Activity volunteer roles in morningside, edinburgh

Role: Head of Local Operations (Scotland & Northern Ireland)

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Head of Local Operations to lead the launch and on-going delivery of its commissioned research projects in Scotland and Northern Ireland. The focus of these projects will be obtaining and analysing primary and secondary data in order to help smaller community organisations improve their ways of working and effectively report on their impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring their teams deliver these projects within the agreed time-scales and in line with the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations, growing Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach.

Working closely with the Departmental Director, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively contribute to the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent leadership, writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Director of Local Operations.

Position Overview:
The Programme Lead oversees the strategic delivery of a multi-project programme focused on enhancing employability and skills development for target populations. This role ensures alignment with organisational and community goals, driving initiatives that reduce skills gaps, improve workforce readiness, and foster partnerships with employers and training providers. Reporting to the Programme Manager, the Programme Lead manages a team of project specialists and coordinators, ensuring seamless execution of programme activities and measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Programme Leadership:

   • Lead the end-to-end employability and skills development programme delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives.

   • Mentor and manage project specialists and coordinators, assigning tasks tied to programme milestones such as training workshops, employer partnerships, and participant assessments.

2. Stakeholder Collaboration:

   • Build and maintain relationships with employers, educational institutions, government agencies, and community organisations to align programme outcomes with labour market needs.

   • Act as the primary point of contact for external partners, ensuring their requirements (e.g., hiring criteria, certification standards) are integrated into programme design.

3. Programme Design & Delivery:

   • Oversee the development of training curricula, mentorship initiatives, and job placement strategies tailored to diverse participant groups (e.g., youth, career changers).

   • Monitor participant progress and employment outcomes, using data to refine programme effectiveness.

4. Risk & Compliance Management:

   • Identify barriers to participant success (e.g., accessibility, resource gaps) and escalate systemic challenges to the Programme Manager with actionable solutions.

1. Reporting & Communication:

   • Track and report on key metrics such as participant engagement, skill acquisition rates, and post-programme employment status.

   • Prepare updates for senior leadership and stakeholders to demonstrate programme impact.

2. Process Improvement:

   • Implement feedback loops with participants and partners to continuously enhance programme quality.

   • Promote best practices in adult education, vocational training, and equity-focused initiatives.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Human Resources, or a related field.

• Experience:

  • 3–5 years managing employability, workforce development, or adult education programmes.

  • Proven experience leading teams and collaborating with cross-sector stakeholders.

• Skills:

  • Strong understanding of labour market trends and barriers to employment.

  • Ability to design inclusive, participant-centric programmes.

  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, CRM systems) and project management software.

  • Exceptional communication skills for engaging diverse audiences.

• Certifications: Certifications in programme management (e.g., PgMP), career coaching, or adult education are advantageous.
  
   

  The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

  QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

About Children With Voices
Children With Voices is a dynamic charity focused on empowering children and young people through creative projects, advocacy, and education. Our mission is to give young voices the platform they deserve, supporting them in building confidence and fostering positive change in their communities. As we continue to grow and expand our impact, we are looking for an experienced Senior Human Resources Manager to join us in a volunteer capacity to lead and shape our HR strategies.

Role Overview
We are seeking a proactive and experienced volunteer to take on the role of Senior Human Resources Manager. This is a remote, volunteer position with the option to attend our office, located in Hackney, London, for those who prefer occasional in-person meetings. In this role, you will be responsible for developing and overseeing the HR strategy, policies, and processes that support our staff and volunteers, ensuring that Children With Voices remains a supportive and inclusive workplace.

The ideal candidate will bring substantial HR experience, excellent leadership abilities, and a genuine passion for making a positive impact on the lives of children. You will work closely with the senior management team, providing strategic HR guidance and supporting the growth of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic HR Leadership

   • Develop and implement HR strategies that align with Children With Voices’ mission and values.

   • Advise the CEO and senior management team on HR-related issues, ensuring the HR function supports the organisation’s objectives.

   • Cultivate a positive, inclusive, and supportive workplace culture in line with the organisation’s ethos.

2. Recruitment and Onboarding

   • Oversee and lead the recruitment process, ensuring the organisation attracts and retains talented individuals who are passionate about our cause.

   • Manage onboarding procedures for new staff and volunteers to ensure a smooth integration into the organisation.

