Volunteer roles for the Human Rights sector
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Hackney Migrant Centre (HMC) is seeking to recruit a Vice-Chair to support our work and ensure financial and organisational stability as we implement our newly developed Strategic Plan for 2025-2028.
HMC was established in 2007 to provide advice and support to migrants to help them overcome problems with their immigration status and in accessing services. We welcome all migrants, of any immigration status or nationality. As the environment facing migrants has become ever more challenging, we have expanded the scope of our work. Our staff team has increased from one part-time worker in 2007 to a team of eight people, some part-time, and we now have a budget just under £450,000 a year.
We provide legal advice and casework support on immigration, housing and welfare, working with visitors to resolve the problems forcing them into destitution and homelessness, such as insecure immigration status and lack of access the public funds. We also, in partnership with local organisations and a team of volunteers, provide wellbeing support and regular community building sessions, including advice and support on accessing a GP and dealing with charges for hospital care.
This is an opportunity for someone with previous Board experience to support the Chair to coordinate and lead the Board of Trustees and make an important contribution to the work of this well-respected local charity at a crucial time in its development. We welcome applications from people from a range of backgrounds and experience who would be happy to take up this exciting challenge. We are particularly keen to recruit trustees from the Global Majority, those with lived experience of migration and/or the UK’s hostile immigration environment.
The role of Vice-Chair
The Vice-Chair of the trustee board supports the Chair in fulfilling their responsibilities and provides leadership to the board in the Chair’s absence. This is a developmental role for someone who is interested in transitioning into the Chair role in future, and who can provide additional capacity, insight, and leadership to the organisation as it navigates an increasingly challenging environment for migrants and the voluntary sector.
The Vice-Chair has the general responsibilities of a trustee to ensure the financial sustainability of HMC and that it is carrying out its work for the public benefit in line with its charitable objects. Decisions affecting the running of HMC and its finances will be taken by the board as a whole, either at the board meeting or if urgent via email. The Vice-Chair does not have individual decision-making responsibility or power (but does have a deciding vote at board meetings).
The specific duties of the Vice-Chair include the following:
Trustee meetings
• Support the Chair to agree the agenda (with the secretary and in consultation with the CEO) of trustee board meetings, sub-committees and other meetings where relevant.
• Attend and contribute to all trustee meetings and chair meetings in the absence of the Chair.
• Support the Chair in ensuring that key decisions are discussed and agreed, and that all trustees can participate fully. • Assist with the follow-up of actions and implementation of decisions as agreed with the Chair.
• Support the development and induction of new trustees, and help identify training and support needs.
Communication with staff
• Work closely with the Chair and be available as an additional point of contact for the CEO and staff, particularly when the Chair is unavailable.
• Support the Chair in providing supervision and pastoral support to the CEO, contributing to wellbeing check-ins and performance appraisal processes where appropriate.
• Contribute to the development and oversight of key organisational priorities, including equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI), fundraising, and sustainability.
• Attend staff recruitment or disciplinary panels as needed.
Public role and organisational development
• Support the Chair in representing HMC externally at public events and meetings, and deputise where necessary.
• Assist in the preparation of public communications, statements, and events.
• Act as a signatory for bank accounts and contracts when appropriate, particularly when the Chair is unavailable.
Succession and transition
• The Vice-Chair will be supported to become familiar with the full breadth of the Chair’s responsibilities over time. • They may take on specific duties or projects in agreement with the Chair and board, as part of their development.
• In the event the Chair steps down, the Vice-Chair may act as interim Chair and will be encouraged to apply for the role if appropriate.
The specific duties attached to the Vice-Chair’s role may change and/or be taken on by another trustee by agreement of the board as a whole.
