Volunteer roles for the Disability sector

About the Role 

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the governance and strategic direction of Sense. You will work alongside a diverse and committed Board to ensure the charity continues to deliver high-quality, person-centred support to disabled people with complex needs. 

We are looking to recruit up to four new Trustees to join our Board. The Board meets a minimum of four times a year in person — twice in Birmingham and twice in London — with an annual away day, which may be residential. Meetings are held during the working day and typically last around 6 hours, including breaks. 

In addition to Board meetings, you will also join at least one of the following committees, which meet online four times a year, online, in the lead-up to each Board meeting: 

• Finance and Audit Committee
• Operations Committee
• Engagement Committee
• Nominations and Remuneration Committee 

 As Sense is both a registered charity and a company, Trustees also serve as Company Directors, with names publicly listed at Companies House and the Charity Commission. 

Expertise and knowledge and experience 

We are particularly looking for the following experience for new trustees; 

• Finance
• Social Care
• Campaigning
• Fundraising
• Safeguarding 

Your Impact 

As a Trustee, you will help shape Sense’s strategic priorities, hold leadership to account, and act as a champion for the values and mission of the organisation. You will also have the opportunity to engage with Sense’s services directly, visit local centres or shops, and see first-hand the difference we make. 

Access and Inclusion 

We are committed to making this opportunity fully accessible. Sense will cover all reasonable adjustments required to enable disabled people to fully participate as Trustees. We recognise that needs may change over time, and we are prepared to provide ongoing support and flexibility. 

We strongly encourage applications from disabled people and women, as well as individuals from other underrepresented backgrounds, to help us build a more diverse and inclusive Board. 

If you’re ready to use your experience, insight or passion to help break down barriers and make a real difference, we would love to hear from you. 

About Sense  

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.  

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.   

This is an exciting time to join Sense as we continue to deliver our bold strategy, guided by our vision of a world without limits for disabled people with complex needs. As a Trustee, you will help shape and support Sense on this journey, ensuring our plans are ambitious, inclusive and achievable. You will play a key role in guiding the organisation’s future direction, ensuring our strategy reflects the voices and experiences of the people we support and that our work continues to deliver lasting impact. 

About the Role 

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the governance and strategic direction of Sense. You will work alongside a diverse and committed Board to ensure the charity continues to deliver high-quality, person-centred support to disabled people with complex needs. 

We are looking to recruit up to four new Trustees to join our Board. The Board meets a minimum of four times a year in person — twice in Birmingham and twice in London — with an annual away day, which may be residential. Meetings are held during the working day and typically last around 6 hours, including breaks. 

In addition to Board meetings, you will also join at least one of the following committees, which meet online four times a year, online, in the lead-up to each Board meeting: 

• Finance and Audit Committee
• Operations Committee
• Engagement Committee
• Nominations and Remuneration Committee 

 As Sense is both a registered charity and a company, Trustees also serve as Company Directors, with names publicly listed at Companies House and the Charity Commission. 

Expertise and knowledge and experience 

We are particularly looking for the following experience for new trustees; 

• Finance
• Social Care
• Campaigning
• Fundraising
• Safeguarding 

Your Impact 

As a Trustee, you will help shape Sense’s strategic priorities, hold leadership to account, and act as a champion for the values and mission of the organisation. You will also have the opportunity to engage with Sense’s services directly, visit local centres or shops, and see first-hand the difference we make. 

Access and Inclusion 

We are committed to making this opportunity fully accessible. Sense will cover all reasonable adjustments required to enable disabled people to fully participate as Trustees. We recognise that needs may change over time, and we are prepared to provide ongoing support and flexibility. 

We strongly encourage applications from disabled people and women, as well as individuals from other underrepresented backgrounds, to help us build a more diverse and inclusive Board. 

If you’re ready to use your experience, insight or passion to help break down barriers and make a real difference, we would love to hear from you. 

About Sense  

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.  

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.   

This is an exciting time to join Sense as we continue to deliver our bold strategy, guided by our vision of a world without limits for disabled people with complex needs. As a Trustee, you will help shape and support Sense on this journey, ensuring our plans are ambitious, inclusive and achievable. You will play a key role in guiding the organisation’s future direction, ensuring our strategy reflects the voices and experiences of the people we support and that our work continues to deliver lasting impact. 

