Volunteer Roles in Yorkshire And The Humber

Diverse City is looking for a Chair to the Trustees who will be responsible for leading an effective board, managing the Executive and representing the organisation as an ambassador and advocate.

Diversity is central to our name, our art, and our values. We believe that theatre with its roots in diversity helps us imagine a fairer world, so that we can make one.

The company collaborates on the development and touring of nationally significant work to create equal representation in the performing arts. Our flagship collaboration is with Cirque Bijou. Together we lead Extraordinary Bodies a company that creates bold, provocative new circus performance.

Our mission is to fight for equality in every artistic arena. The boardroom, the audience, backstage and centre stage should all be truly representative, and we’re here to make that happen. We know that career pathways into the arts are only open to the few. This means, people from low socio-economic backgrounds, D/deaf and disabled people, and people from the global majority are all underrepresented in arts organisations, including ours. We want to change that. So, we particularly encourage applications from people from underrepresented groups.

We are a National Portfolio Organisation (NPO), supported by Arts Council England.

We are entering an exciting period, and the Chair will be key in turning the page to the next chapter for the Company. The Board has recently been revitalised, and the Chair will be critical in driving the governance and Company forward. So, if you have experience and commitment to collaborative working, nurturing the voices and perspectives of all, social justice and the value of the arts, we could well be looking for you.

The key areas the Chair is responsible for are:

• Leading the Board, stakeholder management and organisational governance. Including:
• Setting the Board agenda, ensuring legal and financial governance duties are met effectively.
• Effective operation of the Board in all its areas and responsibilities.
• Build and maintain positive relationships including existing and potential funders.
• Represent the organisation at outside events
• Develop the Charity's vision and strategy
• Line manage the Executive
• Support the Executive in fundraising and encourage Trustees to do so.

We are looking for candidate with the following skills and experience

• Record of engagement in arts & culture
• Commitment & understanding of equality, diversity & inclusion.
• Experience of governance, or other organisational leadership, particularly in arts & culture, a non-profit, charity or public sector setting.
• Familiarity with reviewing or managing budgets.
• Effective, confident & enabling approach to convening & facilitating meetings Experience of chairing or facilitation in both in-person & remote settings.
• Skilled at building & balancing relationships with stakeholders including Arts Council England.
• Enthusiasm & empathy for vision, mission, values & work of the charity.
• Commitment to trustee duties & openness with the charity's team & Trustees.
• Ability to work in a team, accept decisions & be tolerant of other views.
• Commitment to being informed about - and act as a champion for - the charity.
• Ability to treat sensitive information confidentially.

Our candidate pack outlines the responsibilities of the role as well as the skills and experience needed. The candidate pack is available as Audio and BSL versions. Other versions available on request.

We harness the power of engineering and design to develop sustainable solutions for development. There are far too many people in the world living in sub-standard conditions with a poor quality of life. As world inequality increases, people are becoming further and further divided. One of the reasons for this is that there are not enough resources for innovation and development of new solutions. Our goal is to address the key challenges of poverty and inequality facing millions of people around the world. At Minazi, we harness the power of engineering and design to develop innovative solutions for sustainable development, in this way, projects at Minazi are a catalyst for social change.

COMMUNICATIONS AND ENGAGEMENT

• Manage social media and engagement content on LinkedIn; develop strategic communications plans; work with business units and internal stakeholders to ensure the website is up to date; write insight articles on LinkedIn/Website, amongst other duties.
• Volunteer 4-6 hours weekly remotely for 6 months.

Coding with CodeX work to make sure that anyone can have access to high quality coding and tech education. They have 3 beneficiary groups - people with autism, women in tech & people from low socioeconomic backgrounds.With coding and tech skills being increasingly important in the the workplace. The current solutions for education in place aren't effective enough.For young people schools are regularly having to cancel computing lessons, and that is only worsened when meeting the educational needs of those who are SEND. For adults, though you have platforms such as Youtube, that isn't a one size-fits all. And we know that it doesn't cater to all ability types. But then when you look at tech training programs typically they require a large financial investment & time commitment that isn't accessible to everyone.

