At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Board to shape housing and support for older people.
- Company: Abbeyfield & Wesley, a charity dedicated to improving lives of the elderly.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, develop skills, and make a real difference in your community.
- Other info: Meet quarterly and join sub-committees to deepen your understanding.
- Why this job: Be part of a compassionate team and champion the well-being of older people.
- Qualifications: No prior board experience needed; just a passion for helping others.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 26000 £ per year.
Voluntary Board Members (multiple posts) Abbeyfield & Wesley
Closing Date: 17 July 2026
Salary: Voluntary Role
Contract: Initial three-year term
Join our Board and make a difference to the lives of older people. Abbeyfield & Wesley is a housing association providing a range of housing and support for older people across Northern Ireland. We’re a registered charity and member society of the Abbeyfield movement, which has its roots in voluntary action. With thirteen supported sheltered houses, three sheltered housing schemes and a residential dementia care home, the provision of good quality, affordable housing is at the heart of what we do. But we’re not just about bricks and mortar – the recognition that overcoming loneliness and insecurity can make all the difference to an older person’s well-being and quality of life; and that local people have an essential part to play in helping older people in the community has been fundamental to Abbeyfield’s guiding principles for 70 years.
Could this be you? We want to expand the range of skills, knowledge and expertise within our Board. We’re looking for new members who have commitment and an interest in older people, housing, care and support. The successful applicant(s) will:
- have the ability to exercise general independent judgement, debate constructively and challenge vigorously while working to achieve a shared consensus
- have the ability to review and comment on strategic, financial and operational matters.
We will particularly welcome expressions of interest from females and those with experience in estates management, health & social care, HR/employment, legal, marketing/PR or older people. You don’t need to have previous board experience to apply; we’ll provide a full induction and support.
What time commitment is involved? The Board meets a minimum of four times a year. Meetings are currently held in person on the evening of the second Monday of March, June, September and December. All appointments are for an initial three-year term. In addition, Board Members are encouraged to join one of our three sub-committees to broaden their understanding of the organisation (Finance, Governance & Audit or Property & Development). Committee meetings are usually held quarterly, at a time arranged to suit committee members.
What are the benefits of becoming a Board Member? Becoming one of our Board Members means you will not only be using your skills to shape the work of Abbeyfield & Wesley, but you’ll also be supporting and championing the lives of older people in your community. And of course, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your knowledge, broaden your experience and be part of a supportive, compassionate and dynamic team. All Board Members are appointed on a voluntary basis. Reasonable out of pocket expenses, including mileage, will be reimbursed.
How to find out more: A Recruitment Pack and Expression of interest form are available below. Completed Expressions of Interest should be returned by 5pm on Friday 17th July 2026. Informal interviews will be held at a mutually convenient time.
Volunteer Board Member – Shape Elder Housing & Care in Carrickfergus employer: NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association
Abbeyfield & Wesley is an exceptional employer dedicated to enhancing the lives of older people in Northern Ireland through quality housing and support. As a voluntary Board Member, you will join a compassionate team that values your skills and insights while providing opportunities for personal growth and community impact. With a strong commitment to inclusivity and support, Abbeyfield & Wesley fosters a collaborative environment where your contributions can truly make a difference.
Contact Details:
NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Volunteer Board Member – Shape Elder Housing & Care in Carrickfergus
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We think you need these skills to ace Volunteer Board Member – Shape Elder Housing & Care in Carrickfergus
Some tips for your application 🫡
Share Your Passion for Social Impact:When you're applying for a volunteer role at a nonprofit like NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association, don’t just list your skills. Show us why you're passionate about social impact! Use your cover letter to tell a story about what drives you and how you've been involved in similar initiatives. Personal connections to the cause can really make your application stand out.
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How to prepare for a job interview at NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association
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Dive deep into the mission of NIFHA - Northern Ireland Federation of Housing Association and understand the issues they tackle. When they ask about your motivation to volunteer, share specific experiences that link your passion to their cause—whether it’s local community work or a broader social impact.
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Highlight any relevant skills that can aid in their projects, such as fundraising, project management, or community organising. Be prepared to share examples of how you’ve used these skills in past volunteer roles or relevant experiences.
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In non-profit interviews, especially for volunteer roles, you might get scenario-based questions. Think about times when you've encountered challenges in team work or community engagement, and how you resolved them—this shows your problem-solving abilities.
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Since this is a volunteer role, they’ll likely want to see your commitment to the cause over an extended period. Be ready to discuss how much time you can dedicate, any special skills you can bring, and your eagerness to learn and grow with the organisation—this excites them to have you on board!
