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Becoming a Trustee
Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee with Citizens Advice Cheshire West. This information pack should provide you with useful and important information about our organization and what it means to be one of our Trustees.
Citizens Advice Cheshire West Aims
- To ensure the right advice for everyone, ensuring people do not suffer because they do not understand their rights and responsibilities, or because they are unable to express their needs effectively.
- To improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives by campaigning about issues that affect our clients and influencing decision-makers locally and nationally.
Our vision
- To be THE go-to charity for advice & support in Cheshire West
Our mission
- We advise, support and empower people to improve their lives
- We are accessible and known to all for the best, impartial advice
- We influence policy for a more equal and inclusive society
Our values
- We care about what we do and the people we work with
- We champion justice, fairness and equality
- We adapt to keep pace with a changing world
What skills/experience do you need to have?
You don’t need any specific qualifications or skills but you’ll need to:
- Understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities of being a trustee.
- Be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different from your own.
- Have good listening, verbal and written communication skills.
- Be able to exercise good independent judgement.
- Have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the Treasurer.
- Be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection.
- Be willing to undertake training for your role.
What’s in it for you?
- Make a positive impact for local people by ensuring Citizens Advice Cheshire West is sustainable and able to meet the needs of the community.
- Build relationships with staff, volunteers and other trustees.
- Build on your governance, leadership and strategy skills.
- Increase your employability.
And we’ll reimburse expenses too.
Citizens Advice Service
The Citizens Advice service is made up of national Citizens Advice and a network of around 290 local Citizens Advice members.
The Citizens Advice service is based on four principles:
- Independent - We will always act in the interests of our clients, without influence from outside bodies
- Impartial - We don’t judge our clients or make assumptions about them. Our service is open to everyone and we treat everyone equally.
- Confidential - We won’t pass anything on what a client tells us, or even the fact they have visited, without permission.
- Free - No client has to pay for any part of the service we provide.
We help resolve people’s problems by accessing a large electronic information system to ensure our clients are given accurate, up-to-date information on their rights and responsibilities. We also aim to change policies and practices that affect our clients, and we call this Research and Campaigns.
What does Citizens Advice Cheshire West do?
Citizens Advice Cheshire West provides general and specialist legal help to everyone in the Cheshire West area.
We give advice to help people overcome the problems they face, in areas such as benefits, debt, employment, housing, relationships and immigration.
We use our knowledge about our clients’ problems to identify trends and campaign to improve the policies and practices that affect people's lives.
We have specialist services including money advice, welfare rights, and energy advice, Help to Claim and Pension Wise service.
Our local service has over 100 trained volunteers and paid staff. We deal with over 15,000 clients each year, via face to face interviews, over the telephone and through email & webchat.
Our aim is to provide “impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities”, irrespective of who they are and what background they are from. We encourage all staff and volunteers to welcome diversity, to respect the individuality of each person and value their contributions.
Everyone that uses or needs our service needs to know that we are free, impartial, confidential and independent. We want people to feel comfortable using our service, know that they can get advice when they need it and receive a good service that meets their needs.
What does a trustee have to do?
- Complete an induction.
- Gain and maintain an awareness of how Citizens Advice Cheshire West operates.
- Read papers for Board meetings and attend 7 meetings per year.
- Be willing to work on projects with other trustees and/or paid staff.
- Attend 1 Trustee Development Day per year.
- Take an active discussion during board meetings and work with other trustees to:
- set policy and strategy direction, set targets and evaluate the performance of Citizens Advice Cheshire West;
- Make a positive impact for local people by ensuring Citizens Advice Cheshire West is sustainable and able to meet the needs of the community;
- Build relationships with staff, volunteers and other trustees;
- seek the views of all sections of the community and monitor how well the service meets the needs of the local community;
- ensure that the service plans for the recruitment and turnover of staff and volunteers; and
- review its own work and how effectively it operates including action for improvement.
