Volunteering opportunities volunteer roles

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

This role is assisting in leading a youth unit in the Dacorum St John Network

Pursuing the role.

Closing date for these opportunities is: Wednesday 14th August 2025.

=To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

Reports to: Chief People Officer
Direct Reports: HRBP Lead, HR Managers
Team Structure: Six HR Teams (HRBP team, Recruitment, Learning & Development, Volunteer Relations, Policy, and Engagement) – supported by Senior HR Officers and HR Officers
Location: Remote, UK-based
Time Commitment: 12 months minimum | Part-time | Flexible hours

About the Role
We are seeking a volunteer Head of HR to lead and oversee our HR function at a pivotal time in YouthAdvantage UK’s ambition to become a registered charity.
Reporting into the Chief People Officer, you’ll provide strategic leadership to a multi-layered HR structure, directly managing our HRBP Lead and HR Managers, and overseeing five core teams that support the organisation’s people and culture strategy.
This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced HR leader who wants to give back by mentoring the next generation of HR professionals, shaping policy and practice, and helping us build a strong, inclusive, and values-led volunteer workforce across the UK.
Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.

Key Responsibilities
•Provide overall leadership to the HR function, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and values.
•Manage and coach HRBP Lead and HR Managers to ensure smooth delivery across all people-related functions.
•Oversee and guide the five core HR teams:
oRecruitment – ensuring effective onboarding of skilled and diverse volunteers.
oLearning & Development – supporting volunteer upskilling and capability-building.
oVolunteer Relations – maintaining engagement, support, and wellbeing.
oPolicy – upholding inclusive, clear, and robust HR governance.
oEngagement – fostering culture, recognition, and retention.
•Partner with the Chief People Officer on strategic planning, workforce design, and key organisational initiatives.
•Lead succession planning and ensure continuity across all volunteer HR roles.
•Monitor performance and facilitate cross-team collaboration.
•Champion inclusive, accessible practices across the organisation.

What We're Looking For
We’re looking for someone who’s experienced enough to hit the ground running and humble enough to grow with us.
You’ll be most successful in this role if you have:
•Solid operational HR experience, ideally across generalist and specialist areas such as recruitment, employee relations/law, L&D, and policy.
•Previous line management experience, with a demonstrable record of supporting and developing HR team members or volunteers.
•A practical, sleeves-rolled-up approach - someone who is hands-on, accessible, and able to get things done in a busy, volunteer-led environment.
•A strategic mindset, but also the willingness to dig into day-to-day HR activity and problem-solving.
•A collaborative, coaching-ready attitude - this is a great opportunity for someone who has enough experience to stand on their own feet, but is open to being coached by the Chief People Officer to further develop their leadership style.
•Good communication and people skills, with the ability to work across different functions and with a wide range of volunteers.
•An interest in or understanding of the third sector and volunteer engagement is a bonus, but not essential.
•Experience working remotely or in hybrid teams is helpful.
•Above all, a genuine passion for youth empowerment and a belief in what we’re building at YouthAdvantage UK.
What You’ll Gain
•A chance to lead a national HR function with real-world complexity and purpose.
•The opportunity to mentor and develop emerging HR talent.
•Practical experience shaping HR strategy within the third sector.
•Recognition through:
oLinkedIn testimonial and reference
oA public thank you post
oPermission to list YouthAdvantage UK as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn
oA written reference upon completion of your commitment

Important Information
This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now
If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help shape a dynamic, inclusive, and youth-focused volunteer organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 223 (Halesowen) Squadron, 27 King Street, Halesowen, West Midlands, B63 3SU 
• 347 (Dudley) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, 5 Vicar Street, King Street, Dudley, West Midlands, DY2 8RH 
• 451 (Stourbridge) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, Old Swinford Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 2LQ 
• 2488 (Kingswinford) Squadron, Rear of Kingswinford Health Centre car park, off Standhills Road, Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 8DN 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

At Acorns we provide care and support for life limited or life threatened children and their families. We are a charity, and our fundraising is vital to enable us to continue providing care and support to the children: it costs around £13 million a year to run our care services.

