Volunteer Management Volunteer Roles

Could you help your local SSAFA branch recruit volunteers in your area? You just some basic I.T and admin skills, patience, the ability to get on with a wide range of people and good written and spoken English. If you think this could be the role for you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Recruitment Coordinator?

Recruitment Coordinators help us find local people interested in supporting SSAFA and take them through our recruitment and selection process.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

To offer the best possible service to our clients we need to match the right volunteers to the right role. Could you spare a few hours a week to help recruit new volunteers and welcome them to SSAFA by supporting them through their induction phase? We’d love to hear from you if think you could help with this important role.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

The role is about recruitment and so will involve attending local recruitment fairs a few times a year as well as meeting volunteers both face-to-face and virtually. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but the administration part of the ole can be done form home.

What would you be doing?

• Be the first point of contact for all volunteering enquiries, ensuring that all potential volunteers receive a timely response.
• Supporting volunteers through the recruitment and induction process and ensuring volunteers are communicated with throughout.
• Arranging informal interviews for new volunteers conducted in-line with SSAFA policies.
• Conducting ID checks (where relevant) so the volunteer can begin the vetting process
• Supporting volunteers to book onto role specific training and ensuring they complete their mandatory training.
• Working with the VDM to ensure branch vacancies are advertised on the branch website and national websites and support any national recruitment campaigns
• Maintaining good relationships with local Volunteer Centres and other local sources of volunteer promotion and attend local recruitment fairs.
• Evaluating volunteer recruitment activity, experimenting with creative ways to recruit volunteers from a variety of sources to create a diverse network of volunteers.
• Treating all potential volunteers inclusively with respect and sensitivity, regardless of age or background
• Supporting any volunteers facing barriers to find a suitable role.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser.
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and experience to benefit others.
• Appreciate that your role has a positive impact on the quality of service we can provide to beneficiaries as well as providing volunteering opportunities.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. This training would take approx. 3 hours.
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.  
• Access to a range of e-learning courses.
• Support from the Volunteer Development Manager and Trainer (per region)
• Access to the Volunteer Experience Team based at our central office.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people, with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude  
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Good written and spoken English.
• Respectful and non-judgemental with potential volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and during the role, including accessing and responding to emails and using Microsoft offices software.
• Ability to encourage and motivate all volunteers to undertake training.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely., in line with SSAFA policies.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to meetings and events and t meet volunteers.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

Do you enjoy teamwork and helping others? Are you empathetic with good organisation, IT and communication skills? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a commitment to providing great support to our beneficiaries.

What is a Branch Support Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Branch Support Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring that beneficiaries access the right support in a timely manner. This role involves liaising with regional and national teams and coordinating casework support provided to beneficiaries by Branch volunteers.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles and fundraisers.

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent coordination of local services and between our teams.

What would you be doing?

• Accepting referrals for beneficiary casework support from SSAFA’s Regional Office and allocating beneficiaries’ cases to branch volunteers.
• Overseeing SSAFA casework across a branch, ensuring beneficiaries receive support that meets SSAFA’s casework standards and raising issues where it does not.
• Using SSAFA’s case management system to record, coordinate and track beneficiaries’ cases.
• Ensuring volunteer caseworkers have a manageable caseload and that effective support and supervision is in place.
• Liaising with Central Office and Specialist Services teams to ensure access to specialist support where needed e.g., Mentoring.
• Supporting the Branch Training Coordinator and Volunteering Coordinator to ensure volunteer caseworkers are up to date with training and have the information needed to carry out their role.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Excellent experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management - case management and quality. This training would take approx. 1 day
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers.
• Access to a wide range of e-learning courses to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from SSAFA’s regional volunteering and operations teams.
• Regular meetings and local events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online systems – you will use SSAFA's case management system as part of the role.
• Time management and organisation skills
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach to others
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries
• Some experience of coordinating people
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer. This role requires an enhanced check (including a check against the  adults barred list)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, or other information will not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Could you lead the SSAFA presence at your local military base? Ideally you will already have links to the base; you’ll have some experience of managing people and basic I.T skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you!

