Wellbeing volunteer volunteer roles in hersham, surrey

Who are we?

Switchboard LGBTQIA+ exists to provide members of the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as their friends, family and those supporting them, with a listening service that they can contact via phone, instant message and email between the hours of 10am to 10pm every day.

We are happy to talk to service users about any topic they wish. Topics we often talk to service users about include: sexual health, safer sex, relationships, coming-out, gender identity, transitioning, mental health, experiences of hate crimes, support for meeting other LGBTQIA+ people and making friends, and much more.

However, we want to also be upfront and transparent about the fact that not all of our conversations are positive or constructive. Our volunteers can also be exposed to abuse from the public, manipulative callers, sexual fantasies and safeguarding concerns.

What is our over 50's club?

Our over 50's club is a new initiative for Switchboard. 

We want to create a space that enables older members of the LGBTQIA+ community to volunteer with us on our phone lines and instant messaging service, whilst providing a social element that encourages volunteers to come together at our London HQ. 

This club will meet on both Mondays and Tuesdays during the day (you can choose which day works better for you), completing a shift either between 10am to 1pm or 2:00pm to 5:00pm. You can join us weekly or bi-weekly, whichever you prefer.

We then come together between 1pm and 2:00pm to have lunch (paid for by us) and a good natter! 

Volunteers who support Switchboard in this capacity are trained to take both phone calls and respond to instant messages. They do not respond to emails, however. 

Who are we looking for?

To ensure we can provide a high quality service to those who contact us, we are looking for volunteers who:

• Simply put, like communicating and chatting with other people (you’re most likely a people-person who feels energised by this type of communication)

• Feel comfortable taking calls and speaking over the phone to people you do not already know

• Are familiar with different instant messaging platforms (such as WhatsApp and other chat tools) and the types of communication they might receive

• Are able to read between the lines to decipher messages

• Are good listeners who let others lead conversations and instead create the space they need

• Are able to ask broad, open questions to keep conversations flowing

• Understand the importance of using the right tone when communicating in writing, and are able to flex their writing style to suit different people

• Have a strong attention to detail, with a particular focus on spelling and grammar

• Are able to evaluate sources of information and identify those that can be trusted, from those that cannot

• Know when to challenge and when to step back

• Have essential digital literacy skills (such as using email tools such as gmail and outlook, search the web for information and copy and paste website URLs)

• Understand and support our mission

• Have an awareness of the challenges facing the LGBTQIA+ community

• Are empathetic in nature

• Agree to uphold our values of being non-directive and non-judgemental

Location: Remote with occasional in-person meetings 

Commitment: Approximately 8-10 hours/month

About Children With Voices (CWV):

Children With Voices is a community-driven charity committed to supporting young people, families, and communities through initiatives focused on mental health, well-being, food sustainability, and youth empowerment. We aim to create safe, inclusive spaces that promote resilience, opportunity, and growth.

Role Overview:

The Board Secretary plays a crucial role in ensuring strong governance, effective communication, and operational efficiency across CWV’s board activities. This volunteer position supports compliance, board administration, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning—contributing directly to CWV’s mission and long-term impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Board Governance & Compliance

•Maintain accurate and confidential records of board meetings, decisions, and policies.

•Ensure compliance with charity governance frameworks and legal regulations.

•Support the board in implementing best practices in governance and administration.

2. Meeting Coordination & Strategic Support

•Organise and facilitate board meetings: prepare agendas, document minutes, and track action points.

•Maintain up-to-date records of board members, policies, and governance materials.

•Assist in aligning board discussions with CWV’s strategic objectives.

3. Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

•Act as a liaison between board members, stakeholders, and external partners.

•Represent CWV at public engagements, networking events, and charity forums.

•Maintain a professional tone in all correspondence and ensure timely communication.

4. Mental Health & Well-Being Advocacy

•Support the integration of mental health awareness into board planning and discussions.

5. Financial Administration & Fundraising Support

•Assist in tracking financial documentation, grant applications, and reporting requirements.

•Support funding strategies by ensuring appropriate record-keeping and compliance.

•Work closely with fundraising leads to maintain transparency and donor trust.

Key Skills & Experience:

•Experience in board administration, governance, or executive-level support.

•Strong knowledge of UK charity regulations and non-profit governance best practices.

