Volunteer Lead Fundraiser

Who Are We?

SEN SHED is a Sussex-based charity supporting children and young adults aged 11–22 with Special Educational Needs (SEN), including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neuro-diverse conditions.

Through supported woodturning and creative workshop activities, SEN SHED helps participants develop confidence, practical skills, social connections, and improved wellbeing in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

As the charity grows, additional creative and practical activities may be introduced in response to the interests and aspirations of the young people we support.

Why Volunteer with SEN SHED?

• Help transform the lives of children and young adults with Special Educational Needs and their families.
• Play a direct role in helping SEN SHED grow and support more beneficiaries.
• Use your skills and experience to support an innovative and ambitious local charity.
• Work alongside a passionate and dedicated team committed to creating positive opportunities for SEN children and young adults.
• See the direct impact of your efforts through the workshops, activities, and opportunities your fundraising helps to make possible.

The Role

The Volunteer Lead Fundraiser plays a vital role in helping SEN SHED secure the resources needed to deliver and expand its activities.

Working closely with the Chair and Trustees, the Lead Fundraiser will help identify, develop, and coordinate fundraising opportunities, enabling more children and young adults with Special Educational Needs to benefit from the charity’s services.

This role is focused on developing fundraising opportunities, partnerships, and funding applications rather than personally raising all funds.

What skills do I need?

Essential:

• Enthusiasm for the mission and values of SEN SHED.
• Good communication and relationship-building skills.
• Organised and proactive approach.
• Ability to identify opportunities and develop ideas.
• Ability to work collaboratively with volunteers and trustees.

Desirable

• Experience in fundraising, sales, marketing, business development, sponsorship, grant applications, or relationship management.
• Experience working with charities, community organisations, or voluntary groups.
• Experience organising events or fundraising campaigns.
• Knowledge of grant funding and charitable trusts.

Previous charity fundraising experience is welcome but not essential. Applications are encouraged from individuals with experience in sales, marketing, business development, communications, grant writing, customer relationship management, or similar fields who are willing to support the charity's mission.

Personal Qualities

• Passionate about improving opportunities for children and young adults with Special Educational Needs.
• Creative, motivated, and solution-focused.
• Professional and approachable.
• Self-motivated with the ability to take initiative.
• Honest, reliable, and committed to the values of SEN SHED.