Volunteer roles

VOLUNTEER CHAIR/COORDINATOR

Across the UK, our 65 local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

As your local Chair or Coordinator, you’ll take the lead in making sure your local branch works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct, and support other branch volunteers to make sure your branch’s activities meet the needs of your local disabled community.

You’ll bring your leadership, communication, organisation, and motivational skills to this role.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it often includes:

•  Coordinating the activities of our local branch to undertake and meet the needs of  referrals in your area

• Coordinating and chairing the branch meetings

• Leading the branch’s shared responsibility for planning and completing referrals

• Coordinating the recruitment, induction, and ongoing support of new local branch volunteers

• Approving income and expenditure with the other branch bank account signatories  and ensuring with the Treasurer that our financial requirements and policies relating to branches are followed

• Ensuring the branch’s activities comply with policies to keep people safe

• Regularly communicate and act as a key contact between staff and volunteer

What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Confident in leading and chairing a meeting

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Willingness to attend local events to promote the charity’s work

• Ability to understand and follow external and internal policies and procedures• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow Remap policies and procedures – and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Confident in communicating with different audiences, including decision-makers and volunteers

• Able to delegate and motivate the activities of others

• Enthusiastic about raising awareness of the charity’s work in the local area

• Willingness to develop skills and experience

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training, as well as a DBS check.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without you – your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.

Ref: V253 | Support Group Volunteer | Oxford

We’re looking for two Support Group Volunteers over the age of 18 years old, based at North Oxford Association Community Centre, Diamond Place, Summertown, Oxford, OX2 7DP.

You’ll be volunteering every first and third Tuesday every month between 12:30pm and 3:30pm.

As a support group volunteer, you will help with the running of the group.  The role is designed to suit the needs of the group, and the skills of people offering support. If you enjoy getting to know your community, working with others and making a real difference then this is the role for you.

The volunteer will be

· A people person, with good listening skills

· A great communicator who enjoys meeting new people

· Good at putting people at ease

· Reliable and organised

· Passionate about supporting people affected by stroke

· IT literate, have good administrative and record keeping skills and be able to follow relevant policies

A DBS check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by clicking our website link below to view the role profile.

If you are interested in this role please click apply and complete our application form on our website. Further details can be found on our website.

About Us

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

Ref: V256 | Communication Service Supporter | Oxfordshire

We’re looking for 1 or 2 volunteers over the age of 18 years old, to provide communication support to stroke survivors at some of our support groups in the OX16 Banbury area, with the potential to volunteer in wider Oxfordshire as well.

You’ll be volunteering fortnightly on a Wednesday morning between 10:30am and 12:30pm. In addition to a regular commitment on a Wednesday morning there may be additional hours required. The date and time for these would vary depending on the needs of the of the stroke survivors we were supporting at the time but advance notice would be given.

We are looking for communication service supporters to assist stroke survivors in developing their communication skills in a group setting.

The volunteers will:

· Be an effective communication service supporter you need great listening skills and be able to support people in an empathetic and non-judgemental way.

· Be willing to learn and use the technique, called ‘supported conversation’, that is used to support people with communication difficulties.

If you are someone who enjoys conversation, meeting new people and likes to try new things, then this role might be a good one for you.

A Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check is required for this role.

Interested in this role?

Find out more by clicking our website link below to view the role profile.

If you are interested in this role please click apply and complete our application form on our website. Further details can be found on our website.

Stroke Association

Finding strength through support

The Stroke Association is the only charity in the UK providing lifelong support for all stroke survivors and their families. We provide tailored support to tens of thousands of stroke survivors each year. This support includes one-to-one and group support, funding vital scientific research into stroke prevention, acute treatment, recovery and long-term care, and campaigning to secure the best care for everyone affected by stroke. 

We’re here for stroke survivors and their loved ones, from the moment they enter the new and frightening post-stroke world, supporting them every step of the way as they find their strength and their way back to life.

It’s only thanks to the generosity of our supporters and donors that we can provide vital support. 

Stroke Association is driven by our ambition to improve the lives of everyone affected by stroke. This means we’re determined to create an equitable and inclusive workplace that benefits from the difference, and thrives on the diversity, of our people. Guided by Our approach to solving inequity in stroke, we are prioritising listening to, and learning from, lived experience across our charity.

We are working to improve the representation of this lived experience at all levels within the Stroke Association and we are eager to recruit applicants from a variety of communities and backgrounds. We are keen to receive applications from people affected by stroke, people of colour, members of LGBT+ communities, and disabled people because these identities and experiences are underrepresented and would add enormous value to how we work.