Ensuring that all their content is ASC friendly, Coding with CodeX has taught 8,000 people to date. Ranging from the children in some of the poorest schools in Nottinghamshire to employees at companies such as Bank of America, KPMG and more. All their staff are specially trained to teach individuals who are SEND. For young learners they run programs such as our half term code camp, where they give their beginners python course away for free. Working with schools, charities, community groups and local authorities to ensure the next generation are equipped with the digital skills to thrive in the world of work.

COMMUNITY MANAGER

• Help us create spaces where our members can ask questions about our courses and stay connected.
• Volunteer 4-6 hours per week for 3-5 months

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.

Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

We’re looking for volunteers who are:

• Reliable and friendly
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Passionate about customer service
• Confident with cash handling with an eye for detail
• Interested in learning about and supporting the work of Sense

Volunteering in one of our Sense Shops will involve a variety of tasks that you can get involved with. These include:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.

Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

We’re looking for volunteers who are:

• Reliable and friendly
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Passionate about customer service
• Confident with cash handling with an eye for detail
• Interested in learning about and supporting the work of Sense

Volunteering in one of our Sense Shops will involve a variety of tasks that you can get involved with. These include:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Would you like to support people who have served in the Armed Forces? You just need the ability to listen, strong IT skills 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 Caseworker?

Caseworkers visit clients to work out what type of support they need. You will listen without judgement to assess and provide tailored support to help those serving, who have served and their families to navigate life in and beyond military service. Some examples of support are securing funding for special equipment for someone with a disability, adaptions to a property so an older client can remain at home or funds for a rental deposit. Caseworkers also sign-post clients onto specialist local services for advice on benefits, housing, mental health, debt, finding work etc.

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. We’d love the general public to understand what we do and how they can help us.

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.

Volunteer Caseworkers are the lifeblood of SSAFA, supporting a growing number of people in need of financial, practical, and emotional support. Clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like Iraq or Afghanistan.

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

The essential part of the role is visiting clients, so you will need access to a vehicle or another way to travel to meet clients at home or in a care home setting. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but you can complete the administration part of the role from home as long as you have access to IT equipment and the internet.

What would you be doing?

• Contacting beneficiaries and arranging to meet them at a mutually convenient time.
• Meeting beneficiaries and completing a form to assess their circumstances, using good communication skills, empathy and understanding.
• Sign-posting clients onto local services providing specialist advice.
• Applying for funding on the behalf of the beneficiary through a specific process and system  
• Arranging for the purchase of goods and services
• Keeping the beneficiary informed of their case progress.
• Liaise with the branch and regional office, regarding your availability.
• Keeping up to date with training and SSAFA news so that you are best able to support clients.
• 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
• Adhering to SSAFAs policies and procedures at all times, including safeguarding, volunteering policy, equality, diversity and inclusion, health and safety, data protection and confidentiality.  

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support 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 – confidentiality and boundaries, personal safety, caseworker training, and caseworker IT system training. The caseworker training takes 3 days and a further half a day for the other training.
• 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 additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Local induction including assigning a person from the team who will be your main point of contact.
• Regular opportunities to meet and share best practice with other caseworkers.
• Range of support from central and regional volunteer operations team.
• 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 with good listening skills, patience, and a positive attitude.
• Good communication skills both written and verbally.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to use IT systems for initial and on-going training and to enter cases on the Casework Management System. Willingness and 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.
• Ability to make enquires on behalf of beneficiaries by phone, email, letter or by filling in forms.
• Ability to keep within boundaries of the role with regards to friendship or giving advice
• Reliable, prompt and trustworthy.
• Access to public transport or a car to travel to appointments with clients.

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? Yes, this is provided by SSAFA at no cost to the potential volunteer. This role requires an enhanced check (including checks against the children and adults barred list)

*A disclosure certificate that contains convictions, cautions, warnings, reprimands, or other information may not automatically mean that you are not able to volunteer. All certificates will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and, where possible, a modified or alternative role will be offered. 