Being a Trustee of Hackney Migrant Centre
The trustees of Hackney Migrant Centre play a vital role in the organisation. They are responsible for ensuring that that its services are maintained and developed for the benefit of its visitors, in line with HMC’s ethos and objectives. HMC staff are responsible for the day-to day running of HMC’s services but trustees work closely with staff in discussing and deciding on policy issues, staffing developments and campaigning, overseeing finance and fundraising to ensure that the organisation is sustainable and in monitoring the impact of HMC’s services. Our trustees are recruited according to our Trustee Recruitment Policy. We welcome trustees from a variety of backgrounds to ensure that a broad range of skills and experience are represented. Trustees are encouraged to gain first-hand experience of the work of HMC but regular volunteering is not a requirement.
For more information, please refer to the Recruitment Pack
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Why we want you
A court sentencing can be a very stressful time for families. Pact’s new Side by Side service provides wraparound support for families, starting at the court, progressing to the prison, and then supporting post-release.
As a Side by Side Court Volunteer, you will spend most of your time (ideally one shift a week) based at Maidstone or Canterbury Court. Here you will provide much needed practical and emotional support to families and friends who are experiencing a loved one going through the court process. Your presence and support will ensure families have the strength needed for their loved ones and that they have access to information and advice as required.
Additionally, you may be asked to support families on their first visit in the instance their loved one is sentenced to one of our partner sites (HMP Elmley or HMP Rochester) or make the appropriate introductions if you are unable to attend.
The vision of this project is that families are supported by Pact team members at all stages, so the consistency of support (either by yourself or via a successful and warm handover of information) is crucial.
What you will be doing
· Engaging with families in Maidstone or Canterbury Court, particularly those with loved ones transitioning to HMP Elmley or Rochester (either on remand or sentenced)
· Providing advice and support on what to expect when a loved one is in prison, particularly in the first few days, and how to navigate prison systems (such as booking visits, contact etc.)
· Referring on to other support services (such as benefits, financial aid, etc.)
· Supporting the family’s transition over to Pact’s Family Services teams at HMP Elmley & Rochester, who will provide additional support for both them and their loved one
· Developing good, working relationships with staff at the court (clerks, ushers, list-callers, and other professionals) to promote Pact's service to them
· Ensure there are sufficient materials about Pact's service available and visible, throughout the court
· Adhere to policies and practices relevant to this role: Confidentiality, Health & Safety, Child Protection and Safeguarding, Equality and Diversity, Court and Prison security rules, etc.
· Report any incidents and concerns related to Health and Safety or Safeguarding to a member of the Pact staff team
The skills you need
· Non-judgemental and empathetic attitude
· Ability to deal calmly and sensitively with individuals and families in a court environment
· Ability to work independently and alone within the courts, with the confidence to approach families and friends
· Ability to work well as part of a small team
· Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills
· Punctual, organised and able to use your own initiative
· Good understanding of safeguarding, professional boundaries and confidentiality
What's in it for you
· Feel connected to those you are helping in your local community
· Develop skills and enhance your experience for future volunteering / employment opportunities
· Develop experience and knowledge of the Criminal Justice System
· Full training and induction provided with regular ongoing support
· Out-of-pocket expenses covered in line with our expenses policy
Disclaimers
· This role is subject to the completion of Pact's mandatory training and checks which our staff will be on hand to support you through.
· As this role may require occasional travel to HMP Elmley and HMP Rochester, a vehicle is required.
Training
Online Safeguarding, Professional Boundaries, Equality and Diversity, Data Security, and Health and Safety training is required for this role, in addition to virtual and/or in-person induction training related to the role. We anticipate the initial virtual training will take between 10-12 hours to complete in total, of which most can be completed in your own time. You will also have access to a range of other training opportunities throughout the year.
Checks
· 3 years of employment history or other activities (e.g., studying, travelling)
· Enhanced DBS check (Disclosure & Barring Service)
Because of the recruitment process, which can take several weeks, Pact expects you will commit to volunteering with us for a minimum of 1 shift a week (3-4 hours) for at least 6 months from when you start.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Exciting Treasurer opportunity with a growing charity that supports victims of modern slavery.
