will also get involved in a number of other activities, including snare sweeps, invasive species removal, habitat surveys, litter picks and environmental education.

What we are looking for

Everyone at the research centre is passionate about the work they do, so we are looking for someone who is excited to make an active contribution to the project. We are open to your background, what is important is that you are committed to the cause, willing to put in the hours, and dedicated to making a real difference. There are a few qualities that make you more relevant for the programme: prior experience with the project’s field techniques or working in a southern African environment; being reliable, responsible and motivated to work hard; enjoy working as part of a team and be happy to operate under the authority of field research coordinators, whilst being competent working unsupervised; happy to work long and unsociable hours. Some activities involve long days of walking in hot and cold weather, so if you are applying for these activities, you must be prepared and able to cope with such conditions.

At WildComm, we pride ourselves on conducting serious and impactful research aimed at furthering conservation efforts. While we value camaraderie, social interaction, and an occasional beer under the stars, it's important to emphasize that our primary focus is on the research and conservation work at hand. If you're seeking a party atmosphere or are primarily interested in leisure activities, we encourage you to explore other opportunities that align more closely with those preferences. Our projects require dedication, focus, and a genuine passion for wildlife conservation, and we welcome participants who share these values and are committed to making a positive impact on the environment.

Participants are welcome to join us for any duration, but longer stays are encouraged for a more enriching experience.

How to apply

Immediate positions are available with ongoing opportunities. For further information, please see our website. When applying, kindly include your CV along with a brief statement outlining your interest in joining our team, relevant experience or transferable skills, and how you envision contributing to our research programmes. PLEASE ALSO STATE WHERE YOU SAW THIS ADVERT. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled.

A fantastic opportunity to build knowledge of the UK asylum system, gain hands-on casework experience and deliver an essential service to refugees. 

About us

Care4Calais is a volunteer-based charity providing essential aid and support for refugees in France and the UK.

In northern France we operate year-round from Calais, providing warm clothing, bedding, food and assistance to refugees who live in appalling and dangerous conditions. 

Across the UK we collect and distribute clothes, shoes, mobile phones and other essential items, as well as social support and interaction, including language lessons, sport and music workshops. We also help with vital access to legal, medical and educational services.

Our Legal Access Department is an access to justice project that exists to arrange critical legal representation for people seeking asylum and, more than this, to support people through the hostility and difficulty of claiming asylum. The department, made up mostly of volunteers, works tirelessly to ensure that people feel informed, empowered, and far less isolated and alone.

About the role

The aim of this role is to provide crucial one-to-one casework and support to people seeking asylum in the UK. Our Asylum Team assists asylum seekers in navigating the UK asylum process by finding them specialist solicitors and working with our volunteer interpreters to help them organise their paperwork.  We currently work with 100+ legal firms around the UK, providing an invaluable service to both the asylum-seeker and the overstretched legal immigration teams. You’ll have the chance to gain broad experience of working in a fast-paced and experienced team while meeting the ever-changing needs of those we support. So, if you thrive in a collaborative environment and are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you! 

The Role  

As a Legal Access Caseworker, you’ll focus on providing outstanding support to your clients throughout the complex asylum process.

In this busy, hands-on role, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the function of the UK asylum system so we can provide the highest standards of service to those who need us most.  A key focus will be on maintaining accurate and complete records and processes and delivering high quality service to every one of our vulnerable clients. 

We are looking for people who have a genuine passion for human rights and refugee protection.  If this is you, please get in touch.

Responsibilities

• Manage own caseload of adult asylum seekers requiring legal representation to support their asylum claims and to challenge unsuitable accommodation, poor treatment, and uphold our client's rights. 

• Communicate effectively and sensitively with clients and refer to legal firms where appropriate. 

• Identify clients’ individual wellbeing needs and make onward referrals internally and externally in line with this. Provide emotional support to clients undertaking the process of claiming asylum in the UK.

• Liaise with legal teams on behalf of clients where necessary.

• Keep relevant records up to date to allow for quick and effective retrieval.

• Attend and contribute meaningfully to team meetings.

• Develop and maintain a network of key contacts within relevant authorities, legal teams dealing with immigration and public law matters, and other NGOs focused on support of refugees and people seeking asylum.