About the Role 

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the governance and strategic direction of Sense. You will work alongside a diverse and committed Board to ensure the charity continues to deliver high-quality, person-centred support to disabled people with complex needs. 

We are looking to recruit up to four new Trustees to join our Board. The Board meets a minimum of four times a year in person — twice in Birmingham and twice in London — with an annual away day, which may be residential. Meetings are held during the working day and typically last around 6 hours, including breaks. 

In addition to Board meetings, you will also join at least one of the following committees, which meet online four times a year, online, in the lead-up to each Board meeting: 

• Finance and Audit Committee
• Operations Committee
• Engagement Committee
• Nominations and Remuneration Committee 

 As Sense is both a registered charity and a company, Trustees also serve as Company Directors, with names publicly listed at Companies House and the Charity Commission. 

Expertise and knowledge and experience 

We are particularly looking for the following experience for new trustees; 

• Finance 
• Social Care 
• Campaigning 
• Fundraising 
• Safeguarding 

Your Impact 

As a Trustee, you will help shape Sense’s strategic priorities, hold leadership to account, and act as a champion for the values and mission of the organisation. You will also have the opportunity to engage with Sense’s services directly, visit local centres or shops, and see first-hand the difference we make. 

Access and Inclusion 

We are committed to making this opportunity fully accessible. Sense will cover all reasonable adjustments required to enable disabled people to fully participate as Trustees. We recognise that needs may change over time, and we are prepared to provide ongoing support and flexibility. 

We strongly encourage applications from disabled people and women, as well as individuals from other underrepresented backgrounds, to help us build a more diverse and inclusive Board. 

If you’re ready to use your experience, insight or passion to help break down barriers and make a real difference, we would love to hear from you. 

About Sense  

Every disabled person should have the opportunity to connect with others and be included in the world. Which is why we’re here, in people’s homes, centres and communities, focusing on the things a person can do, not what they can’t. We celebrate the moments of connection that bring more joy to life. Together, we always find a way, no matter how many barriers a person might face.  

Sense is a leading disability charity with extensive knowledge and expertise in delivering personalised, creative and flexible support for disabled people with complex needs. Our tailored approach ensures that every person is empowered to live fully at every stage of life.   

This is an exciting time to join Sense as we continue to deliver our bold strategy, guided by our vision of a world without limits for disabled people with complex needs. As a Trustee, you will help shape and support Sense on this journey, ensuring our plans are ambitious, inclusive and achievable. You will play a key role in guiding the organisation’s future direction, ensuring our strategy reflects the voices and experiences of the people we support and that our work continues to deliver lasting impact. 

Make a Real Difference in Norfolk's Learning Disability Community

Mid Norfolk Mencap seeks up to 6 committed trustees to join our Board  

Are you looking to use your skills and experience for meaningful impact? Mid Norfolk Mencap, supporting people with learning disabilities across Norfolk, is recruiting trustees to guide our charity.

Location

Our charity’s office and principal activities are in Dereham, Norfolk.  All Board meetings are held in person. Sub-committees can meet face-to-face or hybrid via Teams to suit sub-committee members. We encourage our trustees to visit the office and all services whenever possible.

Support 

You will be supported by the Chair, other members of the Board of Trustees, and the CEO.

Responsibilities

As a trustee, you have important personal responsibilities to ensure the charity is well-governed, effective, and operates for the public benefit.

· Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes and delivering public benefit

· Understand the charity’s purposes as set out in our governing document, and be able to explain how all activities further or support these purposes

· To ensure that the charity pursue its stated purposes, as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, applicable charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Manage the charity’s resources responsibly by making sure that the charity applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of its members

· Ensure that the charity’s assets, beneficiaries or reputation are not exposed to undue risk

· You must exercise reasonable skill and care, drawing on your own expertise and experience, and seek appropriate advice when necessary

· You should dedicate sufficient time, thought, and energy to your role, ensuring you are well-prepared for, attend, and actively participate in all Board meetings.

· Be able to demonstrate that the charity is complying with the law, well run and effective

· Ensure appropriate accountability within the charity, both to members and in relation to delegated responsibilities.