What is a Service Committee Chair?

There are SSAFA committees on many military bases in the UK and overseas. Each one has a Chairperson to oversee all aspects of the committee. Reporting to the Regional Chair, you will ensure that the committee is running in line with SSAFA’s policies to keep clients and volunteers safe; that all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the committee is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA on site.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. In recognition of their service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need volunteers who can represent SSAFA on the base and beyond, ensure that everyone knows about SSAFA services and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, networking, coordination, and administration. Many volunteers can carry out this role from home and from their place of work.

The role would suit someone looking to offer a regular time commitment. You would need to organise and attend a minimum of four meetings each year. The Chair is an Office Bearer and in addition to voting rights, holds the casting vote.

What would you be doing?

• Providing support to all SSAFA Service Committee volunteers

• Holding regular committee meetings, at least four per year

• Ensuring that all requests for grants are reviewed by the committee in line with the committee’s Terms of Reference

• Working with the Community Volunteer Coordinator to oversee all SSAFA community volunteering, ensuring beneficiaries get support that is effective and timely

• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and recruiting new volunteers as needed

• Building positive relationships with the senior management team on the base and the local SSAFA branch working in the wider community

• Providing reports and information to the local SSAFA branch and to SSAFA’s Central Office

• Overseeing an annual plan and fundraising programme to meet the locally identified needs

• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA remembering that anyone you meet could be a potential client, volunteer, or fundraiser

• Working with Central Office staff to ensure all volunteers complete all mandatory tasks in line with the training and vetting requirements of their role.

• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including adhering to our policies such as the volunteering policy and data protection policy

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to your local military community

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity on site

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others

• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA committee and the wider SSAFA community

• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews

• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What about training and support?

• An induction to SSAFA specifically designed for Chairs and Chairmen within SSAFA’s Volunteer Network

• Online training modules on safeguarding and GDPR, so you are up to date on how to keep beneficiaries, their families and information safe

• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your training up to date.

• Support from a Regional Operations Support Manager (per region)

• Support from SSAFA’s Welfare team, Volunteer Development team and Volunteer Experience team

• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people

• Good written and spoken English

• Ability to engage the senior managers on site representing SSAFA and the needs of clients

• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies represented on base and SSAFA colleagues

• Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role

• Volunteer management skills

• Ability to keep within the boundaries of the role e.g. prompt reporting of safeguarding concerns in line with SSAFA policies

• Reliability

• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies

• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required

• Ability to provide two referees: former employers or other people that know you well (other than relatives)

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two references, this can be former employers or people that know you well (other than relatives)

Is a criminal record check required? No

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.

Community Cycling Development Role

• Vounteer or Paid Posts Available

• Part -time: this role is offered as a part time equivalent (e.g. 2-4 days). 

Flexibility in working hours to meet both your needs and the needs of the organisation, including occasional weekend work, is expected. This will be scheduled with your involvement and we aim for this to be a suitable part time role for somebody with caring responsibilities or other commitments.  Some home working is also possible. 

There is a three month probationary period. 

To apply, please send a cover letter explaining why you think you’re suitable for the role and a CV.

The deadline for applications is the 21st of April.

If you have any questions or would like to have an informal chat about the role, please ring or e-mail using the contact details on our website.

Background to the Role

Capital of Cycling administrates a successful programme of adult focussed cycling lessons for the Bradford District, which are funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority.  These are largely managed by Liz, our cycling lessons co-ordinator, supported by other staff and sessional workers and delivered in 5-6 settings.

We are looking for additional support for this provision and want to expand our delivery to be more responsive to the needs of the community groups we’re working with. These groups are asking for activities for young people and families that fall outside the remit of the existing adult-focussed programme.

We are therefore looking for a person who can deliver cycling related activities in community settings and work with community groups and partners to create opportunities to engage with cycling in a variety of ways, including children’s activities, family and community rides, either on or off-road.

National Standards cycle instructor and ride-leader certification with experience delivering cycling activities would be a significant advantage; however there is the opportunity for training to be received within the role.