- monitor the financial position ensuring that it operates within its means and objectives, ensuring that there are clear lines of accountability for day to day financial management;
- ensure that all the finances and supporting financial control systems are in order including that full financial records are kept for all transactions, that money is only spent for the purpose given, and that proper financial controls are in place to safeguard the organisation’s resources;
How much time do you need to give?
- There are at least 5 two-hour Trustee Board meetings per year, usually held between 5pm and 7pm.
- 1 day per year to attend a Trustee Board Development Day.
- Trustees may be asked to attend additional meetings from time to time, including during office hours.
Valuing inclusion
Our volunteers come from a range of backgrounds and we particularly welcome applications from disabled people, people with physical or mental health conditions, LGBT+ and non-binary people, and people from Black Asian Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.
If you are interested in becoming a trustee and would like to discuss flexibility and how we can support you, please contact us.
Contact details
If you would like to discuss the role further please contact Nicki Berg, Head of People:
To apply
To apply, please download and complete our application form on our website.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.
We are looking for an experienced marketing or fundraising professional to help raise our charity’s profile and enhance the impact and innovation of our fundraising campaigns. Ideally operating at executive director level or equivalent. If you have a track record of delivering successful marketing or fundraising initiatives, we would like to hear from you.
You will play a key role in supporting our team to diversify and grow our funding streams; particularly unrestricted income. We would welcome applications from across both commercial and charity sectors.
In this role, you will:
- Provide strategic guidance on the planning and execution of marketing and fundraising campaigns, with a focus on channel strategy and donor engagement across digital, social and traditional media.
- Advise on market and competitive analysis to inform campaign development and positioning.
- Bring expertise in successful campaign delivery and marketing best practice reflecting appropriate legal and ethical considerations.
Your insight will help strengthen our financial sustainability, ensuring we can continue supporting high-impact services for patients.
Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.
What’s in it for the volunteer?
You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.
Time commitment
- Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
- Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
- The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.
How to apply
Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.
RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.
Mencap New Forest is seeking a Chair of Trustees to lead our Board, drive our vision, and champion people with learning disabilities. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on our community.
What will you be doing?
Role Summary
Our Board of Trustees work to improve the lives of people with a learning disability, exercising good governance and following all necessary policies and procedures.
The Chair of Trustees will:
- Provide leadership and direction to the board of Trustees and enable the Board to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation.
- Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation/regulations.
- Work in partnership with the chief executive, senior staff members and support the employees, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation; and to optimise the relationship between the Board of Trustees and the staff.
- Facilitate the Board of Trustees in stimulating well-rounded and carefully considered strategic decision-making.
What are we looking for?
Person Specification
As an organisation we are particularly keen to ensure that our Trustees are fully representative of the community in which we work and we would warmly welcome applications from people with a diverse range of background, ethnicity, gender, culture and physical ability.
Essential
- Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities.
- Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship and adhering to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
- Strategic and forward looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims.
- Good, independent judgement, political impartiality and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment. Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues.
- Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.
Desirable
- Leadership skills exercised through a period change
- Experience of chairing meetings, committee work, some experience of charity fundraising
What difference will you make?
As Chair of Trustees, you will have a profound impact on the future of New Forest Mencap. Your leadership will help us continue and expand our vital services, from social clubs and life skills workshops to advocacy and employability support. By shaping our strategy and ensuring strong governance, you will enable us to reach more people with learning disabilities, empower their families, and build a more inclusive community.
Time commitment
Trustee appointments will initially be for a term of 3 years which may be extended to a second term, or more. The Board of Trustees currently meets monthly in New Milton. We aim to meet for 2 hours, although recent increased activity has tended to extend the time to 3 hours. *The Board recognizes that it would be better to move to a bi-monthly or quarterly schedule, and would like to do so in future. Trustees receive Committee meeting papers a week before the meeting to enable them to prepare for the meeting.