What’s Involved?

Dive into a variety of exciting roles that bring this wonderful community event to life:

• Welcome Desk: Be the warm and friendly first point of contact for our guests, setting the stage for an amazing day.
• Stalls and Games: Add energy and joy by running entertaining stalls and games for attendees of all ages.
• Refreshments: Serve up smiles along with food and drinks, ensuring everyone stays refreshed.
• Car Park Marshals: Help guests park smoothly and stress-free.
• Gazebo Setup and Takedown: Lend a hand to create the festive atmosphere and pack it away after the event.
• Mascot -  Alex the Acorn

The event held in the hospice gardens is to welcome the local community into Acorns.
There will be entertainment, stalls and activities 11am – 3pm. Food and refreshments are available. Volunteers are welcome to invite along their family & friends.

How much time will it take?

• 10am – 3.30pm either for the whole event or a few hours
• Parking will be available nearby for volunteers
• All volunteers will receive hot drinks free of charge.

Am I right for the role?

We’re looking for volunteers who are

• Approachable and happy to raise awareness about Acorns
• Versatile and willing to adapt and help out

  Why volunteer at Acorns? 

• To help a local charity and make a difference in your community
• Connect with likeminded people and make new friends
• Learn new skills to boost your CV

• Opportunities to progress to other roles

Volunteer briefing will be provided.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

Bid - Writer Support (Administrator) Job Overview

We are currently recruiting for Bid - Writer Support to join our passionate and driven team.

As Bid Administrator you will support the performance of a high performing bid team designed to facilitate and support the successful winning of new grants and tenders across the UK.

As an outstanding administrator you will play a key role in assisting the team to ensure that all bid documents and business development literature is prepared and presented not only to the highest possible standards but on time – often within challenging deadlines. Key to success in the role will be the following traits:

· Adaptability

· Determination

· Flexibility

· Robust disposition

You will be at your best when you’re working under pressure and in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment. This role calls for someone who can react as deadlines and priorities change; someone with resilience and a tenacity to get the job done whilst never compromising on quality.

Key Responsibilities:

· Management of a central mailbox, including basic tender management duties

· Monitoring new business opportunities advertised on various portals and websites.

· Reviewing new business opportunities as they arrive, forwarding relevant opportunities to the appropriate bid writers.

· Taking ownership of the bid library, which includes ensuring that it kept up to date as and when new opportunities are submitted.

· Thoroughly proof-reading materials to ensure information is grammatically correct, well-researched, and without spelling errors

· Ensuring that our in-house bid process is understood and implemented to ensure that quality, commercial and legal requirements are consistently met

· Taking ownership of client portals – Including dealing with daily alerts and maintenance of portal logins

· Providing general administrative support to the bid writing team.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday and Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Type: Volunteer

Benefits:

• Flexitime
• Work from home

Schedule:Day shift

Experience: Administrative: 1 year (preferred)

Work Location: Remote

We’re the MS Society – a community of people living with MS, scientists, campaigners, listeners, organisers, ambassadors and fundraisers. Our volunteers are a key part of achieving our goals and their support is vital. Join us.

About this opportunity
We are looking to recruit an Activities Organiser for the South East Kent Group. As an Activities Organiser, you will be to bringing together our MS community through engaging and accessible activities. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.

We are a very friendly group of 7 volunteers covering a large are of the South East area of Kent from Dover to Hythe and Ashford.  We currently hold a monthly support group meet-up in Ashford 10am - Noon 2nd Thursday in Month, but we would like to expand these in the future in other areas.  We have a support team who do visits and information signposting at the William Harvey Hospital.

We are very keen to expand our activities and would welcome new volunteers with ideas and support in helping us offer more for people affected by MS in our area.

The hours will be suited to compliment your own personal commitments.  If possible 2 to 4 hrs a week would be great if we can develop our services. We have the monthly support meet up which is currently 2 hrs a month but we would like to offer this more often if possible in 2019 to every other week or a new meeting in a different area.  We have group volunteer meetings every 4 months and there are volunteer events held twice a year for all volunteers by MS National Centre so all volunteers in the Kent area can meet up and share their activities and good ideas together.