West Midlands Anti Slavery Network brings together partner organisations to combat modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation. Through direct victim support, identifying gaps, influencing change, and facilitating solutions, we strive to protect and advocate for the vulnerable in our community.
We are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board.
What will you be doing?
Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that WMASN achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that WMASN has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.
As well as fulfilling the duties of a Trustee, the Treasurer maintains an overview of our financial affairs. The Treasurer ensures that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place and reports to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.
Your expertise, advice, and guidance would be invaluable in shaping and implementing our financial strategies.
This role is mainly home-based.
Please request the candidate pack attached for further details.
Time commitment
· Attend quarterly Board meetings: These meetings typically last around 3 hours, held between 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM. Most meetings are conducted online, with one in-person meeting held annually in June at the charity's offices in central Birmingham.
· Participate in Finance Sub-Committee work: The Treasurer is expected to join the finance sub-committee which meets quarterly for approximately 2 hours.
· The overall time commitment varies depending on the charity's activities, with an average of 10 hours per month, including preparation and follow-up tasks.
Trustees are also expected to contribute ad hoc and occasional time outside of Board meetings, the majority of which is done remotely.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for individuals who can bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the role, and who will help broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board. No prior Trustee experience is necessary – we will provide a comprehensive induction and training.
Qualifications and Experience:
· A finance professional. A knowledge of charity finance is an advantage. Otherwise an enthusiasm to learn, drawing from sound commercial experience and an understanding of SMEs.
· A strategic thinker with an ability to balance risk and opportunity.
· Clear communicator with the ability to bring the financial information alive to non-finance specialists.
· Willing to play an active role in areas such as forecasting, setting budgets, liaising with auditors.
What difference will you make?
As a small charity we recognise the great work, time and commitment of our Board. This position is an opportunity to:
· Give back to a charity that is dedicated to creating positive impact
· Enhance your CV and open doors to new career paths
· Make a difference to those in need
· Learn about the management and strategy side of charities
· Utilise your experience and skills within the voluntary sector
· Work with an interesting team from diverse backgrounds
Before you apply
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting West Midlands Anti Slavery Network with their Treasurer recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.
To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to the Board.
Please send applications and enquiries to the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.
WMASN is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community and from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking for a new Chair for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values. We are looking for a new Treasurer for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Who are LRMN?
We offer refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants a specialist and holistic service. We advocate for people’s rights, campaign for wider change, meet their basic needs and help them improve their wellbeing.
Why do we need you?
Advocacy volunteers are an essential part of our team, making sure that clients are able to access the right service. You will deal with initial client enquiries (in person, over the phone or by email), assess what support clients need and help them access the right service for them. This might be with us, a partner or another external service.
Our admin team is integral to the smooth running of LRMN. Without them our advisors wouldn’t be able to provide life changing support to the people who access our services.
Our admin team are the first people that clients will talk to so it is essential that we offer a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental space and give them the right information about the services we offer. Given the demand that we face, volunteers help us do that.
What activities will you be involved in?
As an Advocacy Volunteer, you will work alongside staff and fellow volunteers to provide practical support, advocacy, and guidance to individuals accessing our services. Your role is essential in helping service users navigate various systems, simple applications, access key entitlements, and receive the support they need to improve their circumstances.Your key responsibilities will include:
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Client Support:
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Assist clients in completing applications for:
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Free bus transportation
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Oyster cards (60+ and 65+)
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National Insurance Number (NIN)
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Nursery, school, and college admissions/registrations
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Signposting and Referrals:
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Ensure service users who cannot access our services are signposted or referred to appropriate external organizations.
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Information and Guidance:
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Help clients and referrers understand the services we offer and how to access them effectively.
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Administrative Support:
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Undertake various administrative tasks as identified by the team.
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Expanded Duties (as experience grows):
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Assist with additional basic applications not listed above.
