Volunteer volunteer roles in wimbledon, greater london

Lead a dynamic, mission-driven charity at a pivotal time in its development. As Chair of Trustees, you’ll play a central role in shaping the future of the Surrey Hills Society – championing one of England’s most treasured National Landscapes.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a passionate and growing charity dedicated to conserving, enhancing and celebrating the Surrey Hills National Landscape. You’ll work closely with trustees, our small team and volunteers to provide strategic direction, strengthen governance, and grow the Society’s reach and impact. Ideal candidates will bring senior leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a collaborative approach to chairing a diverse and committed Board.

FINANCE VOLUNTEER

Across the UK, our 65 local branches work with disabled people to help them 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 our local branch Finance/Treasurer volunteer, you’ll make sure your branch gets the most for its money.

You’ll maintain income and expenditure records to document and report on branch finances. You’ll manage their accounts and make financial information easy to understand.

What the role involves

This is a varied role that each branch tends to do a bit differently, but it will involve:

• Accurately maintaining income and expenditure records to  document and report on branch finances

• Offering objectivity around the spending of money and ensuring money is spent in a cost-effective manner

• Approving income and expenditure with the other branch bank account signatories

• Ensuring that our financial requirements and policies relating to group finances are followed

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

• Confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email

• Experience in bookkeeping, budgeting, and planning income and expenditure

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal data safe

• A commitment to our aims and values

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and some online training.

If it works better for you, there’s a possibility this role could be done remotely.

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 your hard work, skills and commitment.

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

We are looking for enthusiastic people to join our trustee committee and help shape and deliver animal welfare in the East and South East London areas.
 

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch aims to align its core objectives with those of the National RSPCA — specifically: to rescue, rehabilitate, rehome, and protect animals.

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch CIO (the "Branch") is seeking to appoint new Trustees to join the Branch Trustee Committee. This is an exciting time for the Branch as we aim to grow and enhance our services across East and South East London.

What does the Branch do?

Our Branch covers postcodes within East and South East London (those beginning with E or RM). We operate boarding facilities where we care for, rehabilitate, and rehome cats rescued by RSPCA Inspectors.

We are an independent charity, working in partnership with the National RSPCA, a separate charity. Together, we deliver the RSPCA's mission — focused on frontline animal welfare and community engagement.

As an independent branch, we fundraise and manage our resources independently to deliver animal welfare services. We receive some financial support and guidance on best practices from the National RSPCA to ensure we comply with Charity Commission regulations.

Future Plans

In the coming years, our plans include:

· Developing and executing plans for sustainable income growth 

· Building out our volunteer and supporter network

These plans are continuously reviewed and developed by the Branch Trustees to ensure we focus our efforts on helping as many animals as possible.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds with experience or skills in any of the following areas:

· Accounting

· Marketing and Communications (including social media, PR, websites)

· Fundraising (including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications)

· Local community and supporter engagement

· Charity growth and development

· Veterinary or animal welfare

· Volunteer management

Alongside relevant experience, we’re looking for people who are committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and share our passion for animal welfare. You should be a creative, innovative team player, bring a fresh perspective, and be able to turn ideas into action.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who live or work in the areas we cover (E or RM postcodes), or who can travel to London for Branch meetings and fundraising activities.

What can we offer in return?

We offer all Trustees:

· Support from both the RSPCA team

· A platform to utilise your skills and experience to shape the charity and directly impact local animal welfare

· An opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones while making a real difference

· A chance to expand your professional and personal network by working with like-minded people

Practical Considerations

Please note:

· You must be based in London or can have regular access to London to join our fundraising activities

· You must be aged 18 or over and a UK tax resident to join the Trustee Committee

· You must be a member of our Branch before you are eligible to be co-opted or elected as a Trustee

· Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year

· Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed

· Trustees must sign a Declaration of Willingness to Act and confirm they are not disqualified from being a Trustee (more information is available on the Charity Commission website)

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will:

· Help shape the strategy and direction of the Branch

· Contribute your unique skills and experience to decision-making

· Work as part of a collaborative and motivated team

· Develop your own skills or pass them on to others

Together, we can make a significant impact on animal welfare in our community.

Please include also a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role and detailing your relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and motivation.