Main Duties

• Delivery of and development of cycling activities for children, young people and families

• Working to encourage progression to active travel in individuals and communities

• Community based cycling related activities, co-delivered with partner organisations

• Delivery of adult cycling lessons at a range of levels

• Support for the administration of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority adult cycling lessons programme 

• Booking sessions and liaising with freelance cycling trainers

• Providing cover and support for other instructors and team members

• Building community and volunteer-led rides

• Marketing and promoting activities

• Reporting on delivery including collecting data for monitoring and evaluation of the impact of our delivery

Our organisation is focussed on building a culture of cycling in Bradford and is underpinned by our values. You would be expected to work to support existing and new projects and staff within the context of this larger picture.  You need to be willing to contribute to, and actively be involved in our ongoing development plans. Therefore, you should consider the next section to be more than just general background information - it is the basis of how we work together.

Statement of Intent

We aim to encourage more people to cycle, more often for utility and leisure. We develop the capacity of deprived communities to engage with cycling activities. We believe the environmental, social, mental and physical health, community and economic benefits of cycling are huge and collaborating with and supporting cycling related campaigns, clubs and community groups helps us to realise these.

Aims

• A happier, healthier city 

• Zero carbon and just transition* 

• Community led social change for equity

Values 

• Community Led

Our activities and plans are responsive to the communities in which we work (i.e. ‘with’ people rather than ‘to’ people)

• Sustainable

By making cycling affordable and accessible we help reduce carbon emissions and advocate for a greener city

• Participatory

We take a ‘do it together’ approach, recognising the importance of individuals’ contribution to the activities we run

• Cooperative

We all work together to achieve shared aims and take shared responsibility for the development of projects and the organisation.

• Inclusive

We strive to include under-represented groups in our activities and empower people to overcome barriers

Objectives

1. Work with more people and groups that are invested or could become invested in the benefits of cycling and maintenance activity 

2. Grow opportunities (social, health, economic & environmental) via cycling. These are  direct and indirect, with an emphasis on just transition* 

3. Increase reach and impact through campaigns, media and cultural activity such as developing a project for Bradford 2025

* Just transition means a set of principles, processes and practices that aim to ensure that no people, workers, places, sectors, countries or regions are left behind in the transition from a high-carbon to a low-carbon economy.

Required and Desirable Skills

Required:

• Experience delivering cycling or active travel related activities

• Experience of working with community groups or in community settings

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Ability to work under own initiative

• National Standards or equivalent cycling training qualification

• Good administration and IT skills

Desirable:

• Ride-leader training

• Experience of working within a cycling related job

• Experience of monitoring and evaluation for projects

• 1st Aid trained

• Some knowledge of bike mechanics

• Promotion skills, campaigns work or PR

• Experience of collaborative project design 

• Links to or knowledge of specific Bradford communities or projects including Asian and minority groups

• Experience of working with young people

• Experience of working with people who have had or continue to face personal life challenges

Capital of Cycling is a flexible and accommodating employer. If you require more time off or wish to alter your working arrangements, you will be free to speak to us about this and we will do our best to meet your needs. 

The working times are flexible and some working from home is an option should it suit the task.  Occasional evening and weekend work is expected although you will have input into how this is scheduled.  You will be provided with office and workshop facilities at Rawson Road, Bradford and you will undertake delivery of activities at partner venues such as community centres.

Minimum 6 months / Maximum 12 months

Ref PAV-241

Are you a proactive, efficient and compassionate individual who is looking to make a difference?  If so, St Giles Trust is looking for a Support Volunteer to work at its Coventry Pantry, where you will play a key role in providing vital support to individuals and families on low incomes across the city through a membership scheme to purchase surplus food at heavily subsidised prices and, in turn, help tackle food poverty, poor diet, overcome health inequalities and linking in clients to other support services.

About St Giles Trust

An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need.  Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.

About this key volunteering role

As our Pantry Support Volunteer, you will help with specific Pantry needs such as stock rotation, making coffees, speaking to clients, and making them feel comfortable within The Pantry.  You will carry out and comply with all health and safety procedures and policies, ensure all labelling of food items are correctly displayed and ensure any items are within the correct date for displaying.