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Support clients with simple letter writing and documentation.
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Take on other relevant duties as needed.
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Location & Schedule:
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This role is based in our Deptford office, specifically during Thursday drop-in sessions.
What can you gain from this opportunity?
By volunteering with LRMN, you will:
• Make a difference to the lives of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees living in south-east London
• Be part of a diverse, knowledgeable and proactive team in an organisation that has been running for over 25 years
• Gain experience of admin work in a business environment
• Gain an understanding of the issues affecting refugees, asylum seekers and migrants • Have regular support and supervision from the Business and Operations Officer • Be provided out of pocket expenses to the value of £6 for lunch per day (4+ hours) & up to £15 travel expenses (when volunteering in the office for 4+ hours)
Is there induction and training?
Yes, we provide a comprehensive induction to all new volunteers. This covers roles and responsibilities, safeguarding, record keeping and use of our client management system (Advice Pro).
You will be provided with the training needed to perform the role and will have the opportunity to join training with the whole LRMN team.
Who are LRMN looking for?
We’re looking for someone who is:
• Passionate about supporting migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
• Friendly and approachable and can manage professional boundaries
• Excellent communication skills
• Proactive and able to use own initiative
• Organised and methodical in their work
• Respectful of client confidentiality
• Experienced in working with multicultural communities
• Able to use their digital skills to make referrals and manage online systems
LRMN is committed to equality and diversity. We pride ourselves on having a diverse team with a range of experiences. We encourage people with lived experience of the asylum and/or immigration system to apply. If you need additional support to apply or volunteer, please contact us.
What commitment do you need to make?
We ask volunteers to commit to volunteering one day a week during office hours (Mon-Fri) for at least six months.
How can you apply?
If you are interested in this role, we would love to hear from you. Please apply via CharityJobs.
Volunteers will be required to provide two referees and undergo a basic DBS check.
This is an unpaid volunteer role.
If you need this information in a different format or have any questions, please get in touch.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Who are LRMN?
We offer refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants a specialist and holistic service. We advocate for people’s rights, campaign for wider change, meet their basic needs and help them improve their wellbeing.
Why do we need you?
Triage volunteers are an essential part of our team, making sure that clients are able to access the right service. You will deal with initial client enquiries (in person, over the phone or by email), assess what support clients need and help the access the right service for them. This might be with us, a partner or another external service.
Our triage team is integral to the smooth running of LRMN. Without them our advisors wouldn’t be able to provide life changing support to the people who access our services.
Our triage team are the first people that clients will talk to so it is essential that we offer a safe, welcoming and non-judgemental space and give them the right information about the services we offer. Given the demand that we face, volunteers help us do that.
What activities will you be involved in?
As part of our triage team, you will volunteer alongside staff and fellow volunteers to:
• Welcome clients to our office/Migrant Hub and speak to them about their needs • Help clients and referrers understand the services we offer and how to access them • Respond to new referrals and upload them onto our case management system
• Contact clients to book in appointments and follow up referrals
• Take on other administrative tasks as identified from time to time
As you become more experienced, you may be involved in giving basic advice, providing support letters and other duties.
Our triage volunteers can be based at our office (in Deptford Monday-Friday), or our Migrant Hub drop-in service (in Woolwich on Tuesdays), or both! Just let us know in your application form what interests you.
You will be supervised by the Business and Operations Manager and/or Migrant Hub Coordinator but will liaise with staff across the organisation as appropriate.
What can you gain from this opportunity?
By volunteering with LRMN, you will:
• Make a difference to the lives of migrants, asylum seekers and refugees living in south-east London
• Be part of a diverse, knowledgeable and proactive team in an organisation that has been running for over 25 years
• Gain experience of admin work in a business environment
• Gain an understanding of the issues affecting refugees, asylum seekers and migrants
• Have regular support and supervision from the Business and Operations Officer
• Be provided out of pocket expenses to the value of £6 for lunch per day (4+ hours) & up to £15 travel expenses (when volunteering in the office for 4+ hours)
Is there induction and training?