3. Employee Relations and Compliance

   • Provide expert advice on employee relations matters, ensuring fairness and compliance with UK employment law.

   • Offer guidance on disciplinary and grievance procedures and ensure that these processes are conducted fairly and in accordance with best practice.

   • Develop, implement, and maintain HR policies and procedures to ensure consistency and fairness across the organisation.

4. Training and Development

   • Identify opportunities for training and development that will enhance the skills of both staff and volunteers.

   • Promote continuous professional development and support leadership initiatives.

   • Ensure that staff and volunteers have access to the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their roles.

5. Wellbeing and Staff Engagement

   • Lead initiatives to promote the wellbeing and mental health of all staff and volunteers.

   • Develop and implement staff engagement programmes to foster a motivated, satisfied, and high-performing workforce.

6. HR Operations and Administration

   • Oversee the day-to-day HR administration, including maintaining accurate records, supporting payroll processing (where relevant), and ensuring that employee benefits are effectively managed.

   • Develop HR reports and provide insights to support decision-making.

   • Ensure all HR activities are managed efficiently and with the highest level of confidentiality.

Key Requirements

• Experience:

  • Proven experience in HR management, with a strong understanding of employment law and best practices.

  • Experience in managing employee relations, performance management, recruitment, and organisational development.

  • Experience working with senior teams to implement HR strategies.

• Skills:

  • Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively and provide strategic guidance.

  • High organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a remote working environment.

  • Sound knowledge of HR software and systems for managing HR functions.

  • Ability to work independently and remotely, with occasional in-person meetings as required.

• Qualifications:

  • CIPD Level 7 or equivalent HR qualification is desirable, but not essential.

  • A commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Why Volunteer With Us?
This is a rewarding opportunity to make a real difference to a charity that is transforming the lives of children and young people. As Head of HR, you will play a key role in shaping the organisation’s culture and helping us build a strong, sustainable team. We offer flexibility with remote working and provide the chance to engage in impactful work that aligns with your professional HR experience while contributing to a meaningful cause.

By volunteering with Children With Voices, you will gain valuable experience and have the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals while making a tangible difference.

Reports to: Chief People Officer
Direct Reports: HRBP Lead, HR Managers
Team Structure: Six HR Teams (HRBP team, Recruitment, Learning & Development, Volunteer Relations, Policy, and Engagement) – supported by Senior HR Officers and HR Officers
Location: Remote, UK-based
Time Commitment: 12 months minimum | Part-time | Flexible hours

About the Role
We are seeking a volunteer Head of HR to lead and oversee our HR function at a pivotal time in YouthAdvantage UK’s ambition to become a registered charity.

Reporting into the Chief People Officer, you’ll provide strategic leadership to a multi-layered HR structure, directly managing our HRBP Lead and HR Managers, and overseeing five core teams that support the organisation’s people and culture strategy.

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced HR leader who wants to give back by mentoring the next generation of HR professionals, shaping policy and practice, and helping us build a strong, inclusive, and values-led volunteer workforce across the UK.

Please note: This is a voluntary and unpaid role. There is no direct financial compensation or future paid opportunity attached.

Key Responsibilities
•Provide overall leadership to the HR function, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission and values.
•Manage and coach HRBP Lead and HR Managers to ensure smooth delivery across all people-related functions.
•Oversee and guide the five core HR teams:
oRecruitment – ensuring effective onboarding of skilled and diverse volunteers.
oLearning & Development – supporting volunteer upskilling and capability-building.
oVolunteer Relations – maintaining engagement, support, and wellbeing.
oPolicy – upholding inclusive, clear, and robust HR governance.
oEngagement – fostering culture, recognition, and retention.
•Partner with the Chief People Officer on strategic planning, workforce design, and key organisational initiatives.
•Lead succession planning and ensure continuity across all volunteer HR roles.
•Monitor performance and facilitate cross-team collaboration.
•Champion inclusive, accessible practices across the organisation.