We will also count on you to assist with the completion of application forms to become a member of the St Giles Trust Pantry Scheme, explain how the Pantry works and the rules of membership, and to collect and record membership fees.  Positively supporting members and maintaining confidentiality at all times, and providing nutritional and meal planning support and, where needed, healthy eating plans are all also important duties.

What we are looking for

• To strive for the best that you can do and complete your volunteering activities with dedication.

• A positive, respectful and supportive attitude about the work of St Giles.

• The ability to follow and operate within the policies and procedures of the organisation, including Health and Safety and Equal Opportunities.

• The ability to maintain confidentiality of St Giles activity, our clients, our team and our procedures.

• Able to meet agreed time commitments and give reasonable notice when you’re not available.

• Excellent interpersonal, relationship-building and communication skills, both verbal and written.

• A flexible, collaborative and professional approach to your work.

Please note this role requires that successful candidates must undergo a Basic DBS check, on the basis that the post involves contact with vulnerable participants and colleagues.

In return, you can expect a competitive salary, generous leave allowance, staff pension, flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, clinical therapist sessions, life insurance (4 x annual salary), duvet days, season ticket loan, employee perks programme, eye care voucher and much more.

We are an equity and inclusion confident employer. We welcome all applications and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi-heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Role Description for the vacancy.

To apply please visit our website via the apply button. 

Closing date: 25/04/2024, 11:00pm          Interview date: 07/05/2024   

Minimum 6 months / 17.5 hours (various days & minimum 1 day per week)

Ref PER-233

Are you a proactive, collaborative and compassionate individual with an understanding of providing support, advocacy, advice and guidance and the ability to communicate this knowledge in a variety of ways? Looking for a highly rewarding volunteer opportunity?

If so, St Giles Trust has an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated Volunteer to join us as a Peer Advisor and to provide vital support, guidance and advice to our clients.

About St Giles Trust
An ambitious, well-established charity that helps people facing adversity to find jobs, homes and the right support they need. Central to our ethos is our belief that people with first-hand experience of successfully overcoming issues such as an offending background, homelessness, addictions and gang involvement, hold the key to positive change in others.

About this key role
Our successful candidate will initially meet clients and develop an action plan, ensuring you complete action plan paperwork, while also discussing other support needs and signposting, if required, to other agencies. We will also rely on you to provide mentoring for the client in a positive manner and to support placements to help clients reach their individual specific goals.

Working alongside all other agencies to build professional relationships and to look at additional support from other agencies is an essential part of this volunteer role, as are ensuring you follow all health and safety policies and procedures and liaising with – and keeping fully informed – the St Giles Peer Advisor Coordinator.

What we are looking for

• Be willing to undergo training for the role of Peer Advisor, including a Level 3 certificate in Advice and Guidance, policies and procedures induction, and additional specialist sessions appropriate to placement.
• The ability to write reports and action plans (training given).
• Able to work on own initiative and to fellow instructions when required.
• Have a sound understanding of the issues faced for the clients.
• The ability to calculate risk and implement safety procedures when engaging with clients.
• Excellent interpersonal, relationship-building and communication skills, both verbal and written.

In return, you can expect a generous flexible working, a mentoring programme, an advice and counselling service, and much more.

Please note St Giles will guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria set out in the Job Description for the vacancy.

As an organisation that works with children and adults at risk we are committed to safeguarding, protecting and promoting the safety of our clients and successful applicants will be conducting an Enhanced Adult & Children with Child Barred list DBS.

To apply, please visit our website via the ‘Apply’ button. 

Closing date: 11pm on 02 May 2024.

We are an equity and inclusion-confident employer. We welcome all applications and we particularly encourage applications from people of the global majority (black, brown, multi-heritage) and those who identify as disabled, neuroexpansive, neurodiverse, with any protected characteristics and/or social barriers or challenges. We value the empowering and informative impact that all lived experiences and diversity of thought can offer the organisation.