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 will know of local community organisations and be able to build relationships with them.

You must live in the South East Kent area to carry out this role.

Apply 
- Read through the role description carefully

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

Youth Leaders work directly with young people in St John Ambulance Badger Setts and Cadet Units. By organising a mixed weekly programme, this role will support the learning and development of young people into the next generation of health citizens. Youth Leaders also help young people develop their confidence, teamwork skills, self-discipline, and generally encourage them to strive to be the best they can be, as well as supervise and support other adult volunteers in their team.

You’ll get a huge sense of satisfaction and pride delivering an essential service. It’s great for you, great for your community and great for our nation, and it requires only a small commitment of your time. 

Thursday evening meetings on a regular basis during school term times. Doesn’t have to be every week.

Pursuing the role

Closing date for these opportunities is: 30th September 2025

To apply for this opportunity please follow the link below:

The Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Refugee Forum (NNRF) is a £1m+ community-based charity providing advice and support to individuals and families who seek asylum or live as refugees. The Forum is a key partner of Nottingham City Council, and its work spans a number of separate programmes, much of which is delivered from our building and cafe in the heart of the city.

What exactly does the Forum do?

• We believe in a future where people are treated fairly and compassionately, and where everyone has the chance to feel safe and live with dignity.
• Working in partnership with others, our focus is on helping refugees and asylum seekers to rebuild their lives and to help with their immediate needs. We do this by providing a welcoming community centre, and by offering a range of support services and programmes, including impartial advice, advocacy and signposting.

We are seeking to appoint several Trustees during 2025, each on an initial 3-year term and applications are welcome from any background. In common with many organisations in this sector, people from ethnic minority backgrounds and those with lived experience of the asylum system are underrepresented on our Board at this time. Applicants who have governance experience, for example in schools or local government, or who may be working in a legal/HR role may be of interest. However, the most important attribute is that you have the energy, time and interest necessary to support the Forum’s work.  Candidates will be appointed solely on a defined selection criterion, ensuring that ethnicity plays no role in the decision-making process.

The role of our Trustees is vital to what we do and it means that you can support those seeking refuge to re-establish themselves in a new country. The Board of Trustees has the ultimate authority and responsibility for directing and governing the organisation. Being a Trustee can be a hugely rewarding experience - it offers a fantastic development opportunity, the chance to make a positive impact, to build new relationships and to gain experience in charity operations. As a Trustee you will be able to use your knowledge, skills and experience and have a direct influence over a cause you care about. You will also get free access to a range of Board-level learning resources, including articles, webinars and national networking events.

These are voluntary roles, with meetings usually set for after normal working hours. The minimum time commitment is quite modest - we have six Board meetings per year, each lasting a couple of hours, and an Annual General Meeting in November. We do actively encourage Trustees to also get involved in the work of at least one of our committees, so all of this means a commitment of no more than 1 day per month.

How can I apply?

• In the first instance, please send your CV (if you have one) and/or letter of application to our Chair of Trustees, Graham Bell, telling us about your interest in the role why you want to help us by volunteering as a Trustee. You are also welcome to send your application in the form of a short video. 
• We will also be holding online events during July and September as a way of introducing our work and as an opportunity for you to ask any questions about the role. Further details will be posted on social media.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Do you feel excited by the idea of guiding the future of a local mental health charity?

Rochdale and District Mind is a mental health charity that supports people in the community who are facing mental health challenges. Our area of operation is Heywood, Middleton, Rochdale, Bury and N.E. Lancashire. As part of the Mind Federation and the Mind in Greater Manchester partnership, our goal is to ensure that individuals do not face mental health issues alone and can live free from stigma and discrimination.

Our team consists of over 70 dedicated staff members and volunteers who provide a wide variety of services and activities, including counselling, therapeutic group workshops, advocacy, crisis support, dementia support, two wellbeing cafés, as well as other wellbeing activities such as sports sessions. To ensure our services are effective and rooted in the needs of the community, we involve people who use our services in shaping our offer. We are also pleased to be recognised for our work with our Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic communities in Rochdale. We work proactively both with our service users and with other key stakeholder organisations to tackle health inequalities.

