Research Volunteer

Help improve understanding of facial palsy and shape the evidence that drives better support, treatment and care.

About Facial Palsy UK and this role

Facial Palsy UK is the only UK charity dedicated to supporting people affected by all causes of facial palsy through information, support and research.

Research is a vital part of our work. By gathering evidence, understanding patient experiences and identifying gaps in care, we can help improve treatment pathways, influence healthcare provision and ensure the voices of people affected by facial palsy are heard.

As a Research Volunteer, you'll support projects that help build understanding of facial palsy and its impact. Depending on your interests and experience, you may contribute to literature reviews, surveys, patient insight projects, data collection, research administration or helping share research findings with wider audiences.

This role contributes directly to Facial Palsy UK's Research objective by helping strengthen the evidence base around facial palsy, patient journeys and access to care. It also contributes to our Inform objective by helping ensure research findings are shared in accessible and meaningful ways.

What you'll be doing

Activities may include:

• Supporting research and insight projects.

• Conducting desk-based research and literature reviews.

• Assisting with surveys, questionnaires and consultation activities.

• Helping gather and analyse feedback from people affected by facial palsy.

• Supporting the development of reports, presentations and research summaries.

• Helping communicate research findings in accessible formats.

• Assisting with research administration and project coordination.

• Identifying emerging topics, trends or areas of interest relevant to Facial Palsy UK's work.

Activities will vary depending on your interests, experience and availability.

Skills, qualities and experience

We're looking for people who are:

• Curious and interested in learning.

• Organised and able to work independently.

• Comfortable working with information and research materials.

• Good written communicators.

• Passionate about improving outcomes for people affected by facial palsy.

• Committed to accuracy and attention to detail.

It would be helpful, but not essential, if you have:

• Experience studying or working in healthcare, psychology, social sciences, public health or a related field.

• Experience conducting research, surveys or data analysis.

• Lived experience of facial palsy or an interest in patient-centred research.

Full training and support will be provided.

What you'll gain

As a Research Volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to research that has the potential to improve lives.

• Gain practical research experience within a national health charity.

• Develop skills in research, analysis and report writing.

• Strengthen your CV and support future study or career aspirations.

• Join a supportive network of volunteers and staff.

Practical information

Location: Remote.

Time commitment: Flexible. We will work with you to find projects that fit around your studies, work or other commitments.

Training and support: Full induction and ongoing support will be provided. Volunteers may have opportunities to contribute to a range of projects depending on their interests and experience.

Expenses: Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred while volunteering for Facial Palsy UK will be reimbursed in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy.

Inclusion and DBS information

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and communities and are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

A DBS check is not normally required for this role. If circumstances change and one becomes necessary, this will be discussed with you during recruitment. Having a criminal record does not automatically prevent someone from volunteering with Facial Palsy UK. Any disclosures will be considered fairly, confidentially and in relation to the responsibilities of the role.