What We're Looking For:
We’re looking for someone who’s experienced enough to hit the ground running and humble enough to grow with us. 
You’ll be most successful in this role if you have:
•Solid operational HR experience, ideally across generalist and specialist areas such as recruitment, employee relations/law, L&D, and policy.
•Previous line management experience, with a demonstrable record of supporting and developing HR team members or volunteers.
•A practical, sleeves-rolled-up approach - someone who is hands-on, accessible, and able to get things done in a busy, volunteer-led environment.
•A strategic mindset, but also the willingness to dig into day-to-day HR activity and problem-solving.
•A collaborative, coaching-ready attitude - this is a great opportunity for someone who has enough experience to stand on their own feet, but is open to being coached by the Chief People Officer to further develop their leadership style.
•Good communication and people skills, with the ability to work across different functions and with a wide range of volunteers.
•An interest in or understanding of the third sector and volunteer engagement is a bonus, but not essential.
•Experience working remotely or in hybrid teams is helpful.
•Above all, a genuine passion for youth empowerment and a belief in what we’re building at YouthAdvantage UK.

What You’ll Gain
•A chance to lead a national HR function with real-world complexity and purpose.
•The opportunity to mentor and develop emerging HR talent.
•Practical experience shaping HR strategy within the third sector.
•Recognition through:
oLinkedIn testimonial and reference
oA public thank you post
oPermission to list YouthAdvantage UK as an employer on your CV/LinkedIn
oA written reference upon completion of your commitment

Important Information
This role is completely voluntary. There is no financial payment, benefits, or employment status. It is ideal for experienced HR professionals looking to give back, stay active in leadership, or contribute to a values-led organisation in a meaningful way.

Apply Now
If you're ready to roll up your sleeves and help shape a dynamic, inclusive, and youth-focused volunteer organisation, we’d love to hear from you.

Position: Treasurer (Non-Executive Director)
Location: Remote / UK-based
Time Commitment: Approximately 8–10 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary role – reasonable expenses reimbursed
Application Deadline: 10 August 2025

The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) is a ground-breaking alliance of companies, trade unions and non-governmental organisations working together to improve the lives of workers in international supply chains. ETI’s vision is of a world of work that protects human rights, ensures dignity for all, provides opportunity and is free of exploitation and abuse.

We are currently seeking a qualified and experienced Treasurer to join our Board as a Non-Executive Director. This is a voluntary governance role that plays a key part in overseeing ETI’s financial health and supporting the strategic direction of the organisation.

About the Role

As Treasurer, you will:

• Provide strategic financial oversight and ensure the organisation’s long-term financial viability
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Sub-Committee
• Oversee budgets, financial reporting, risk management, and compliance
• Work closely with the Chair, CEO, and Senior Finance Manager
• Present key financial reports to the Board and at the Annual General Meeting
• Be available for occasional ad hoc financial advice or input

This role offers the opportunity to shape and strengthen the financial foundation of an organisation that is driving systemic change in global supply chains.

Person Specification

We are looking for someone with:

• A recognised accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA)
• Substantial experience in senior financial leadership, ideally including as a Treasurer or CFO
• An understanding of financial governance in the not-for-profit or NGO sector
• The confidence to challenge and contribute constructively at Board level
• The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial stakeholders
• Ideally, experience in international development or ethical trade

Commitment

• Attend four Board meetings annually (virtual or hybrid)
• Chair the Finance and Remuneration Committee (usually two meetings per year)
• Participate in relevant working groups or panels as required
• Engage with senior staff for occasional ad hoc advice

Expenses

This is a voluntary role. However, all Directors are entitled to claim reasonable travel and subsistence expenses incurred while carrying out their duties, in line with ETI’s expenses policy.

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Head of Local Operations to lead the launch and on-going delivery of its commissioned research projects in England and Wales. The focus of these projects will be obtaining and analysing primary and secondary data in order to help smaller community organisations improve their ways of working and effectively report on their impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring their teams deliver these projects within the agreed time-scales and in line with the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations, growing Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach.

Working closely with the Departmental Director, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively contribute to the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent leadership, writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Director of Local Operations.

Job Title: Legal  Assistant                                                                                

Reports To: Department Manager 

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Volunteer (12 hours/week for 6 months)

About the Project – “Solta o Jogo”
“Solta o Jogo” is a vibrant cultural competition and festival celebrating Brazilian heritage through Capoeira, music, dance, acrobatics, and a Brazilian arts & crafts fair. Hosted at Kingston University Townhouse, the event invites the community to participate in free performances, workshops, and exhibitions promoting cross-cultural understanding.

As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Legal Assistant to support the organisation in ensuring legal compliance and best practice across all departments. This remote volunteer opportunity is ideal for someone looking to gain hands-on legal experience within the nonprofit sector while contributing to a meaningful community-focused project.

