Volunteer volunteer roles in slough, buckinghamshire

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 600 shops. Our stores sell lots of great donated & new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

Our retail stores are the face of our charity on the high-street and in local communities. We have loads of amazing stock donated to us every week, and this all needs to be sorted, tagged and put on the shop-floor for sale!

Making sure our shops look fantastic is another task you can get involved with. You may also be required to help out on the till too, but we will show you how that works during your time volunteering with us. We value the contribution of everyone who supports Barnardo’s.

You will be a friendly face of Barnardo’s by volunteering in one of our shops. It would be great if you could volunteer one shift a week (or even more if you want) but we’re always happy to be flexible to work around your availability.

Why we want you

Our amazing team of vibrant & diverse volunteers helps us run over 700 stores. Our stores sell lots of great donated and new goods to help raise vital funds to make a real difference to disadvantaged children, young people and families across the UK.

What you will be doing

• Work on the till processing sales and returns
• Prepare stock, including sorting, steaming and pricing
• Create stylish window displays
• Replenish stock on the shop floor
• Stock-take and other administrative tasks

The skills you need

• Friendly and helpful
• Happy to be part of an amazing team of staff and volunteers
• Enthusiastic about the work of Barnardo’s
• Flexible and willing to do a variety of the shop tasks

What's in it for you

• Have fun and meet new people
• Develop skills for your CV including confidence, teamwork and problem solving
• Make a difference to the lives of children, young people and their families
• Learning and development opportunities through our Volunteer Academy which includes access to Level 2 Qualifications and other accredited courses
• Full training and experience of working in retail as a volunteer

Location:

62 Packhorse Road, Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, SL9 8EF, United Kingdom

Minimum age: 14 years

Please note: we only accept applications from those residing in the UK

As a Local Walk Campaigner for MenWalkTalk, you will play a vital role in supporting a local walk leader, helping to increase the impact of MenWalkTalk in your community. This involves promoting the walk, building relationships with local social prescribers, and growing the community network. In some instances, you may also step in as a backup walk leader when needed to ensure continuity (Subject to meeting necessary criteria). This role is ideal for someone passionate about men’s mental health, community building, and teamwork.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the local walk leader by managing non-walk-related tasks.

• Function as a backup walk leader to ensure walks continue seamlessly if the leader is unavailable (Subject to meeting necessary criteria).

• Promote local walks through sharing our social media posts, and distribution of marketing materials (flyers/posters etc.), in local businesses and community boards, to reach a wider audience.

• Share photos and success stories (subject to participants permission) for our Marketing Officer (MO) to create engaging content to highlight the benefits of walking and talking for overall wellbeing and encourage participation.

• Encourage participants to promote the walk in their networks.

• Build relationships with local social prescribers, businesses, and community organisations to support and expand the walk's network.

• Function as a liaison between interested organisations, the walk leader, and MWT office team, ensuring smooth communication and collaboration.

• Identify opportunities to increase walk attendance.

• Collaborate with Fundraising Officer (FO) to identify grants and funding opportunities.

• Assist in planning and executing events or initiatives to increase awareness about MenWalkTalk’s mission.

Our volunteers must have:

• Passion for Mental Health: A commitment to improving men’s mental health and supporting your local community.

• People Skills: Ability to engage and build relationships with individuals and organisations.

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills for promoting the walk and consulting with stakeholders.

• Organisational Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks, including marketing, networking, and planning.

• Flexibility: Willingness to adapt and step in as a backup walk leader when needed.

• Social media: Familiarity with promoting events or initiatives through social media platforms.

Important thoughts on our volunteer roles 

MenWalkTalk has been set up to offer opportunities for men with mental health issues to come together and feel no pressure or stigma about discussing their issues with other men. 

Supporting men with mental health issues is at its core, and it may help you in your volunteering if you too have lived experience of a mental health problem, either personally or from a close relative or friend. It will also help if you have an open, non-judgemental attitude, and that you are able to adopt a positive, patient and supportive approach towards supporting people with mental health problems. 