Before you apply
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting New Forest Mencap with their Chair recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.
Please provide:
· A supporting statement, clarifying your motivation for application for the role of Trustee and identifying how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role
· A comprehensive CV including description of your achievements and contact details of two referees.
Please send applications and enquiries to: the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.
We are looking for individuals to join our Board in 2025. In recent years we’ve increased and diversified the membership of the Board including the launch of our Associate Board Member programme in 2023. We are looking to continue this work with dynamic and committed people to support further growth and development, building on our achievements.
We want to recruit new Board Members, alongside an opportunity for two Associate Board Members.
Being a Board Member
Board Members play an integral role in providing robust governance and stewardship, in externally supporting future development through advocacy with regional, national and international stakeholders, potential funders and partners from the public and private sectors. Board Members benefit from working with a small, creative and enthusiastic team on the strategic development of the organisation.
What is an AND Associate Board Member?
We have developed a 12 month programme for two Associate Board Members. These roles will work alongside the AND Board of Trustees, and have been designed as a development programme aimed to support potential candidates who do not yet have (sufficient) board-level experience, or the required availability, but have the passion and potential to be a future AND Board member.
The Associate Board Member roles have been created to support individuals who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, providing greater access to training opportunities, and to add further diversity and richness of perspective to the organisation.
Associate Board Members will:
- bring unique experience from their field of expertise
- share our passion for new ideas and artforms
- place inclusion and engagement at the heart of our culture and vision
- be provided with relevant shadowing, mentoring or training opportunities to support their skills development over 12 months
- attend quarterly AND Board meetings (without legal responsibility or voting rights)
- have the opportunity to apply to become a Board Member after 12 months
It is not necessary to have governance/board-level exposure or experience, but a general understanding of how boards work is required.
If you feel that you don’t quite meet the person specification in the recruitment pack but you’re excited and interested in the opportunity, please get in touch following the application process outlined below.
Joining the AND Board as a Trustee
We are currently looking for individuals to join the AND Board with experience in the following areas:
- Strategic Regional Public Sector Knowledge
- Environmental Sustainability
- Charity Finance
- PR / Digital Communications
- Regional commercial business knowledge across the creative sector, immersive and digital technologies
This isn’t an exhaustive list, and we’re interested in hearing from anyone who believes they have skills or experience to positively contribute to the organisation. We’re also looking for candidates interested in exploring a Vice Chair role with a view to future succession planning for AND Chair. We’re committed to opening up opportunities to people who are currently under-represented in the cultural sector, and we particularly welcome applications from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds, Disabled candidates and candidates under 30.
What is it like to be on the AND Board?
Read an interview with our Trustees Sam Bompass and Katie Moffat about being on the AND Board.
About AND
AND is an arts organisation known for creating radical, site-responsive projects at the intersection of art, technology and digital culture.
Working across the UK and internationally, AND commissions artists to explore the social, environmental and ethical implications of emerging technologies. Our portfolio includes large-scale outdoor artworks, exhibitions, research programmes, residencies, online projects and our flagship AND Festival — a nomadic biennial bringing cutting-edge digital experiences to diverse locations.
Our work often takes place in unexpected settings, from post-industrial towns to natural landscapes, creating space for bold experimentation and critical reflection. At our core, we champion interdisciplinary collaboration and are committed to inclusive, sustainable practices that challenge what is considered ‘normal’ in culture today
Practical Details
AND’s Board currently meets for a minimum of four times a year, through a mix of online, and in person meetings in Manchester (UK). There are additional, occasional meetings and sub-committee groups which can be attended via video call. We are particularly interested in hearing from North-based candidates, especially those with regional public sector or commercial business expertise, although we are open to applications from candidates from across the UK.
This is an unpaid role. You’ll need to commit around a day a month to the role. AND will reimburse reasonable travel expenses to meetings in full.