We are a Disability Confident employer, and we are making great progress focusing on flexible working, reasonable adjustments and access to work. Our charity has a variety of staff network groups and we're committed to continuously improving our diversity and inclusion efforts. If you have questions, or access needs, we’re happy to discuss any support and adjustments we can make throughout the recruitment process so that you’re able to contribute your best in a way that meets your needs.

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 Coroners' Courts Support Service (CCSS) is a registered Charity whose trained volunteers give emotional and practical support to bereaved families and other witnesses attending an inquest.

We need volunteers to provide emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending Inquests at Coroners' Court. Our volunteers at court also provide help and assistance to the Coroners' Officers, as and when required.

We are looking for reliable, supportive people with excellent communication skills. A mature and calm attitude is needed in order to be able to talk to people during a sometimes bewildering and emotional experience. Volunteers must be willing to undergo a period of observations and shadowing, as well as attend a 3 day training course. A minimum of 2 court days per month attendance requiured. Training and mentoring is provided and travel expenses to the court are reimbursed.

New volunteers should possess good communication and listening skills and the ability to empathise with people they support.

We are looking for women who hold feminist values and principles and who are passionate about the mission and values of TRC. We are particularly looking for Trustees who have relevant qualifications and/or experience in the following areas:

• Safeguarding, offering support to the chair and safeguarding leads with the management of safeguarding cases and keeping up to date with best practice
• Legal and Governance, including strategic planning and understanding of the wider political Greater Manchester landscape
• Human resources and personnel management, including a knowledge of employment legislation
• Financial management, planning and budgeting
• Public Relations, Marketing and fundraising, including awareness raising and campaigning through social media
• Capacity building and training, especially for volunteers
• Women’s health and mental health, outreach and partnership work with local services

TRC was set up in 2010 to provide a free, confidential and non-judgemental specialist support service run by women for women and girls who have experienced any form of rape, sexual abuse or sexual violence at any time in their lives. We are a feminist organisation and we actively challenge the values, beliefs and behaviours that contribute to women’s
oppression. Our mission is to raise awareness about sexual violence through providing training, guidance and information and working in partnership with local service providers and communities to promote the values of TRC.

Volunteering for Sense

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.

What your role will involve

There are a variety of tasks that you can get involved with in the shop, including:

• Welcoming and assisting customers, providing great customer service and a fantastic shopping experience
• Receiving donated goods from members of the public
• Sorting, steaming, tagging and preparing donated goods for sale
• Creating eye catching window and in-shop displays
• Keeping the shop floor well stocked, tidy, clean and organised
• 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 and safety measures to ensure the safety of everyone

Will the role suit me? Yes, if you are:

• Motivated and hardworking
• Reliable, flexible and willing to do a variety of shop tasks
• A team player
• Friendly and helpful
• Passionate about customer service and enjoy interacting with people
• Respectful of others and their diversity
• Interested in supporting the work of Sense and want to make a difference to people who have complex disabilities and are deafblind.

What can Sense offer me 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

About Sense

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.

Volunteers add real value to Sense, bringing their passion, enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to the work that we do. We believe that volunteers enable us to bring people together, and provide opportunities for people with complex disabilities to communicate and experience the world.

We include. We collaborate. We find a way. We challenge. We celebrate.

Volunteer Board Member (California Only) – HELPING CHILDREN INC (Remote)

Organization: HELPING CHILDREN INC
Location: Remote (Must reside in California, USA)
Type: Volunteer Position – Board of Directors
Time Commitment: Approx. 4–6 hours/month
Start Date: Immediate

About HELPING CHILDREN INC:
HELPING CHILDREN INC is a nonprofit organization committed to empowering children globally through education, health, and rights-based initiatives. We are a California-registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a growing presence in Sri Lanka, Ukraine, and other regions.

Volunteer Opportunity – Board Member (California Resident Only):
We are seeking a dedicated and reliable Volunteer Board Member who lives in California to join our U.S. Board of Directors and support the operational and legal representation of our organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as an authorized representative of HELPING CHILDREN INC in the State of California.

• Assist with opening and managing a U.S.-based bank account on behalf of the organization.

• Participate in virtual board meetings and strategic planning discussions.

• Sign official documents and complete state/federal filings as needed.

• Provide guidance on compliance and administrative matters relevant to California-based nonprofits.

• Support fundraising and public engagement efforts, when possible.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older and currently reside in California.

• Familiarity with nonprofit operations or willingness to learn.

• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Commitment to the mission and values of HELPING CHILDREN INC.

• Ability to represent the organization with professionalism and integrity.

Preferred (not required):

• Experience with nonprofit banking, governance, or legal compliance.

• Background in law, finance, or public administration.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a real impact in the lives of children globally.

• Gain nonprofit board leadership experience.