Faith to Faithless are launching a brand new helpline for apostates in the summer of 2023, for people leaving high-control religions, and we’re looking for committed, compassionate volunteers to join us. 

You will be a motivated, dedicated, and organised person with great communication skills, who is enthusiastic about volunteering your time and skills to support individuals leaving high-control religions (also known as apostates). You will have lived experience or understanding of the issues apostates face, and a kind and empathic approach to working with others.

We’ll train you to handle calls with confidence, and you’ll be getting valuable experience in supporting service users with multifaceted needs. This is a volunteering role where you can develop your interpersonal skills, help members of our community that need it most, and make a real difference in their lives by helping them to get back on track to living happy, purposeful lives without religion.

Key Tasks and Activities

• To respond quickly and efficiently to calls requesting help, providing a listening service, signposting and information to people who have experienced victimisation due to leaving their religion.
• To deliver work which adheres to high service standards, ensuring compliance with all policies and procedures.
• To keep and maintain accurate and confidential records of all work undertaken.
• To identify and maintain appropriate boundaries for all callers and recognise when and where to signpost callers for further help/information as appropriate with appropriate support from the apostate services manager
• To proactively continue to develop appropriate knowledge, attitudes and skills through regular reading of information and attending training courses.
• To support the training of helpline volunteers as required.
• To attend supervision, meetings and appraisals.
• To undertake any other appropriate duties as requested by the ASM
• To work at all times within the policies and procedures of Humanists UK.

Download and read the full application pack for more information. To apply, please complete the application form telling us why you’re interested in the role and detailing how you match the person specification on page 4 of the application pack. Then return the completed form with the subject ‘Helpline Volunteer’ to volunteer[at]humanists[dot]UK.

Our amazing team of volunteers help us run over 100 shops across England and Wales.

Every donated item that you sort, prepare and sell helps to raise vital funds to support us in our mission to make sure no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, is isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our shops are at the heart of local communities – sharing the work of Sense, and helping to secure support for our life changing work.

We’re looking for volunteers who are:

• Reliable and friendly
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Passionate about customer service
• Confident with cash handling with an eye for detail
• Interested in learning about and supporting the work of Sense

Volunteering in one of our Sense Shops will involve a variety of tasks that you can get involved with. These include:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Processing sales and serving on the till
• Promoting Gift Aid and other Sense fundraising initiatives
• Acting as an ambassador for Sense; promoting the shop and Sense in your local community
• Supporting with the recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Following new health, safety and social distancing measures to ensure the safety of everyone

We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world. This is why it is important to us that our volunteers feel supported and rewarded. Here is what we can offer you as a volunteer:

• A full induction and ongoing support and guidance from your Shop Manager to make sure you feel confident in your role
• Support to develop new skills, knowledge and experience, in particular of a retail environment, but also skills such as teamwork, customer service, communication and using your initiative
• A reference for other paid or voluntary work (available on request)
• The opportunity to share your existing skills and experience to benefit others
• The chance to meet new people from a wide range of backgrounds and to join a passionate and committed team
• The opportunity to make an invaluable contribution to Sense by raising vital income and raising the profile of Sense in your local community; changing the lives of those who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

For everyone living with complex disabilities. For everyone who is deafblind. Sense is here to offer personalised support to help people communicate and experience the world. We believe that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be isolated, left out, or unable to fulfil their potential. Our experts offer support that’s tailored to the individual needs of each person, whether that’s at our centres, through our holidays and short breaks, or in people’s own homes. In addition to practical support, we also provide information to families, and campaign for the rights of people with complex disabilities to take part in life.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Faith to Faithless, Humanists UK’s support programme for so-called ‘apostates’. We’re expanding our in-person events across England and Wales, and we’re looking for passionate volunteers to help us make a difference. We currently have regular events in Sheffield, Bournemouth and London. We are looking to expand this to the Midlands, Wales and beyond, you can positively impact lives and help create a more inclusive society. Join us today and be part of the change!

