Candidate and Purpose of the Post
Are you passionate about people and making a difference in your community?
We are looking for an organised, enthusiastic and proactive individual to lead the recruitment, engagement and development of volunteers across RSPCA Sheffield. This is an exciting opportunity to help grow and strengthen our volunteer programme, ensuring volunteers have a rewarding experience whilst making a meaningful contribution to animal welfare.
The successful candidate will be responsible for recruiting, supporting and retaining volunteers across a wide range of roles including fundraising, events, online sales, retail, administration and animal welfare support. They will work closely with colleagues to identify volunteer needs, provide training and development opportunities and ensure volunteers feel valued and supported.
The role will also play a key part in developing volunteer-led fundraising initiatives, community engagement opportunities and volunteer participation at events, helping to increase the charity's impact and income.
By building a thriving volunteer community, this role will contribute directly to the growth, sustainability and success of RSPCA Sheffield and enable the charity to support more cats and dogs in need.
Overall Purpose of the Post
- To recruit, support and retain volunteers across the organisation
- To develop and promote volunteering opportunities within local communities
- To provide volunteer inductions, training and ongoing support
- To work with managers and teams to identify and meet volunteer needs
- To develop volunteer-led fundraising, events and community activities
- To maintain accurate volunteer records and processes
- To promote a positive volunteer culture and experience throughout the charity
- To uphold the values and reputation of RSPCA Sheffield through a professional and proactive approach
About the RSPCA Sheffield
The RSPCA Sheffield is a large, self-funding, animal rescue charity, which is affiliated with national RSPCA. Our mission is to ensure animals have a good life by caring for those in need, by advocating on behalf of the animals and by inspiring everyone to treat them with compassion and respect.
The RSPCA Sheffield Rescue Centre is a driving force for animal welfare. We set the standards for compassionate high-quality provisions of impactful animal welfare and people services, delivered through innovation and strong partnership and collaboration. We are a small team, who work hard, providing for the animals in our care, support for the public, stakeholders and our donators for our city-based charity shops and online sales.
We are currently in the process of an ambitious plan to continue our legacy and drive toward the future of the RSPCA Sheffield Branch. This includes expanding our staff team to drive the growth, impact and reach of the charity. All our staff and volunteers work as one, through varying roles and responsibilities. The charity operates 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, including evenings and bank holidays, in line with business needs.
Role responsibilities
Main responsibilities
Volunteer Recruitment and Development
- Lead the recruitment of volunteers across all areas of the organisation.
- Promote volunteering opportunities through community engagement, local partnerships, social media, volunteer centres and events.
- Develop creative approaches to attract new volunteers from diverse backgrounds.
- Conduct volunteer interviews, assessments and onboarding activities.
- Organise and deliver volunteer inductions and training programmes.
- Support volunteers throughout their journey with the charity, ensuring they have a positive experience.
- Develop volunteer pathways that encourage progression, development and long-term retention.
Volunteer Support and Engagement
- Act as the main point of contact for volunteers across the organisation.
- Build positive relationships with volunteers and provide ongoing support and guidance.
- Recognise and celebrate volunteer contributions through engagement activities and recognition programmes.
- Support managers and staff in effectively working with volunteers.
- Resolve volunteer concerns or issues in a professional and supportive manner.
- Monitor volunteer satisfaction and identify opportunities for improvement.
Community Engagement and Volunteer Recruitment
- Represent RSPCA Sheffield at community events, recruitment fairs and networking opportunities.
- Develop relationships with local businesses, colleges, universities and community groups to encourage volunteering.
- Identify opportunities for group volunteering and corporate volunteer days.
- Promote volunteering opportunities through presentations, talks and community outreach activities.
- Develop initiatives to increase awareness of volunteering opportunities across Sheffield.
Volunteer-Led Fundraising and Events
- Support volunteers in organising and delivering fundraising activities and community events.
- Encourage volunteers to undertake fundraising challenges and campaigns on behalf of the charity.
- Develop volunteer fundraising groups and community ambassador opportunities.
- Recruit and coordinate volunteers to support fundraising events and activities.
- Assist in the planning and delivery of volunteer-led fundraising initiatives.
- Help maximise volunteer involvement in income-generating activities across the organisation.
Volunteer Administration and Compliance
- Maintain accurate volunteer records in accordance with organisational procedures and GDPR requirements.
- Ensure all relevant checks, references and documentation are completed where required.
- Monitor volunteer numbers, activity levels and retention rates.
- Produce reports and updates relating to volunteer activity and development.
- Assist in developing and reviewing volunteer policies, procedures and guidance.
- Ensure volunteers receive appropriate training and information relating to health and safety and safeguarding.
Health and Safety
- Follow organisational health and safety procedures at all times
- Identify and report hazards or concerns promptly
- Participate in relevant training and contribute to maintaining a safe working environment
General Duties
- Maintain a flexible and proactive approach to daily tasks and centre priorities
- Work effectively as part of the wider team to support the smooth running of the centre
- Demonstrate a positive attitude and take pride in the working environment
- Attend training sessions and team meetings as required
- Undertake any other duties reasonably requested by management which are commensurate with the role
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Pay: £13.20 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- On-site parking
- Transport links
Work Location: In person
