We are recruiting two new volunteer roles:
- Data Protection Specialist and Data Protection Officer
- Charity Secretary
You can find out more about the roles below. Please get in touch with us if you are interested in these roles, or would simply like to find out more about them.
Volunteer Data Protection Specialist & Data Protection Officer (DPO)
Organisation: Achalasia Action
Location: Remote (occasional virtual meetings)
Time Commitment: Approx. 4–6 hours per month
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses may be reimbursed)
About Achalasia Action
Achalasia Action is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by achalasia, a rare oesophageal motility disorder. We provide information, peer support, and advocacy to improve the lives of those living with the condition.
We are governed by a Board of Trustees and supported by a small team of committed volunteers, many with personal or professional connections to achalasia. You can find out more about our work on our website.
Role purpose
As a small but growing charity, we are committed to safeguarding the personal data of our beneficiaries, volunteers, and supporters. We are seeking a knowledgeable volunteer to guide us in data protection compliance and serve as our designated Data Protection Officer (DPO) under the UK GDPR.
The Volunteer Data Protection Specialist & DPO will oversee the charity’s compliance with data protection legislation, advise on best practices, support risk management relating to personal data, and act as the main point of contact for data protection matters both internally and with the ICO.
This is a strategic volunteer role suited to someone with expertise in data protection and an interest in supporting a small organisation with a vital cause.
Key responsibilities
As Data Protection Officer (DPO):
- Monitor the charity’s compliance with UK data protection laws and internal policies
- Advise trustees and volunteers on data protection obligations and risk management
- Provide guidance on lawful bases for processing personal data, consent, and privacy notices
- Act as the contact point for the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and data subjects
- Maintain records of processing activities (ROPA), where applicable
- Advise on Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) for new projects or technologies
- Support the handling of Subject Access Requests (SARs) and any potential data breaches
As Data Protection Specialist:
- Develop or maintain data protection policies, procedures, and guidance documents
- Support training and awareness for volunteers and trustees
- Assist in mapping data flows and advising on data retention and deletion schedules
- Review data collection tools (e.g. surveys, forms) to ensure compliance
- Stay up to date with changes in legislation and inform the board as needed
Person specification
Essential:
- Strong knowledge of UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018
- Experience in data protection, information governance, legal, compliance, or related areas
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to assess data protection risks
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work independently and advise non-specialists in clear, accessible terms
- High integrity and professional ethics
Desirable:
- Experience as a Data Protection Officer (voluntary or professional)
- Understanding of the charity or non-profit sector
- Familiarity with data protection considerations in small organisations using digital tools (e.g. cloud storage, email platforms, CRM systems)
Time commitment
- Approx. 4–6 hours per month, depending on activity
- Flexibility to respond to queries or attend occasional virtual meetings with trustees
- Initial review and setup period may require slightly more time
Why volunteer with us?
- A meaningful opportunity to contribute your expertise to a unique cause
- Experience in applying data protection within the context of a small charity
- Flexible, remote volunteering role to fit around your availability
- Induction and support from the Chair and Trustees
- Named recognition on the charity’s records (if desired) as DPO
Support and training
- Induction to the charity and the trustee board
- Ongoing support from the Chair and other trustees
- Access to relevant Charity Commission and NCVO guidance on charity governance
- Opportunities for further training or development, if desired
How to apply
To express your interest in the Data Protection role or request more information, please contact us at silvia.davey@achalasia-action.org. Whatever your background, if you think you have relevant experience, we’d love to hear from you!
Volunteer Charity Secretary
Location: Remote (monthly virtual meetings)
Time Commitment: Approx. 5–6 hours per month
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses will be reimbursed)
About Achalasia Action
Achalasia Action is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals affected by achalasia, a rare oesophageal motility disorder. We provide information, peer support, and advocacy to improve the lives of those living with the condition.
We are governed by a Board of Trustees and supported by a small team of committed volunteers, many with personal or professional connections to achalasia. You can find out more about our work on our website.
Role summary
The Charity Secretary plays a key role in supporting Achalasia Action’s Board of Trustees. The role includes overseeing administrative and governance processes, ensuring compliance with the Charity Commission, and facilitating effective trustee meetings and decision-making. The role also involves administratively supporting other charity processes.
Key Responsibilities
As Secretary to the Board of Trustees, your responsibilities will include:
Governance & compliance
- Maintain statutory records (e.g. governing documents, trustee details, declarations of interest)
- Support the process of timely submission of annual reports and other filings to the Charity Commission and the holding of the Achalaisa Action’s Annual General Meeting
- Keep up to date with developments in charity governance and advise the board accordingly (with support)
Board administration
- Arrange and schedule monthly trustee meetings (held virtually)
- Prepare and circulate meeting agendas in consultation with the Chair
- Accurately record and circulate meeting minutes and ensure action points are followed up
- Maintain a register of decisions, policies, key documents and risks
General administration
- Maintain good communication and coordination among trustee
- Ensure proper management and secure digital storage of governance records
- Procurement, management and distribution of Achalaisa Action materials and merchandise to charity supporters
- Supports the administrative aspects of delivering Achalasia Action peer support services
Person specification
Essential:
- Organised and detail-oriented, with strong administrative skills
- Able to handle confidential information with discretion
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- Comfortable with digital tools (specifically G Suite, Google Mail, shared drives, Google Docs)
- Interest in, and knowledge of, achalasia with a desire to improve the lives of people with the condition
- Willing to learn about charity governance, with support from Chair
Desirable:
- Experience in a secretarial or administrative role
- Experience of working or volunteering in the charity sector
- Direct connection with achalasia
Time commitment
- Approximately 5–6 hours per month, including attendance at one trustee meeting per month (virtual), although this is variable month on month
- Flexibility to complete tasks outside of meetings as required
- Minimum commitment: 12 months (renewable, with review)
Support and training
- Induction to the charity and the trustee board
- Ongoing support from the Chair and other trustees
- Access to relevant Charity Commission and NCVO guidance on charity governance
- Opportunities for further training or development, if desired
Why volunteer with us?
- Be part of a passionate team improving lives for those affected by achalasia
- Develop your experience in charity governance and leadership
- Gain insight into how a small charity operates
- Make a real impact on people’s lives with your time and skills
How to apply
If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to learn more, please contact us at jayne.fitzgerald@achalasia-action.org. Whatever your background, if you think you have relevant experience, we’d love to hear from you!