Join our amazing team and make a real difference to people living with sight loss. Help create a welcoming and safe environment for people to share their experiences, ask questions and support each other and connect with a local community in a group setting via Facebook.

In this role you will be:
• Managing group membership – authorising Requests to Join.
• Creating a warm and welcoming environment by welcoming new members to the group and encouraging participation.
• Supporting group conversations – Instigating dialogue based on eye health related days/events or more interest-based topics.
• Working with a Volunteer Moderator Team to create engaging content for the Group.
• Ensuring group rules are followed and that content is appropriate by alerting managers when inappropriate content is posted or when there is a safeguarding issue.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community by by engaging with the people with sight loss, local and national organisations.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.

•  A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers through regular moderator meetings

Time commitment
• This volunteering role requires a commitment of around 5 hours a week, there is the option to volunteer for a greater number of hours but this isn't essential.

How often will I be needed?

• 5 Hours per Week

Key requirements

• This role requires an enhanced criminal record check and 2 references.

Location

Region

• Yorkshire and the Humber, East Midlands, North West, South East, West Midlands, North East, South West, Greater London

Home based

• This role is home based

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• An understanding and interest in maximising the benefits of social media platforms. A willingness to learn about local services and activities to inform the community as appropriate. Interested in helping people get the information they need. Good communication skills.

About Us

My Black Dog is a charity that offers anonymous, peer to peer mental health support through our web-chat service. We are committed to making a positive impact on mental health in the UK as we tackle an epidemic that millions of people face.

We were founded on the motto "talk to someone who gets it". We want to connect people who share lived experiences to provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space where everybody understands how it feels to experience mental health struggles.

Position Overview

Our web-chat service is run by our Volunteer Pack, each of whom have their own lived experience of mental health challenges. In addition, each shift has a 'Leader' and a 'Mentor'. These are Volunteers who carry out specific roles during the shift and, together, ensure its success:

• Leaders - Managers of the shift. There to ensure the shift runs as it should. They support and guide Volunteers through chats and follow safeguarding processes when an alert is raised. They escalate safeguarding alerts to the shift’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (a trained professional). They also complete a 'Shift Handover' document once the shift is completed.
• Mentors - There to support and guide Volunteers through chats. Will take over from the Leader if there are safeguarding issues that need the Leader's attention and/or if the Leader needs a break.

As My Black Dog looks to expand our opening hours, we are looking to recruit additional Leaders who can run shifts and provide cover when necessary.

Leaders will be assigned a shift based on your availability and preference. The expectation is that Leaders and Mentors will form a ‘pair’ and, together, will do one shift at the same time each week. This is to provide stability, predictability and to encourage community-building between Volunteers. Shifts are usually 3 hours long. We may ask you to cover another shift when we are short, but you will never do more than 6 hours per week.

Training will be provided and you will be supported on shift by a Designated Safeguarding Lead, who will manage all safeguarding issues.

The work you will do as Leaders will ensure we provide the best possible service to our Guests. You will also be helping our Volunteer Pack to do what we do best: helping those in need by speaking to someone who 'gets it'.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for people who have experienced their own journey with mental health and are in a strong position to support others. We ask that our Leaders:

• Are strongly committed to helping others
• Have experienced mental health issues in order to relate to those seeking help
• Are collaborative and enjoy working with others
• Are encouraging and supportive
• Are organised and can monitor several things at once
• Can remain calm and focused during busy times and when safeguarding alerts are raised
• Are 18 years and over 
• Can commit the time to a regular weekly shift

We are particularly interested in hearing from people who are available to run a shift on the following days/hours:

• Monday to Sunday, 5pm-7pm
• Thursday to Saturday, 7pm-10pm

Role Responsibilities

1. Supervise and support Volunteers whilst on shift with general enquiries, positive feedback and signposting.
2. Assist with general volunteering enquiries whilst on shift. Provide time for guidance, instruction and de-briefing for Volunteers if required.
3. Follow Leaders processes including unexpected absence reporting, Volunteer check-in and check-out, and completing Shift Handovers.
4. Monitor web-chat conversations and ensure all chats are tagged.
5. Maintain ability to listen, remain calm and provide intervention if necessary.
6. Be able to have difficult and often complex conversations about mental health, including Guests experiencing crisis and first-stage intervention support.
7. Work alongside the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) when safeguarding risks are identified.
8. Exercise discretion in handling confidential situations and information, conveying sensitive information in a timely manner to necessary individuals.
9. Provide written follow up of shifts via handover, ensuring all necessary information is handed over at the end of the shift.
10. Adhere to all standards, policies and procedures of My Black Dog.