Position Overview:
The Legal Assistant will play a key role in ensuring that Quilombo UK’s operations—including its programmes, policies, and partnerships—are fully compliant with current UK legal standards. The role involves reviewing legal documentation, supporting contract management, advising on compliance issues, and assisting teams such as HR, Marketing, and Funding to uphold required legal frameworks. This is a fantastic opportunity for a legally trained individual seeking to apply their knowledge in a purposeful, community-led environment.

Key Responsibilities:

Legal Compliance & Advisory:

• Assist in ensuring that projects, policies, and operations are legally compliant with up-to-date UK legislation and regulatory standards.

• Provide legal support in reviewing and interpreting organisational contracts and documents.

• Work with HR to review onboarding documentation and volunteering agreements.

Cross-Departmental Collaboration:

• Offer legal guidance to teams across Marketing, Funding, HR, and Finance to support compliant decision-making.

• Ensure all documentation and activities across teams are aligned with internal legal standards.

Contract Management & Documentation:

• Support the creation, organisation, and maintenance of contracts and legal documents.Assist in ensuring all terms and conditions are clearly communicated and upheld.

Research & Reporting:

• Conduct legal research as needed to support internal inquiries and programme development.

• Prepare reports or summaries for leadership as requested.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• Degree in Law or equivalent legal qualification (or significant progress toward one).

Experience:

• Experience or strong knowledge of legal documentation, UK employment law, or contract management.

• (Desirable) Experience in a legal assistant or paralegal capacity.

Skills:

• Excellent legal research, writing, and document-review skills.

• Good understanding of UK legal frameworks relevant to nonprofit organisations.

• Strong time-management and organisation skills.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate high professional integrity.

• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities.

Benefits:

• Contribute your legal expertise to a culturally rich and community-driven project.

• Gain experience applying legal knowledge within a real-world, cross-functional environment.

• Collaborate with a diverse team and support meaningful social change.

• Flexible working hours and full remote access.

• Local travel reimbursement (when applicable for in-person meetings or events).

Equality Statement

Quilombo UK is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We promote equal opportunities in line with the Equality Act 2010. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Job Title: Public Relations Assistant                                                              

Reports To: Head of PR

Location: Remote

Employment Type: Volunteer (12 hours/week for 6 months)

About the Project – “Solta o Jogo”
“Solta o Jogo” is a vibrant cultural competition and festival celebrating Brazilian heritage through Capoeira, music, dance, acrobatics, and a Brazilian arts & crafts fair. Hosted at Kingston University Townhouse, the event invites the community to participate in free performances, workshops, and exhibitions promoting cross-cultural understanding.

As part of this initiative, we are seeking a Public Relations (PR) Assistant to support the communications and public engagement strategy for the festival and wider organisational goals. This role is ideal for someone passionate about storytelling, community outreach, and brand visibility, while gaining hands-on experience in a meaningful cultural project. 

Position Overview:
The PR Assistant will support the PR Department in developing and executing external communications, engaging with local communities, coordinating media opportunities, and planning promotional campaigns. The position also includes leadership and team support responsibilities, offering the chance to build project management and people skills.

Key Responsibilities:

Media & Communications Support:

• Conduct research to inform PR planning and outreach strategies.

• Assist in writing and editing press releases, articles, and promotional content.

• Support social media content planning and scheduling under supervision.

Event & Community Engagement:

• Support the organisation and promotion of events that engage the local community.

• Foster positive community relations through public initiatives and collaboration.

• Liaise with stakeholders and partners to maximise event exposure.

Team Leadership & Administration:

• Assist in leading PR team activities and supporting volunteers with communications tasks.

• Motivate and coach team members to fill skill gaps and grow professionally.

• Manage or contribute to PR-related projects, ensuring timelines and deliverables are met.

General Support:

• Contribute ideas and feedback during staff meetings.

• Provide support for administrative tasks and internal communications when needed.

Required Qualifications:

Education:

• No formal degree required; coursework or experience in communications, public relations, or marketing is an asset.

Experience:

• Previous exposure to public relations, event coordination, or social media strategy is desirable.

• Familiarity with community engagement and nonprofit promotion is a plus.

Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal communication.

• Strong understanding of social media platforms and content strategy.

• Organised, proactive, and adaptable with a positive, solution-oriented approach.