Qualities and experience 

This role is best suited to candidates who can demonstrate knowledge and experience that will benefit the charity, and who possess the following characteristics:

· A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information

· A keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge

· Commitment to the charity, approachable for the people we support, and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (we estimate this to be 2-3 hours per week in addition to Board meeting commitments below)

· Strategic vision

· Sound, independent judgement

· Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· The ability to read and understand management reports

· Skills to analyse proposals and their consequences

· Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the Board

· General competence with IT

· Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis

Time commitment

The charity holds quarterly Board meetings, with each lasting approximately 2 – 3 hours. All Board meetings are held outside of normal office hours.

It is suggested that approximately two hours preparation time be allowed for prior to each meeting to ensure trustees are familiar with items to be discussed.

Sub-committees meet quarterly with each lasting approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. Approximately one hour is suggested for preparation in advance of the meeting.

Typically, all trustees attend the AGM in person, and at least one annual fundraising or social event hosted by the organisation. These are held on evenings or weekends.

To allow time to settle into the role, and to see the fruits of your work, we suggest that candidates assume a three-year commitment to Mid Norfolk Mencap at the outset.  

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the leadership team. 

All trustees are required to complete the statutory Oliver McGowan training. Additional training opportunities will be identified based on your individual experience and qualifications, ensuring you have the support needed to excel in your role.

Through the trustee recruitment and on-Boarding process, we will arrange for you to meet with our Chair and CEO, and we encourage you to explore their motivation and rewards as part of your evaluation of us.

Rewards

The role of a trustee is voluntary and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed for required travel, training, communication and childcare/carers to enable trustees to attend and participate at Board meetings.  

Conditions of engagement

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. At Mid Norfolk Mencap, we celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an environment where every employee, volunteer and Board member is valued, respected, and empowered – no matter their background.

You cannot serve as a trustee if you are disqualified under the Charities Act. This includes situations such as having an unspent conviction for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (for example fraud), being bankrupt or having entered a formal arrangement with creditors (such as an individual voluntary arrangement) or having been removed as a company director or charity trustee due to misconduct.

Appointment to our Board of Trustees is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and the production of a clean enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate.

Application process

If you would like to apply for a trustee role, or to discuss it informally, please contact us.

Our recruitment process will typically include the following:

· Interview, providing the opportunity for you to meet with the Chair, CEO and other members of staff

· An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap office to meet some of the people we support

· Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concern

Closing date for applications 14th November 2025. Interviews will take place 24th November - 5th December 2025. Successful applicants will be formally nominated to join the Board at our AGM on 22nd January 2026.

Please note: our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue.  We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.

Do you enjoy swimming?   
 
We are looking for a friendly volunteer to spend time with a gentleman we support and enjoy time in the pool together! 

If you would like to make a difference and make a great friend along the way, we would love to hear from you!     

Activities will include: 

• Swimming with the gentleman we support
• Helping to ensure he is safe and having fun
• Being there for company and friendship at the pool 

There will always be trained support workers present at the pool with you. 

 
 We are looking for someone who is:  

• Friendly, caring and enthusiastic
• Confident in the water
• Reliable/dependable and willing to commit to volunteer regularly 
• Comfortable chatting with people with learning disabilities and autism     

A DBS check and two-character references will be required for this role.     

What you’ll gain from being a Dimensions volunteer:    

Dimensions provides support for around 3,500 people with learning disabilities and autism across the UK.    

Our volunteers play a vital role in our work and in return, we support them with:    

• Access to free online training (with access to 800 plus courses)   
• Comprehensive support from professional and friendly Dimensions staff   
• Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed at manager’s discretion    
• An opportunity to gain real experience in the social care sector    

Want to apply for this role?

If you’d like to be a Dimensions volunteer, please get in touch!

Do you enjoy driving?  

Would you like to make a difference to the people we support in your community?  

We are looking for friendly drivers to join us in Metheringham!  

You will meet some amazing people, whilst making a positive impact to their lives by driving to places they enjoy and appointments that are important.  
 
We are looking for drivers who will be happy to drive the vehicles owned by the people we support.  

  
Activities will include:  

• Driving the people we support between their homes and services in a safe manner, in accordance with UK law. 
• Driving around the Metheringham area, which will be the start and end point of the majority of journeys 
• Assisting people we support in and out of vehicles and locations – with assistance from trained Dimensions staff. 
• Driving in a manner that is sensitive of physical and emotional requirements of the people we support. 
• Driving vehicles owned by the people we support

We are looking for drivers who:  

• Are aged 21 or over, with at least 2 years driving experience 
• Hold a full, clean and current UK Driving License (or equivalent) 
• Have the ability to understand verbal and written instructions in relation to journeys 
• Are friendly with the people we support and our support staff 
• Are willing to commit to volunteer regularly (times and days can be discussed)  

A DBS check and two character references will be required for this role.   

