Ref: V562
Location: Homebased with regular travel to different locations/ events across the county, especially Ipswich and occasionally elsewhere in the UK.
Contract Type: Temporary until end of March 26 with possibility of extension
Hours: 20 – 25 hours per week (Flexible working hours will be required to accommodate evening sessions and in-person meetings in Ipswich with partners and young people.)
Salary: FTE equivalent based on 35 hours per week – £25,625 (Pro-rata for 25 hours per week £18,296 and for pro rata 20 h.p.w £14,632)
DBS/PVG: Enhanced DBS required
Line Manager: Delivery Leader
Closing date: 10/12/25
Anticipated start date: ASAP
Volunteering Matters
Who we are
At Volunteering Matters, we believe people have the power to create change. Whether through volunteering by helping others and giving time, or through social action such as speaking up, campaigning, or leading change, everyone can make a difference. We bring people together to build stronger communities across England, Scotland and Wales, making sure everyone has the chance to get involved and create real change.
Creating stronger communities through the power of volunteering
Volunteering Matters is a nationwide charity that exists to create stronger communities through the power of volunteering. We work with local partners to develop impactful programmes that support individuals and communities across the UK.
Since 1962, we’ve used our influence to champion volunteering as a powerful tool to build a thriving, resilient society. Our projects are co-created with the people and communities we work alongside: an approach that encourages our participants to become future volunteers and leaders, not just beneficiaries.
We understand the pressures of day-to-day life and create flexible, inclusive opportunities for people at all stages of life. And beyond delivering projects on the ground, we use our voice to shape policy and practice – ensuring volunteering stays recognised, supported and sustainable for generations to come.
What we do
We help people of all ages and backgrounds get involved in volunteering and social action. We focus on making sure that everyone, no matter their situation, has the chance to take part. We work with local people.
How we do this
We support people to share their time and skills to help others and tackle big challenges in their communities.
- We remove barriers to volunteering and social action, making it easier for people who don’t always get the chance to take part.
- We listen to and amplify voices that aren’t always heard, helping volunteers and communities influence change.
- We help volunteers beyond their first experience, offering training, support, and pathways to new opportunities.
- We connect businesses with communities, creating meaningful employee volunteering projects.
- We show the impact of volunteering and social action, proving how it changes lives for the better.
Our promise to volunteers
We are always looking for new ways for volunteers to make a difference. We bring people together across generations and backgrounds to learn from each other and create change. At the same time, we make sure that all our volunteers are trained, supported, and valued, so they feel confident in what they do.
It’s a brilliant time to join us. We’re evolving, growing our impact, and shaping a future where everyone can take part and feel they belong.
About the role
We’re seeking a dynamic individual with experience in youth and community development, facilitation, partnerships, and communications to lead #iwill social action in Ipswich. As the Town Social Action Engagement Lead, you’ll coordinate local #iwill activities across the town, working closely with Volunteering Matters and key partners to drive place-based change. This temporary role (until March 2026, with possible extension) focuses on embedding #iwill as a trusted brand, supporting a Community of Practice, and delivering youth-led initiatives that amplify young voices and foster collaboration across Ipswich and Suffolk.
Our Values & Way of Working
In all that we are guided by our values: Empowering, Inclusive, Compassionate, Positive & Straightforward.
Diversity & Inclusion
Volunteering Matters welcomes all applicants and are keen to ensure our team reflects the diversity of the UK and the communities we serve. We encourage applications from disabled, LGBT and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, along with candidates with any protected characteristics and from disadvantaged groups.
Disability Confident & Reasonable Adjustments
We guarantee to interview anyone with a disability whose application meets the minimum criteria for the role. Please provide evidence in your application, which demonstrates that you meet the level of competence required in the Job Description under skill and experience. To be considered for a guaranteed interview or to discuss any reasonable adjustments during the process, please state this in your cover letter.
Benefits
Our employee benefits reflect our culture which is built on an approach of full flexibility with accountability, and designed to let you make your most positive contribution; we offer:
- Flexible Working by Default (re hours & place of work)
- Unlimited Annual Leave
- Employee Pension scheme
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Enhanced sick and family leave.
- Lifestyle Discount Scheme
We are also open to discussing job share applications.
GDPR Statement
If you apply for a role with us, we will retain your contact details including your name, address, email address and phone number to help us manage your application for up to six months. We will not use your personal data for any other purpose or share it with any third party. You can contact us at any point to update your personal information or ask us to delete it from our records.
Policy on AI-Generated Applications
Applications are accepted on trust, and we expect all submissions to reflect the applicant’s own words, experiences, and motivations. While tools such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) may support the application process, applications should not be generated wholly by AI.
To Apply
Please send an updated, complete CV and cover letter via the Charity Job Apply button above. In your application clearly state which role you are applying for. In the cover letter please demonstrate how you would fulfil the role requirements, what previous relevant achievements you have (both in life and at work), what skills & experience you can offer, and what you believe you can contribute to Volunteering Matters.
We welcome applications from everyone, but please note that if we receive an extremely large number of responses, we may close this advert early to fully consider applications. We encourage you to apply promptly so you don’t miss the opportunity to join our community.
Right to Work in the UK
Please note that while we hold a license to sponsor employees on a skilled worker visa, the number of applications we can make each year is very limited. Unfortunately, this role does not meet the criteria for sponsorship, therefore, you must already have the right to work in the UK to be considered for this position.
If you have any questions about current vacancies, the recruitment process, or need support, our team is here to help. You can contact us directly by emailing HRPay@volunteeringmatters.org.uk and a member of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.
#volunteeringmatters www.volunteeringmatters.org.uk