•Excellent written and verbal communication skills; experience in minute-taking and report writing.

•Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, PowerPoint).

•Experience in stakeholder engagement, public speaking, or advocacy work.

•Understanding or experience in mental health, psychotherapy, or community wellness is highly desirable.

•Familiarity with financial processes in a non-profit or charitable context is a plus.

What You’ll Gain:

•Opportunity to play a key role in shaping a growing community organisation.

•Experience in charity governance and strategic planning.

•A chance to contribute to mental health and youth development initiatives.

•Connections with a passionate, diverse, and purpose-driven board team.

Next Steps:

Interested candidates should submit a CV and a short expression of interest outlining relevant experience and motivation for the role.

Become a Trustee at Union Grove Community Nursery – Help Shape a Brighter Start for Local Children 

Role: Trustee (Voluntary Position)
 Location: Union Grove Community Nursery, Lambeth, London
 Commitment: Approx. 1 hour per month; online or occasionally in person
 Start Date: Ongoing

About Us
Union Grove Community Nursery is a warm, welcoming, not-for-profit nursery rooted in community values. Run by a small, passionate team and guided by a dedicated board of trustees, our nursery offers high-quality, affordable early years education in a nurturing, play-based environment.

We believe that early childhood is a precious time – full of exploration, creativity, and connection. As a community-led nursery, we work hand in hand with families to ensure that every child is seen, heard, and supported to thrive.

The Opportunity
 We’re looking for new Trustees to join our friendly Management Committee. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute your skills and passion to a truly meaningful cause – supporting young children and their families at the very start of their journey.

As a trustee, you’ll play a key role in shaping the future of the nursery, helping us remain sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused. You don’t need previous trustee experience – just a willingness to learn and a desire to make a difference.

Your Role as a Trustee

● Provide strategic direction and oversight to help the nursery flourish

● Support decision-making around finances, governance, staffing, and long-term planning

● Act as an ambassador for the nursery in the wider community

● Champion our values of inclusion, play, creativity, and child-led learning

● Work collaboratively with other trustees, staff, and parents

We’re Especially Keen to Hear From People With Skills or Experience In:

● Early years education or child development

● Child nutrition and exercise

● Finance or accountancy

● HR, legal, or safeguarding

● Fundraising or community engagement

● Charity governance or management

● Communications and marketing

But if you don’t tick these boxes and still feel you have something to offer – please reach out! Lived experience, passion for early years, or being part of the local community is just as valuable.

What You'll Gain
 ✨A deeply rewarding role supporting children’s growth and well-being
✨ A chance to develop leadership and governance skills
✨ Connections with a warm, values-driven team of staff and volunteers
 ✨Opportunities for training and learning
 ✨ A direct impact on your local community

How to Get Involved
Interested? We’d love to have a conversation with you. Please send a brief email telling us a little about yourself and why you're interested in the trustee role. Don’t worry about formal CVs – we’re all about people, not paperwork.

Union Grove Community Nursery celebrates diversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds. Whether you're a seasoned trustee or completely new to governance, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Let’s grow something special together.

�� Volunteer Trainee Roller Sports Coach
�� Locations: Ealing, Hounslow, Brent, Harrow
�� Flexible hours | After-school, evenings, weekends or holidays
�� Hybrid opportunities – community & club-based delivery with some remote learning
�� Full training provided

Be Part of Something Bigger. Start Your Coaching Journey with RollaDome All Skate.

Are you passionate about working with children and young people? Do you love roller skating and want to turn that passion into purpose? Join us as a Volunteer Trainee Roller Sports Coach and help deliver fun, inclusive, and empowering sessions that develop both skating skills and life skills.

Whether you’re an experienced skater or just enthusiastic and willing to learn, we’ll train you, mentor you, and help you gain valuable coaching and youth work experience.

�� What You’ll Do:

• Support the delivery of engaging and safe roller skating sessions

• Assist lead coaches with warm-ups, drills, games and group activities

• Learn how to manage group dynamics, encourage participation and promote wellbeing

• Be a role model to children and young people aged 4–18

• Commit to personal development and training as a future community coach

�� What We’re Looking For:

• A positive attitude and willingness to learn

• Interest in working with children, youth or sport

• Ability to commit to at least 4 hours per month (training and/or delivery)

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Reliable, respectful, and ready to grow!