What you’ll gain from being a Dimensions volunteer:  

Dimensions provides support for around 3,500 people with learning disabilities and autism across the UK.  

Our volunteers play a vital role in our work and in return, we support them with:  

• Access to free online training (with access to 800 plus courses) 
• Comprehensive support from professional, friendly and trained Dimensions staff 
• Reasonable expenses may be reimbursed as agreed
• An opportunity to gain real experience in the social care sector

Why we need your help

We provide free games and activity sessions with tailored support for children with additional needs and disabilities. We support over 100 children, known as our ‘athletes’, with a wide range of additional needs, including autism, cerebral palsy, non-visible disabilities, and global development delay. At KEEN London, we strive to use fun and games to improve young people's wellbeing, and personal, social and emotional development as well as broadening experiences to increase skills and confidence.

Purpose of the role

Our Volunteer Coaches are the backbone of a KEEN London session! You’ll provide one-to-one support to an athlete, helping them to access all the activities on offer, achieve their personal development goals, and of course have tons of fun! You can expect to get involved with a wide range of playground games, ball games, nature walks, and creative activities. From time to time, we also run trips for our athletes, and previous trips have included trampoline parks, high ropes courses, pedalo boating and slime-making classes.

Tasks and activities

● You’ll support our athletes to engage with the session, and have fun while they’re doing it.

● You’ll help our Service Coordinators develop goals for our athletes, track their progress, and give them lots of encouragement along the way.

● You’ll work with your Service Coordinators and fellow Coaches to come up with new games, develop resources, and plan activities.

● We want our athletes to enjoy being active, making friends, and trying new things - and we want you to join in the activities with them!

● Our athletes love working with energetic and enthusiastic people, and we’ll ensure that all your hard work will be rewarded with a great time.

Please note: To ensure that you are equipped and ready to take on this role, there is a thorough application process which includes but is not limited to: an information session, an in-person onboarding training evening, an enhanced DBS check, reference checks and a safeguarding quiz. All elements of the onboarding process have to be completed satisfactorily before you can start volunteering in this role. 

Why Volunteer with KEEN London?

KEEN London would not be what it is without the volunteers who support our work, and we want to ensure that all our volunteers gain just as much from their volunteering journey as they put into the charity. Here’s what you’ll get in return for supporting us:

● Regular volunteer social events, and opportunities to meet other coaches

● We will provide you with ongoing feedback and support to enable you to reach your full potential at KEEN, you will receive an induction and handbook prior to starting your role and you will receive access to a virtual training portal with additional resources.

● We will give you opportunities to access other roles to help you broaden your skills, such as becoming a Captain or Session Leader.

● Long-term volunteers receive t-shirts, badges, and advance sign-ups to our popular events

● We have a budget set aside to cover volunteer expenses (see Volunteer Agreement below)

● We will provide job/character references to volunteers after a reasonable period of volunteering with us.

Volunteer Agreement

All KEEN London volunteers are asked to observe the Volunteer Agreement. This agreement is binding in honour only, is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. Neither of us intends any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.

As a volunteer with KEEN London, you can expect:

● To be a part of a unique and evolving charity that is providing a valuable service to children and young people with additional needs.

● To be introduced to how the organisation works and your role within it.

● A supportive and reciprocal environment that ensures a positive experience for you as a volunteer.

● To be invited to volunteer at special events and fundraising activities.

● Reimbursement of any reasonable travel expenses.

● To be treated fairly and equally with dignity and respect, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, age, (dis)ability, religion or sexual orientation.

● A safe and healthy environment for you to volunteer in.

● Any problems or complaints to be investigated quickly and resolved fairly.

● Recognition for your efforts and successes – celebrating achievements and rewarding loyalty and dedication.

● To receive, if required, a reference after a reasonable time of volunteering.

● Access to free Charity Worker Discounts.

Our expectations of volunteers:

● To maintain and uphold the reputation and good name of the charity.

