How you can help the ODA
As a charity, the ODA relies greatly on the skills and experience of volunteers who give their time to support the work of the Association across many roles. Now we are entering a challenging phase in the charity’s history, more than ever we need volunteers to help us with specific tasks and roles. In return we offer support, training, and opportunities to meet other passionate and dedicated people who care about the Dyke and its landscapes.
The following roles are essential to the sustainability and success of the Association. For our committee and trustee roles, we are open to applicants from applicants based anywhere geographically, as we always offer Zoom and other remote access options for meetings. To discuss any of these roles in more detail, please contact us at oda@offasdyke.org.uk
Content Editor
We are looking for someone to write and collate content across our platforms – the ODA Newsletter, our social media channels, our website, press releases and other news media content. We currently publish a quarterly newsletter for members that features ODA news and a range of articles relating to Offa’s Dyke. The content editor would need to be confident in following up on stories, have an eye for a good story, and have an interest in Offa’s Dyke.
Ideally you would have experience in writing engaging, concise, and informative content across a variety of platforms. Some experience in an editorial role – gathering content, contacting potential and existing authors, and staying on top of recent developments – is desirable, as is experience of creating social media content for a small charity or not for profit organisation. This role involves liaising with the ODA trustees, academics, community groups, and other people engaged with Offa’s Dyke and its environs.
Secretary
The Secretary is a Trustee who has several vital roles. Firstly, they take notes from meetings and disseminate them to the committee, and act as a conduit for effective communication both among the committee and out to the membership. Secondly, the Secretary has an important legal position with regards to finance and charity governance, being named on ODA bank accounts. However please be reassured you will not have direct control, decision making, or personal liability for the charity’s finances – as these are collective responsibility of the ODA trustees and the Treasurer.
This role would be ideal for someone with experience on committees and boards, who is confident in taking concise but accurate minutes, and happy to be named on ODA banking accounts.
Please note that members have to have joined the ODA six months before they are eligible to become a trustee.
Treasurer
The treasurer is a Trustee of the ODA, who has oversight over financial matters including payroll for staff, banking and savings accounts, invoices, and Gift Aid arrangements. An important role in the committee, the Treasurer needs to consult with both the committee and with key external organisations including HMRC, the Charity Commission, and other regulatory bodies. Our accounts and payroll are handled by an accountant, and the Trustee will need to be confident in communicating with them to ensure finances are handled in a transparent, competent, and effective manner.
This role would suit someone with a background in charity finance, accountancy, or other financial responsibility.
Please note that in order to become a Trustee, individuals must have been a member of the ODA for 6 months or more.
Trustee Member
Trustees at the ODA are the governance of the charity and responsible for decision making, leadership, and planning for the future of the organisation. Trustees come from diverse backgrounds and many walks of life – all lived experience is valuable as a Trustee.
You do not need previous leadership or governance experience to apply, but we are looking for passion, drive, and the ability to work as part of a team. Meetings are currently approximately once every two months, as well as an annual AGM, and Trustees can take part remotely via Zoom. We are particularly keen to hear from anyone with experience in working on business development, charity finance, conservation management, and museum management.
Please note that in order to become a Trustee, individuals must have been a member of the ODA for 6 months or more.
ODA Centre Volunteer
Please note that this role is in-person at the ODA Centre in Knighton, Powys.
The centre at Knighton will reopen for Easter 2022, initially for weekends and bank holidays. We are looking for engaging, enthusiastic individuals to volunteer in the centre and welcome visitors, serve teas and coffees, and work with centre staff to keep the premises welcoming and tidy.
Shifts are flexible, and we will offer volunteers a comprehensive training programme including First Aid and Food Hygiene if required. You will be joining a group of happy and dedicated volunteers who make the centre in Knighton the fantastic resource it is for the local community, walkers, tourists, and anyone wanting to learn more about Offa’s Dyke and the landscapes that surround it.
There will be a volunteer open day at the Centre on Monday, April 4th, for anyone wanting to learn more and to meet the team managing volunteers at the ODA. For more information, please email Karen and Chris Plant at oda@offasdyke.org.uk
Thank you,
Penelope Foreman
Chair ODA
