Volunteering opportunities volunteer roles

Hertfordshire’s Family Centre Service brings children’s centres, health visiting and school nursing together, to provide a more joined-up service for children, young people, and their families.

The centres deliver a range of support groups and activities for children and their families to help them be healthy, grow and develop. To make it easy for families to fit sessions and services around their busy lives, access is available from any Hertfordshire Family centre. We have locations across the entire county so please do enquire ensuring you have provided your postcode.

Main Tasks/ Responsibilities/ Activities

To represent Family Centre Services within local communities and help strengthen the link between families and the centre by promoting services and support available.

Key Responsibilities:

· Promote Hertfordshire Family Centres by attending toddler and parent groups and local activities.

· Distribute leaflets, posters, and other promotional materials in community venues (e.g. libraries, health centres, nurseries, shops).

· Talk to parents, carers, and professionals about the Family Centre offer, signposting them to services and activities.

· Share updates on Family Centre activities through word of mouth, local networks, and community noticeboards.

· Provide feedback to Family Centre staff about local needs, events, and opportunities for engagement.

· Represent the Family Centre in a positive and professional way at all times.

Skills / Abilities / Experience / Qualities

· Friendly, approachable, and confident in talking to new people.

· Good communication skills.

· Reliable and able to work independently as well as part of a team.

· Enthusiasm for supporting children, families, and the local community.

· Respectful of diversity and inclusive of all families.

· Knowledge of the local area and networks

Training / Support

· A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided.

· Requirement to undertake One YMCA online training courses

· To understand and implement One YMCA’s policies.

· Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings

· Access to organisational events throughout the year including Socials, Conferences and Training opportunities. 

Additional Information

· Undergo enhanced DBS check

· X2 References required

· Undertake additional training as and when required

· We offer to pay volunteers’ “out of pocket” expenses within agreed guidelines

Are you a creative, passionate fundraising wanting to make a differene to the lives of cats and kittens in York and the surrounding areas? Join us as a Fundraising Coordinator to support our charity's work! 

Role overview:

​As the Volunteer Fundraising Coordinator, you will play a vital role in helping us raise the essential funds that keep our cat rescue work going. This position is key to ensuring we can continue to provide care, veterinary treatment, food, and a safe haven to cats in need. You will take the lead on planning and delivering fundraising activities and work closely with the wider team to help grow support for our charity.

Key responsibilities:​​​

• Fundraising campaigns: Plan, lead and deliver creative fundraising initiatives (both online and in-person).

• Event coordination: Organise and promote fundraising events such as raffles, auctions, online events, and local community events.

• Donor engagement: Build and maintain positive relationships with donors, thanking them and keeping them informed about how their contributions are used.

• Grant applications: Identify grant and funding opportunities.

• Collaboration: Work closely with trustees, the social media team, and other volunteers to align fundraising with our campaigns and goals.

• Tracking and reporting: Keep accurate records of donations, event outcomes, and supporter engagement to help inform future planning. 

What we’re looking for:​

• Fundraising experience: Previous experience in fundraising is essential – whether in a charity, community group or similar role.

• Excellent communication skills: Confident in engaging with people online, over email, and in person.

• Creative thinking: Able to bring fresh ideas and identify new opportunities for income generation.

• Organisational skills: Able to manage your time well, plan ahead, and juggle a variety of small tasks or projects — all while working within the limitations and resources of a small, volunteer-led charity.

• Passion for animal welfare: A genuine desire to help cats and support their journey to safety and adoption.

Why Join us?​

• Make a difference: Your work will directly support the rescue, care and rehoming of cats in need.

• Use your experience for good: Put your fundraising knowledge to work in a role that creates visible impact.

• Supportive community: Join a warm, friendly team of passionate animal lovers.

• Enhance your skills in communication, organisation, teamwork, and problem-solving

• Gain a sense of purpose by supporting a cause you care about and making a real difference

• Networking opportunities with like-minded volunteers, local businesses, and donors

• CV-boosting credentials that stand out to employers and universities

• Leadership experience through coordinating events, managing tasks, and motivating others

• A great way to make friends and meet new people in a supportive, social environment

• Personal fulfilment from seeing the impact of your efforts

• Confidence building through events and community interactions

• Flexible volunteering hours to suit your schedule

• References and endorsements available.

We are looking for pro-active, enthusiastic and motivated young professionals to join our board - you can help lead the strategic development of one of Dundee’s most promising and dynamic charities!

