Programme Manager (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

Volunteer Role: Programme Manager

SUNSHINE Charity (London)

We created SUNSHINE to tackle the loneliness problem head-on. Our mission is simple: to bring people together, spread joy and community spirit, and deliver services and support to those living with loneliness. We do this by:

• Fostering Connections: We create safe and welcoming spaces where people can meet, chat, and form genuine friendships.

• Enhancing Wellbeing: Our activities are designed to be fun and engaging, lifting spirits and promoting a positive outlook.

• Transforming Lives: Every interaction, no matter how small, has the power to make a huge difference in someone's day, and ultimately, their life.

Our Vision

A world where everyone feels connected, valued, and a part of a vibrant, compassionate community.

Our Values

• Joy: We believe in the power of happiness to change lives.

• Connection: We create bridges, not walls.

• Community: We are a family, united by a shared mission.

• Empathy: We listen, we understand, and we care.

Commitment: Approximately 5 hours per week (flexible, but requires coordination around programme schedules and regular check-ins).

Location: Primarily remote/home-based, with regular attendance required at programme sessions and team meetings in London.

Reports To: Charity Director/Board of Trustees.

Role Purpose

The Programme Manager is responsible for the end-to-end design, implementation, and successful delivery of all SUNSHINE community programmes. This role ensures that all activities consistently meet quality standards, achieve their defined outcomes, and effectively deliver "joy and warmth" to tackle loneliness in London.

Key Responsibilities

1. Programme Design and Development:

• Lead the creation and scheduling of core programmes, including the Monthly Coffee Mornings, the 6-week Digital Inclusion and Skills Programme, and the 12-week Wellbeing Wednesdays Programme.

• Develop comprehensive programme manuals, session plans, and supporting materials to ensure consistency across all delivery locations.

• Research and incorporate best practices in tackling loneliness, social isolation, and community building into all programme designs.

2. Management and Oversight:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of all active programmes, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholder communications.

• Work closely with the Volunteer Coordinator to ensure adequate, trained volunteer support is available for each session.

• Manage programme budgets and resources efficiently, reporting expenditure accurately to the Charity Director.

3. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Quality Control:

• Design and implement appropriate monitoring tools, ensuring data collection is consistent, particularly for the 3-Item Loneliness Survey.

• Regularly evaluate programme success against agreed-upon KPIs (e.g., attendance, repeat participation, impact scores) and provide reports to the Board.

• Continuously gather participant and volunteer feedback to drive iterative improvements and maintain the quality of the 'sunshine' experience.

4. Partnership and Resource Management:

• Identify and build relationships with local London community partners and venues to secure suitable and accessible locations for programme delivery.

• Source and manage external facilitators or trainers required for specialist components (e.g., digital skills sessions).

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Skills:

• Programme Management: Proven experience in designing, launching, and managing educational, social, or community programmes.

• Organisational Excellence: High degree of planning, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.

• Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate teams of volunteers and external facilitators with enthusiasm and clarity.

• Communication: Excellent presentation and interpersonal skills necessary to train volunteers and engage participants.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience working within the London non-profit sector.

• Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) methodologies, particularly relating to social outcomes.

• Background in adult education, community engagement, or social prescribing.

Next Steps to Apply

If you are a highly organised, strategic leader with a passion for turning ideas into impactful community programmes, please submit your CV and a brief outline of how you would approach launching one of our core programmes (e.g., Wellbeing Wednesdays).

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London