�� What We Provide:

• Free training & mentoring (including Safeguarding, First Aid & Coaching Basics)

• Access to formal coaching qualifications

• Travel and refreshment expenses covered

• Real experience working in sports development and youth engagement

• A pathway into paid sessional coaching roles

No experience needed – just commitment, enthusiasm, and the drive to make a difference.
Ideal for young people (16+), students, career changers, or anyone looking to volunteer and grow.

Skate with purpose. Coach with passion. Belong with RollaDome.

The Guildford Institute is looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated individual to serve as Chair of its Board of Trustees. This important role offers the opportunity to shape the future of a charity that has been a pivotal part of the community for over 130 years.

Based in our beautiful Grade II listed building since 1892, we provide the local community with accessible cultural education and opportunities to build meaningful connections with others.

We’re seeking a distinguished leader with the following qualities: 

• Leadership & Governance

• Passion for the Arts, Education & Community

• Strategic Thinking

• Financial Acumen

• Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion 

Play a vital role in guiding The Guildford Institute to continue to grow, secure its longevity and thrive.

Additional Documents:

Please read our Candidate Brief to find out more about us and the role of the Chair.

Location:Remote

Time commitment:Flexible

Duration:Approx. 2 months (flexible)

Start date:As soon as possible

Application deadline:01 July 2025

Our vision

At the International Companion Animal Management Coalition (ICAM), we're driving a global transformation in dog and cat welfare. Our focus is on free-roaming animals - those often labelled as strays or street dogs and cats.

With our global reach, credibility, and expertise, we're not just envisioning change - we're making it happen. Our approach is rooted in science, collaborating with leading academics to ensure our work is always evidence-led.

Through policy work, advocacy, and knowledge exchange, we're transforming lives, one paw at a time. Our coalition unites some of the world's most respected animal welfare organisations, including:

• Humane World for Animals
• RSPCA
• World Small Animal Veterinary Association
• World Animal Protection
• Four Paws
• Dogs Trust
• International Cat Care
• Global Alliance for Rabies Control
• Battersea

Together, we're creating a world where every companion animal lives a life worth living. 

About the Positive Cities campaign

Positive Cities is a new global initiative from ICAM, launched at UN-Habitat’s World Urban Forum in November 2024, to support cities in taking practical action for vulnerable street dogs and cats. By signing the Positive Cities pledge, city leaders commit to a series of steps that improve animal welfare, make communities safer, and support the wellbeing of both animals and people.

The campaign is still in its early stages – and its website is our gateway to the world.

The Opportunity

We’re looking for a Website Developer – Digital Volunteer with experience designing WordPress websites that work well on both mobile and desktop. An interest in international animal welfare is a bonus. You’ll help us redesign and improve the PositiveCities webiste, shaping how the campaign is presented to governments, NGOs, and the public around the world.

Whether you’re a student, early-career professional, amateur developer, or someone more experienced, this is a chance to use your skills to make a real impact – and to take creative ownership of a live, mobile- and web-friendly site with global reach.

Why ICAM

ICAM is a small but influential international coalition working to improve the lives of companion animals through collaboration, evidence-based policy, and practical support. This voluntary opportunity offers:

• A supportive and friendly environment with space to be creative.
• The chance to shape the look and feel of a campaign launched on the world stage.
• Flexibility – no fixed hours or expectations; you decide what time you can offer.
• Full reimbursement of any agreed expenses.
• Optional opportunities to explore other areas of ICAM’s work and access learning or training resources in areas such as advocacy, policy, communications, or animal welfare.

How to Apply 

Please send the following through the Charity Job recruitment portal:

• A CV (maximum 2 pages) highlighting your experience with WordPress and any previous digital/web projects.
• A short cover letter (maximum 1 page) telling us why this role interests you and what you could bring to it.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds – including students, early-career professionals, amateur developers, and experienced developers looking to build project experience.

If you’d like to ask a question before applying, feel free to get in touch with to Patrick Gerard at Patrick [at] icam-coalition [dot] org:

Our Commitment to Equality and Diversity 

ICAM recognises that companion animal welfare is a global concern that affects people from all walks of life. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, religion or belief, pregnancy and maternity, marriage, or civil partnership. Our strength lies in the diversity of our coalition and the varied perspectives they bring to our mission.