We would like you understand that whatever role you are able to volunteer for, when representing MenWalkTalk volunteers should always behave in a professional, confidential and non-discriminatory manner at all times, and promote equal opportunities for all. 

What a MenWalkTalk Walk volunteer should not do 

MenWalkTalk is about getting more people walking, benefiting from the physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits that come from walking and talking. 

Within their volunteer roles, MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders should not offer to provide individual or emergency support for people experiencing mental health problems or in crisis. There are lots of people and organisations who can help, and MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Walk Leaders will be provided with information and guidance on signposting anyone to access the necessary support. 

Similarly, unless they are qualified to do so MenWalkTalk Campaigners and Group Leaders won’t provide therapeutic or coaching advice. Again, you will be provided with information on directing anyone to the appropriate support. 

More About MenWalkTalk:

Mission

To provide support to any adult male, whether they may have experienced, or are experiencing, a mental health issue or not. To listen to them, support them, walk with them and signpost them to specialist support where appropriate.We want to raise the awareness of mental health issues that men currently face, promoting a better understanding of this area. 

Vision

“For men to feel able to speak out, feel heard, understood and supported. To promote a positive change in people’s lives through mutual support and advice”

Values

Welcoming; We understand it can be difficult; we are here for you. Approachable; We are available without judgement. Partnership: We understand there is strength in numbers and will support you to further support. Positive; We will try to find the positive in every situation.

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit a Fundraising Volunteer for the West Hertfordshire Group. As our Fundraising Volunteer you’ll support your Group Coordinator to organise local fundraising activities and events throughout the year.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills. Most importantly you’ll inspire your local community to raise funds that help make sure no one has to face MS alone.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need around 2 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

CWV is seeking a Volunteer Bid Writer to help secure funding through grant applications and partnerships. Ideal for those with strong writing and research skills, it offers valuable experience and a chance to make a meaningful impact. 

What will you be doing?

Position Overview:

Children With Voices, a dynamic and community-driven charity committed to supporting vulnerable individuals and families, is seeking a motivated and skilled Volunteer Bid Writer. This role is instrumental in securing funding opportunities, grants, and partnerships to ensure the continuous growth and success of the charity's initiatives.

Responsibilities:

1. Research and Identify Funding Opportunities:

- Conduct thorough research to identify potential funding sources, grants, and partnership opportunities aligned with  Children With Voices' mission and projects.

2. Proposal Development:

- Collaborate with the charity's leadership team to gather information on projects and programs requiring funding.

- Develop compelling and well-articulated grant proposals, ensuring alignment with donor guidelines and requirements.

- Craft persuasive narratives that effectively communicate the impact of Children With Voices' activities.

3. Grant Application Submission:

- Prepare and submit grant applications within specified deadlines, adhering to all application guidelines and requirements.

- Maintain accurate records of submitted proposals, deadlines, and communication with funding bodies.

4. Relationship Building:

- Establish and maintain positive relationships with potential donors, grant-making organisations, and other stakeholders.

- Engage in effective communication to convey the charity's mission and project goals.

5. Collaboration and Coordination:

- Work closely with the fundraising team and project managers to gather necessary information for proposals.

- Collaborate with other team members to ensure the integration of programmatic and financial data in grant applications.

What are we looking for?

Qualifications:

- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

- Previous experience in grant writing, proposal development, or related fields is desirable.

- Strong research skills to identify relevant funding opportunities.

- Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

- Detail-oriented with strong organisational and project management skills.

- Passion for the mission and values of Children With Voices.

Benefits:

- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause and make a positive impact.

- Gain valuable experience in grant writing and fundraising within a charitable organisation.

- Develop and enhance your skills in communication, research, and project coordination.

- Travel expenses are paid and you will have a healthy meal!

What difference will you make?

As a Volunteer Bid Writer, you will play a crucial role in securing funding that directly supports vulnerable individuals and families, enabling Children With Voices to expand its vital community programs and make a lasting impact.