● To treat other volunteers, staff and service users fairly and with dignity, and to respect everyone equally, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or gender identity, age, (dis)ability, religion or sexual orientation.

● To ensure appropriate levels of confidentiality and data protection are upheld.

● To uphold our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy. This includes ensuring that when out of sight of other adults a ratio of 2 adults to 1 athlete is in place, and that you report any concerns you have about the safety and wellbeing of athletes to the Coordinator as soon as possible.

● To adhere to all health and safety instructions.

● To be punctual and reliable when attending sessions, and inform the coordinator via phone call as soon as possible if you are unable to attend.

● To attend at least 2 sessions per month for at least 6 months.

● To bring energy, enthusiasm and a willingness to learn to all sessions.

Role Description Internal Ref Number: COACH4

Are you passionate about families of disabled children having a voice? Do you have 10 hours a month to lead our charity?

Reading Families’ Forum is a small local charity with an experienced Trustee Board and our current Chair is retiring.

The Forum's role is to ensure that families of children with disabilities and/or additional needs can participate fully in the development of services within the Reading Local Authority. Help us make sure that services reflect families' needs.

The post holder will lead the Trustee Board and manage our 2 part-time staff.

We are the local parent carer forum and are part of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums, who provide training and support to the individual forums.

A full job description and application form is available on request. We are happy to arrange an informal chat with the current Chair and/or some of our Trustees. 

Join Us as Chair of Trustees

SEAS Sailability & All Afloat – Merging for Greater Impact

About SEAS All Afloat

SEAS Sailability and All Afloat, two well-established charities operating across Wales since 2017, are merging to combine their experience, resources, and passion for inclusion on the water.

SEAS Sailability has built a successful partnership with a commercial activity provider, delivering weekly evening sessions and monthly weekend activities during the spring and summer months for disabled people, their families, and carers. Over the past five years, SEAS Sailability has secured approximately £200,000 in grants and donations to support this work.

All Afloat has focused on breaking down barriers to water sports and expanding access to sailing and boating for disadvantaged young people and those with disabilities. The charity has supported ten RYA Training Centres across Wales, delivering more than £150,000 worth of projects, providing over 4,500 sessions for more than 3,500 young participants, opening clear pathways to RYA qualifications from introductory sailing through to Dinghy Instructor certification.

As the new merged organisation, SEAS All Afloat will build on this strong foundation to secure sustainable funding that maintains current activity while enabling the growth of similar partnerships across Wales. Our ambition is to use our combined experience, equipment, and networks to expand opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy the water safely and inclusively.

Through community projects and activity clubs, we will continue to deliver safe, engaging, and inclusive on-water experiences that build confidence, develop skills, and foster wellbeing — particularly for those facing barriers to participation.

The Role of the Chair of Trustees

Our volunteers and trustees play a vital role in steering the charity and ensuring we deliver on our mission.

The Chair of Trustees provides leadership to the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight. Working collaboratively with trustees, volunteers, and partners, the Chair helps set the vision and direction of the charity and acts as a key ambassador.

The Chair ensures that the Board operates effectively, decisions are well-informed, and the charity remains compliant with all legal and regulatory requirements. They also represent SEAS All Afloat publicly, championing its values and strengthening its relationships with stakeholders.

About You

We are looking for someone with:

• A passion for making outdoor activities accessible for all.
• Strong leadership and governance experience (charity, corporate, or public sector).
• Excellent communication and people skills, with the ability to build consensus.
• Confidence in representing the charity externally and acting as a spokesperson.
• A collaborative and inclusive approach.

Experience in sport, youth development, disability inclusion, or fundraising would be an advantage, but is not essential.

What We Offer

• The opportunity to lead a newly merged organisation at a pivotal stage in its journey.
• A meaningful and rewarding role that makes a real difference to people’s lives.
• The chance to work alongside a dedicated team of trustees, staff, and volunteers.

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The time commitment is around 6–10 meetings a year, plus regular contact with the leadership team and occasional events.