Location

This is a remote voluntary role, so you can be based anywhere in the world. All you need is an internet connection.

Since 2002, we’ve delivered a structured, high-impact, programme of mentoring, a paid internship, skills masterclasses, and workplace visits for young people from under-represented backgrounds.

Our programme empowers them with new-found skills, confidence, aspirations, and support networks, boosting their life outcomes. It also enables employers to engage with and shape future talent, adding value to their organisation, and make a positive difference in their local communities.

​

Our values

Our people are committed and passionate about changing the lives of young people. Our organisational values underpin how we work and are at the core of everything we do.:

· Trust

· Bravery

· Collaboration

· Empowerment

· Inclusion

We have 40 colleagues across the UK, and strong collaboration across a remote working environment is critical to our success. We champion flexibility and wellbeing, and strive to be a positive place work, both in terms of our mission and our culture.

Our impact and growth

Across the UK in 2024 we supported 4,238 young people across our two programme cohorts, with 4,395 volunteers supporting them. We worked with 374 employers to provide mentors and summer internships in 2024 and have 194 school and college partners. 

Thanks to the support of our network, we’re able to have the following impact for young people:

· 99% of programme graduates go into higher education, apprenticeships or work

· 90% of students said they felt more confident than before the programme

· Career Ready alumni have a professional network twice the size of their non-programme peers

· 90% of students rated their career skills a strength following their paid internship

Following a challenging couple of years in the charity sector and wider economy, we have just closed the 2024/25 financial year in a more positive position. We are set to embark on a new 2025-30 strategy which focuses around 4 key pillars:

· Income sustainability

· Digital enablement and adoption

· UK programme alignment

· People & Culture

As some of our longstanding Trustees have recently retired, we are looking for individuals with skills and backgrounds that will help us excel our new strategic focus.

About the role

Role purpose

As a Trustee you will make a significant contribution to creating empowering opportunities for young people from under-represented backgrounds. 

The role of the Trustee is to ensure that Career Ready is carrying out its purpose, as set out in the Memorandum and Articles of Association, and that it complies with the law.

Trustees must always act in the best interests of Career Ready, with reasonable care and skill, whilst also ensuring it is accountable.  They must also ensure that Career Ready manages its’ resources effectively and sets the forward direction of the organisation.

Main responsibilities and accountabilities

· Ensuring that Career Ready functions within the legal and financial requirements of a Charitable Company

· Account for the work of Career Ready to Companies House, The Charity Commission, OSCR, funders

· Managing risks, protecting assets (reputation) and people 

· Ensuring that Career Ready strives to achieve best practice in all aspects of its work

· Determining the overall policy and direction of the Charity

· Fixing the annual budgets and approving accounts

· Recognising and dealing with conflicts of interest

· Appointing the Chief Executive Officer when required

· Agreeing strategic and work plans

· Collaborating with members of the senior management team in the development of strategic plans 

· Hearing membership appeals against the decisions of the Chief Executive Officer

· Ensuring that Career Ready maintains and complies with a policy of equal opportunities in respect of staff, members and stakeholders

· Act as a champion and ambassador for the work of Career Ready 

Person Specification

We are looking for 3-4 Trustees who have:

· A commitment to the mission of Career Ready

· An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship

· Integrity

· Sound judgement

· Strategic vision

· A willingness to contribute ideas and challenge

· Willingness to actively participate in developing the senior leadership team through sharing of skills and expertise 

As part of this recruitment exercise, we aspire to have greater Trustee representation from the following sectors/areas of expertise:

· Digital/technology/systems

· Comms/marketing

· Fundraising

· Finance

· Government/Policy

· Operations

In addition, we welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups, to align with the diverse range of young people we serve, for example, lived experience of social mobility.

Commitment

At least four meetings per year plus AGM.  Usually held in person in London/other locations with opportunity to join remotely. 

Up to three-year initial term. 

Invitation to join Career Ready team at annual All-Colleague event. 

Encouraged to support and participate in Career Ready events.

Opportunities to join and influence other projects and governance committees.

Timetable

Applications close at 5pm on Friday 4th July.

Please note that the closing date may be brought forward if we receive strong applications.