How to apply
- Read our AND Board Membership Recruitment Pack or our AND Associate Board Membership Pack
- If you’d like to speak informally about becoming an AND Board Member or Associate Board Member, you are welcome to request a conversation by Friday 30 May 2025
- Following this, we ask for a CV along with a short written statement (max 1 page) / video (max 3 minutes) to be submitted by Midnight Sunday 22 June 2025 with AND BOARD MEMBER ROLE or AND ASSOCIATE BOARD MEMBER ROLE as the subject field.
- Complete an Equal Opportunities Form (submitted anonymously)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.
We are seeking a qualified and practicing legal professional to join our Board and provide legal insight, ideally with a minimum 10 years post qualification experience. You don’t necessarily need to be a specialist in healthcare, but an understanding of legal risk, charity law, commercial, governance, or regulatory frameworks would be valuable.
You will help ensure that we fulfil our legal duties as a charity, protect our interests, and make well-informed decisions—particularly when reviewing policies, commercial agreements, or collaborations with our NHS partners and other bodies. Crucially you will advise the CEO and Board of Trustees when seeking external professional legal advice.
Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.
What’s in it for the volunteer?
You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.
Time commitment
- Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
- Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
- The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.
How to apply
Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.
RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.
Could you make a difference and help to improve the public’s health?
The Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH) is looking to recruit up to two new Trustees with a particular expertise in policy and public affairs to join its Council.
RSPH is the world’s oldest independent health charity, operating under Royal Charter, dedicated to improving and protecting the public’s health. We want everyone to have the opportunity to optimise their health and wellbeing.
Our vision, voice, and practice guides our work, enabling us to deliver our high-quality services whilst being a strong and sound organisation, so we can impact the public’s health for many years to come.
RSPH has a unique strong and well-established role as a respected, impartial, and trusted voice in public health and is particularly notable for its work with the wider public health workforce. We need to be agile and innovative in meeting the changing needs of our workforce and leading population health and wellbeing.
Help us to build on this strong foundation and set a clear path to achieving our vision that all members of the population lead healthier lives for longer.
The Trustees of the RSPH demonstrate a commitment to public health and to using their specific skills, knowledge, and experience to help make collective sound decisions for the benefit of the charity. They are responsible for the governance of RSPH and for setting its vision and mission. The Trustees are responsible for ensuring financial probity and for the strategic direction of the RSPH. They are dedicated to working with the executive to support the objects of RSPH and to ensure that the organisation flourishes to improve and protect the public’s health.
Time Commitment
Every trustee is expected to participate in regular RSPH Council meetings (currently four per annum) and may be asked to serve on a sub-committee of the Council. Trustees may be asked to participate in the educational activities of the RSPH by supporting conferences, publications, external relations, or training programmes.
Opportunities will arise for Trustees to support senior staff in specific projects/initiatives. We would expect you to be able to be able to commit to 8-12 days per year.
Trustees are generally appointed for a three-year term which may be renewed once.
The Trustee skill mix at RSPH
As well as the formal duties, Trustees have a key role both as expert advisers and as a 'critical friend' to the Executive Management Team. Therefore, in seeking to identify new Trustees, we are particularly looking to enhance our current range of skills and experience across the Council with Trustees with the following backgrounds:
- Policy/influencing
- Government relations
- Public affairs
Sub-Committees
RSPH Council has five sub-committees comprising, Audit & Risk, Qualifications Governance, Nominations and Governance, Public Health Workforce and Policy and Impact. We are looking for Trustees who would be able to commit to participation in one or more of these committees. We are especially interested in someone with the expertise to chair our Policy and Impact Committee.
Support from the RSPH
In return for this commitment, the charity will:
- Provide induction, training and support to enable trustees to carry out their role as effectively as possible.
- Give adequate notice of relevant dates and events.
- Provide reports and papers in advance of meetings.
- Respond to information requests and governance queries.
- Trustees at RSPH are unremunerated; however, reasonable expenses will be covered in accordance with our Expenses Policy.