Please note: An Enhanced DBS Certificate is required for this role. If you do not have one, My Black Dog will arrange the DBS Check for you.

www.myblackdog.co

About Children With Voices
Children With Voices is a dynamic charity focused on empowering children and young people through creative projects, advocacy, and education. Our mission is to give young voices the platform they deserve, supporting them in building confidence and fostering positive change in their communities. As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we are looking for an experienced Senior Human Resources Manager to join us in a volunteer capacity to lead and shape our HR strategies.

Role Overview
We are seeking a proactive and experienced volunteer to take on the role of Senior Human Resources Manager. This is a remote, volunteer position with the option to attend our office, located in Hackney, London, for those who prefer occasional in-person meetings. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and overseeing the HR strategy, policies, and processes that support our staff and volunteers, ensuring that Children With Voices remains a supportive and inclusive workplace.

The ideal candidate will bring substantial HR experience, excellent leadership abilities, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of children. You will work closely with the senior management team, providing strategic HR guidance and supporting the growth of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic HR Leadership

   • Develop and implement HR strategies that align with Children With Voices’ mission and values.

   • Advise the CEO and senior management team on HR-related issues, ensuring the HR function supports the organisation’s objectives.

   • Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture in line with the organisation’s ethos.

2. Recruitment and Onboarding

   • Oversee and lead the recruitment process, ensuring the organisation attracts and retains talented individuals who are passionate about our cause.

   • Manage onboarding procedures for new staff and volunteers to ensure a smooth integration into the organisation.

3. Employee Relations and Compliance

   • Provide expert advice on employee relations matters, ensuring fairness and compliance with UK employment law.

   • Offer guidance on disciplinary and grievance procedures and ensure that these processes are conducted fairly and in accordance with best practice.

   • Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies and procedures to ensure consistency and fairness across the organisation.

4. Training and Development

   • Identify opportunities for training and development that will enhance the skills of both staff and volunteers.

   • Promote continuous professional development and support leadership initiatives.

   • Ensure that staff and volunteers have access to the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their roles.

5. Wellbeing and Staff Engagement

   • Lead initiatives to promote the wellbeing and mental health of all staff and volunteers.

   • Develop and implement staff engagement programmes to foster a motivated, satisfied, and high-performing workforce.

6. HR Operations and Administration

   • Oversee the day-to-day HR administration, including maintaining accurate records, supporting payroll processing (where relevant), and ensuring that employee benefits are effectively managed.

   • Develop HR reports and provide insights to support decision-making.

   • Ensure all HR activities are managed efficiently and with the highest level of confidentiality.

Key Requirements

• Experience:

  • Proven experience in HR management, with a strong understanding of employment law and best practices.

  • Experience in managing employee relations, performance management, recruitment, and organisational development.

  • Experience working with senior teams to implement HR strategies.

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and provide strategic guidance.

  • High organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a remote working environment.

  • Sound knowledge of HR software and systems for managing HR functions.

  • Ability to work independently and remotely, with occasional in-person meetings as required.

• Qualifications:

  • CIPD Level 7 or equivalent HR qualification is desirable, but not essential.

  • A commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Why Volunteer With Us?
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to a charity that is transforming the lives of children and young people. As Head of HR, you will play a key role in shaping the organisation’s culture and helping us build a strong, sustainable team. We offer flexibility with remote working and provide the chance to engage in impactful work that aligns with your professional HR experience while contributing to a meaningful cause.

By volunteering with Children With Voices, you will gain valuable experience and have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals while making a tangible difference.

Role: Director of National Impact

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Director of National Impact to develop and lead its National Impact Directorate in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to grow its impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the Directorate’s two Departments (Research and Project) produce high-quality research and related projects and events able to influence decision-making and policy on a national scale in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities. Working closely with the COO and the Policy and Ethics teams, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively guide and strengthen the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, national change. They should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Responsibilities:

● In line with the organisation’s strategic priorities, to lead the National Impact Directorate in designing, developing and implementing impactful research and project objectives.