Become a STEM Workshop Leader with Bright Futures UK

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation and showcasing new and innovative STEM learning? Bright Futures UK is looking for enthusiastic and skilled individuals to lead engaging workshops for young people who have taken time out of education due to illness.

About the Role:

As a STEM Workshop Leader, you will work with us to design a fun and meaningful workshop tailored to your expertise, which you’ll deliver on a Wednesday afternoon. Whether your speciality is coding, digital tools, engineering, Computer Aided Design or another skill within the world of STEM, we’d love to hear from you! You’ll have the full support of our team to ensure your workshop runs smoothly and makes a real impact.

What You’ll Need:

1. A skill or practical activity that can be shared with young people.

2. Enthusiasm for teaching and inspiring curiosity.

3. A willingness to collaborate with us in planning the session.

What You’ll Gain:

1. The chance to make a difference in the lives of young people facing significant challenges.

2. DBS and training provided at no cost.

3. Opportunities to develop your teaching and facilitation skills.

4. The rewarding experience of sharing your passion with others.

Why You’ll Love Volunteering with Us:

At Bright Futures UK, we believe in supporting young people as they rebuild their confidence and reengage with education. Through your workshop, you’ll help create a positive, nurturing environment where curiousity thrives and connections are made.

Application Instructions

Please submit your CV and, if you would like to, a cover letter outlining what your workshop may involve. Following this, we will be in touch to inform you of any next steps.

Become a Creative Workshop Leader with Bright Futures UK

Are you passionate about sharing your creative talents and inspiring the next generation? Bright Futures UK is looking for enthusiastic and skilled individuals to lead engaging workshops for young people who have taken time out of education due to illness.

About the Role:
As a Creative Workshop Leader, you will work with us to design a fun and meaningful workshop tailored to your expertise, which you’ll deliver on a Wednesday afternoon. Whether your speciality is henna design, cake or cookie decorating, crochet, glitter art, or another creative discipline, we’d love to hear from you! You’ll have the full support of our team to ensure your workshop runs smoothly and makes a real impact.

What You’ll Need:

• A skill or craft that can be shared with young people.
• Enthusiasm for teaching and inspiring creativity.
• A willingness to collaborate with us in planning the session.

What You’ll Gain:

• The chance to make a difference in the lives of young people facing significant challenges.
• DBS and training provided at no cost.
• Opportunities to develop your teaching and facilitation skills.
• The rewarding experience of sharing your passion with others.

Why You’ll Love Volunteering with Us:
At Bright Futures UK, we believe in supporting young people as they rebuild their confidence and reengage with education. Through your workshop, you’ll help create a positive, nurturing environment where creativity thrives and connections are made.

Play your part in harnessing the value of the UK’s natural environment for everyone 

Recently celebrating its 10 year anniversary, the Ecosystems Knowledge Network (EKN) has gained widespread recognition as a trusted source of insight for all with role in the stewardship of land, water and nature. Through our events, resources, advice and communications, we support a wide range of people, from volunteers in small local environmental initiatives to representatives of big businesses. Our job is to help them harness the value of the environment for everyone’s wellbeing and prosperity. We are a registered charity and a growing social enterprise. 

From architecture to agriculture, ecology to engineering and finance to fisheries, EKN is a diverse network of professionals. We run pioneering events on ‘frontline’ topics not addressed by others, enabling mutual understanding, collaboration, and action between different sectors and interests.  For example, convening events on the role of games and gamification in nature recovery, and running the renowned series of conferences on the rapidly growing topic of nature finance (now into the sixth year).  

We think the natural environment has huge untapped potential to help resolve issues of concern people and businesses in this part of the 21st Century. The current Board is now recruiting up to three new trustees to guide EKN in this endeavour and to deliver to its 4,000+ members and stakeholders. The role includes attending quarterly Trustee meetings (normally online) and we are seeking candidates with expertise in one or more of the following areas: 

1. Skills and knowledge development 

1. Treasurer - financial and commercial oversight 

1. Rural land and communities 

We are looking for people who are committed to using their expertise and professional networks in support of our charitable objectives and social enterprise goals. 

In accordance with Charity Commission rules, Trustees are not entitled to receive remuneration. All reasonable expenses incurred in relation to the role will be reimbursed. The positions are open to anyone who resides in the UK and has the right to work in the UK. 