• Attend relevant external meetings representing the organisation as needed, ensuring that knowledge and learning is shared across the department. 

• Ensure that any safeguarding concerns are identified and responded to appropriately.

• Complete relevant external training required for you to undertake the role. 

Person Specification

Essential Criteria:

• Proven dedication to social justice with a clear understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

• Ability to work sensitively and effectively with a diverse range of clients, demonstrating cultural competence, respect and compassion.

• Experience in efficiently managing high volume caseloads while maintaining a high standard of care and attention.

• Resilience in the face of challenging and emotionally demanding situations, with a positive and solution-oriented mindset.

• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, including the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely.

• Meticulous attention to detail in documentation and case records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with protocols.

• Proactive and self-motivated, with the ability to take initiative.

• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office.

Desirable Criteria:

• Proficiency in one or more of the languages spoken within asylum seeking communities, such as but not limited to: Arabic, Farsi, Pashto, Dari, Kurdish Sorani, Tigrinya, Amharic.

Successful applicants will be provided with the induction and training needed for them to succeed in the role. 

Care4Calais is dedicated to cultivating a diverse and inclusive work environment and recognises that this is invaluable to our ability to serve the communities we support. 

We therefore welcome and encourage applications from diverse backgrounds including from Black, Asian and Minority-Ethnic communities, people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, and people with lived experience of the UK immigration system. If you have any questions about this or need additional support with the application process for any reason, please contact us.

AgrotheraPA aims to address several challenges, including food insecurity, limited access to holistic wellness resources, and urban stressors prevalent in the City Council 9th District of Philadelphia. By integrating urban agriculture with mental health workshops and community engagement, we strive to foster food sovereignty, promote emotional well-being, and strengthen community resilience in underserved urban neighborhoods.

AgrotheraPA addresses these challenges by establishing community-driven urban agriculture initiatives that provide fresh, organic food, promote mental well-being through engagement with nature, and foster a sense of belonging and connection among residents. By offering workshops, training programs, and access to green spaces, we empower community members to take control of their food security, enhance their emotional wellness, and build stronger, more resilient neighborhoods in the City Council 9th District of Philadelphia.

RESEARCH VOLUNTEER

• Help us compile data and statistics on the positive effects of nature on mental and emotional health, as well as information specific to the City Council 9th District of Philadelphia. Your expertise will guide our impact snapshots, highlighting the transformative power of nature and community resilience.
• Volunteer 2-3 hours for 6 months.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure the National Emergencies Trust has a clear strategy, achieves our goals, and demonstrates excellence in all areas of governance.

Key duties

• Demonstrate an interest and commitment to the work, values, and vision of the National Emergencies Trust
• Understand and enforce legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training and mentorship is available)
• Devote the necessary time to the role

Key tasks

• Act at all times in the interests of beneficiaries, considering guidance from our Advisory Groups
• Participate in quarterly board meetings, reading papers in advance
• Work jointly with other trustees, attend the Trust’s Committees and/or Advisory Groups as applicable (usually online) and/or directly support the Chair, Chief Executive or team, in line with your background and skills to achieve their objectives
• Provide advice to the Chief Executive and other board members according to your expertise and in line with the Trust’s Constitution
• Sign off the Trust’s annual financial accounts, safeguarding the good name and values of the charity, and acting within the law
• Support the Chief Executive and team in the event of a national emergency.

The Charity Commission for England and Wales’ summary of key trustee responsibilities can be read here. Or alternatively you can find this information from the Scottish Charity Regulator (OSCR) here.

Who we are looking for

We’re looking for someone who can:

• Demonstrate an interest and commitment to the work, values and vision of the National Emergencies Trust
• Understand and enforce legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (training and mentorship is available).
• Devote the necessary time to the role.

We’re looking for someone with skills or experience in at least one of the following areas:

• Campaign creation and management
• Significant experience at board level
• Social media & emergent technology
• Financial and associated financial services
• Fundraising
• Public Affairs

How you will benefit

Being a trustee can be very rewarding. You will have the opportunity to:

• Shape the strategic direction of our charity
• Gain new skills
• Network with senior professionals
• Influence key projects
• Crucially, have the chance to improve the lives of disaster survivors