If you are inspired by the opportunity to join our Council and help shape the future of public health, we would be delighted to hear from you.
RSPH values and actively strives to have a diverse and inclusive Council and would welcome applications from people of all backgrounds.
Application is by CV, outlining how you can make a positive contribution to the Council. We are looking for Trustees to demonstrate that they:
- Have an interest and enthusiasm in public health.
- Can contribute effectively to the development of strategy and policy, and the scrutiny of their delivery.
- Understand and uphold the principles of effective governance, including contributing openly and collaboratively to discussion, supporting collective decisions, and respecting the boundaries between non-executive and executive roles.
The closing date for applications is 26 May 2025
Interviews will take place via video conference during the week commencing 16 June 2025
For more information on how to apply, please download our Trustee Candidate Pack or click on the link to our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees at Music For Youth (MFY); a national youth music charity that provides life-changing musical experiences for young people aged 25 and under.
Music for Youth brings together over 40,000 young people a year to perform in live music festivals and concerts across the UK. The charity uniquely provides open access to young people, from whatever background or ability, to perform live to audiences: from grass-roots community halls to the Royal Albert Hall. We develop their musicianship, showcasing the richness and diversity of their music through our impactful live performance and development programmes. The wider social and life skills developed by participating in our events benefits all who take part and propels some of the UK's most promising young musicians onto career-changing platforms.
Our vision is to ensure that every young person in the UK can achieve their musical potential by performing the music they love. We believe that music, and the chance to participate in high-quality musical activities, should be open to every young person.
As Chair, you will guide a committed and experienced Board of Trustees, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, and champion our cause at the highest levels.
This is a crucial time for Music For Youth, as we navigate a changing funding landscape and continue to innovate to reach even more young people.
If you are an experienced leader with a passion for the vision, mission, impact and potential of this unique organisation, we would love to hear from you.
About Us
Who We Are
Music For Youth is a national youth music charity that works with schools, youth groups, music hubs, and community organisations to break down barriers to music-making and showcase the incredible talent of young musicians.
Our Programmes and Impact
Each year, Music For Youth reaches over 40,000 young people across the UK, offering them platforms to develop their musical talents across all music genres, and gain confidence. Many of our alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and beyond.
National Music Festivals and Concerts:
We produce and stage high-quality professional standard live music events (including gigs, concerts, and festivals) for young musicians, both regionally at grass roots level, and at the UK’s most prestigious live music venues.
Young Artist Development:
We nurture and develop young musicians so they can realise their musical potential, by initiating adventurous collaborations, commissioning new music, and providing a robust music mentoring programme.
Creative Skills Development:
We provide skills and training development for young people looking for a career in the creative industries in non-performance and stagecraft roles such as stage management, sound engineering, lighting and digital production skills.
Advocacy for Young Musicians:
We campaign to highlight the brilliance of young musicians.
Our work takes place across the whole of the UK with events in all nine regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This coverage enables us to support and tour the work of other partner organisations so they can reach young people further afield.
For over 50 years, Music for Youth’s annual cycle of regional festivals, local events, a national festival and showcase concerts has made a significant contribution to the music education calendar, bringing together regional providers and young performers, and putting young people’s own achievements into a wider national context:
The Music for Youth Regional Festival is a collection of festivals across the UK aimed to inspire musicians at every level of experience and across every genre of music. This collection of regional festivals forms the UK’s largest festival for young musicians. 30,000 musicians take part every year and many go on to perform again at the Music for Youth National Festival and Music for Youth Proms.
The National Festival is a coming together of musicians, bands and ensembles from across the regions to perform on world-class stages including Symphony Hall, and the CBSO Centre. It is a key date in the Music for Youth calendar, hosted by the city of Birmingham in July. Over 12,000 young musicians aged 4-21 from across the UK take part, featuring all styles, instruments and genres of music.