● To line manage the Head of the National Impact Research Department and the Head of the National Impact Project Department, supporting them to effectively manage their own teams and to develop and implement the frameworks necessary for producing top quality research output (including academic articles) and subsequent events, campaigns and project relating to research findings and organisational strategy respectively.

● To work with HR in creating a strong National Impact Directorate composed of individuals with the appropriate skills and expertise. To ensure these volunteers are appropriately supported and trained during their period of service.

● To work alongside the Policy team to source potential commissions and influencing opportunities, shaping research and project focus and output accordingly.

● To develop short- and long-term strategies in relation to both aspects of the Directorate’s activity, ensuring that these align with the wider strategies of the organisation.

● To liaise with the Policy and Ethics teams on an ongoing basis, ensuring that their advice is incorporated into Directorate decisions and output.

● To take responsibility for relationships with key external stakeholders, at all times representing the organisation positively and professionally.

● To work on an on-going basis with the other members of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team in determining its strategic priorities and incorporating these into the Directorate.

● To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategies and the National Impact Directorate’s activities.

● To work closely with the organisation’s Communications team in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.

● To create blogs and articles on related issues and to find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

● To support the Chief Executive Officer in presenting national impact strategies to Youth Advantage’s Trustees.

Requirements:

● Experience in research and planning, as well as leading key campaigns or programmes.

● High-level understanding of carrying out quality research, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities.

● Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to effectively disseminating research results.

● Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members.

● Excellent writing and speaking skills.

● IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

● Ability to work well independently and in a team.

● Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

● Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in leading a research and project team.

● Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.

● Flexible working hours.

EBAY COORDINATOR (CHARITY SHOP)

eBay Coordinator (RSPCA Finchley, Golders Green, Hendon & District Branch - based at the North Finchley Charity Shop & remote)

Are you an eBay top-rated seller? We are looking for volunteers skilled in online selling and photography to help turn donations into funds. You will have fun, contribute to making our eBay business a big success, and enable us to help more animals!

Overview of opportunity

This is an excellent opportunity if you are interested in collectables, researching unusual items, and love photographing objects to look their best! The time you dedicate would ensure that we made the most of the incredible donations to our charity shops, which means more funds can go towards our vital animal welfare work.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Our Charity Shops in East & North Finchley

Our shops play an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. Our shops sell a mixture of donated items, including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables, and a selection of new items.

Volunteer eBay Coordinator responsibilities

•  Researching and listing the items for sale in our dedicated eBay store.
•  A picture is worth 1,000 words so ensuring that attractive photographs are taken to boost eBay sales.
•  Packaging items appropriately before posting them to the buyer.
•  Maintaining accurate records of listed and sold items.

What we are looking for in a volunteer eBay Coordinator:

•  Ideally, you would have experience in selling items on eBay.
• Can create attractive listings for a wide variety of items.
•  Someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment.

What we can offer you as a volunteer eBay Coordinator

•  You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the animals in your area.
• Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.
•  Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and training programme.
•  Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

VOLUNTEER CASE OFFICER

Across the UK, our 65 local branches work with disabled people to help them 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.

Our Case Officers are a vital part of our local branch activities. They use their organisational and IT skills, sometimes along with a knowledge of engineering, to make sure their branch is best able to support people.

What the role involves

This is a varied role that each branch tends to do a bit differently, but it will involve:

• Processing and allocating cases which have come to the branch

• You may have engineering experience or be a skilled craftsperson, but this is not essential

• Using our online referral portal to manage and update case notes

• Attending regular meetings of the local branch

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

• Warm, approachable and confident to call referrers/clients to initiate discussions

• Comfortable working with people, listening to them and understanding their needs

• Able to apply our risk management system

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

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

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist and a reference check.

If it works better for you, there’s a possibility this role could be done remotely.

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  your hard work, skills and commitment.

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

Role Description: 

This role sits within our new Men’s Minds project, based in Hounslow. The aim of the service is to improve men’s mental health outcomes by developing a mental health network supported and directed by the voices of its members.

This will be achieved through three service strands: 1) Peer support network, 2) Psychoeducation workshops, addressing common needs of men’s mental health 3) Outreach support to raise awareness of men’s mental health and promote this service. 

