At a Glance
- Tasks: Support impactful campaigns and public affairs work for human rights.
- Company: Join a passionate team at Humanists UK advocating for rational thinking and kindness.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, enhance your research skills, and make a difference.
- Other info: Flexible volunteering hours with opportunities for personal growth and community engagement.
- Why this job: Be part of meaningful campaigns that influence public debate and promote humanist values.
- Qualifications: Passion for human rights, excellent research skills, and commitment to the cause.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Human Rights and Advocacy directorate. Across all of Humanists UK, our dream is of a tolerant world where rational thinking and kindness prevail. Our dedicated staff of 35+ and hundreds of volunteers work hard to achieve this aim.
The Human Rights and Advocacy directorate is looking for a volunteer for three months to support our campaigns and public affairs work. We are looking for a passionate, committed, articulate, and creative person with excellent research skills to take on this important role in our organisation.
You can find the Human Rights and Advocacy directorate’s priority campaigns on our website. We have selected these strategically important active campaigns based on their significance to humanists, their social impact, and our prospects for success in the current environment. They reflect areas of public debate where a rational, humanist influence is sorely needed, and where we know we’ll have the biggest impact.
Outside of these priority campaigns, we keep a close eye across over 20 key areas of policy – ready to leap into action to defend freedom of thought, choice, and expression, or to stand for the rights of the non-religious. More information about our work can be found on the Campaigns page of the Humanists UK website.
We are looking for someone who is available during office hours for one, two or three days per week between Mondays and Thursdays (to be negotiated) from June to September.
To apply for the role, please click on Join our volunteer team! on the job advert, answer the application questions and attach a cover letter telling us:
- a little about yourself
- why you are interested in the role
- what you would like to get out of volunteering with the Human Rights and Advocacy directorate
- what research experience you have
- how you would organise your volunteering to ensure key actions are not missed
You don’t need to write a long essay, but this will help us understand who you are, and why you’d be a good person for the role. Please also attach a current CV.
You are welcome to contact the Human Rights & Advocacy Administrator, Elizabeth Rigby-Scott, (campaigns@humanists.uk), or Humanists UK (volunteers@humanists.uk) to discuss the role before applying.
We actively encourage applications from all sections of our community. We particularly welcome applicants from groups currently under-represented among our volunteers; these would include individuals who identify as female, disabled, trans, or from the global majority.
To volunteer with Humanists UK, we ask that you also register as a Supporter if you are not already. This allows you to receive mailings from the organisation, to further your understanding of the work Humanists UK does, and to inform your own volunteering practice. There is no cost to you for this registration. You may also wish to consider becoming a Member; more information on membership can be found on our website. Membership is not a requirement to volunteer with Humanists UK.
Volunteer role: Public Affairs and Campaigns Volunteer employer: Humanists UK
Humanists UK is an exceptional employer for those passionate about human rights and advocacy, offering a collaborative work culture where rational thinking and kindness are at the forefront. As a volunteer in the Public Affairs and Campaigns team, you will gain invaluable experience while contributing to meaningful campaigns that have a significant social impact. With opportunities for personal growth and the chance to engage with a diverse community, volunteering here is not just a role but a rewarding journey towards making a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer role: Public Affairs and Campaigns Volunteer
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation inside out! Familiarise yourself with Humanists UK’s campaigns and values. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past volunteers and staff members on social media or through our website. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to public affairs and campaigns. Think about how your skills align with the role and be ready to share specific examples from your research experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your application! A quick email thanking them for the opportunity shows your enthusiasm and keeps you on their radar. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your passion for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer role: Public Affairs and Campaigns Volunteer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your cover letter, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are beyond your CV, so don’t be afraid to share your passion for human rights and advocacy.
Show Your Research Skills:Since we’re looking for someone with excellent research skills, make sure to highlight any relevant experience. Give us examples of how you've tackled research projects in the past and what you learned from them.
Organise Your Thoughts:In your application, clearly outline how you plan to manage your volunteering time. We want to see that you can keep track of key actions and deadlines, so a brief plan or strategy would be great!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you have all the necessary information at your fingertips. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Humanists UK
✨Know Your Campaigns
Before the interview, dive deep into the priority campaigns listed on the Humanists UK website. Familiarise yourself with their significance and current status. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you articulate how your skills can contribute to these campaigns.
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
Since the role requires excellent research skills, prepare examples of past research projects or experiences. Be ready to discuss how you approached these tasks, the methods you used, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability and commitment to the role.
✨Be Passionate and Articulate
Express your passion for human rights and advocacy during the interview. Think about why this work matters to you personally and be prepared to share your thoughts. Clear and articulate communication is key, so practice discussing your motivations and ideas confidently.
✨Organise Your Volunteering Plan
Since the role requires a commitment of one to three days a week, come prepared with a plan on how you would organise your time. Discuss how you would ensure that key actions are not missed and how you would balance this role with other commitments. This shows your dedication and organisational skills.