The Music for Youth Proms takes place at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London. This two-day showcase celebrates the incredible diversity, talent and creativity of young musicians from all corners of the UK. From orchestral ensembles to choirs, bands, soloists, and more, these talented young performers get the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and share their music with a wider audience.
Staff and Head Office
Given the charity’s national reach, the head office recently relocated from London to Birmingham, now based in CBSO Centre (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) close to the city centre. The staff team of seven permanent staff are based across the UK, with hybrid home / office working arrangements.
Board and Governance
There are nine Trustees, each co-opted on to one (or more) subcommittees: the Audit & Risk Committee, Programmes Committee, and Fundraising Committee.
How Music For Youth is Funded
Music For Youth is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving 42% of its funds from the annual grant of £279,980 in 2023/24. In addition, the charity raises income from fundraising (sponsorship, institutions, individuals) totalling 33% of annual turnover £672,938 in 23/24, with 10.6% from earned income including event ticket sales of £71,785 in 2023/24.
The charity’s turnover in 2023/24 was £672,938, ending the year with reserves of £101,224.
For further information, please see our latest Annual Account and Report here.
The Opportunity
We are excited to be seeking our next Chair of Trustees to lead the organisation, as our current Chair, John Dixon, comes to the end of his term of service.
With an energetic, skilled and focused Executive Team led by Phil Castang MBE - and a highly experienced supportive Board of Trustees bringing their wealth of collective experience spanning leadership in music, education, arts, fundraising and industry - now is an exciting time to join this unique national music charity, as we prepare for the next phase of development.
The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and governance to Music For Youth, ensuring the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable, and delivering on its charitable objectives:
Leadership
- Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that it runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions.
- Creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately.
- Provide clear strategic direction for the charity, working with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals.
- Act as an ambassador for MFY as required, promoting our work and advocating for youth music at national and local levels.
- Support MFY in maintaining strong partnerships with funders, arts organisations, schools, and the wider music sector.
Governance & Compliance
- Lead an engaged and effective Board of Trustees, ensuring good governance and compliance with charity law.
- Manage, support and appraise the performance of the CEO, ensuring they and their senior leadership team have the resources and guidance to deliver MFY’s mission.
- Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational policies.
Fundraising & Advocacy
- Work with the Board and executive team to develop fundraising strategies, securing income from grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
- Represent MFY at high-profile events, engaging with stakeholders and championing the value of youth music.
What we are looking for
As our new Chair, you will share a commitment to the mission of Music For Youth. While it is not essential to be from a Music or Music Education background, we are looking for someone who has passion for the impact - and potential - of the charity and can demonstrate how their experience can help us navigate the pivotal years ahead.
We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:
- Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
- Financial literacy
- High level networking and advocacy skills.
- Knowledge of charity and corporate governance.
- Experience and confidence in managing risk, change and innovation.
- Understanding and awareness of broader social, political and economic issues.
In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.
- Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
- Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
- Working in or with public bodies or national policy makers
The organisation recently undertook a Skills Audit of the Board and identified the following areas where we are looking to continue strengthening the experience. While not essential for the role of Chair, alongside the core skills and experience outlined, we would certainly welcome individuals who may also be able demonstrate experience around:
Digital: to take advantage of the potential for digital transformation
Finance: to provide additional oversight and financial rigor
Fundraising: with income from individuals a future opportunity to explore further
Time Commitment
The Chair can expect to commit the equivalent of 12-15 days per year at - and in prep for - key Trustee meetings, including full Board Meetings held four times a year (at least one in person in Birmingham, where the charity is headquartered). This time also includes regular meetings with the CEO (the majority online), and regular comms with the CEO as required, which may ebb and flow, depending on the time of year. In person meetings are kept to a minimum.