The role of the Administrator Volunteer is to support the coordinator with: 

• Meet with Men’s Minds coordinator each week to discuss administrative tasks (online or in person). 

• Respond to general enquiries about the service 

• Respond to weekly emailed invitations for our Service Users and collate the results on a spreadsheet 

• With coordinator oversight, complete onboarding processes and upload to our data management software ‘Views,’ upload data related to 

• With coordinator oversight, collate and present relevant data

We are looking for someone who: 

• To be able to provide a welcoming, authentic, and positive experience for all, being inclusive and embracing diversity 

• Are a non-judgmental and friendly individual who can communicate across different mediums(email, phone etc) 

• To feel comfortable engaging with people with mental health challenges / difficult life experiences, by validating strengths and experiences and using empowering language to overcome negative self-talk 

• Are empathic and understands the stigma / social bias's surrounding mental health 

• Are able to take on any ad hoc admin/support responsibilities

• We will provide volunteers with an induction, training, and ongoing mentoring to support them in the role

What's in it for the volunteer? 

Volunteering at Mind is a fantastic opportunity to get involved with a nationally recognised charity. We provide initial and ongoing training, as well as plenty of opportunities for progression within the organisation. You will also be a part of a supportive team with great awareness of wellbeing and the mental health sector. 

To apply, please send your CV and expression of interest addressing the below answers: 

Please tell us why you would like to volunteer at Men’s Minds at HFEH Mind? (minimum 50 words) 

Please share any relevant skills or experience you have for the role. This may include education, work or voluntary experience (minimum 100 words) 

Role Title- Marketing Manager (Volunteer)
Location- Remote, UK-based

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for building marketing projects from the ground up, crafting strategies through to implementation? Youth Advantage UK is looking for enthusiastic volunteers eager to gain hands-on experience while making a meaningful impact.

Please note: This is a voluntary unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the creation, development, and execution of B2B, B2C, and B2G marketing strategies.
• Assist in building and adapting comprehensive marketing plans from scratch.
• Collaborate with the fundraising team to design and deploy targeted marketing materials.
• Conduct basic market research and assist in audience segmentation and competitive analysis.
• Contribute to defining value propositions and understanding donor engagement journeys.
• Help develop and distribute digital assets across email, social media, and other communication channels.

Essential Skills:

• Interest in strategic marketing planning, positioning, and stakeholder engagement.
• Basic understanding of content creation, digital marketing, or campaign coordination.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Willingness to learn about donor journeys, market targeting, and marketing analytics.
•  Familiarity with tools like Canva, PowerPoint, or Wix is a plus, but not essential.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (or currently pursuing one) in Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• Strong desire to learn and contribute to real-world marketing strategy and execution.
•  Soon-to-be or recent graduates are highly encouraged to apply, this role offers hands-on experience to strengthen your portfolio and CV.

Note:

This is a volunteer, project-based position. While there is no formal contract or obligation, volunteers may request the following upon completion of their commitment(s):

•  A LinkedIn testimonial and/or written references.
• A public thankyou post on our social channels.
• Permission to list Youth Advantage UK as an employer on CV’s and LinkedIn profiles

We are always happy to recognize meaningful contributions to campaigns and strategic initiatives in way that support our volunteers’ professional development.

We are looking to build our LinkedIn profile and our reach into the business world. The role will include advancing our connections and cultivating lasting relationships in communities of like minded companies. Content creation, updating on news and arranging in person meetings when needed are a key part of the role so candidates will need good communication skills, creative writing experience and be tech savvy. Although remote the team are in daily contact when needed and meet in person at major fundraising events where live updates can be posted. We are passionate about animal welfare so if you love dogs and have a creative skillset and some business flair come and join us.Saving Strays is run by volunteers only, please ensure that you are serious about volunteering and dedicating some of your free time to the charity.

Our vision is to enable people in Kew to remain independent for as long as possible.  Our volunteers offer driving, companionship, shopping, and light gardening. We do not provide intensive support or specialised help.We work closely with individuals and organisations to support people in Kew who have difficulty getting out and about, or who would appreciate a little regular company, by providing access to reliable, neighbourly help.

KNA has a committee of Trustees, including a Chair, Vice Chair and Treasurer.  It is administered by a part-time salaried Director (24hrs/wk), Companionship Manager (16hrs/wk), Operations Manager (20 hours/wk) and a Communications & Marketing Assistant(3hrs/wk)  from a small office in St Luke’s House, Sandycombe Road, Kew TW9.