Chair opportunity

We are flexible in our approach and are open to a single Chair or Co-Chair arrangement. We are looking for people with governance experience, the ability to lead and alignment with our values. Our new Chair or Co-Chairs will have energy and drive, a genuine passion for mental health support and be able to bring both knowledge and connections to the organisation.

This is an exciting moment to join us. Rochdale and District Mind has undergone a period of significant growth in recent years, with both our annual turnover and staff numbers doubling. We’ve successfully embedded our services within the strategic priorities of the local Integrated Care Board, adapting what we offer to meet the changing mental health needs of our community. Now, with our CEO Philip Bramson at the helm, we’re entering a period of reflection and consolidation, ready to build on our strong foundation as we shape the next chapter of our journey.

How to apply?

Eastside People is supporting Rochdale and District Mind in the recruitment for this role. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc. format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why are you interested in a Chair or Co-Chair role with Rochdale and District Mind? 
• How can you contribute to Rochdale and District Mind as our Chair or Co-Chair?
• Please highlight relevant experience and demonstrate how your skills match the specific requirements of the role as set out in the role description.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential. Please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustments so that we can help make the application process work for you.

The closing date for applications is Monday 28th July, and our candidate assessment schedule is as follows:

• EP interviews and informal conversations carried out through the recruitment process with final interviews taking place by Thu 31 July.
• Formal interviews with Rochdale and District Mind Board, in the week commencing 4th August.
• The successful candidate or candidates will be asked to attend two Board meetings as an observer (the first one of which is on 13 Aug), after which the appointment will be confirmed via a trustee vote.

Eastside People is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity and work with our clients to ensure that we recruit inclusively, seeking to address the underrepresentation of some groups of people in leadership teams. We warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 156 (Kidderminster) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, The Shrubbery, Birmingham Road, Kidderminster, Worcestershire, DY10 2BY 
• 187 (City of Worcester) Squadron, Cadet HQ, Perdiswell, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR3 7JU
• 216 (Redditch) Squadron, Kohima House Army Reserve Centre, Winyates Way, North Moon's Moat, Redditch, Worcestershire, B98 9PJ 
• 233 (Pershore) Squadron, Pershore High School, Station Road, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 2BU 
• 1017 (Malvern) Squadron, Dukes Meadow, Barnards Green, Malvern, Worcestershire, WR14 2BY 
• 2516 (Droitwich) Squadron, Cadet Centre, Heritage Way, Droitwich, Worcestershire, WR9 8RF 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you!

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 63 (Bridgnorth) Squadron, Cadet Centre, Oldbury Wells School, Oldbury Wells, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5JE 
• 83 (St Georges) Squadron, Territorial House Army Reserve Centre, Trench Road, Trench, Shropshire, TF2 8DY 
• 265 (Chetwynd) Squadron, The Lodge, Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 8EU
• 333 (Ludlow) Squadron, ATC Centre, Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 1RU 
• 1130 (Wrekin) Squadron, Cadet Centre, King Street, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1NX 
• 2379 (Dawley) Squadron, Bridgman House Army Reserve Centre, Cavan Drive, Dawley, Shropshire, TF4 2BQ 
• 2497 (Cosford) Squadron, RAF Cosford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, WV7 3EX 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you!

About us

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development.

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus.

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets.

Squadrons in this sector

• 24 (Market Drayton) Squadron, Hedley Way, Buntingsdale, Market Drayton, Shropshire, TF9 2HA
• 28 (Shawbury) Squadron, RAF Shawbury, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 4HL
• 79 (Whitchurch) Squadron, Old Drill Hall, Mill Street, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 1SE
• 1165 (Oswestry) Squadron, Drill Hall, Willow Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 1AL
• 1119 (Shrewsbury) Squadron, Bligny House Army Reserve Centre, Copthorne Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY3 8LZ

Why become a trustee?

