Voluntary Animal Volunteer Roles in Berkshire
A crucial role in supporting the operational functions of a unique wildlife rescue and rehabilitation charity. Requires a detail-oriented person with excellent organisational and communication skills, as well as a passion for wildlife.
Are you passionate about wildlife? Are you looking for a purpose-driven role where you can make a real difference? Do you have strong administration, communication and organisational skills that you could use to help a great cause?
Swan Lifeline is the oldest registered charity devoted entirely to the care of sick and injured swans in the Thames Valley and surrounding areas, and has cared for over 30,000 sick and injured swans. Our aims are to RESCUE, REHABILITATE and RELEASE injured birds, providing shelter and treatment for up to 180 at a time, returning them to the wild as soon as possible.
What are we looking for?
· Proven experience in administrative support roles.
· Excellent organisational and verbal and written communication skills.
· Self-starter, able to use initiative and manage own time / projects.
· Ability to multitask, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines.
· Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and responsibilities.
· Team player, good interpersonal skills for diverse group of people.
· Passion for the mission and values of our organisation.
· Strong attention to detail, reliable and able to maintain confidentiality.
· Ability to represent the high standards of SLL working with the local community.
· Good IT skills, eg: digital filing, data protection safeguarding awareness. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
· Calm under pressure.
Skills
· Office and Administration Management
· General / operations management
· Volunteer management
· Data protection / GDPR
· Health & safety
· Safeguarding
Key Responsibilities
1. General Administrative Support:
· Taking rescue calls and dispatching rescuers
· Managing general public enquiries
· Volunteer scheduling – via a rota
· Managing vehicle records, booking MOT’s, Insurance.
· Managing rescue statistics.
· Maintaining and improving (eg: digitise) office systems (eg: filing).
2. Programme Support:
· Scheduling outreach sessions and liaising with external community groups.
· Assist in booking other individuals (eg: work experience) and groups (eg: schools) for visits to Swan Lifeline and build calendar of events.
3. Financial and Fundraising Administration:
· Assist with basic financial tasks eg: invoices, and expenses.
· Helping Fundraiser Manager with Grants admin.
· Ordering food and supplies.
4. Communication and Outreach Administration:
· Volunteer outreach and feedback.
Interviews are informal and in person or on Zoom.
What difference will you make?
Without managing our office and administration efficiently we will have significantly less time and resources to support swans who desperately need our help and face an uncertain future as a result of the Nature emergency and Avian flu. The work you do to ensure our administration is efficient and effective will really help us continue to sustain Swan Lifeline for the future.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you envisage a world free from animal suffering? As a Grassroots Organiser, you will help make this vision a reality by organising regular campaign events and actions in your local area. All materials provided and relevant expenses paid.
Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. The actions and events you organise will help to open the eyes of the general public to the truth of factory farming, and add vital pressure onto our corporate targets, ultimately resulting in reducing animal suffering.
As a warm, friendly and approachable person, you will thrive taking the lead organising events and actions and enjoy meeting like-minded people.
We're a remote team, so we can support you wherever you are in the UK. There are no limitations on location.
As a Grassroots Organiser, you will be changing animal lives by:
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Organising events/actions in your local area including social meet-ups, peaceful protests, leafleting and public outreach (roughly 1 event every 6-8 weeks is ideal where possible). All materials are provided and relevant expenses paid.
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Promote your events/actions and encourage others to join you, bringing people together for the animals to create change
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Joining us at other in-person events/actions including peaceful protests organised by staff and other volunteers
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Get involved in campaign actions remotely, such as writing emails, letters, social media actions and more
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Attend online events within the volunteer community
The events and actions you organise don't need to be big, 2 or 3 people getting out there for the animals will make all the difference and we have an existing community of volunteers to tap into.
Perfect for those interested in gaining firsthand experience in campaigning or volunteer management, or just interested in creating direct change for animals. If you’re excited by the prospect of speaking to the public and taking the lead to organise local actions, all while making a genuine difference to animals, this is the role for you.
You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us, including a full onboarding process to get you started. We'll give you everything you need, no prior experience needed.
There is no set time commitment for this role, you can get involved at a time that works for you, but we ask that you organise at least 1 event every 6-8 weeks where possible. It takes around 4-6 hours to deliver an event (including planning and delivery). Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.
If you agree with our vision, and you want to do your part to help end the abuse of animals raised for food, join our team today.
Disclaimer:
The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.
We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.
If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you.
Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.
As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by:
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Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.
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Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions
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Connecting with your MP to campaign for change
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And more!
Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.
Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.
Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!
Disclaimer:
The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.
We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.
If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We're looking for enthusiastic and passionate people to help shape the strategy of our branch, maximising our income to help us deliver maximum benefit to the animals we serve.
The key activities of the role are:
- Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA - Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
- Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS) - In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
- Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
- Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
- Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members - In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.
We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas: Strategic planning; Finance including accounting, budgeting; Marketing communication including social media, PR, website; Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications; Local community and supporter relationships; Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or you are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.
Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.
The role is largely home based, but we have veterinary clinics in Chelmsford and Colchester, plus 4 charity shops (Frinton, Maldon, Chelmsford & Lexden).
As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, we are a busy branch requiring 2-3 hours additional commitment per week from our Trustees.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.
You will be volunteering with a small, but passionate and fun team made up of two admin staff, five retail and online sales staff, and a dedicated trustee board of five, from a range of backgrounds.