Chair of Trustees  - Role Description and Person Specification

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership of the Board:
• Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring trustees fulfil their responsibilities for governance, strategy, and oversight.
• Facilitate effective, inclusive board meetings—ensuring decisions are made collectively and in the best interest of the charity.
• Provide leadership and clarity of purpose in decision-making.
• Strategy and Governance:
• Work with the board, staff and service users to develop and agree the charity’s long-term vision, strategy, and goals.
• Oversee compliance with governing documents, charity law, and regulatory requirements.
• Safeguard the charity’s assets and ensure sound financial and risk management.
• Promote effective governance practices and continuous improvement of the Board’s performance.
• Lead the recruitment, induction, and development of new trustees. Encourage succession planning and development within the Board.
• Representation and Advocacy:
• Act as a spokesperson and ambassador for SEAS All Afloat.
• Build and maintain relationships with funders, regulators, and community partners.

Specific Tasks

• Chair regular trustee meetings and the Annual Wash-up.
• Work with the operations manager and secretary to set agendas and circulate meeting papers in good time.
• Monitor and follow up on Board decisions and agreed actions.
• Ensure financial reports and budgets are presented and understood by the Board.
• Act as the main contact with the Charity Commission on governance matters, ensuring annual report and accounts are submitted as required.
• Lead an annual review of SEAS All Afloat policies and procedures, ensuring that they meet best practice and the requirements of the Charity Commission, Welsh government and any specific grant funding bodies such as the National Lottery.
• Ensure fundraising processes (e.g. grant applications and reporting) are in place, appropriate, accurate, and delivered to a high standard.
• Represent SEAS All Afloat at external events, meetings, and within the community.
• Provide support and oversight to operations manager and senior volunteers involved in day-to-day operations.
• Be available to trustees and volunteers for ad hoc discussions between formal meetings.

Person Specification

• Essential Skills and Experience:
• Proven leadership ability, including chairing meetings and facilitating consensus.
• Understanding of trusteeship and charity governance (or willingness to learn).
• Strong strategic thinking skills with experience shaping vision and direction.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to represent the charity externally.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Ability to analyse information, assess risks, and make impartial decisions.
• Strong teamworking and collaboration skills.
• Willingness and capacity to commit sufficient time to the role.
• Desirable Skills and Experience:
• Understanding of, or lived experience with, issues relating to disability and accessibility, especially in the context of outdoor or water-based activities.
• Experience or awareness of fundraising and income-generation processes, including grants and reporting.
• Previous experience as a trustee, chair, or senior volunteer.
• Ability to communicate effectively in Welsh (spoken and/or written)
• Maritime, water sports, or youth development experience (professional or voluntary).
• Local community links and networks to strengthen partnerships.
• Advocacy and influencing experience with funders or stakeholders.
• Personal Qualities:
• Passion for the mission of SEAS All Afloat.
• Integrity, objectivity, and openness.
• Ability to inspire confidence and trust.
• Respectful of diverse views and skilled at building consensus.
• Resilient and able to handle sensitive matters with discretion.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

We support a lovely gentleman living in Wokingham who would like a volunteer to visit him for a relaxed check in. He enjoys watching the telly, looking at pictures, eating chocolate (of course!) and perhaps colouring or painting from time to time. He is deaf and non-verbal, so a calm, friendly and kind approach is key. If you’re someone who values quiet connection and meaningful moments, we’d love to hear from you.

We offer a lifelong befriending service for adults with learning disabilities. Matching the skills and interests of passionate visitors with the specific hobbies and interests of the people we visit. Visitors visit six times a year and, in many cases, the visitor is the only person in someone’s life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

This is a Check in visit role, meaning that your visits are likely to be short - on average 30 minutes or less. Some of the people we visit may be unable to communicate with words. Sometimes the person might choose not to meet with their visitor. Your visit is however very important, and these are some of the things you could be doing on a visit: • Checking in on their well-being and speak to support staff to get an update on how the person is doing • You might be able to bring a treat that the person enjoys, like chocolates or fruit. • Some people we support enjoy sensory experiences so items that will stimulate their senses can also help you create a sense of connection with the person you visit. Your volunteer manager will be happy to help you with ideas and suggestions.

As a Mencap volunteer visitor you will be:

• Friendly and approachable
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself
• Reliable and patient
• Passionate about supporting people with a with a learning disability.

