Volunteer Coordinator (VOLUNTEER ROLE)

Volunteer Role: Volunteer Coordinator

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 4 hours per week (flexible hours, with some evening/weekend availability required for events).

Location: Primarily remote/home-based, with attendance at SUNSHINE events, meetings and recruitment/induction training as needed in London.

Reports To: Charity Director/ Board of Trustees.

Role Purpose

To set up and coordinate the SUNSHINE volunteering programme, ensuring the SUNSHINE Volunteer Programme runs smoothly, and that volunteers are recruited, onboarded, supported, and retained effectively. This role is crucial for maintaining the "sunshine" and warmth within our team.

Key Responsibilities

1. Volunteer Recruitment and Vetting:

• Manage the volunteer application inbox and respond to enquiries promptly.

• Lead the screening process by scheduling interviews and initiating reference requests.

• Track the progress of mandatory documentation, ensuring all necessary DBS checks and signed Volunteer Agreements are obtained before deployment.

2. Communication and Scheduling:

• Act as the main point of contact for new and existing volunteers regarding event schedules and general administrative queries.

• Assist in maintaining the volunteer schedule, coordinating shifts, and ensuring adequate coverage for all SUNSHINE events and activities.

• Draft content and coordinate distribution of the monthly Volunteer Newsletter (e.g., "Sunshine Shout-outs," upcoming events, policy reminders).

3. Support and Retention:

• Maintain accurate records of all volunteer personal data, training completion, and hours donated, using the designated tracking system.

• Assist in planning and organising volunteer recognition activities (e.g., annual thank-you events or certificate distribution).

• Conduct informal, supportive check-ins with volunteers, particularly those in direct service roles, to gauge satisfaction and identify potential issues.

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Skills:

• Excellent Organisational Skills: Proven ability to manage multiple tasks, track details, and maintain accurate records (e.g., using spreadsheets or basic database systems).

• Communication Skills: Clear, professional, and warm communication style (written and verbal).

• Reliability: Highly dependable and able to meet deadlines without close supervision.

• IT Proficiency: Comfortable using email, scheduling software, and standard office applications (e.g., Google Workspace/Microsoft Office).

Desirable:

• Previous experience coordinating volunteers or staff.

• Familiarity with the legal and best practice requirements for volunteer management (e.g., DBS checks, GDPR compliance).

• Experience working within the London non-profit sector.

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

​Next Steps to Apply

If you are a highly organised, leader with a passion for creating a volunteer programme that values and respects its people, while building a team spirited culture that champions each other, please submit your CV and a brief outline of how you would approach launching our volunteering programmes.

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London​