We are a highly proactive, progressive and approachable branch, with a clear vision for the future - aiming for charitable excellence, a strong community focus, and a passion to support, signpost and advocate for our pet-owning community.
Among our animal welfare activities are schemes such as assisted neutering and microchipping, welfare events such as free microchipping and clinic sessions, provision of a local pet food bank, family fun day events in aid of animal welfare, and the delivery of educational materials - created by the branch team, for our younger audiences.
We support RSPCA frontline teams within our local area, and we are always keen to take on new challenges and innovative ways to fundraise and work alongside those in our community who need our support.
The insights and skills of our trustees are the key to the future direction of the branch.
As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.
Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee
- Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
- Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
- Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
- In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
- Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
- Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
- Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
- In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.
What we are looking for in a volunteer
We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:
- Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
- Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
- Local community and supporter relationships;
- Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
- Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.
Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.
What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee
- We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
- Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
- The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
- The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
- A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.
Ideally we would want a Trustee within the Sunderland, Hartlepool, South Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead or Durham area. However, the position can be done mostly via remote means - and so, you can be located anywhere in the country.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have a background in fundraising and a flair for persuasive writing? Are you looking for a purpose-driven role? Are you passionate about wildlife and nature?
Swan Lifeline is the oldest registered charity devoted entirely to the care of sick and injured swans in the Thames Valley and surrounding areas and has cared for over 30,000 sick and injured swans. We are based on the magical Island setting of Cuckoo Weir Island in Eton, Berkshire. Our board is currently facing the challenge of expanding our fundraising efforts to ensure we are able to continue to meet our mission and sustain our activities.
As Fundraising Manager (Volunteer), you will play a crucial role in securing funding that enables us to carry out our mission. You will gain valuable experience in the non -profit sector and contribute to the growth of a unique and valuable wildlife charity.
This is a volunteer position, we understand the importance of work-life balance and value your time. Your commitment can be tailored to fit your schedule. You’ll be working with a passionate and friendly group of trustees and while we all work hard, we learn lots and have fun doing it! This role involves engaging with donors, supporters, and the community to raise funds and increase awareness of our mission.
Please read the attachment for a person specification and Job description for more information.
Please send us A) a short cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and additionally B) a CV detailing your relevant experience.
Interviews are informal and in person or on Zoom.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.
A bit about this role
Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. The purpose of this role is to support the organisation with communications and administration at a local level. You’ll play an active part in the branch committee and support the branch with record keeping and planning, thus enabling more cats to be helped.
What can you expect to be doing?
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Disseminating relevant organisation-wide information and updates to the branch volunteers
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Supporting engagement and communication between the branch and wider organisation
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Drafting committee meeting agendas and taking and sharing meeting minutes
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Supporting the efficient running of the branch by ensuring administration processes are carried out effectively
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Supporting the administration and update of the branch annual plan
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Sign-posting queries from members of the public
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Keeping branch records and information up to date and secure, using Cats Protection systems – training will be provided
A bit more information about this role and the team
What are the benefits to you and the cats?
You’ll make a real difference to the lives of cats and kittens by helping maintain positive communications, managing administration processes and promoting the work of Cats Protection. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.
We’re looking for someone with
- Strong administration skills and attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Good organisation and prioritisation skills
- Good team-working skills
- Good IT skills to use Cats Protection systems – training and support can be provided
- A willingness to learn how the branch and organisation operates
- Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+
Time expectation
Our support volunteers usually spend 2-5 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.
Support, guidance and keeping you safe
At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.
The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.
A bit about this role
Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders have the important role of coordinating, encouraging and supporting teams of fosterer volunteers and cat care volunteers. They help make sure volunteers with direct cat care roles are happy and confident and provide advice and guidance when needed. This incredible teamwork means we are able to help more cats and kittens in need.
What can you expect to be doing?
- Volunteering alongside colleagues including the Branch Coordinator, Cat Welfare team, Branch Development Manager and Vet team to ensure that CP cat care policies, procedures and standards are applied in branch
- Support fosterers to follow Cats Protection cat welfare policies and procedures
- Acting as the main point of contact within the branch for cat welfare and ensuring that welfare updates are shared and implemented effectively
- Supporting the branch by ensuring that accurate and up to date records of all cats helped are maintained, using specified Cats Protection systems
- Attending relevant Cats Protection volunteer training sessions and encouraging other volunteers to do likewise
- With the other volunteers, recruit, induct and support all branch fosterers and cat care volunteers using Cats Protection processes
- Represent the branch at relevant meetings
- Play an active part in the branch committee, being part of the branch team leading on cat adoption information and updates
- Collaborating with the Cats Protection Cat Adoption Team Leader to ensure the highest standards of cat care are applied in line with Cats Protection policy and procedures
A bit more information about this role and the team
What are the benefits to you and the cats?
You will make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by leading and supporting other volunteers in direct cat care roles. You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.
We’re looking for someone with
- A willingness to follow Cats Protection policies and procedures
- Basic knowledge and experience of cat welfare
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to engage with people on all levels, to build strong and effective relationships
- A willingness to develop themselves and others and to update knowledge and skills as necessary
- Good administration and organisational skills
- Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
- The ability to handle sensitive issues with objectivity and pragmatism
- Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+
Time expectation
The time expectation for this role will vary depending on the number of volunteers and cats in care. Our Cat Welfare Team Leaders usually spend between 10 to 12 hours per week in this role which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.
Support, guidance and keeping you safe
At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.
The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.