New members of the Board will be asked to complete a declaration of their business interests. They will need to fulfil their role in accordance with the rules and guidance set of charity trustees in the UK. It is important that they are able to safeguard the independence and impartiality of EKN. 

At EKN we know that diversity of thoughts, perspectives and lived experience fosters innovation. We are committed to fairness, equal opportunity and inclusion and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, abilities and identities across all UK nations

We seek a Chairperson to head our Board at Evolve Counselling who will guide our strategic direction in the provision of lowest cost mental health counselling for individuals and businesses. 

Location: Cambridgeshire area of operations. Chair can be fully remote. 

Voluntary: Reasonable expenses paid 

Commitment: Initial term of 1 -3 years. Flexible hours per month 

Closing date: Wednesday 2nd July 2025

Overview 

For over 40 years Evolve Counselling has provided lowest-cost professional mental health counselling for adults in Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Northamptonshire and beyond, through the skill and dedication of our team of 60+ BACP-registered counsellors.

The role 

We are looking for a new Chair who understands the growing demand for our services and the challenges of competing as a medium sized charitable business at this time. We shall look to our new Chair to build trust and engagement with our CEO, the Trustee Board, our volunteers, and supporters, as we capitalise on great recent work to stabilise and find new opportunities for significant growth. 

The new chairperson will ideally bring health and wellbeing experience and commercial skills, as well as a demonstrable empathy for charitable working and commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life. 

The role of the Chair is hugely rewarding and the scope under the leadership of the current CEO for Evolve to grow and innovate is significant. You will have significant senior leadership experience to drawn upon as you take ultimate responsibility for directing and inspiring the Trustees, making sure we are financially sustainable, and well run for our clients. Our ethos is to look upwards and outwards as we strive for a leading position in mental health services for all, and your commercial acumen, professional contacts, and powers of persuasion in business will be a huge support for our ambitions. 

Including quarterly board meetings, committee sessions (at present virtual), a face-to-face AGM event, plus away days, and regular meetings with our CEO and the trustees, we anticipate a flexible time commitment of around 2 - 5 days per month. 

For further information or an informal discussion on the role, please contact Kevin Bottrell.

Application process: Expressions of interest in the first instance by email to our CEO Gordon Ackroyd.

Purpose of the Role:
The Treasurer plays a key leadership role in ensuring SAPHNA’s financial integrity and sustainability. In addition to the responsibilities of a General Trustee, the Treasurer provides strategic guidance and oversight on SAPHNA’s financial matters.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee SAPHNA’s financial management, ensuring robust processes and controls are in place.
• Advise the Board on financial strategy, risk management, and resource allocation.
• Work closely with SAPHNA’s management team to monitor budgets, cash flow, and financial performance.
• Ensure the preparation of annual accounts in accordance with charity regulations.
• Present financial reports to the Board in a clear and accessible format.
• Support the development of financial policies and procedures.
• Ensure SAPHNA’s funds are invested appropriately, achieving both security and growth.
• Oversee financial compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.

Person Specification:

• Proven financial expertise, ideally with experience in financial management, accountancy, or charity finance.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to present complex financial information clearly.
• Commitment to SAPHNA’s mission, vision, and values.
• Experience in governance, leadership, or financial oversight.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with other Trustees and SAPHNA’s management team.

Time Commitment:
Trustees are required to attend quarterly Board meetings, participation in working groups or committees, and occasional representation of SAPHNA at events. The Treasurer role may require additional time to review financial matters and liaise with staff.

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

A bit about this role

As a charity we are able to help thousands of cats each year thanks to the generous donations we receive from members of the public. Our fundraising events organisers have the exciting and varied role of helping plan and deliver local fundraising events to raise the vital funds needed to help our feline friends. Our fundraising events organisers use their passion for cats and people to plan cake sales, barn dances, quiz nights and everything in between.

What can you expect to be doing?