As an Apostate Event Organiser, you will:

• Arrange regular social events for people who have left religious groups.
• Find suitable venues like cafes, museums or restaurants.
• Set the date and time that works best for everyone.
• Communicate with the Apostate Services Development Officer via email and online meetings.
• Check social media for updates.
• Welcome guests and ensure their safety (training will be provided).
• Speak with attendees in a warm and empathetic manner while providing event information.

The application pack contains all the information you will need to decide whether the role is right for you.

To apply for the role, please email us, letting us know:

• Who you are, including a little bit about yourself
• Why you are interested in the role
• What you think you’d bring to the role (e,g. your skills and experiences that would be particularly relevant)
• What you’d like to get out of the role
• Any concerns, or extra support you’d need in the role

A copy of our Recruitment and Promotion and Equal Opportunities policies are available to view on our website.

Debt Justice is looking for a Treasurer to support our board to meet our financial responsibilities. Debt Justice is a UK based campaigning organisation that challenges poverty and inequality caused by unjust debt. In solidarity with global allies, we actively challenge the way that debt is used to sustain colonialism and exploitation in the global economy.  At the same time, we use a community organising approach to build the collective power of people with lived experience of debt in local communities across the UK. Our local groups bring people on the frontlines of economic injustice together to lead campaigns and win systemic change to tackle the household debt crisis.

As the Treasurer, you will play a key role in helping us fulfil our mission. You will also benefit from:

· Opportunities to make strategic decisions and develop new skills

· The chance to support an economic justice organisation campaigning in solidarity with people affected by debt in local communities and in the global south.

· Induction and training to help you in your role as Treasurer, including a nominated trustee-buddy to provide peer-support 

We are committed to equity, justice, diversity and inclusion across our work and this includes taking measures to support your application and your ability to participate in board meetings, including but not limited to:

· Any travel or childcare costs reimbursed

· The option of joining board meetings remotely

· Discussing your accessibility needs and making reasonable adjustments as needed

Experience of being a Treasurer is not essential. We are looking for someone who has skills in financial management and there is no requirement of any knowledge of campaigning, advocacy or communications. If you are interested in becoming a Treasurer for the first time, we'd be happy to talk to you about what it involves to help you make up your mind.

We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of background. We recognise that people face systemic oppression based on factors including their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age and disability and therefore we have a responsibility to centre anti-oppression in our work. We also recognise that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in this sector and we are committed to addressing this in whatever way we can.

To express our commitment to achieving a more diverse board, we are aiming for 50% non-male board membership and 15% people of colour. We would particularly like to encourage applications from women and non-binary people, people of colour, people who identify as LGTBQIA, people with disabilities and/or chronic health conditions and people who identify as working class or have done in the past.

If you are not sure whether to apply, please get in touch and we would be more than happy to have a chat and answer any questions you may have.

Trustee

Unremunerated (reasonable expenses paid)

4 meetings per year

Based Northampton

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

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

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

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

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

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

About the opportunity

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

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

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

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

· Legal and HR

· Research and grants

· H&S and environment

·Media and communication

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

Commitment

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

Why become a Trustee at MOLA?

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

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

Find out more

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

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

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.

Could you help to raise vital funds for SSAFA in your local area? You don’t need a military background, just the ability to get on with all kinds of people and some occasional free time.

What is a Branch Fundraiser?

As part of a local team, our fundraisers represent SSAFA at events, and in public. The role includes helping at fayres, street collections, concerts, quizzes, raffles, sporting events etc.

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.

SSAFA branches rely on regular charitable income to fund all the necessities behind our support for clients. This includes volunteer travel expenses, phone bills, publicity, and grants for clients in urgent need. A varied programme of fundraising also keeps the SSAFA profile high in the local community, so everyone knows who we are and how we can help.

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

This role involves being out and about at public events and would suit someone looking to give the occasional day, half day or evening to support SSAFA; when and where would be flexible to suit you.

What would you be doing?

• Be part of a team with collection/buckets tins at events, supermarkets, shopping centres, etc.
• Acting as a marshal at a public event e.g., handing out water to runners, supervising parking etc.
• Being part of a team running a stall at an event, Armed Forces Day, fayre, county show etc.
• Helping with putting up posters, building gazebos, serving refreshments, packing/unpacking cars etc.
• Being a positive ambassador for SSAFA, engaging people of all backgrounds and interests
• Volunteering within the standards and values of SSAFA including observing our policies such as the Volunteering policy and data protection policy (these will be covered in your training and local induction.)

