Volunteer for CIWM
Supporting our profession through volunteering
CIWM relies on the dedicated commitment of hundreds of volunteers across the UK and globally who donate their valuable time, skills, and expertise. Volunteers are central to the life and culture of CIWM, playing a vital role in promoting and encouraging best practice at every level within the resources and waste sector.
Volunteering is an empowering opportunity to advance your leadership, coaching, and communication skills, expand your professional network, and contribute directly to our purpose to move the world beyond waste. It is about being an active part of the professional community and driving our collective sense of achievement and belonging.
Supporting our volunteers
Our Volunteer Strategy, developed in consultation with members, sets out how CIWM is enhancing the volunteering experience through modernisation and simplification of roles and administration. As part of this commitment, we have developed key resources, including:
Please be advised that a dedicated online Volunteer Hub site is scheduled for launch in 2026, which will serve as a central location for all resources and information.
Essential Resources for Volunteers
We encourage prospective and current volunteers to explore our dedicated tools and resources:
- Regional Toolkit: A comprehensive resource for committee members managing local activities.
- Mentoring Platform: Our dedicated platform for connecting mentors and mentees, facilitating the sharing of knowledge and professional development.
Volunteering Roles at CIWM
There is a range of volunteering roles available that provide unique opportunities to support members and influence the wider sector.
1. Regional and Network Support
Contribute to local engagement by volunteering as a Regional Committee Member (including roles like Chair, Coordinator, or Treasurer) or as the New Member Network (NMN) Coordinator.
2. Members’ Council Representative
The Members’ Council is the official representative body of CIWM members. Representatives are drawn from each Region and the New Member Network, ensuring two-way communication with the Presidential Team and senior leadership.
3. Professional Interview Panellist
This crucial role involves the peer assessment of candidates applying for Chartered membership. Panellists must be CIWM Chartered members or Fellows and must complete dedicated CIWM Chartered Interviewer training.
4. Mentor
Share your professional knowledge and experience with a less experienced member to support their continued personal development and enhance your own leadership skills.
5. Early Careers Engagement Volunteer
Support the next generation of resources and waste professionals by engaging with educational outreach, university networks, and the New Member Network (NMN) to guide new entrants into the sector.
6. Strategic Expert Group (SEGs)
Join a Strategic Expert Group to contribute your technical knowledge and experience. SEGs are made up of professionals who produce best practice guidance, contribute to consultation responses, and write technical papers for publication.
Find out more
To find out more about these roles or to express your interest in volunteering, please contact us at volunteers@ciwm.co.uk.