Home based or London
5-8 days per year, depending on the committee role

Salary: This is a voluntary role. Committee members receive no remuneration. Reasonable expenses can be claimed in line with NCVO’s expenses policy.
Closing date: 26 April
Longlisting: week commencing 29 April

Shortlisting: weeks commencing 13 and 20 May
Interview dates: by 14 June

NCVO exists to support, empower, and advocate for charities. We have around 17,000 charities, voluntary organisations and community groups as members. Government decision makers, voluntary sector leaders, campaigners, funders and policy developers look to NCVO for our in-depth knowledge and wide-reaching connections.

To help ensure sustainability for the charity sector we must innovate, diversify, and challenge ourselves like never before. We must be bold, courageous, and ambitious to make the biggest possible difference.

This year we’ll start designing a new strategy to shape our work. For success, we need the most visionary minds to help support us and the sector. We’re looking for outstanding people to join our committees.

Our committee members:

• support our board with expert advice and guidance
• make sure the board considers a wider range of views and perspectives
• ensure decisions are made in the best interests of the charity and the voluntary sector.

Committee Roles:

• Audit and risk committee chair
• Audit and risk committee member
• Governance and nominations committee member
• People, culture and inclusion committee member

About NCVO

We are the charities charity. For over 100 years, NCVO has stood shoulder to shoulder with communities, championing and celebrating voluntary action.

Our membership is made up of around 17,000 voluntary organisations across England, from small, grassroots community groups and social enterprises, to large, far-reaching charities.

We believe that communities are strengthened by voluntary action. We therefore want charities to thrive and be empowered to deliver for people and communities.

We focus on empowering charities and volunteers by making sure they have the knowledge, tools, and resources they need. We advocate for and with our members, giving voice to those not often heard, and harnessing the collective power of partners to ensure the voluntary sector is valued. We bring charities together so they can learn, connect, and create greater impact.

As the voluntary sector and volunteering adapt to new challenges and a changing context, so must NCVO. We are therefore prioritising work to evolve as an organisation to ensure we live our values of ambition, inclusion, openness and collaboration in everything we do internally and externally.

We have around 85 staff and income of around £8m per year. With our members at the heart of everything we do, our mission is to unite to champion the remarkable role of charities and volunteers. Because stronger charities make for stronger communities.

We’re located a short walk from London King’s Cross station in a modern accessible building, overlooking Regent’s Canal.

                                                          Become Chair of Trustees for Suffolk Family Carers

Voluntary

                                                                                     Claydon/Hybrid

Suffolk Family Carers is seeking an exceptional candidate to be our new Chair of Trustees. This is an outstanding opportunity to oversee a dynamic and highly respected charity.

About us

Suffolk Family Carers is an award winning organisation, recognised for innovation, leadership and partnership working and for being an excellent employer. For over 35 years Suffolk Family Carers has been helping family carers of all ages across Suffolk get the support they need to live fuller lives. We provide information, advice, guidance and advocacy to thousands of family carers each year.

Our understanding of family carers’ needs enables us to campaign on issues that affect them, to ensure their voices are heard. We will keep driving change across society to enable family carers to have a life of their own alongside their caring role.

We are now looking for an experienced and collaborative leader to take on the role of Chair of the Trustee Board.

About the role

The new Chair will be experienced, skilled and motivated and share our commitment to the individuals, communities and partners we work with. Your role will be to preside over the established Trustee Board and work closely in partnership with the Chief Executive to deliver our strategic aims.

The Trustee Board consists of the Chair, Treasurer and 7 other members. Board members are responsible for overall governance of the organisation, including oversight of its strategic direction and financial management.

Our existing Chair is stepping down in December 2024 which will allow a handover time with the new Chair. 

In terms of time commitment, there are 5 board meetings per year, 2 development meetings and an AGM. Additionally the Chair will meet regularly, either in person or virtually, with the Chief Executive and other Trustees. This is an unpaid position but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

We welcome applications from all interested parties who feel they match well with the criteria in the person specification of the Chair role description.

To apply please send a detailed expression of interest stating why you would like to be the Chair of Trustees at Suffolk Family Carers and include your relevant professional experience as well as any experience or knowledge you may have around family carers to Suffolk Family Carers or if you would like to know more, please call and ask to speak to Kirsten Alderson, CEO.

