Volunteer roles

Location: Colchester, Essex

Commitment: Four Board meetings per year, lasting 2.5 hours each, two of which will be online and the other two will be in person.

Four committee meetings per year, held online before the Board meetings

Remuneration: Voluntary, reasonable expenses covered

We are supporting a global health charity, who has a vision of a world free from leprosy and lymphatic filariasis (LF). For the last 100 years, they have worked in diagnosing, treating, and supporting people affected by these two neglected tropical diseases. Despite common misconceptions, leprosy is not a disease of the past; every day, hundreds of people, including children, are newly diagnosed, making their mission as urgent as ever. Operating primarily in India and Bangladesh, they deliver programmes that prioritise early diagnosis, community-based rehabilitation, mental health support, and advocacy. With the support of the UK team, they continue to strengthen health systems, tackle stigma and discrimination, and improve the quality of life for people affected by leprosy and LF.

The board is now seeing a Trustee, with senior management experience in Operations, HR, or Programme Oversight, to help address identified skills gaps, strengthen organisational resilience, and enhance programme delivery across their international footprint. This is a strategic role, not about day-to-day management, but about offering high-level insight, challenge, and support to their executive team.

It is expected that the Trustee will also be appointed to one of the charity’s committees. The appointment will be for an initial 3 years, with the possibility of reappointment for two additional terms of 3 years each.

The ideal candidate will:

· Have senior experience in either Operations, HR, and/or Programme Oversight

· Be committed to the organisation

· Think strategically and contribute to board-level decision making

· Be able to voice their opinions clearly and diplomatically

· Understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of Trusteeship

Recruitment Timetable:

Deadline for applications: 5th October
Panel Interviews with the organisation: 27th October

Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) is seeking a passionate, strategic, and politically astute leader to become the next Chair of our Board of Trustees.

Since its foundation by the Royal College of Physicians in 1971, ASH has been at the forefront of national efforts to end the harm caused by tobacco. We are a respected voice in public health, delivering policy change and social progress through evidence, advocacy and collaboration. At this pivotal moment, when landmark legislation is advancing to create a Smokefree generation, we are seeking a new Chair who can help us realise this ambitious vision.

About the Role

As Chair, you will lead the Board and work closely with the Chief Executive and other Trustees to guide the organisation’s strategic direction and ensure robust governance. You will act as an ambassador for ASH, championing our work to eliminate tobacco harm, influence political and public opinion, and strengthen partnerships across government, healthcare, and the third sector.

This is a unique opportunity to help shape the national conversation on health and inequality, steward a high-impact charity, and support the dedicated team driving ASH’s success.

Your Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Guide ASH’s strategic aims and ensure the organisation remains focused, agile, and aligned with its charitable mission.
• Governance and Oversight: Lead the Board in upholding best practices in governance, legal compliance, and financial oversight.
• Partnerships and Influence: Represent ASH at national events, media engagements, and sectoral forums, advocating for bold tobacco control measures.
• Support the CEO: Line manage the Chief Executive on behalf of the Board and foster a constructive, high-trust relationship between the Board and staff.
• Ambassadorial Presence: Leverage your networks to enhance ASH’s visibility and impact, particularly across health, politics, and civil society.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a Chair with proven leadership experience, political and strategic acumen, and a strong commitment to health equity and social justice.

Essential Qualities:

• Significant experience in leading organisations or teams at a senior level.
• Confidence navigating complex governance, policy or political landscapes.
• Ability to influence, inspire and represent ASH with credibility and clarity.
• An understanding of the role of small, advocacy-led charities.

Desirable Skills:

• Knowledge of tobacco control, public health or health inequalities.
• Existing networks in politics, healthcare, or social justice sectors.
• Experience guiding organisations through change or financial challenge.
• Media engagement or public speaking experience.

Role Details

• Time Commitment: ~12 days per year (including 4 Board meetings, AGM, and preparation).
• Location: Hybrid – board meetings in London and some national engagements.
• Remuneration: This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Social Media Analyst Volunteer

Team:                      Marketing

Location:                Either remote working or from our offices in Leeds

Time commitment:  1-2 days a month

_________________________________________________________________________

About Candlelighters

Candlelighters provides financial, emotional and practical support to families affected by childhood cancer in Yorkshire. We support around 150 new families each year and our work ensure the whole family unit is supported in these extraordinary circumstances.

We support children and their families from diagnosis and throughout their journey, including financial support, practical help in hospital, much needed breaks, as well as emotional and well-being support at our Family Support Centre (The Square) and in local communities across Yorkshire. 