Before you apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a brief cover letter expressing your interest and relevant experience. Children With Voices values diversity and encourages candidates of all backgrounds and ages to apply.

***This is an unpaid voluntary role***

A crucial volunteer role at the centre, volunteer Reception Helpers help out at least one morning per week to warmly welcome members to the centre, help with queries (in person, by email and over the phone) and direct people to our various activities. This is an active and varied way to volunteer where no two days are the same!

Qualities you need for this role

• Confidence and communication skills in person and over the phone
• Reliable, dependable and a good sense of humour
• Flexibility, happy to support staff as needed
• Able to think on your feet 
• Basic IT skills

When you'll be needed

• A morning per week: volunteers must commit for at least six months
• Monday-Friday between the hours 9:30am – 1:00pm

Do you enjoy multi-tasking and coordinating events? Is attention to detail one of your strengths? If so, we’d love to hear from you. You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just good organisation, and IT skills.

What is an Administration Coordinator?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas, each delivering support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. Every branch has a team of volunteers who make this possible.

The Administrator Coordinator is a key member of the team, ensuring the smooth running of the branch and supporting day to day operations. This role is at the heart of the branch, overseeing the group inbox, organising meetings, and liaising with volunteers and external stakeholders.

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.

We aim to provide financial, practical, and emotional support when it’s needed most. To do this we need excellent administrators to keep things running efficiently behind the scenes.

What would you be doing?

• Every SSAFA Branch has different needs, however, below are the main activities of a Branch Administration Coordinator.
• Overseeing enquiries: Overseeing the administration of the branch shared inbox and post, ensuring queries are answered.
• Getting people together: Organising internal meetings, both virtually and face to face
• Planning and organising: Liaising with internal and external stakeholders to arrange events such as the Branch Annual General Meeting
• Note taking and recording: Maintaining accurate records of meetings and decisions.
• Communicating: Supporting the Branch Chair with internal communications, keeping other volunteers up to date and informed
• Tracking and ordering: Keeping a record of branch assets, ordering stationery, and ensuring maintenance of equipment
• Supporting health and safety: Supporting the Branch Chair with administration of personal, office and event risk assessments where required

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What can you gain from this volunteering role?

• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across your local area.
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would I receive?

• 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.
• Local induction and support, from other branch volunteers
• Access to a range of e-learning courses as well as local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
• Support from regional volunteering and operations employees
• Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
• 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 good written and verbal communication skills.
• Some experience of coordinating people or events is beneficial.
• Good IT skills e.g., confident using email and online diaries– you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• This role would suit someone who would like to volunteer regularly, each week.

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 takes the utmost care at every step of volunteer recruitment to ensure that the people we involve are suitable and appropriate. All measures taken are to help make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

Are 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

Across the UK, our 270 local groups play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.

We are looking to recruit an Activities Volunteer for the Wandsworth Group. As our local group Activities Volunteer you’ll help us to set up activities in the area. Whether you’re serving refreshments, talking to people, registering attendees or collecting payments, you’ll be making sure everyone feel welcome.

In this role you’ll be able to develop your organisation, communication and team working skills. Most importantly you’ll be supporting your local group to run activities that bring friendship and fun to your local MS Community.

About you

You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.

You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the area the group to carry out this role.

Time Commitment

We estimate this role will need up to two hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully

2. Please apply online

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

RollaDome All Skate is looking for a Volunteer Social Media Manager to help us raise awareness and engage our online community. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about social media and interested in contributing to a charity focused on empowering young people through roller skating. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist in creating and posting content on social media platforms. 

• Respond to comments and direct messages from followers. 

• Help manage social media advertising campaigns. 

• Track social media engagement and provide feedback to the team. 

• Support the development of social media strategies. 

Skills & Qualifications 

• Basic understanding of social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn). 

• Strong written communication and content creation skills. 

• Interest in supporting youth development and roller sports. 

• Ability to work independently and manage your time. 

Commitment 

• Minimum 15 hours per week, with flexibility in scheduling. 

Benefits 

• Voluntary Experience: Gain practical experience working in social media management. 