We would particularly welcome applications from candidates who are young people with lived experience of mental health and wellbeing challenges.

THE DETAILS

Feeling Strong is an exciting Dundee-based charity with the ambition to improve the lives of young people living with mental health and wellbeing challenges by fostering the skills, confidence and aspirations they need to flourish. Our services are designed by young people, delivered by young people for the benefit of young people, and we believe that this youth-led/peer-led approach is our biggest asset in tackling issues around mental health and wellbeing. We support stable recovery journeys for young people, lead campaigns to tackle societal issues, develop quality resources based on our own research, and tackle the disparity they face in unemployment, underemployment and accessing opportunities like further and higher education.

YOUR COMMITMENT

Whilst the Trustee Board meets for formal meetings 6 times a year, successful candidates will be expected to contribute to the organisation more widely, taking part in fundraisers, external events, strategic planning and advising the staff team when needed. The average contribution expected of Trustees is around one - two hours per month.

Work-related travel costs will be reimbursed.

APPLYING

Training and induction will be provided so we are open to all candidates, and we expect them to develop skills once in post, but we would welcome candidates with any of the following experience:

• Governance and previous board experience

• Business development and trading income generation

• Human resources

• Lived experience of mental health and wellbeing challenges

• Financial background

We are looking for lived experienced volunteers who use screen readers and would be happy to share their experiences of accessing Welsh digital information and services in Wales.

You will share your personal experiences of using a screen reader to access Welsh digital information and services, show how accessibility features work in real life and what changes make a real difference.

You will share your experiences and talk openly in group discussions and have the confidence to raise issues and a willingness to speak up about concerns or gaps in services. You will also contribute and collaborate with project staff and external stakeholders (researchers and decision makers) to shape future Welsh language technology developments helping to create more accessible Welsh language digital services.

How often will I be needed?

• 2 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• Aged over 18

Location

Region

• Wales

Home based

• This role is home based

Additional location information

• Meetings will take place virtually, but there may be an opportunity to join a face to face session depending on needs of the project.

Who this opportunity will suit

• This role is reserved for blind and partially sighted applicants

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • Screen reader user
• • Welsh Speaker (first language or learner)
• • Will have good active listening skills to engage respectfully and sensitively with others’ experiences and perspectives
• • Will be able to work collaboratively and constructively with other group members, stakeholders and staff
• • Ability to reflect on personal experiences.

Join the Fight for Change – Help Us Build Stronger, More Inclusive Communities

WBC Cares UK is dedicated to transforming lives through the power of boxing. We use sport to empower young people, support those with disabilities or mental health challenges, and uplift individuals facing poverty, homelessness, and social exclusion. From community-based gyms to school outreach, mentoring, and essential aid, our mission is rooted in compassion, inclusion, and resilience. 

We’re looking for friendly, committed Volunteer Youth Hub Workers to help run sessions at our Lancing Youth Hub, a safe and welcoming space for young people aged 11–18.

About the Role:
As a Volunteer Youth Hub Worker, you’ll help create a positive environment where young people feel heard, supported, and empowered. You’ll be part of a team running games, activities, discussions, and workshops that promote confidence, inclusion, and wellbeing.

Location: Lancing Youth Hub, West Sussex
Hours: 1–2 afternoons per week (typically 2–3 hours per session)
Commitment: Ideally 3–6 months minimum, with flexibility

What You’ll Do:

• Welcome and engage young people attending the hub

• Support activities such as games, creative projects, or discussions

• Build supportive, appropriate relationships with young people

• Help maintain a safe, inclusive space

• Assist with setup, pack-down, and general session support

• Work alongside staff and fellow volunteers as part of a team

What We’re Looking For:

• Friendly, patient, and respectful attitude

• Genuine interest in working with young people from diverse backgrounds

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Reliability and a willingness to learn

• Experience in youth or community work is helpful but not required

• Must be willing to undergo a DBS check (we can help arrange this)

What You’ll Gain:

• Valuable experience in youth work and community engagement

• Training and ongoing support from our team

• The opportunity to make a real difference in young people’s lives

• Be part of a caring, motivated charity community

We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK. 

What will you be doing?

Our mission is to prevent and relieve poverty locally by providing emergency food and financial support. Distributing over 40 tonnes of food and £50,000 in vouchers each year, we are looking for a Chair to work with the Trustees and Director to drive our strategy and increase our impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the board, ensuring trustees fulfill their governance responsibilities.
• Chair regular board meetings and guide strategic planning.
• Support trustee recruitment, training, and development.
• Act as an ambassador with partners, funders, and the wider community.
• Oversee financial controls, safeguarding, and risk management.