• Planning fundraising events and activities like cake sales, quiz nights and barn dances in Mid-Sussex RH15, RH16, RH17, BN6, BN45.
• Providing the treasurer with information on funds raised from fundraising events
• Encouraging and promoting a professional image of Cats Protection 
• Following policies and guidelines and ensuring licences and permits are obtained for events

A bit more information about this role and the team

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

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

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

We’re looking for someone with

• Good organisational skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• The ability to prioritise and delegate
• An appreciation of the importance of handling money and charity resources responsibly
• Knowledge of your local community

Time expectation

Our fundraising events organisers usually spend two to three hours per week in this role, which is flexible and can be shared by more than one volunteer.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

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

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

BoB Trustee Specification- June 2025 

Build on Belief is a charity dedicated to helping people who have, or have had issues with drugs and alcohol use, working to improve and sustain their health and wellbeing in order they can recover to lead fulfilling lives. Bring your experience and skills to become a voluntary trustee for a growing and innovative organisation and help make a difference across diverse communities in London and the South-East. If you’ve experience in the health care sector and perhaps even your own lived experience, then you could help us take the organisation forward.

What you will be doing 

Along with other members of the Board, you will be responsible for providing the strategic and practical governance of an enthusiastic and innovative organisation. As a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation for people with histories of drug and alcohol problems we are a pioneering and innovative charity. 

BoB helps build the “social capital’ of people who are on a journey of recovery from histories of alcohol, illicit or prescribed drugs. Many of our service users and volunteers across our ten London and South-East projects have associated mental and physical health problems, along with histories of homelessness and unemployment.

We largely operate a structure where we recruit volunteers from our service users, and our managers from our volunteer pool, once trained. Our CEO, most managers and some members of the Board have lived experience, and many have been through the drug and alcohol treatment system. This ‘unique’ structure, we believe, gives a high level of peer led understanding of needs and responses.  

In terms of key responsibilities, trustees are expected to: 

• Attend and contribute to Board (six evening meetings (2hrs) a year at Earls Court and/or online) and related meetings and share in decision making about all significant issues that impact on BoB. 

• Work with the Chief Executive and senior leadership team to practically support and develop the design and operation of new areas of service delivery as well as providing input and oversight to help everyday operations.

• Ensure that as a diverse Lived Experience Recovery Organisation, trustees continue to keep the interests and needs of those recovering from addiction at the forefront of governance. 

• Develop and regularly monitor the implementation of BoB’s strategy. 

• Oversee BoB’s work, ensuring accountability, strategically managing finances and risks, protecting charity assets, adopting and updating policies and procedures so they are fit for purpose and that the charities resources are used efficiently and effectively. 

• Act as custodian of BoB’s values and long-term future, ensuring that the organisation is complying with its constitution, and is managed prudently and lawfully. 

• Using contacts and networks to help BoB grow and develop and to be an active ambassador for the organisation. 

• Other duties required and expected of a Trustee/Company Director, including ad-hoc task groups and very occasional weekend visits to services across London and the South-East of England. 

What we are looking for 

Our Trustee Board comprises people who have good skills and experience in financial operations, corporate strategic marketing and communications, health care, HR, information technology and legal matters. However, we are at a stage of development where we wish to broaden and strengthen our governance with an additional trustee who has a background as an experienced health care practitioner, to join us on a voluntary basis to help take the organisation forward. 

If you’ve experience as a health care sector practitioner, then you could make a significant contribution to our development. 

We are open to a variety of professional health care backgrounds, including: 

• Experience in health care, clinical or public health, ideally in the fields of drug and alcohol addictions, primary care or mental health. 

• Experience as a registered doctor, nurse or psychologist. 

• Familiarity of services and interventions aimed at supporting people with complex needs. 

We are very open to bringing on board people who can support us becoming a more inclusive organisation. We particularly welcome applications from individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds, women and other underrepresented groups, including those with disabilities and from LGBTQI communities. We are also very open to recruiting someone who may have their own lived experience of addictions and adversity to draw upon. What counts will be your enthusiasm, commitment, competence and interest in taking on a trustee and governance role. 

We seek a trustee who can collaborate at governance and staff level, and work effectively with others across our organisation, in person and, where appropriate, remotely. 

Qualities Required 

Trustees are expected to: 

• Share BoB’s values and aspirations along with having empathy with those seeking to rebuild their lives from histories of problem substance use.

• Have the expertise, skills, life experience and personal qualities to help form an effective and diverse Board. 

• Roll up their sleeves to provide practical support to the CEO and leadership team to achieve our strategy. 

• Demonstrate a willingness to adhere to the BoB Code of Conduct. 