In addition, the Chair would be expected to attend a minimum of two of our: Regional Festivals (March – April), National Festival (Birmingham or elsewhere, early-mid July) and the Youth Proms (London, end of November), to represent the Board and host key stakeholders, including funders. ,
Term
We are looking for someone who can commit to an initial three-year term, which could then be renewed for a second term.
Learn more and apply
If you would like to have an exploratory conversation with the current Chair or Vice Chair about the charity or the role, please contact John Dixon (current Chair).
Application Process
To apply for the role of Chair at Music For Youth, please submit:
- 1. A CV.
- 2. A cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing:
- Why you are interested in this role.
- How your skills and experience align with MFY’s mission.
- What you would bring to the organisation.
Please send your CV and Cover Letter to Phil Castang (CEO) with the subject line: Application for Chair of Music For Youth.
Deadline for Applications: Friday 27th of June at 12pm.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Music for Youth National Festival taking place between Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th July in Birmingham. (Please note - this is not a requirement of the application process but a chance for you to see the work of the charity in person).
Interviews: will take place on Wednesday 10th September in Birmingham.
The week before the interview (week commencing 1st September), you will have the opportunity to have an informal conversation with the CEO and other Trustees online. Date to be confirmed.
If you have any access needs or other practical questions - or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the role with the Vice Chairs before applying - please get in contact.
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our ever expanding team of therapists to deliver face to face counselling to anyone over the age of 18 years, in South West London.
You will become part of an organisation that is passionate about providing support for the local community, along with therapists from a diverse range of backgrounds.
We offer
- Free fortnightly supervision
- Appraisals and feedback for institutions
- Support from counselling and admin team
- Free training and CPD
We ask for therapists to:
- Have completed at least 100 hours of face to face, supervised clinical experience completed. Relevant work / life experience will be considered.
- Be qualified to Level 5 diploma level or be enrolled on the 2nd year of a BACP or UKCP accredited course.
- Be able to commit to three clients a week, for a minimum of 2 years.
- Attend personal therapy throughout their placement while a trainee.
- Attend fortnightly Richmond AID supervision.
- Hold membership of their relevant awarding body
Richmond AID will empower disabled people to achieve greater independence and choice by providing a range of services and support.





The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about health and wellbeing and want to make a difference in the local community? We are looking for a dedicated individual to join our team of trustees and help shape the future of physical activity and sport in Northamptonshire
We would particularly welcome applicants with experience of finance or accountancy
Northamptonshire Sport recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination.
We want to have a diverse board, reflective of the local community, with a mix of skills, experience and competencies that best serves our aspirations.
We would welcome applications from people from black, Asian and other minority ethnic communities who are under-represented on our board
We are keen to receive applications from disabled people with a wide range of lived experiences including: learning difficulties, mental health conditions, neuro-diversity, deafness, hearing impairments, visual impairments, physical impairments and long-term health conditions.
If you are excited by the prospect of using your skills and experience to make a difference in physical activity and sport in Northamptonshire as one of our Trustees, we would love to hear from you.
Time Commitment
Our trustees meets formally at least six times per year. There is a further expectation that trustees will contribute to specific project groups as they arise from time to time, along with being invited to a number of events throughout the year.
Board meetings :
- 21st May 2025 (5.30-7pm)
- 15th Jul 2025 (5.30-7pm)
- 16th Sep 2025 (5.30-7pm)
- 18th Nov 2025 (5.30-7pm)
- 20th Jan 2026 (5.30-7pm)
- 17th Mar 2026 (5.30-7pm)
Closing Date for Applications 18th May 2025
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.Campaigning is vital to a healthy society. We help campaigners to thrive. In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.
The Chair will hold the Board and staff team to account for SMK’s mission and vision, provide inclusive leadership to the Board and ensure that Board members fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of SMK. The Chair will line manage and support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the Chief Executive and staff team to achieve agreed objectives. They may also be asked to act as an ambassador and a public face of SMK in partnership with the Chief Executive and the Board.
For further information, see our website and the recruitment pack.