Purpose of the Role

At Candlelighters we utilise social media to increase awareness of the charity and childhood cancer. We use it to attract new supporters, and encourage existing supporters to actively take part in activities to make a difference for children with cancer and their families – whether that be donating, fundraising or volunteering. We would love a volunteer to help analyse the effectiveness of our social media each month to help us continue to improve the effectiveness of our social media marketing.

Key Activities

-Download data from each social media channel to produce a report on key metrics such as reach, engagement, and followers.

·Identify trends in performance by comparing monthly and annual results.

·Identify types of posts that have performed well or not.

·Make recommendations for future posts and strategies.

Volunteer Requirements

·Experience of social media analytics.

·Ability to use Microsoft word, excel and outlook.

·Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

·Knowledge or experience of marketing.

·Good working knowledge of social media.

·The ability to use their own laptop for the work.

Support and Benefits

You will receive:

· Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability

· Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters

· Ongoing support from the Fundraising and HR teams

· The opportunity to meet lots of new, friendly people

· The opportunity to expose yourself to new experiences

· Mileage (reimbursed at HMRC rate) and other reasonable expenses reimbursed, in accordance with our Expense Policy

· Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role

· Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer

· We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months

· Access to the MINDFUL EMPLOYER+ 24/7 mental health hotline

· Charity Worker Discount card

· Access to The Company Shop

Team: Family Support Team

Location: The Square, 8 Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD

Time commitment: 1 day per week 9am – 4pm (flexibility as to which day it is)

_________________________________________________________________________

About Candlelighters

Each year, over 150 children in Yorkshire are diagnosed with cancer. When a child is diagnosed, lives are turned upside down instantly: not just for the child but the entire family. Getting well again can be a long and challenging journey, emotionally, physically, and financially.

Supporting children and families throughout that journey is why our charity, Candlelighters, was formed more than 40 years ago. Our mission is to bring light to every family affected by childhood cancer across Yorkshire by providing emotional, practical and financial support, as well as bringing hope, by investing in vital research to improve the outcomes and lives of children with cancer.

Purpose of the Role and Key Activities

The Family Support Office Volunteer provides administrative and practical help to the Family Support Team, who play a key role in running events and groups and providing support to our families across Yorkshire.

· Recording and updating information on our database.

· Reviewing and updating support resources.

· Corresponding with families, supporters and potential volunteers.

· Answering the phone, transferring calls and taking messages.

· Making phone-calls to confirm appointments, speak to event attendees etc

· Analysing questionnaire feedback.

· Making up new patient bags.

· Sending out invitations.

· Helping to prepare resources, merchandise and equipment for events.

· Stock taking and alerting the team when merchandise needs restocking.

· Franking letters and parcels.

· Providing occasional cover for Front of House (answering the door to families and supporter, making coffees, answering phones, taking messages).

· Providing administrative support.

· Assisting other teams within the charity with tasks and activities as required.

· Maintaining professional boundaries at all times.

· Adhering to Candlelighters’ policies and procedures.

We are looking for a volunteer who:

· Are confident, friendly and approachable

· Have a fun and positive outlook

· Is confident on word and excel

· Can work well and remain calm under pressure

· Are proactive and able to use own initiative

· Are hardworking, reliable and organised

· Are able to move furniture (tables and chairs) and boxes

· Are able to climb multiple flights of stairs

· Are able to maintain professional boundaries and follow Candlelighters Policies and Procedures.

As a children’s charity it is essential that we safeguard our families, employees, supporters and volunteers. You will be asked about unspent conditional cautions and convictions on your application form and the nature of the caution or conviction will determine whether you are able to volunteer for us or not.

 This role is subject to an enhanced criminal record check, which is processed through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Support and Benefits

You can expect:

· Induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability

· Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters

· Ongoing support from the Family Support and HR and Volunteering teams

· The opportunity to meet lots of new, friendly people

· Travel expenses reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy

· Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role

· Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer

· We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months

· Access to the MINDFUL EMPLOYER+ 24/7 mental health helpline

· Charity Worker Discount card

· Access to The Company Shop

We are recognised by Great Place To Work® on multiple Best Workplaces Lists in 2023 and 97% of our employees say Candlelighters is a great place to work!

Join Candlelighters as a Fundraising & Events Office Volunteer!

Are you looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families affected by childhood cancer? We invite you to be part of our team!

As a Fundraising & Events Volunteer, you will support the team during an exciting phase as we aim to increase income and enhance our services for families. You will support corporate fundraising efforts, ensuring local businesses have an excellent experience supporting Candlelighters.

You will also play a key role in organising our Business Collaboration Events—fun, networking-focused gatherings that bring together current and potential supporters to foster collaboration.