• Be able to fully discharge the legal requirements of being a trustee and company director. 

What difference will you make? 

We are looking for a volunteer trustee to join us on our Board of Trustees/Directors that currently meets once every two months on the first Tuesday evening of the month between 6:00pm and 8pm, usually face-to-face meetings In Earls Court. 
The impact we look to you and other trustees to make includes: 

• better strategic development and governance oversight 

• taking on a lead oversight role for specific initiatives (eg: health and wellbeing of staff, volunteers & service users; organisational developments such as social prescribing, harm reduction efforts; safeguarding)) 

• helping forge new partnerships with others to support the implementation of our strategy 

• using your practical skills and experience to support our small central staff team 

• helping raise the profile of BoB with potential supporters and funders. We want to demonstrate the contribution that peer run social support can make to tackling the stigma that goes with drug and alcohol problems. 

• delivering on our commitment to having more diversity and voices from different cultures in our leadership 

What's in it for the volunteer? 

This role offers a good opportunity for someone interested in a grass-roots South-East based charity, getting Board experience, or for someone new to senior management or a new charity. With us you will be able to add real value and have a crucial input using your interest and skills to help the organisation flourish and develop and reach new ‘audiences’. 

Much is made of the idea of co-production but at BoB we take this one step further by enabling peer support. By joining our Board, you can bring your professional and/or personal experience to nurture and enthuse people recovering from drug and alcohol problems to reach out and support others, using their talents and interests. 

A few more details on application process  

Our deadline for applications is Monday 30 June. 

• Please submit a CV with a covering letter which must address three questions (see below). 

• We aim to be flexible with interview dates, to include early evenings but aim to hold them during the summer. 

• If you need any particular support if you are invited to an interview, then please make this clear in your supporting statement (see below). 

• We plan to have a three-month induction and familiarisation process before final confirmation as a trustee. Once appointed, Trustees are expected to serve a minimum three-year term of office. This is a voluntary and non-paid position.

• Your Supportive Statement or covering letter should address three questions: 

1. Why are you interested in becoming a trustee of BoB? 

1. What insights and experiences can you bring to our Board? 

1. Is there anything in your background that we should be aware of that might be relevant to you becoming a trustee/company director? 

About Build on Belief 

Objectives 

Build on Belief (BoB) is a Lived Experience Recovery Organisation (LERO), registered as a charity that is changing the face of the drug and alcohol treatment and the recovery system in London and the Southeast. Our services are run by people who have had their own experiences of drug and alcohol addiction and understand not only what it’s like first-hand, but also the struggle people often have to reach and maintain recovery. After all, who is better placed to understand what someone with substance use issues is going through than someone who has been there themselves?

Socially focused activities 

As the addiction lifestyle can be all-consuming, it’s also important to find new interests that help to fill the void many people are faced with in early recovery. With this in mind BoB runs a range of sports, art and music workshops and clubs that provide the opportunity to try something new, meet new people, have fun and maybe even fulfil a lifelong ambition to play in a rock and roll band or try out yoga. We provide an open-minded and supportive atmosphere that gives people the confidence to try out new activities and find a sense of purpose and belonging. Often people who come along to our ten local social clubs across London, Sussex and now Buckinghamshire feel a sense of belonging they have not had for a long time, if ever. Some of us feel like we are part of a family. 

All of our drop-in services run at the weekend and some during the week. Where we can, we aim to give our service users access to opportunities such as: music workshops, sports clubs, arts, alternative therapies, food and drink, gardening and allotments and a strong sense of community. We also run a recovery café, CBT support group and sports clubs during the week and on-line offer LGBTQI support groups. With nearly 40% of our service users being people from diverse ethnic communities we are very keen to see that our volunteers, staff and trustees reflect the diversity where we work. 

To complement these local peer-led social activities we have also developed an on-line programme to support peoples’ recovery journey. Whether its Recovery Support sessions offered 6 days a week, quizzes and games, hands on creative groups (Art Together, Creative Writing, Play Reading) or other well-being focused groups (Yoga, Mindfulness, Tai-Chi and more).

Music workshops, sports clubs, arts, alternative therapies, food and drink, and a strong sense of community are just some of the things on offer to anyone who visits us.  

Our deadline for applications is Monday 30 June.