• Receive a letter of recommendation and volunteer certificate upon request.

• Flexible remote work with meaningful purpose.

Position: Treasurer (Non-Executive Director)
Location: Remote / UK-based
Time Commitment: Approximately 8–10 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary role – reasonable expenses reimbursed
Application Deadline: 10 August 2025

The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is a ground-breaking alliance of companies, trade unions and non-governmental organisations working together to improve the lives of workers in international supply chains. ETI’s vision is of a world of work that protects human rights, ensures dignity for all, provides opportunity and is free of exploitation and abuse.

We are currently seeking a qualified and experienced Treasurer to join our Board as a Non-Executive Director. This is a voluntary governance role that plays a key part in overseeing ETI’s financial health and supporting the strategic direction of the organisation.

About the Role

As Treasurer, you will:

• Provide strategic financial oversight and ensure the organisation’s long-term financial viability
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Sub-Committee
• Oversee budgets, financial reporting, risk management, and compliance
• Work closely with the Chair, CEO, and Senior Finance Manager
• Present key financial reports to the Board and at the Annual General Meeting
• Be available for occasional ad hoc financial advice or input

This role offers the opportunity to shape and strengthen the financial foundation of an organisation that is driving systemic change in global supply chains.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone with:

• A recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
• Substantial experience in senior financial leadership, ideally including as a Treasurer or CFO
• An understanding of financial governance in the not-for-profit or NGO sector
• The confidence to challenge and contribute constructively at Board level
• The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders
• Ideally, experience in international development or ethical trade

Commitment

• Attend four Board meetings annually (virtual or hybrid)
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Committee (usually two meetings per year)
• Participate in relevant working groups or panels as required
• Engage with senior staff for occasional ad hoc advice

Expenses

This is a voluntary role. However, all Directors are entitled to claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred while carrying out their duties, in line with ETI’s expenses policy.

Could you look after the finances for the local SSAFA service in your area? You don’t need a military background, just some basic I.T and finance skills. If so, this could be the role for you.

What is a Branch Treasurer?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. These are divided into small local areas that we call divisions. Each branch has a treasurer overseeing the divisions that, in turn each have a treasurer of their own. This is a key role involving financial planning and financial administration.

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.

One of the key ways we help people is by tapping into various sources of funding on their behalf. Monitoring and reconciling this flow of funding into and out of SSAFA accounts is important to ensure clients receive timely support and we are able to account for all charitable funds in our care.

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

As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. This flexible role involves using our on-line financial management system and on-line bank accounts and so can be done when and where suits you best. You will need to attend a number of branch committee meetings each year.

What would you be doing?

· Maintaining and reconciling local bank accounts and recording transactions

· Supporting divisions to manage their local finances.

· Making and recording all authorised payments

· Preparing year end accounts and financial statements including arranging an independent review

· Working with the branch secretary, advise on a local fundraising programme to cover branch running costs.

· Identify and manage the return of any surplus monies from grants as appropriate.

· Providing reports to the branch committee and to SSAFA’s Central Office

· Maintaining accurate records using our on-line finance management system

· 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 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?

· Gain experience of holding a responsible role in a well-respected charity

· Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.

· Support and friendship from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community

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

· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

· 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 – treasurers webinar (with some pre-course learning), and financial management system 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.

· Support from the branch Chair and the Finance team based as our central office.

· Access to a range of e-learning courses

· Support from the Volunteer Support Manager and the Volunteer Support Team based at our central office.

· Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses

· Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

· Friendly and approachable people with some experience of financial administration

· Good written and spoken English.

· Ability to be respectful and non-judgemental with volunteers, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues.

· Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.

· Willingness to use our on-line banking and on-line finance management system (this is covered in training)

· Reliable attitude: contact volunteers promptly, keep appointments etc.

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and keep information safely.

· Access to public transport or a car to gravel to meetings etc.

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

Minimum Age: 18

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

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

Is a criminal record check required? No

The difference you will make to cats and people

Our social media volunteers use their passion and knowledge of social media to promote the activities of local volunteer teams though various channels. They directly help cats by raising awareness of Cats Protection. A higher profile can help us raise the funds we need for our work, ensure people know they can adopt a cat from us, help promote neutering and help as many people as possible learn more about feline welfare.
 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You'll be:

• Promoting the work of Cats Protection through various social media channels, for example, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
• Gathering information from across the organisation and locally within your team or volunteer group
• Writing and creating social media content, ensuring it complies with policies and guidelines
• Scheduling and posting social media content
• Monitoring activity and responding to comments on social media channels

Join our Board of Directors

Trustee Lead for Safeguarding required for an innovative, best-practice charity

Help to make a real difference to the lives of women and girls by joining the board of directors of Advance

Our vision is a world where women and girls lead safe, just and equal lives.