Location: 8 Woodhouse Square, Leeds, LS3 1AD

Time commitment: 1 day per week (flexible)

Key Activities

General Fundraising

• Research potential new business partnerships.
• Approach businesses to explore partnerships with Candlelighters.
• Support the team in managing our business club.
• Thank supporters through letters or emails.
• Respond to supporter inquiries via telephone and email.
• Update the supporter database.
• Approach businesses to secure raffle and auction prizes.

Business Collaboration Project Event

• Book venues and negotiate with suppliers to secure free support wherever possible.
• Secure sponsorships for the event.
• Manage event invitations, including design and distribution.
• Organise the event itinerary, including speakers, games, and networking activities.
• Communicate with guests in the lead-up to the event.
• Liaise with the Marketing team to develop promotional materials.
• Perform other administrative tasks to support the fundraising team.

We are looking for volunteers who are: 

• Confident, friendly, and organised.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Reliable, proactive, and calm under pressure.
• Experience organising events is desirable.

This role is subject to a basic criminal record check, which is processed through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please note that a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from this role. We assess each application on a case-by-case basis.

Support and Benefits 

It’s vital that our volunteers feel rewarded for their amazing efforts so we want to match your goals, aspirations, availability and everything else with the right opportunity for you. Here are a few examples of what you will receive as a volunteer:

• Thorough induction & training to give you the confidence to perform your role well and to the best of your ability 
• Opportunity to develop new and existing skills to help you beyond your involvement with Candlelighters 
• Ongoing support from the Fundraising and HR teams 
• Certain expenses to be reimbursed as agreed with your Volunteer Supervisor, in accordance with our Expenses policy 
• Regular reviews with your Volunteer Supervisor to help you develop in your role 
• Satisfaction in knowing you are making a valuable contribution to supporting children and families affected by childhood cancer 
• We can be a reference once you’ve volunteered for three months 
• Access to the mental health hotline 
• Charity Worker Discount card 
• Access to The Company Shop 

We are recognised by Great Place To Work® on multiple Best Workplaces Lists in 2023 and 97% of our employees say Candlelighters is a great place to work!

Use you skills, experience and contacts to support the Vision, Mission and Values of Bovey Paradiso Arts and provide a vibrant arts centre for the benefit of the local community

Join The Difference as our next Chair as we tackle the social injustice of lost learning in England’s schools.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Friday 31st October.

The Difference is a charity working to create a more inclusive education system where every young person can thrive. Founded in 2018, our mission is to ensure that rates of lost learning are falling by 2030. We take a three-pronged approach, delivering evidence-based programmes that equip school leaders to embed a whole-school approach to inclusion, conducting research to inform best practice and using our networks and expertise to influence policy and drive system-wide change.

We are seeking a new Chair to guide us through our next phase of growth and impact. This pivotal role will provide strategic leadership, strengthen governance and ensure the Board is well-equipped to support and challenge our executive team. The Chair will work closely with the CEO, championing high performance, inclusivity and constructive debate while helping shape strategy, oversee board development and support key areas such as fundraising and policy influence.

We are looking for an experienced non-executive with strong governance knowledge and proven skills in leading a growing organisation. Prior Chair experience is not essential, but strategic leadership and a collaborative approach are key. Above all, you will be an empathetic and inclusive leader, committed to our mission to ensure every student can access learning and feel a true sense of belonging.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Friday 31st October.

Trustee

Location: Cannock, Staffordshire (Hybrid – UK-based applicants only)

Time commitment: Minimum 4 board meetings/year + occasional involvement

Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Closing date: 31 October 2025

About Newlife

As one of the UK’s leading charities providing essential specialist equipment to children with disabilities, Newlife is dedicated to making life better - for the families we serve, and for the people who help us to make that happen.

Through grants and emergency equipment loans, we ensure children get the vital equipment they need, when they need it, while our free nurse helpline offers crucial support and information – as well as a listening ear. Our campaigns help to give children with disabilities and their families a voice, advocating for change to benefit the families we serve. And we support adults with additional needs with volunteering and employment opportunities, providing an introduction to the workplace and a means for career development.

Across the whole of Newlife, our teams are crucial to our success – it’s not just a job; here you’ll be helping us to change lives every day.

We’re now seeking new Trustees to strengthen our Board and help shape the future of our vital work.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome applications from individuals with a strong commitment to inclusion, equity, and our mission. We are particularly interested in candidates who bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Retail & Commercial – helping us grow and develop our network of charity shops and enterprise initiatives.
• Digital Systems & Infrastructure – supporting digital transformation, data management, and IT governance.
• Disability – lived or professional experience of disability, access and inclusion.
• Children’s Services – knowledge of child development, safeguarding, or children’s policy.

Previous trustee or governance experience is welcome but not essential. We offer support and induction for all new trustees.