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is around 1-2 days per month. This includes preparation for and attendance at meetings, occasional events, and engagement with staff and volunteers. See further details in the candidate pack.

What are we looking for?

At Letchworth Foodbank, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far and excited about the future. We’re looking for a Chair who shares our vision and will help us make the right decisions as we continue to grow and serve our community.

Essential

• Experience in leadership, governance, or board-level roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and unite people.
• Strategic thinker with sound judgment and an inclusive leadership style.
• Empathy towards tackling and relieving poverty.

Desirable

• Understanding of small charities and grassroots organisations.
• Awareness of safeguarding, equality, and community engagement.
• Experience in financial management and charity finance.

Support and training will be provided by the Trussell Trust to help trustees and Chairs build confidence in these areas.

We champion diversity and welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

What difference will you make?

As our new Chair, you will be joining the Foodbank at an exciting stage in our journey. With the recent arrival of our first paid Director, Charlie Hayter, we are entering a new phase of growth and professionalisation, reducing sole reliance on trustees and creating space for more strategic leadership. Financially stable and well-supported by our community, we distribute vital food and financial aid every year, meeting urgent need at a time when the cost-of-living crisis makes our work more relevant than ever. Your impact will be to guide the board and Director in shaping and delivering a new threeyear strategy, ensuring we build on strong foundations to expand our reach and deepen our impact. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, volunteer-powered charity that is rooted in its community, and to help set its direction for the future.

Throughout the UK, we provide essential services and support for individuals impacted by MS. We connect people to resources that foster a sense of belonging, community, and shared experiences.

 We are pleased to announce that we have secured funding from Wales and West Utilities for a 'test and learn' Community Connections project, which will operate until March 2026 and cover Wales and the South West of England.

 The goals of Community Connections are:

• To link individuals with, and affected by, MS throughout Wales and the South West of England (including Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Gloucestershire, and Wiltshire) to services, activities, and resources that promote living well with MS.
• To establish connections with local service providers that enable people with, and affected by, MS to access support and activities in their communities, while enhancing community connections.
• To offer information and guidance on various topics, including financial advice, cost of living information, energy efficiency tips, carbon monoxide awareness, and the Priority Service Register.

 As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Community Connections Volunteer to assist in directing people affected by MS to information about relevant local and national services. This could involve helping someone access information on benefits or supporting them with grant applications. This role will be conducted from home, providing assistance over the phone and via email.

 Here’s a summary of what the role entails:

• Guiding individuals to sources of support, such as our Living Well services, Helpline, health and social services, MS professionals, and local group activities.
• Referring any complex support needs to our Community Connections project team or Helpline.
• Occasionally assisting individuals who need help with grant applications and gathering necessary paperwork.
• Communicating relevant information to our Community Connections Project Administrator to maintain and update our service signposting lists.
• Staying in contact with referrals to ensure they are progressing with the support provided.
• Listening to and gathering feedback on the service as individuals conclude their involvement with the Community Connections project.

We will provide you with the necessary training and support to develop the skills required for this role, including an induction covering all outlined areas. Please note the role requires a DBS Check.

You will have the opportunity to discuss your role and any additional needs you may have with us.

Role Title: Volunteer Youth Team / Youth Support Volunteer

Organisation: Ignite Youth (East London)

Location: Bromley By Bow Youth Club Venue, East London

Commitment: Every Wednesday evening, 6:00 PM – 9:30 PM (3.5 hours minimum)

Start Date: Immediate

About Ignite Youth (East London)

Ignite Youth is a brand-new youth club dedicated to empowering young people (ages 11-18) in East London. Our core mission is to provide a safe, inclusive, and dynamic space for them to socialise, learn new skills, and connect with positive adult role models. Our new Wednesday Night Club is our flagship weekly session!

The Opportunity: Be the Energy of Wednesday Nights

We are seeking reliable, energetic, and engaging Youth Team Volunteers to assist our lead staff in delivering a fantastic weekly programme. This is a highly rewarding, hands-on role where you directly interact with our members and help run the evening's activities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Activity Facilitation: Help lead and supervise specific activities, such as arts & crafts, board games, indoor sports, cooking, or console gaming (based on your interests!).