Yes, we provide a comprehensive induction to all new volunteers. This covers roles and responsibilities, safeguarding, record keeping and use of our client management system (Advice Pro).
You will be provided with the training needed to perform the role and will have the opportunity to join training with the whole LRMN team.
Who are LRMN looking for?
We’re looking for someone who is:
• Passionate about supporting migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
• Friendly and approachable and can manage professional boundaries
• Excellent communicatiuon skills
• Proactive and able to use own initiative
• Organised and methodical
• Respectful of client confidentiality
• Experienced in working with multicultural communities
• Able to use their digital skills to make referrals and manage online systems
LRMN is committed to equality and diversity. We pride ourselves on having a diverse team with a range of experiences. We encourage people with lived experience of the asylum and/or immigration system to apply. If you need additional support to apply or volunteer, please contact us.
What commitment do you need to make?
We ask volunteers to commit to volunteering one day a week during office hours (Mon-Fri) for at least six months.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We do not currently engage current GARAS Clients or offer any Sponsorship and support for people wanting to work coming from abroad.
As a Volunteer Welcomer at GARAS (Gloucestershire Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers), you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth and welcoming environment for clients, staff, and visitors. You will be involved in various administrative, organisational, and practical tasks that directly support GARAS' services for refugees and asylum seekers. You will welcome each client, providing tea/coffee, and ascertain which staff member clients need to see. The waiting room is often busy, so Welcomers keep the waiting list in order, managing the flow of clients and liaising with advisors. Our Welcomers are the most important face of GARAS, helping clients to feel welcomed, safe and comfortable. More information on specific job role on our website.
Registered Charity
21 - 50
Providing support to asylum seekers, refugees and certain other migrants
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you!
About TLC
The Trans Legal Clinic is the first trans-led specialist gender identity legal practice and registered charity in the UK. The mission of the Trans Legal Clinic is simple; we provide free and accessible legal help to transgender and non-binary people in need. Our overarching vision is a society where all people have access to the legal resources required for gender self-determination and where gender diversity is not just accepted but embraced, with trans* people equipped with the necessary legal tools to navigate the world in their affirmed gender.
Service Introduction
The Social Media department is integral to our organisation. The social media team works together to create informative and entertaining content to build a community around the Trans Legal Clinic. We have assisted over 70 clients since October 2023.
Our Social Media department is made up of committed Social Media Content Officers, working under the Social Media Manager.
Key tasks and responsibilities
Design and Content Creation
Be adept and comfortable using Canva, with an eye for design.
Create engaging and eye-catching posts and content for Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn.
Write engaging captions and copy for social media content to drive engagement across social media channels.
Confident using video editing software and a willingness to learn new editing software as and when required.
Write and edit scripts for video posts.
Teamwork
Engage with assigned tasks and support other volunteers in the social media team.
Keep your fellow volunteers and manager updated on your content creation and any issues you encounter throughout the process.
Set out to reach team performance targets.
Attend team meetings and contribute to discussions.
Be respectful to colleagues and support good communication between all stakeholders.
Work with caseworkers to create content for specific raised issues.
Research and Outreach
Create resources for the organisation and those seeking information on our website in a digestible way.
Reach out to other organisations, especially those that work with trans* people, to collaborate and share knowledge and resources.
Conduct research into relevant topics and how they affect trans* and gender diverse people.
Review
Review and evaluate own performance to identify strengths and areas for development.
Undertake development and training opportunities.
General
Adhere to Trans Legal Clinic’s Policies and Procedures at all times.
Cover for other members of the team and department as necessary.
Be proactive in reviewing and evaluating own performance and identifying upon areas for improvement and development.
Undertake any other duties compatible with the level and nature of the role and/or reasonable duties required by more senior members of staff.
Attend and participate in external meetings and briefings as required.