Trustee responsibilities

• Attend and contribute to quarterly Board meetings (hybrid format, with at least one in-person meeting in Cannock annually)
• Provide strategic direction and oversight
• Uphold good governance and regulatory compliance
• Contribute to committees or working groups aligned with your expertise
• Act as an ambassador for Newlife, upholding our values and promoting our work
• Trustees are expected to dedicate time to meeting preparation, email communications, and occasional events, equating to roughly 1–2 hours per month outside of meetings.

Why join us?

This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real and lasting difference in the lives of disabled children and their families. You’ll contribute to meaningful change, work alongside passionate and skilled colleagues, and help guide a respected national charity into its next chapter.

How to apply

To apply, please email your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your interest and relevant experience by 31 October 2025.

Informal conversations with the Chair can be arranged upon request. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a virtual interview and a visit to meet the team and learn more about our work.

REF-223 793

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

Thousands of cats each year rely on the help of animal charities because they have been abandoned, they have strayed or because there has been a change in their owner’s circumstances. Becoming an administration volunteer is just one way you can help improve the lives of cats in your local community. Our administration volunteers help provide vital admin support to our volunteer groups and teams across Cats Protection. They help keep up to date records of the number of cats that have been rehomed, collate supporter details and send out newsletters. This could be the perfect volunteer role if you have administrative experience, a passion for cats, or both!

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:

· Recording relevant information related to your volunteer group

· Signposting enquiries to the relevant teams within Cats Protection

· Sending information to supporters, volunteers and to our Head Office

· Distributing information leaflets if required

Time expectation

Our administration volunteers usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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

Thousands of cats each year rely on the help of animal charities because they have been abandoned, they have strayed or because there has been a change in their owner’s circumstances. Becoming an administration volunteer is just one way you can help improve the lives of cats in your local community. Our administration volunteers help provide vital admin support to our volunteer groups and teams across Cats Protection. They help keep up to date records of the number of cats that have been rehomed, collate supporter details and send out newsletters. This could be the perfect volunteer role if you have administrative experience, a passion for cats, or both!

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:

· Recording relevant information related to your volunteer group

· Signposting enquiries to the relevant teams within Cats Protection

· Sending information to supporters, volunteers and to our Head Office

· Distributing information leaflets if required

Time expectation

Our administration volunteers usually spend 2 to 3 hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

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

What we need from you

● A stable, safe and compassionate environment in your home or in a purpose-built pen in your garden provided by us

● 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

Time expectation

Our volunteer fosterers usually spend around one and a half hours per day (around 10 to 13 hours per week) in this role, but this might vary depending on the number of cats or kittens in 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

What we need from you

● A stable, safe and compassionate environment in your home or in a purpose-built pen in your garden provided by us

● 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

Time expectation

Our volunteer fosterers usually spend around one and a half hours per day (around 10 to 13 hours per week) in this role, but this might vary depending on the number of cats or kittens in care.

About Roots Academy 

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 1,800 students across the UK.

Role Summary

As part of teaching at Roots, instructors are supplied with many teaching resources to help them teach the Roots way, such as instructor slides, teaching notes and walk-through videos.
Your role at Roots is to produce well-curated teaching notes, to ensure instructors understand the content and know exactly what is being taught.

Key tasks

• Assessing the current standard of teacher note 

• Taking on the role of editor/proofreader of all academic content

• Have a keen eye for detail such as grammar, language and punctuation

What we’re looking for

• Has a keen eye for detail

• Has experience in copy editing 

• Able to prioritise and organise workload

• Has some experience in assessing the quality of educational material

What we have to offer

• Be part of a team of 100+ dedicated volunteers from across the country.

• Receive continuous rewards for those that seek Islamic knowledge from the Roots platform. 

• Be a part of a growing organisation that aims to revive and educate Muslims from a grassroots perspective.

• Receive in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen. 

Please note this is an unpaid volunteer position. 

Volunteers are entitled to claim expenses incurred for food, travel and equipment, in line with our Expenses policy. 

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

Across Cats Protection some of our cats looking for new and loving homes might be shy, nervous or aggressive depending on their past or if they are struggling to adapt to the rescue environment. Our kitten socialisation volunteers help the kittens in our care by spending time enriching each kittens experience through play, exercise and handling until they are happy and confident enough to find their perfect forever homes.

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:

· Spending time with kittens so they become fully socialised

· Making sure infectious disease control measures are in place

· Recording socialisation tasks and keeping information about the kittens up to date

· Determining the needs and requirements of the kittens

· Following cat care standards and procedures

Time expectation

Our kitten socialisation volunteers spend 1 to 2 hours a week in this role which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed. We request that volunteers spend time with a particular litter of kittens on a weekly basis, as this will be more beneficial for the kittens.