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.
• Give tangible and practical support to your local branch by raising funds used directly to support clients.
• Support 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 - fundraising workshops.
• 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, fundraising guidance, and marketing materials
• Local Fundraising Coordinator
• Fundraising Manager (per region)
• Access to the Fundraising and Marketing teams 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
• Confident people who feel happy to engage with the public, potential clients, volunteers and SSAFA colleagues face-to-face.
• Reliable attitude, staying connected the Fundraising Coordinator about your availability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.
• Access to public transport or a car to get to events.

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: 16

Please note: If you are under 18 you are not allowed by law to volunteer at a street collection, raffle or an event serving alcohol. If you are under 16, please contact us, you will need to volunteer with a parent or adult responsible for your safety.

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

Would you like to support those feeling socially isolated and lonely within the local serving community? Could you spare a few hours a week to organise group activities that bring people together?

If so, we would love to hear from you!

What is a Community Connection Champion?

The aim of the role is to promote connection by developing and facilitating social groups and activities within the local serving community.

Tasks will include planning group activities that are sociable and of interest to the community. It also involves coordinating and delivering sessions. You will receive training and have support from a dedicated project officer as you establish a variety of groups.

What difference will you make?

Armed Forces life can bring its challenges when a loved-one is deployed overseas, or a family must move to a new location. Some people can find themselves feeling lonely or socially isolated, they may struggle to meet and connect with new people due to their confidence, work commitments or because they don’t live in Service Family Accommodation.

Community Connection Champions will play a vital role in tackling these challenges by creating welcoming, engaging group opportunities that bring people together.

What will you be doing?

Although every SSAFA Team has different needs, below are the main activities of a Community Connection Champion:

• Creating and Planning: Working with the Project Officer to plan, develop and organise groups and activities that are best suited to their local serving community.
• Communication and Teamwork: Keeping in touch with the local Community Volunteer Coordinator and attending s meetings.
• Networking and Engagement: Reaching out with those who are interested in attending activities, providing support and encouragement for them to attend, including those who face barriers to attending.
• Facilitating group sessions: Delivering group activities in line with agreed plans, signposting attendees to external support as required and in line with SSAFA’s safeguarding policy and procedures.
• Recording and reporting on activities: Sharing activity plans with the SSAFA Project Team, tracking attendance, and encouraging attendees to complete the relevant paperwork to support Project reporting and development.

What about training and support?

• Volunteers will need to complete E-learning courses covering topics including GDPR and safeguarding plus a 1.5hr webinar which focuses on understanding the impact of loneliness and social isolation, what helps to reduce those feelings and the skills needed to develop and facilitate groups.
• Support from a dedicated Project Officer who will work with you to plan and develop the groups and activities.
• Support from your local Community Volunteer Coordinator and SSAFA’s Regional and Central Volunteer Operations colleagues.
• Access to a range of e-learning courses, resources and local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Regular meetings and 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 their role.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Give back to the serving community
• Support people in your local serving community using your patience, time and life experience, helping them to build local connections.
• Support and friendship from your local SSAFA Serving Community Team and the wider SSAFA community
• Gain experience, training and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews, such as planning sessions, organising activities and group facilitation.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people with great communication skills.
• Excellent understanding of the importance of boundaries and confidentiality
• Non-judgemental approach and alignment with SSAFA’s values
• Some experience of delivering groups sessions or team leadership is beneficial but not essential as training will be provided
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.

This role would suit someone who would like to make a regular weekly commitment of a couple of hours.

As this is a new initiative, we are keen to understand what works to support the local serving community. We expect groups to run in the evenings and weekends, as well as during the week.

A typical group might run once weekly for a 6-week period. Face to face sessions are likely to run in community venues such as community centres but we also want to explore how virtual groups can be used to support those who can’t access face to face sessions.

Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.