KNA is funded via legacies and donations, Richmond Parish Lands Charity (RPLC) as a Regularly Funded Organisation, Richmond Council's Community Independent Living Service (CILS) and by donations and fundraising events.

KNA’s current activities are:

• the provision of lifts by volunteer drivers in their own cars to those needing transport to medical appointments (e.g., GP or hospital) and to the Avenue Club in Kew

• providing volunteer companionship to isolated residents by regular visits in their homes for a chat or to play games such as chess, phone calls, accompanying them for local walks and to local cafes, cinema, theatre, cricket, etc

• assisting those in need of help with shopping and some light gardening;

• providing moments of joy to celebrate client birthdays with a card each year and a gift in milestone years

• an annual tea party for clients and thank you party for KNA's Volunteers.

Statistics

KNA has some 230 clients, and has around 50 active volunteer drivers and 30 companionship volunteers.  KNA carries out 3000- 3,500 driving, shopping, prescription pick up, gardening and companionship visits and jobs per year by KNA volunteers. 

KNA had income of £61,536 in its last reported financial year (to August 2023) and expenditure of £72,117.  It had assets of £130,926 at that date.

Purpose: 

KNA’s Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the organisation’s objectives in accordance with its constitution, legal and regulatory guidelines.

Key Skills

We welcome applications from individuals with an interest in helping those needing support in our community to maintain their independence,  and are in particular looking for those with experience in:-

• Treasurer 

• Healthcare

• Older people

• Marketing & Communication

• Individual Giving and Legacies

• Experience or contacts in the voluntary sector (in Richmond), and in relevant parts of Richmond Council

Commitment

• We are looking for trustees who are prepared to do more than simply attend committee meetings (four evening meetings per year,) and our AGM

• The term of office for each Trustee is an initial two years, with annual re-election up to a maximum of six;

• Trustees receive no remuneration for their trustee duties; we can reimburse reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in the course of carrying out duties in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy. 

Trustee Responsibilities

• Oversee the charity’s mission statement and review the four part time members of staff performance in achieving it;

• Review and approve the charity’s financial condition and goals;

• Annually review and approve the charity’s budget;

• Approve major policies;

• Ensure management succession is properly provided;

• Ensure organisational strength and staffing are equal to the requirements of the long-range goals;

• Approve appropriate salaries, terms and conditions of service for staff;

• Put forward names of prospective trustees and fill vacancies as needed;

• Provide candid and constructive criticism and advice;

• Approve major actions of the organisation, such as expenditure on all items over authorised limits and changes in activities and services;

• Appoint independent auditors subject to approval by members;

• Review compliance with relevant laws and policies affecting the organisation

Enabling KNA's over 140 volunteers continue to make a practical difference to Kew, TW9's local community  by providing thorough trustee management.  Feeling good about providing a small amount of time that ensures KNA's legacy of the last 45 years is sustainable for future generations of people who need the kind of support a good neighbour would provide. 

Help shape the future of Merton’s vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Merton Connected is seeking two to three new trustees to join our experienced board at an exciting time of growth. We’re looking for people who bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a commitment to inclusive community development; whether this is your first governance role or you’ve supported other organisations before.

You’ll help shape our strategy, strengthen good governance, and champion the voices of local organisations and residents. You’ll be part of a collaborative board that works closely with our leadership team to support a thriving voluntary, community and faith sector in Merton.

We’re particularly keen to hear from individuals with insight or experience in:

• Marketing and communications

• Digital and AI operations

• Income generation and fundraising

• Impact and performance measurement

We also welcome diverse lived experience, fresh perspectives, and strong local connection to Merton.

What you’ll gain:

• A chance to influence local priorities and make a meaningful difference to people’s lives

• Insight into the workings of a well-connected, values-driven infrastructure charity

• Opportunities to share your knowledge and develop your strategic and leadership skills

• A welcoming, inclusive board committed to learning and collective impact

Time commitment: 4–6 meetings per year (including strategy days), with occasional subgroups or events
Support offered: Full induction provided, with out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

We’re taking a flexible, phased approach to recruitment to make it easier for people to apply over the summer, while encouraging early applications where possible.