As a Mencap visitor you will:

• Have the opportunity to help make a difference to the life of the person you visit
• Receive a personalised volunteer induction and training
• Have agreed out of pocket expenses reimbursed
• Meet new people
• Get on-going support, and feel appreciated and valued

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose. We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Volunteer Opportunities – Supported Community Business (SCB)
Charity: Supported Community Business (SCB)
Location: Adjacent Unit 41, Quakers Coppice, Crewe CW1 6FA (Remote work options available)
Job Type: Voluntary
Hours: Flexible – to suit volunteer

Description

SCB volunteers support adults with additional support needs in our Crewe workshop. We’ll train you to guide simple, real work-style tasks—labelling, light assembly, packaging, stock-sorting—and to model clear, step-by-step instructions. The goal: build confidence, routine and employability skills while helping real customer orders get finished.

We’re also looking for volunteers in other areas vital to our small charity, including:

• Fundraising helpers – supporting events, raffles, and campaigns.

• Community collection volunteers – placing and collecting donation tins in local shops and venues.

• Charity admin and finance support – helping with office tasks, filing, data entry, or bookkeeping.

• Practical support – maintenance, IT, or offering a specific skill (woodwork, craft, CV/time-keeping tips).

A regular 2–4 hour slot on a weekday (Mon–Thu 9:00–16:00, Fri 9:00–14:00) works well, but occasional sessions are also welcome.

The impact you’ll have

You’ll help people build confidence, routine and employability skills, reduce isolation, and enable us to take on more meaningful work and community orders. Your support in fundraising, admin, or collections will directly boost our sustainability and reach in the community.

The skills you’ll need

Kind, patient and reliable; good with people. No specific experience required—training, induction and supervision are provided. Great fit for 18+ students seeking work experience, retirees wanting to give back, and anyone with a practical or organisational skill to share.

DBS check provided by SCB; references available for uni/job applications if helpful.

About SCB

At SCB, we help individuals grow in confidence, build real-world skills, and find purpose in everyday achievements. We believe everyone deserves a place to feel safe, supported, and included. We champion ability over disability. Through meaningful activities, inclusive support, and a safe environment, we empower people to overcome challenges, build independence, and form lasting connections.

Join us at SCB where your volunteer work is not just an experience, but a journey to make a positive difference in the community!

If you believe that everyone should have the chance to experience the freedom, confidence, and joy of being on the water, this is a unique opportunity to help make that vision a reality.

SEAS All Afloat is a newly merged charity bringing together two well-established Welsh organisations — SEAS Sailability and All Afloat — both with a shared passion for inclusion through watersports. Together, we’re combining our experience, networks, and energy to create a single, stronger charity that opens up the world of sailing and boating to people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds.

Over recent years, our programmes have supported thousands of young people and families to enjoy safe, inclusive activities on the water. Many of our participants are disabled, disadvantaged, or facing barriers that can make access to sport and outdoor adventure difficult. We know the transformative power that comes from being out on the water — the laughter, the teamwork, the sense of belonging — and we’re determined to make sure no one is left on the shore.

As Chair of Trustees, you’ll guide SEAS All Afloat through this exciting next stage of our journey. The merger offers us an incredible opportunity to shape our shared vision, strengthen our partnerships, and grow our impact across Wales. We’re looking for someone who can lead with empathy and clarity — helping to bring people together, inspire confidence, and keep us focused on what matters most: changing lives through access to the water.

You’ll lead a dedicated Board of Trustees who bring a wealth of passion, insight, and expertise from across a variety of sectors. One of your early priorities will be to work with the trustees to review our board’s overall skillset — celebrating the strengths we already have while identifying areas for future growth as the charity develops. This will help ensure we have the right mix of voices and experience to deliver our ambitions.

You’ll also work with our Operations Manager and volunteers to support day-to-day activity, secure sustainable funding, and strengthen the charity’s governance and long-term strategy. As an ambassador for SEAS All Afloat, you’ll represent the charity to partners, funders, and the wider community, championing inclusion and connection through watersports.

This is a voluntary position, with around six to ten board meetings a year and occasional community or partnership events. For the right person, it’s a chance to lead with heart — to guide a talented and committed board through an exciting period of growth, and to ensure that more people across Wales can discover the confidence, wellbeing, and joy that comes from life on the water.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone with:

• A passion for making outdoor activities accessible for all.
• Strong leadership and governance experience (charity, corporate, or public sector).
• Excellent communication and people skills, with the ability to build consensus.
• Confidence in representing the charity externally and acting as a spokesperson.
• A collaborative and inclusive approach.