Closing date: 28th April 2024

Please find the full role description, person specification and further details on our website.

Do you enjoy teamwork and helping others? Are you empathetic with good organisation, IT and communication skills? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a commitment to providing great support to our beneficiaries.

What is a Branch Support Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Branch Support Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring that beneficiaries access the right support in a timely manner. This role involves liaising with regional and national teams and coordinating casework support provided to beneficiaries by Branch volunteers.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan.

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas who support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles and fundraisers.

In recognition of our clients’ service to the Nation we aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent coordination of local services and between our teams.

What would you be doing?

• Accepting referrals for beneficiary casework support from SSAFA’s Regional Office and allocating beneficiaries’ cases to branch volunteers.
• Overseeing SSAFA casework across a branch, ensuring beneficiaries receive support that meets SSAFA’s casework standards and raising issues where it does not.
• Using SSAFA’s case management system to record, coordinate and track beneficiaries’ cases.
• Ensuring volunteer caseworkers have a manageable caseload and that effective support and supervision is in place.
• Liaising with Central Office and Specialist Services teams to ensure access to specialist support where needed e.g., Mentoring.
• Supporting the Branch Training Coordinator and Volunteering Coordinator to ensure volunteer caseworkers are up to date with training and have the information needed to carry out their role.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Excellent experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role - confidentiality and boundaries, caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management - case management and quality. This training would take approx. 1 day
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers.
• Access to a wide range of e-learning courses to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from SSAFA’s regional volunteering and operations teams.
• Regular meetings and local events to learn and share information.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online systems – you will use SSAFA's case management system as part of the role.
• Time management and organisation skills
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach to others
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries
• Some experience of coordinating people
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer. This role requires an enhanced check (including a check against the  adults barred list)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, or other information will not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Befriending Volunteer

You can make a difference…Age UK Wandsworth is a small, local, independent charity that has been working with older people in the area since 1963. We rely on your support to keep serving the older residents with in the Wamdsworth community. We have a dedicated team of experienced staff and a large network of dedicated local volunteers. Our aim is to enable everyone to age well in Wandsworth. We would love your help to be able to continue to support older Wandsworth residents.

Our Be-a-Friend service is one of our longest running services, matching people over 65, who live alone and have limited social contact, with a friendly local volunteer with similar hobbies and interests. The volunteer and their new friend set up a suitable time for them to meet each week for a chat and a cup of tea, which could be during the day, in the evening on the way home from work or even on the weekends . If you would prefer to volunteer from home, you can also be matched with an older person for telephone befriending. For many of our matched pairs, this is the beginning of a firm friendship. 

Befriending Plus

Befriending Plus is an extended version of the Be-a-Friend programme, for individulas needing help with life admin and small tasks as well as companionship. For Befriending Plus pairs, time spent together can include helping to use a phone or tablet, helping the client to organise their file, going out for a coffee or popping to the post office together. This support can help older people to stay independent at home for longer, as well as increasing their confidence to do these tasks when the volunteer is not there.

We are seeking a reliable individual (or individuals to share the role) to assist us in supporting our teams of volunteers who work across our three projects: FareShare Greater Manchester, EMERGE Recycling and Touch Wood, as well as our parent charity, EMERGE 3Rs.

With your organisational skills, you’ll assist the Volunteer Management Team in the administration of our volunteer programmes and help us with the day-to-day operation of the office.
This position presents an excellent opportunity to gain valuable transferable skills that can be deployed across a wide range of working roles in future. 

This role is shared between several volunteers; each covering different shifts, so we have flexibility in accommodating what hours you are able to offer us.

ABOUT EMERGE

We operate three initiatives:

* FareShare Great Manchester - the regional hub of national charity FareShare UK, which redistributes overstocked food to community initiatives and food banks, diverting it from polluting landfill

* Touch Wood - our reclaimed wood workshop, which takes wood destined for landfill or incinerators and prepares it for resale or upcycles it into crafted items

* EMERGE Recycling - a pioneering recycling social enterprise

The volunteer administration support role is one of the broadest ranging opportunities we have on offer; being a blend of many working practices, from general administration to assisting with recruitment. You will be working with a diverse range of individuals, from many different types of backgrounds and circumstances, so a friendly attitude and an interest in helping people are advantageous traits for applicants.