Title: Chair Elect

Reporting to: Board of Trustees

Role Type: Volunteer

Location: London

Renumeration: The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although expenses for travel may be claimed.

Do you have expertise in the role described below and a belief that your skills will contribute to the strong and effective governance of an innovative medium-sized charity? We are looking to appoint up to four new Trustees to the Board with skills specifically focused on Safeguarding Adults & Children

This post is open to female applicants only as this is deemed a genuine occupational requirement under Schedule 9, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010.

Advance is committed to equality and diversity and aims to have a board of trustees that reflects the communities we work with. We strongly encourage applications from women with diverse backgrounds, including those with disabilities, BAME and LBT communities.

About Us

Advance is a women’s organisation, delivering systems change, and trauma and gender-informed community-based support for women and girls affected by domestic abuse, including those in contact with the criminal justice system. We work nationally through our innovative, best-practice approach and systems change initiatives. We deliver wraparound frontline services across the South and East of England, including Greater London. Our expertise lies in decades of providing specialist support by women and for women and girls, to achieve safety, justice and equality at the intersection of domestic abuse and the criminal justice system.

Our whole-system approach is aligned with our values of collaboration and innovation, partnering with other statutory and non-statutory providers, to deliver a coordinated community and gendered response, improving access to services across the whole system, enabling consistency and continuity of support throughout a woman’s journey. Through our advocacy and awareness-raising work, we focus on systemic change and sustainable impact to meet women’s needs and improve their outcomes.

This is an exciting opportunity for you to join our experienced and committed Board.

You will join a dedicated and skilled group of Trustees and support the charity through a significant period of growth. Our staff team now includes over 150 skilled and passionate women across our programmes and our 10 womens’ centres in London and the South and East of England.

Time commitment

• Five Board meetings per year (in person in Hammersmith west London), plus membership of at least one board sub-committee (four meetings a year online)
• Ad hoc availability as matters arise (by telephone)
• Participate in one strategy away day each year (on a Saturday, usually held in January)
• Commit to the Board of Trustees for at least three years
• Note - the Chair of the Fundraising, Business Development and Communications Committee will be expected to chair a committee meeting four times a year (online) in addition to the Board meetings

The statutory duties of a trustee

• To ensure the organisation complies with its governing document in the articles of association
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document
• To ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives - the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how charitable and worthwhile those activities are
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• To protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds
• To appoint the Chief Executive and monitor their performance

In addition with other trustees to hold the charity in trust for current and future beneficiaries by:

• Ensuring that Advance has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these
• Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its corporate behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements
• Acting as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application
• Ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard

As well as the various statutory duties, any trustee should make full use of any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the board make good decisions. The above list of duties is indicative only and not exhaustive. The Trustee will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonably commensurate with the role.

Process
Please download the job specification below, complete the application form and equality monitoring survey 
Closing date for applications: 31 August 2025
Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a first round interview week commencing 5 October via Teams. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an in person interview in Hammersmith west London.

You can find more information on our website

To learn more about the role and duties of Trustees, please click here.

We would love to hear from you.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

Our cat admissions volunteers ensure the smooth running of our admissions process, helping our volunteer groups and teams admit cats into our care in the most effective and stress-free way possible for both people and cats. This role is undertaken from your own home. This could be the perfect volunteer role if you have administration experience, a passion for cats, or both!

Without the passionate and committed teams of volunteers across Cats Protection, we wouldn’t be able to help the thousands of cats and kittens each year that rely on us for help.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

• Responding to email and telephone enquiries regarding cats coming into care
• Managing the cat waiting list and prioritising accordingly
• Liaising with other volunteers, employees, local vets and members of the public
• Using our administrative systems to record cats coming into care

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

From elderly moggies to energic kittens, every day across the UK cats and kittens are in need of a temporary place to stay, and lots of love and TLC! We need more fosterers like you to provide a safe, temporary haven for cats and kittens and provide them with everything they need before they get their chance to land on their four paws and make a house a home.

You can expect us to 

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Ensure you have all you need in place to foster the cat(s) in your care, for example equipment and food
• Cover all your foster cats’ expenses and agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

A bit more information about this role and the team

The branch are looking for indoor fosterers so applicants would need to have a suitable spare room.

What we need from you 

• A stable, safe and compassionate environment in your home
• Enrich the cats’ experience in care including play, exercise and appropriate handling/interaction
• A willingness to complete some training in order to provide high standards of cat welfare
• Introduce cats to prospective adopters so they can find their forever home
• You can find out more about being a Fosterer on our website