• Engagement: Circulate and actively talk to young people, encouraging participation and helping them feel welcome and included.

• Setup & Takedown: Assist in quickly setting up activity stations and tidying the venue at the end of the night.

• Role Modelling: Be a consistent, positive adult presence, promoting mutual respect and good behaviour.

• Safety Support: Help the lead staff ensure the physical and emotional safety of all attendees throughout the session.

What We're Looking For

• Essential Availability: You must be consistently available on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM.

• Attitude: Enthusiasm, patience, a good sense of humour, and a non-judgmental approach.

• Skills: Strong communication skills and a willingness to engage with teenagers.

• Passion: A genuine desire to support young people in the East London area.

• Experience: Experience working with youth (whether through schools, sports, or other clubs) is helpful but not essential.

What We Offer You

• Hands-on Experience: Practical, direct experience in youth work delivery.

• High-Quality Training: Full induction and essential training in Safeguarding.

• Team Support: Consistent support and guidance from our experienced Lead Youth Workers.

• Community: The chance to be part of the pioneering team establishing this vital new club.

How to Apply

Ready to bring your energy to our Wednesday nights?

Please email your CV and a brief Covering Letter confirming your Wednesday evening availability and why you want to join the Youth Team.

Successful applicants will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and mandatory Safeguarding training.

Join us and make Wednesday the best night of the week!

We’re looking for a number of Community Connectors over the age of 18 years old, based across various locations in Wales.

You’ll be volunteering: A minimum of 10 hours per month, Monday to Friday between the hours of 9am-5pm.

The volunteers could be:

• Providing a valuable support to our teams based within the region.
• Build relationships with people, and organisations to raise awareness of stroke and the Stroke Association.
• Engaging with your local community to represent the Stroke Association, this could include hosting an information stand at local face events.
• Sharing your knowledge and experience of stroke to others.
• Researching and gathering information relating to life after stroke services.
• Attending fundraising events, including donation collections.

*Whilst we would be delighted if you could perform all of these tasks, we will be happy to accept enquiries from you if you can provide suitable selective support.

What the role can offer you personally:

• Learning and developing new skills.
• Meeting new people, building a network and engaging with your local community.
• An opportunity to get together (either face to face/digitally) with other volunteers.
• Invitations to join national volunteer events to network and share experiences.

As our prospective new Treasurer, your focus would be on overseeing our financial health, ensuring robust financial practices are in place and aligning our fiscal strategies with our long-term objectives.

About Sussex Pathways

Sussex Pathways is a criminal justice charity based in Lewes, East Sussex. We work within prisons and communities with the aim of reducing offending behaviours and empowering ex-offenders to make positive life choices. Our team is comprised of staff, trustees, and volunteers. We work with offenders and victims of crime primarily within Sussex, but are able to facilitate out of area work when capacity allows.

We received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in June 2021.

What will you be doing?

Sussex Pathways is recruiting for a new Treasurer to lead on finance as part of the charity’s voluntary Board of Trustees. We have an excellent board of trustees from various walks of life, committed to the governance of Sussex Pathways.

The Treasurer will oversee the financial and assurance matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements. 

What are we looking for?

To enable the Board to deliver in their responsibilities and to support the work of the CEO and her team in ensuring the financial compliance and stability of the Charity, we are seeking a volunteer with a background in finance. 

We are seeking someone who brings energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the role, and who will contribute fresh perspectives to our Board. Previous governance experience is not required - we will provide a comprehensive induction and ongoing training.

You should be a finance professional with knowledge and experience in bookkeeping standards, financial controls and systems, budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and the preparation of annual accounts.

You’ll be a clear and confident communicator, able to present financial information in
an accessible way to those without a finance background.

You’ll also be willing to take an active role in key financial areas such as budgeting, forecasting, and liaising with auditors.

What difference will you make?

In undertaking this role, the successful candidate will contribute to the work of the charity, supporting ex residents of prison as they work to a better future and where victims of crime have a voice within the criminal justice system.

This position is pivotal, providing strategic direction and ensuring that our financial and governance structures support our ambitious goals.

Time commitment

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend five Board meetings annually. Occasional ad-hoc meetings occur approximately two to three times per year.

The expected time commitment for the role is no more than seven to fourteen hours per month, which would largely be for preparing for and attending board meetings.

Become the new friendly face in your local Tŷ Hafan charity shop!

This opportunity is a great way to develop new skills and enjoy yourself at the same time.