• Work Flexibility: Remote or hybrid working arrangement. 

• Supportive Team: Collaborate with a passionate team working on community projects. 

• Personal Development: Develop your skills in social media marketing, content creation, and community engagement. 

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers in the Mid-Sussex area
• Planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• Keeping financial records from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

• This is a flexible role. The amount of time you offer can work to your availability and convenience.
• There may be opportunities for your activities to be fully remote and/or admin based if you'd prefer.
• You will need your own transport if you wish to attend events, ideally a car or van since items, stock and equipment will usually be needed.
• We ask that you complete training to support you in your role. This can be completed online if you have access to the internet and the necessary device (computer/laptop/tablet etc). Support can be offered or paper versions of much of the training if needed.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others
• Excellent organisational skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Applicants will be asked to complete an application form and provide details for two references

Help us to grow brand-new online charity platform A Good Thing! Come on board to help us manage relationships with the businesses that have joined us: use your communications skills to drive more businesses to engage with the platform and to make donations of things they no longer need.

A Good Thing is a not-for-profit set up with one mission: to send less to landfill, and more to a good cause. We're rolling out fast across the UK, momentum is building, and we're growing a network of passionate local volunteer champions right across the country to drive our growth.

You’ll be using both your communications skills and your project management expertise to help us grow the number of businesses engaging with the platform and giving things away.

Come with us on our journey towards reducing waste and boosting wonderful local charities at the same time.

As a volunteer Training and Development Officer, you will assist with the design and delivery of training programs for staff, volunteers, and placements. You will help identify learning needs and support the development of skills that enhance personal and professional growth within the organisation. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist in the development of training materials and resources. 

• Help coordinate and facilitate training sessions. 

• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of training programs. 

• Support in identifying training needs across various teams. 

• Ensure all training records are up-to-date and well-maintained. 

• Help create and distribute feedback forms to evaluate training sessions. 

Skills & Qualifications 

• Interest in HR, training, education, or community development. 

• Strong communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team. 

• Enthusiasm for helping others develop their skills and capabilities. 

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office or other basic office tools. 
   

Commitment 

• Minimum 15 hours per week, with flexible hours. 

Benefits 

• Gain valuable experience in training and development. 

• Contribute to a meaningful cause by empowering others through learning. 

• Opportunity to develop skills in programme evaluation and training coordination. 

INDEPENDENT READING GROUP VOLUNTEER (FACE-TO-FACE) 

CARAS Youth ESOL Programme – Monday, Wednesday mornings  

About CARAS: 

Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a registered charity that has been supporting refugees and asylum-seekers since 2002 empowering them to integrate and engage in the local community. 

Arriving as an asylum seeker/refugee can be a disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. As an organisation we are committed to work alongside refugees to overcome those challenges, and to help them build their lives. 

We offer group support and targeted support work. We offer a range of activities including: ESOL classes; social and recreational activities such as youth club, drama, trips, and family activities; educational support for young people; and casework and advocacy support. 

Our values are at the centre of all our work: 

• Kindness: CARAS will nurture all who are part of our community, helping everyone to develop their skills, talents, and interests. 

• Justice: CARAS will strive for social justice following a rights-based approach in all our work and challenging instances when rights are not upheld in wider society. 

• Empowerment: CARAS works alongside people, recognising and respecting their skills and strengths and striving together for better outcomes. 

• ‘With’ not ‘for’: CARAS will put the voices, opinions, experiences and needs of its beneficiaries at the heart of all that we do. 

About Youth ESOL: 

Our award-winning ESOL project offers English language classes to young people at a wide range of levels. This provides vital skills, opportunities and social contact and is crucial for enabling young people to do well at school or college.