Experience in sport, youth development, disability inclusion, or fundraising would be an advantage, but is not essential.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of SEAS All Afloat, your leadership will directly shape the future of inclusive watersports in Wales. You’ll be guiding a newly merged charity at an exciting turning point — helping to unite two respected organisations, SEAS Sailability and All Afloat, into one stronger, more sustainable force for change.

Your impact will begin with people: bringing trustees, staff, and volunteers together around a shared vision. You’ll help the board build confidence and clarity about its role, review and develop the mix of skills and experience we have, and ensure that everyone feels supported, valued, and able to contribute. Under your leadership, the board will not only govern effectively but grow in ambition, becoming a confident, forward-thinking team that steers the charity with care and conviction.

Strategically, you’ll play a crucial role in turning the promise of our merger into long-term success. You’ll help set a clear direction for the next stage of our journey — shaping priorities, guiding governance, and ensuring we have the resources and resilience to reach more people each year. Your insight and steady leadership will help us build sustainable partnerships, secure funding, and create a stable foundation for the charity’s future.

Most importantly, your work will make a real difference to people’s lives. Every decision you help shape — every conversation about strategy, funding, or growth — will translate into more opportunities for people who might otherwise never get the chance to experience the water. Disabled sailors discovering independence, young people building confidence, families finding connection and joy together: these are the lives that your leadership will touch.

Our Shop Volunteers raise money for the people we support with a Learning Disability. Do you have a few hours a week to spare and share your time with us?

Our retail roles are varied and fun. You could be sorting donations from the public, dressing our window or serving customers on the till. There are many people from different walks of life and it's a great way to get practical experience and to meet new people.

This role will take place on a weekly basis for a few hours We will try our best to be flexible around the best time for you, but also need to consider the store opening times and volunteer rota. It could be a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, our stores are usually open 7 days a week. We’d appreciate any time that you can spare.

Whilst in the store, you will help with activities based on the needs of the Store Manager. 

Tasks you could get up to whilst volunteering could include:

• Serving customers on the till
• Taking stock donations from the public
• Tagging and steaming stock for the shop floor
• Dressing the window displays
• Asking people to join us as a volunteer

As a Retail Volunteer you will be:

• Friendly and Approachable
• Reliable, Kind and Patient
• A good communicator (including listener)
• Willing to volunteer within guidelines and to take direction where necessary
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

As a Mencap volunteer you will:

• Make new friends and raise important funds for people with a learning disability
• Get reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with our policy e.g. travel
• Receive full Training and support
• Volunteer alongside other people
• Have a chance to give back your local community

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.

Our Shop Volunteers raise money for the people we support with a Learning Disability. Do you have a few hours a week to spare and share your time with us?

Our retail roles are varied and fun. You could be sorting donations from the public, dressing our window or serving customers on the till. There are many people from different walks of life and it's a great way to get practical experience and to meet new people.

This role will take place on a weekly basis for a few hours We will try our best to be flexible around the best time for you, but also need to consider the store opening times and volunteer rota. It could be a weekday or weekend, morning or afternoon, our stores are usually open 7 days a week. We’d appreciate any time that you can spare.

Whilst in the store, you will help with activities based on the needs of the Store Manager.

Tasks you could get up to whilst volunteering could include:

• Serving customers on the till
• Taking stock donations from the public
• Tagging and steaming stock for the shop floor
• Dressing the window displays
• Asking people to join us as a volunteer

As a Retail Volunteer you will be:

• Friendly and Approachable
• Reliable, Kind and Patient
• A good communicator (including listener)
• Willing to volunteer within guidelines and to take direction where necessary
• Accepting of others who might be different to yourself

As a Mencap volunteer you will:

• Make new friends and raise important funds for people with a learning disability
• Get reasonable out-of-pocket expenses in line with our policy e.g. travel
• Receive full Training and support
• Volunteer alongside other people
• Have a chance to give back your local community

About Mencap Mencap is the leading learning disability charity in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. We work with people with a learning disability and their families to challenge prejudice and change laws, and we directly support thousands of people to live their lives as they choose.

We have an ambitious vision for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives.

Volunteering with us is YOUR opportunity to help us achieve this, whilst having the chance to develop your skills, meet new people and join a passionate and dedicated team.

If you have questions about volunteering with Mencap, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.