Our shops generate funds that directly support the whole family, from medical care and therapeutic services for children, to emotional and practical care for families, to sibling support activities & experiences.

Your role will help us continue providing vital care and support to Tŷ Hafan children and their families.

About our Carmarthen Shop:

Our Carmarthen shop is located in a busy walkthrough shopping mall on the edge of Carmarthen town. The shop is well supported with donations and is historically our top performing Lottery shop.

The shop team are always on the lookout for new ways to generate income, including taking part in shopping centre and community events.

Considerations:

Age requirement: 16+

Location: Merlin's Walk, Carmarthen, SA31 3BN 

Commitment:Our shops operate Monday-Saturday, 9am-4:45pm and we appreciate any time you can spare, but ideally at least 2 hours per week.

Shifts will be discussed during your informal chat.

Background checks: We will ask you to provide us with the details of two referees.

Activities include:

• Providing a warm and friendly welcome to all customers entering the shop;
• Helping customers to locate items they are looking for;
• Serving customers at the till;
• Taking donations and promoting Gift Aid;
• Selling and processing our raffle/lottery tickets;
• Acting as an ambassador for Tŷ Hafan, promoting our Big Ambition within your local community..

The Opportunity:
Her Centre is seeking a dynamic Chair to help shape the future of our organisation
and lead our excellent board of trustees. This opportunity will involve working closely
with our CEO to drive change and ensure that our vital work continues to support
every woman in Greenwich who needs us. This is an exciting time of change, which
you will be embarking on with our CEO. You will be joining a dedicated board that
includes expertise from across the private and charitable sectors, the local authority,
and lived experience.

Our Work:
Greenwich has one of the highest rates of domestic abuse in London. Last year
alone, over 4,000 domestic offences were recorded in the borough: a shocking 35%
higher than the London average. Demand for our services has risen sharply: in 2017,
we received 321 acute high-risk referrals but by last year, this had more than
doubled to 780. The most common form of abuse reported is physical violence
(62%), followed by controlling and coercive behaviour (46%). However, the sad
reality is that many women face multiple and overlapping forms of abuse, including
sexual abuse and rape, threats to their children, financial control, and forced
imprisonment.
Last year, Her Centre supported nearly 1,000 women to find safety, seek justice, and
rebuild their lives. We also help children who witness abuse recover from trauma and
support teenagers facing exploitation or violence to recognise unhealthy
relationships and build self-worth. Her Centre is a safe and welcoming space where
all women are listened to and believed in an environment of trust and respect.
Please submit your Covering Letter and CV by Friday, 2 January 2026.

Role Description:
Board Chair

• Time commitment: 6-8 hours monthly. The HER Centre board meetings are hybrid

and currently held every two months.

• Location: Hybrid, in-person meetings at Clockhouse Community Centre, Defiance

Walk, London

Purpose of the role:
The Board Chair is responsible for leading the board, ensuring its effectiveness in
enabling the HER Centre to provide best-in-class service to HER Centre users,
providing strategic direction, and keeping the HER Centre as a leading agency
supporting women, particularly those in crisis due to abuse. The Board Chair focuses
the board on strategic matters, prioritising long-term goals and planning, including
approving the annual business, financial, risk, and operational plans. The Board
Chair also adheres to the Charity Commission's essentials of a trustee:
1. Ensure the HER Centre carries out its purpose for public benefit
2. Ensure the HER Centre complies with the governing document and law
3. Acts in the HER Centre’s best interest
4. Manage the HER Centre’s resources responsibly
5. Act with reasonable care and skill
6. Ensure the HER Centre is accountable
7. Reduce risk and liability

Main roles and responsibilities:
• Maintain high standards of governance, fostering transparency and ensuring the
HER Centre holds itself accountable to its service users and stakeholders.
• Ensure trustee awareness and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements,
including those set out in the constitution and the Charity Commission’s guidance
on trustee roles and responsibilities.
• Ensure that the trustee board annually reviews its structure, effectiveness,
delegations and key policies, and implements agreed changes as necessary.
• Manage trustee relationships to foster a positive board culture, including ensuring
the Board has the policies it needs.
• Liaising with the Board Secretary to arrange meetings and set agendas, and
chairing meetings to ensure these are well run and focused on delivering the HER
Centre’s work.
• Line managing the HER Centre CEO, by supporting, positively challenging and
holding them to account, including working with the Board to approve an appraisal
of the CEO.
• Act as a link between trustees, staff and the Service User Advisory Committee
• Act as a HER Centre representative and spokesperson as required
Term: Two years, renewable for a maximum of nine years.