Typical tasks include:

* Answering and redirecting phone calls and greeting visitors

* Data entry

* Assisting with monitoring information

* Assisting with preparation of induction sessions

* Undertaking routine tasks, e.g. photocopying, laminating

* Preparing information packs

* Maintaining supplies of flyers and forms used for volunteer recruitment

REQUIREMENTS:

Organised and reliable

Comfortable speaking in person and on the phone in a polite, clear and friendly manner

Strong computer skills; particularly familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook

Accuracy and attention to detail

Good standard of personal presentation

BENEFITS:

A friendly, inclusive and supportive environment

Attainment / development of a wide range of CV-enhancing transferrable work skills, from admin procedures to interpersonal skills

The opportunity to support a great cause and give something back to your community

Reimbursement of lunch costs and local travel expenses

Work reference available after 3 months in the role

You will be required to complete introductory sessions before you are confirmed in the role.

GETTING TO US

We are just a 15 minute bus ride from Manchester Piccadilly, with our brand new base, Maynard House, located on new Smithfield Market, which is only a few yards off a main arterial route into the city, Ashton Old Road. 

Public Transport

The market site can be easily reached by a number of bus services, with the 219 being the most frequent.

If travelling to us by car, please be aware that many satnav systems wrongly direct drivers to the rear of the market site. Instead, please enter by the main gate on Whitworth Street East (off Ashton Old Road). There is plenty of free parking on site.

There is a bus stop immediately opposite the main entrance to the market.

NIDAS supports women and families with all aspects of domestic abuse with confidential support and a variety of bespoke services. NIDAS, located in Mansfield, helps women to stay safe, grow their self-esteem and go on to build happy, healthy relationships. We believe being free from abuse is only the start of the journey.

Role Description

The role of the Chair of Trustees is to give leadership to the board and to make sure the board fulfils its duties and responsibilities. Additionally, the Chair of Trustees works closely with the CEO to support her/him to achieve the aims of NIDAS, and, at times, represent NIDAS at functions, meetings and in the press, and broadcasting media. 

Level of Commitment

• Six-weekly board meetings
• Participating in a sub-committee and/ or ad hoc groups
• Regular meetings with the CEO
• Represent NIDAS at various events and meetings with stakeholders

Duties

In addition to the responsibilities of a trustee, the Chair of Trustees' duties are to: 

• Provide leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of its charitable purposes in order to deliver the greatest public benefit. 
• To ensure that the Annual Reports and accounts are produced at the end of each year for presentation to the Annual General Meeting and to ensure that they are forwarded to the Charity Commission within the appropriate time period. 
• Chair and facilitate board meetings and the Annual General Meeting encouraging full participation by all attending. 
• Establish sub-committees and working groups to address specific issues/tasks as deemed appropriate by the board, and to call upon specialist skills of his/her fellow Officers and Trustees in relation to those groups, and to participate in such groups as appropriate. 
• Give direction to board policy making. 
• Check that decisions taken at meetings are implemented. 
• Represent the organisation at functions and meetings and act as a spokesperson when appropriate. 
• Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision making. 
• Liaise with the CEO to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs. 
• Lead the process of supporting and appraising the performance of the CEO. 
• Sit on senior appointment, and disciplinary panels. 

The Chair of Trustees will also work with the CEO to: 

• Plan and set the agenda for the Annual General meeting with the Secretary. 
• Plan the annual cycle of board meetings and agendas for each meeting with the Secretary. 
• Develop the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning. 
• Address conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaise with the CEO to achieve this.

Person Specification

In addition to the specification for a trustee, the Chair of Trustees requires the following qualities: 

• Strong leadership skills 
• Experience of chairing meetings and/or committee work 
• Ability to balance tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Impartiality and fairness
• Good understanding of legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship. 
• Previous trusteeship