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too!

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising.
• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team.
• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community.
• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy.

What’s involved?

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes:

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander
• Funding requests and financial decisions
• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities
• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise.

What we’re looking for

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in:

• Fundraising
• Governance & charity compliance
• Corporate partnerships

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference!

Opportunities for progression

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets.

To join us, you’ll need to

• Be 20 years or older
• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron)
• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people.

Typical joining process:

1. Submit an expression of interest.
2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more.
3. Complete a simple online application if invited.
4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check.

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks.

Ready to make an impact?

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you!

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.

What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• 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 supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• 1 reference

Location

Region

• Scotland

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people • An empathetic and professional manner. • Good communications skills with active listening. • An interest in helping people access the information they need.

Helping young people to reach their personal best

“SportsAid believed in me when I was just a young, inexperienced racer. As a self-funded teenager travelling the world with my Mum, financial challenges were a constant hurdle. Funding my passion was daunting until SportsAid alleviated that burden, enabling me to pursue what I loved and take my passion to the next level. Without SportsAid, I would never have gone from the little girl you invested in, to the Paralympic and World medallist I became.”

Millie Knight, Paralympic medallist & World Champion

 COULD YOU HELP SPORTSAID AS THE CHAIR OF TRUSTEES?

SportsAid’s Mission is to encourage, enable and empower the next generation of athletes to achieve their ambitions in sport and life. Since 1976, we have been side-by-side with Britain’s greatest emerging sporting talent – from Mo Farah to Jessica Ennis-Hill, from Ade Adepitan to Ellie Simmonds – and so many others. SportsAid provides vital support to young sports people at a pivotal moment in their development.  HRH The Princess of Wales is the charity’s Patron.

We are looking for a trustee to join our board as Chair of Trustees. With our five-year fundraising strategy underway, this is an exciting time to join as we develop new, impactful partnerships to deliver our mission for young sports people towards and beyond SportsAid’s 50th anniversary in 2026. 

As the Chair of Trustees you will lead and support an effective, diverse and committed Board.  The Chair will provide inclusive leadership to deliver the charity’s vision and mission, ensuring that each trustee enjoys fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support the Chief Executive to ensure that the Board functions to best effect in supporting the executive team to achieve its objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and be a public face of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.

You will have significant Board experience, ideally at Chair or other senior level, in the public, private or voluntary sector; or substantial Board experience as a member of a National Governing Body of Sport or Charitable Trust.  You will be familiar with partnership working and engaging with a complex stakeholder mix.  You will have strong financial and commercial acumen and a genuine passion and personal connection to the core purpose and mission of SportsAid.

This is a vital role offering the opportunity to join a committed and driven charity at an exciting time.  You do not need to be a sports expert, but you will have a desire to help young people and a willingness to get stuck in.  You can make a difference.

You will join a board of eight trustees in working with an effective executive team to support the charity’s work. 

The minimum commitment as a board member will be to attend four board meetings per year (typically held in London but with the facility to join remotely if necessary) plus two half-day induction sessions and at least one half-day strategy planning session.  There will likely be an additional time commitment to attend events representing SportsAid. Board positions are unremunerated but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

SportsAid recognises that certain sections of the community have been affected by structural inequities and may be denied the opportunity to participate equally and fully in sport at all levels. SportsAid as an organisation believes our role is to remove the barriers that our most under-served, at risk and minoritised groups of young people experience when trying to access sport and physical activities.

SportsAid therefore positively welcomes, and seeks to achieve, diversity in our workforce and that all job applicants, volunteers and employees receive equal and fair treatment.  We positively encourage applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, disability, marriage and civil partnership status, gender identity, background, religion, faith, sexual orientation, maternity status, pregnancy, belief or nationality.

A role description is available on request.

Please apply by emailing your CV with an outline of how your skills and experience meet the specification of this Chair of Trustees role and why you are interested in joining SportsAid by 5pm Friday 5 September 2025.  

On receipt of your application you will be sent a confidential equal opportunities form which all applicants will be asked to complete.