Training and Induction:
You will receive an induction on the work of the HER Centre and meet the Trustees
and staff.
Payment and Expenses:
The Board Chair is a voluntary role. Agreed, out-of-pocket expenses will be
reimbursed.

About the Role 

We are Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C. We aim to increase inclusion and representation for disabled families across society. We have several different services including bespoke characters, workshops, free resources, events, sensory trails and more. 

As Buttons & Bubbles continues to grow, we are hoping to put together a team of assistants who will be responsible for attending in-person fundraising opportunities. Volunteers will help with small tasks at the events we attend and organise. This may include helping children take part in our activities, setting up and packing away equipment, and engaging with families and members of the public. 

Who Are We Looking For? 

• Someone who is passionate about our mission of inclusion, representation, and belonging. 

• No prior experience is necessary, but an enthusiasm for creating events and supporting fundraising efforts is essential. 

• You should be happy working as part of a team while also being confident in taking on tasks independently. 

• Be able to commute to Surrey and Berkshire for our events. 

What Do We Expect? 

• Must be willing to undertake our training programme, which will be completed virtually at a time that suits you. 

• Have a DBS check (preferably be on the update service) or be willing to complete one with us. 

• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it, please discuss it with us, we’re happy to make small changes where appropriate.) 

• Have a positive attitude toward disability and illness. We’re always happy to answer questions about this. 

What Can You Expect? 

• A kind, caring, and nurturing company that values its people, staff, and volunteers. Our aim is to keep your wellbeing at the centre of our work. 

• A community group that does not currently operate a rota system of any kind. Therefore, you don’t have to commit your time regularly only when it suits you. 

• A positive and proactive approach to disability and illness. Any and all accommodations you require will be made. If you’d like to discuss something privately, please email us to arrange a confidential chat. 

Benefits of Volunteering with Buttons & Bubbles C.I.C 

• Make a difference in your community. 

• Have a positive impact on people’s lives. 

• Develop your current skills and gain new ones. 

• Demonstrate your commitment and reliability to future employers. 

• Show your ability to balance and manage your time effectively. 

• Build your confidence. 

• Explore new areas of interest by taking on additional tasks if you wish. 

Shooting Star Children’s Hospices is seeking an experienced and dedicated academic with a strong interest in paediatric palliative care, or related field to join our Research Governance Committee as a Volunteer Academic Member. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of research at a research active children’s hospice, to ensure that our research activities meet the highest standards of integrity, ethics and governance. 

You will work with the Committee Chair, the Research Fellow, and other committee members to support research that makes a meaningful difference to children with life-limiting conditions and their families as well as bereaved families, including those where a child died unexpectedly. 

Appointment to the Committee will be subject to confirmation by the Shooting Star Children’s Hospices Trustee Board.

Duties and key responsibilities

· Participate in quarterly meetings: Attend and contribute to online committee meetings held four times per year (papers and slide deck will be prepared by the Chair). 

· Review research proposals: Provide expert review of project proposals, contributing to the assurance of ethical and governance standards. 

· Support research oversight: Help ensure that all research complies with regulatory and ethical requirements and reflects best practices. 

· Contribute academic expertise: Share your knowledge and experience to strengthen the quality and impact of the charity’s research portfolio. 

· Promote collaboration: Encourage partnerships between Shooting Star Children’s Hospices and wider academic, clinical, and research communities. 

· Champion good governance: Actively promote equity, transparency, and excellence in research oversight. 

Essential skills and experience

· Proven experience in academic research, research governance, and research ethics. 

· Strong academic background in higher education, and health or social care research. 

· In-depth understanding of research compliance frameworks (e.g., GDPR, HRA, UKRIO, Caldicott Guidelines, or equivalent). 

· Ability to evaluate research proposals and provide constructive feedback. 

· Excellent communication and collaboration skills. 

· Confidence using virtual meeting platforms and digital collaboration tools. 

Desirable attributes

• Academic research background with a track record of publications in the area of paediatric palliative care or related field.

• Previous experience serving on or chairing a research committee or governance board.

• Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in research.

Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (Approximately 1 hour per meeting).

• Reviewing project proposals (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• Email communication and ad hoc queries (Approximately 1 hour per month).

• 2–3 years in the role would be appreciated for both parties to gain the most out of this experience.

• This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses related to attendance and participation will be reimbursed.