About the Role: 

• CARAS is looking for Reading Group Volunteer to support our face-to-face study programme for young people.
• The reading group is in Tooting and is an important element of a study programme for young people aged 14 to 18 who are out of formal education.
• Students will be supported to read at length and complete challenges that are adapted to their ability level.
• The reading group aims to foster independence and a joy of reading among the young people and requires volunteers to learn about the young peoples' interests in order to help them select an appropriate text.
• The ESOL teacher will provide volunteers with tips to support reading and understanding for emerging learners of English, such as phonics and elicitation strategies.
• Volunteers will work with 1-5 students, mostly reading out loud with them or helping them to decode unfamiliar language.
• Please note that ESOL classes do not run during school holidays, and we follow Wandsworth Council term dates. 

Volunteer tasks and responsibilities: 

• Providing learners with one-to-one or small group support within the Reading Group sessions; 

• Helping to set up the classroom and provide learners with classroom resources; 

• Contributing to debriefs to inform the ESOL teacher how each student found the lesson/task and the students’ areas of greatest challenge and success;  

• Attending and contributing to volunteer debriefs after each session; 

• Making use of any community languages you may know to help students during the class; 

• Working collaboratively as a team and helping to shape the project; 

• Supporting people to develop their knowledge and skills, encouraging and inspiring participants to reach their full potential; 

• Assisting participants to recognise and celebrate their achievements; 

• Listening and supporting students to select, read and understand a text; Showing flexibility to the wide range of ability levels in the classroom; 

• Following CARAS’ confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, equal opportunities, data management and all other policies as relevant.  

Requirements: 

Essential

• To be 18 years or older; 

• An interest in education and English language teaching;

• Currently resident in the UK; has asylum-seeker or refugee status 

• * Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check; *DBS and proof of residency is not necessary if you are a CARAS community member who is more recently arrived in the UK.  

• Able to attend volunteer induction training (online) prior to start of role 

• Able to travel to our community centre in Tooting (food and travel expenses can be reimbursed); 

• To be non-judgemental and able to engage with young people from diverse backgrounds; 

• To be reliable and punctual; 

• Good communication skills, especially with people who are new to English; 

• An interest in books and stories, writing and poetry 

• The ability to volunteer on Wednesday during Wandsworth term time for a minimum of four months; 

Desirable: 

• Knowledge of community languages, such as Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Pashto, Dari, Farsi, Kurdish, Somali or Spanish; 

• Experience of reading with young people or learners of English, or teaching ESOL or phonics. 

Through volunteering with us you will: 

• Gain experience of English language teaching; 

• Meet new members of your local community; 

• Learn about different cultures; 

• Learn about issues relating to refugees and people seeking asylum; 

• Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team; 

• Develop your skills and competencies such as literacy and phonics strategies for emerging learners of English; 

• Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding training. 

• Be able to obtain a reference from us relating to your placement after 3 months of regular volunteering. 

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs. Cats are at the centre of everything we do and our objectives are: homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care. We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, staff and supporters.

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising team leaders have the exciting and varied role of inspiring our fundraising volunteers to plan and deliver local fundraising events. Using their passion and imagination, they oversee a small team of fundraising volunteers who come together to raise the vital funds needed to cover costs such as veterinary bills and food. Our fundraising team leaders support their team of volunteers in all aspects of their roles, making sure our volunteers are happy, confident and supported.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Supporting and encouraging a team of fundraising volunteers in the Horsham and district area
• Planning fundraising events and activities with your team
• Allocating tasks before and during fundraising events
• Keeping financial records from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

• This is a flexible role. The amount of time you offer can work to your availability and convenience.
• There may be opportunities for your activities to be fully remote and/or admin based if you'd prefer.
• You will need your own transport if you wish to attend events, ideally a car or van since items, stock and equipment will usually be needed.
• We ask that you complete training to support you in your role. This can be completed online if you have access to the internet and the necessary device (computer/laptop/tablet etc). Support can be offered or paper versions of much of the training if needed.

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will develop new skills, expand your knowledge and make a significant contribution to improving the lives of cats and kittens by helping raise funds and awareness through organising local events. You will also meet new people, make new friends and be part of a dedicated team of volunteers.

We’re looking for someone with

• Great people skills and the ability to bring out the best in others
• Excellent organisational skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Fine-tuned communication skills and a passion for engaging with people within your local community
• Basic IT skills to use Cats Protection systems - training and support can be provided
• Committee volunteers need to be aged 18+

Time expectation

Our fundraising team leaders usually spend three to four hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer if needed.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we come into contact with as part of our activities.

Job Title: Fundraiser Trainer & Advisor

Reporting to: Operational Director

Hours: 2 to 4 hours per week (we can be flexible and work with your schedule)

Willowbrook Farm Charity

Willowbrook Farm Charity exists to create nurturing educational and cultural spaces in the Oxfordshire countryside that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to communities who have been historically underrepresented in rural environments — including people from racialised backgrounds, neurodivergent individuals, and young people with diverse learning needs.

In partnership with Willowbrook Farm (www  willowbrookfarm  co  uk), where we host our activities, we aim to build a nationally recognised centre of excellence that supports personal growth, wellbeing, and connection with nature. Through hands-on learning, community building, and cultural exchange, we empower individuals and groups to explore sustainable living, ethical land stewardship, and the transformative potential of nature-based education.

Our Values

Community
We foster a culture of care, connection, and belonging. We create space for people to come together in joy, learning, and mutual support, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose.

Stewardship

We honour the land as a living system and recognise that the wellbeing of people and nature are deeply interconnected. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of ethical and responsible stewards — who care for the earth, each other, and future generations.

Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to removing barriers so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities can access and participate fully in experiences of farming, countryside living, and sustainability. We celebrate diversity and work to create welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive.

Connection with Nature
We centre our actions on a deep respect for the natural world. We believe in restoring and nurturing the bond between humans and nature, creating a place where both can flourish in harmony.

Job description

We are thrilled to welcome a Fundraiser Trainer & Advisor to support our Fundraising and Marketing Team at a pivotal time for our charity.

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launch of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to grow with the charity.

We are looking for a passionate and articulate Fundraiser with extensive experience in fundraising strategy and bidding writing skills.

What this position entails

This role is designed for someone eager to share their fundraising knowledge by coaching our team to enhance their skills and gain a deeper understanding of the fundraising landscape.

We work with a dedicated team of volunteers, from our operational staff to those actively participating in our events, all of whom are enthusiastic about supporting our initiatives while gaining valuable experience and connecting with new people. Our Fundraising Trainer will provide valuable training to our fundraising and marketing team, focusing on enhancing their fundraising abilities, helping them to develop innovative strategies, and assisting with bid revisions by offering them constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement.

We seek a mentor rather than someone to handle fundraising tasks for the team; we want a guide who can empower others to learn from their expertise.

Therefore, the ideal candidate must possess excellent communication skills and the ability to train individuals in the art of fundraising with creativity and kindness.

The key focus of the role is:

•  Train and guide the fundraising and marketing team, acting as a mentor.
•  Revise bids and give insightful suggestions for improvement.

Essential:

• Highly experienced in Fundraising and with excellent communication skills.
• Able to produce training in Fundraising skills and deliver it to the team.
• Able to dedicate time to weekly catch-ups with the team and review actions, offering insightful tips for improvement.
• Able to give constructive feedback on bid applications.

We might consider multiple volunteers for this position if we get applications from fundraisers with specialised skills in different areas of fundraising.

 
By getting involved you will gain:

• This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.
  
• Additionally, this is an excellent starting point for those wanting to transition their fundraising career to a mentor/coaching style and are looking for an opportunity to develop skills as a mentor/trainer, try new techniques and get useful feedback from the team in your mentorship style.  

Location: Fully Remote. But we welcome those who wish to come and visit the farm at least once to understand more about us.

Commitment:

The estimated time needed is 2 to 4 hours a week, and we welcome those volunteers who can offer more, although it is not a requirement for the role. We can be flexible and work with you to find hours that fit ours and your schedule - all help is much appreciated!

As this is a trainer position, we unfortunately won’t accept applications from volunteers who do not possess a solid background in fundraising strategy.  

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.