• Confident team player with basic leadership and project coordination ability.

• Knowledge of online and offline marketing tactics.

• Event planning experience is an advantage.

Benefits:

• Build real-world PR and event coordination experience in a mission-led organisation.

• Enhance your leadership, communication, and project planning skills.

• Gain references and portfolio work to support future career opportunities.

• Work remotely with flexible hours and a supportive team.

• Travel expenses reimbursed for any required in-person events or meetings. 

Equality Statement

Quilombo UK is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment. We promote equal opportunities in line with the Equality Act 2010. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated, and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

About us

ProVeg International is a food awareness organisation working to transform the global food system by replacing 50% of animal products globally with plant-based and cultivated foods by 2040.

ProVeg engages with all relevant stakeholders to create a food system where everyone chooses delicious and healthy food that is good for all humans, animals, and our planet.

ProVeg has received the United Nations’ Momentum for Change Award and works closely with key UN food and environment agencies. 

ProVeg creates global impact, with offices in 15 countries across five continents and more than 220 employees.

In the UK, our focus is on public sector food. Through our School Plates programme, we support major school caterers in their transition to healthier and more sustainable school menus. Since its launch in 2018, we’ve supported over 90 major school caterers, responsible for the food in over 8,000 schools, feeding over 1.3 million children every day, helping almost 50 million school meals become meat-free or plant-based. We plan to launch a sister programme in the healthcare sector, Hospital Plates, later this year.

Do you share our passion for transforming the food system? Are you impact driven and prefer to take a pragmatic approach? And do you have the skills and experience to help us? Then we’d love to hear from you!

Board Competencies 

We’re looking for a new Board member who can demonstrate the following personal characteristics and behaviours:

• Respects and internalises the principles of accountability

• Makes informed judgement

• Listens actively with an open mind

• Participates in debate, providing relevant comments

• Speaks own mind candidly but respectfully

• Demonstrates initiative and insightfulness

• Thinks both logically and creatively

• Makes decisions independently

• Advises from own experience base

• Teams with others, forming collaborative relationships with other Board members and, where appropriate, providing guidance and advice to staff

Meetings

The Board aims to hold around four Board Meetings per year (generally 1.5 hours per meeting, although subject to change, as necessary). Meetings are usually held virtually, although we now aim to hold one in-person meeting per year, and it is expected that Board Members read the necessary board materials prior to each meeting.

Board positions carry no remuneration but travel and other out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed. In return for your contribution, we offer the chance to work with and on behalf of people who are passionate in their commitment to our Mission and are constantly inspiring in their energy and creativity to achieve positive change.

The Role of the Board

In line with ProVeg International's Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles, the ProVeg C.I.C. Board is responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of ProVeg in the UK, and monitoring delivery by the Director and their staff. The Board members of ProVeg C.I.C play a critical role in acting as a check and balance for the organisation, giving strategic direction, and acting as a sounding board for strategy and priorities as required. Board members can typically help an organisation with their skills and experience, their networks and/or by other means. The Board member will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team of ProVeg C.I.C. and work closely and harmoniously alongside the International Board to support joined up and unified global strategic delivery of objectives. 

Duties

Board members are bound by a combination of statutory duties and organisational duties:

• Ensure that ProVeg C.I.C. complies with its governing document, company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations 

• Board members agree to contribute the necessary time to effectively govern ProVeg C.I.C. in the UK.  (The total commitment tends to be around 4h per quarter, but is subject to change in line with necessary duties)

• Ensure that ProVeg C.I.C. pursues its objects as defined in its governing document

• Ensure ProVeg C.I.C. uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects: ProVeg C.I.C must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are

• Contribute actively to the Board in giving firm strategic direction to ProVeg C.I.C, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

• Safeguard the good name and values of ProVeg C.I.C.

• Manage conflicts of interests

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of ProVeg C.I.C. 

• Ensure the financial stability of ProVeg C.I.C.

• Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds

• Monitor the performance of the Director, UK (and if required, appoint the role)
   

Board Member Person Specification

Essential:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent with relevant business, Community Interest Company, or Charity experience

• Commitment to and willingness to work in accordance with ProVeg International’s principles and values

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to effectively fulfil the role of Director

• An ability to have strategic vision in line with available market factors and resource

• A history of proven good, independent judgement

• Ability to think creatively

• Willingness to speak their mind professionally and respectfully

• Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively across all levels, such as Board, Senior Leadership Team, Staff and Volunteers 

• Knowledge of good governance practice

• Solid understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Directors. 

• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

• Willingness to adhere to ProVeg International’s Director’s Code of Conduct 

• Eligible under Company Law to be a Board Director (e.g. not barred from taking up such positions)

• Follows a plant-based lifestyle 

Desirable:

• Senior Management/Executive experience

• Salaried or Board experience in a similar organisation 

We specifically seek great board members with expertise or assets in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising and income generation

• Government/policy or B2B sector including food services

• Legal

• A network of influencers and ambassadors

• People & Culture

Diversity Statement
ProVeg is committed to equal employment, volunteering and governance opportunity for all, regardless of race, religion, colour, sex, age, national origin or ancestry, refugee background, genetic information, disability, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, HIV status, gender identity, or gender expression. People of colour, women, people with disabilities, people from LGBTQIA+ communities, elderly people, refugees and people living with HIV are strongly encouraged to apply.

Lead a dynamic, mission-driven charity at a pivotal time in its development. As Chair of Trustees, you’ll play a central role in shaping the future of the Surrey Hills Society – championing one of England’s most treasured National Landscapes.

This is a unique opportunity to lead a passionate and growing charity dedicated to conserving, enhancing and celebrating the Surrey Hills National Landscape. You’ll work closely with trustees, our small team and volunteers to provide strategic direction, strengthen governance, and grow the Society’s reach and impact. Ideal candidates will bring senior leadership experience, strong communication skills, and a collaborative approach to chairing a diverse and committed Board.

The Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Alliance (ARMA) exists to improve musculoskeletal (MSK) services in the UK. We are a membership organisation which brings together patient, research and healthcare professional organisations working in MSK health. Working together as an alliance, we have a powerful voice to influence policy and improve standards of care.

Our vision is:

• The MSK health of the population is promoted throughout life

• Everyone with MSK conditions receives appropriate, high quality interventions to promote their health and well-being in a timely manner.

ARMA is a registered charity and a limited company, meaning that the board are both trustees of the charity and directors of the company. ARMA is a strong, stable and highly regarded charity with a track record of influence and success. We are relatively small in financial terms with a core budget of circa £100K in addition to project budgets, which vary from year to year. We also have healthy financial reserves.

We value the role our Trustees make. Our Treasurer plays and an important role alongside our CEO overseeing the financial health and integrity of the organisation.

While you may not have held a trustee position before, you will have the ability and professional confidence to work as part of a dynamic board of trustees. You will bring:

• Financial background with a firm understanding and appreciation of income statements and balance sheets, not-for-profit awareness and knowledge

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to members of the board and other stakeholders.

To apply for the position, please provide the following documents:

• Your CV
• A supporting statement (maximum two pages) that outlines your interest in the role of ARMA treasurer, and how you meet our requirements.

The deadline is 9.00am on Monday 25 August.

Interviews will be held in September.

At a time when we are experiencing the largest reforms to the welfare rights system in a generation, we believe this is an exciting opportunity for individuals interested in welfare rights work, to join a respected organisation working at the forefront of the advice sector.

The Welfare Benefits Unit offers specialist welfare benefits advice to those who work with members of the public. Our experienced advisers provide independent support through our advice line, publications, training, consultancy, campaigns and projects.

The Welfare Benefits Unit aims to maximise benefit take-up, helping to reduce the incidence and impact of poverty and in doing so improve health, well-being, financial and social inclusion. We are a registered charity based in York. We primarily operate in North Yorkshire and York although some of our services are accessed by organisations working further afield. 

We continue to aim towards a board that reflects the populations we work to support, and as such, welcome individuals from diverse ethnic communities, LGBTQIA+ groups, as well as younger people, those with disabilities, and those who have lived experience of the welfare benefits system.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

We welcome and support applications from those new to being a Trustee. We also know that studies have shown some people are less likely to apply for positions unless they believe meet every requirement in the description. The most important thing for us is to find Trustees that connect with our values and who can readily buy into our mission. Though we have suggested skills and experience areas below, which would be keen to hear from, we’re eager to meet people that believe in our mission and can contribute to our board in a variety of ways – not just candidates who tick all the boxes.

We’re keen to add these areas of skills and experience to our board:

• Financial, legal or HR matters (especially as they may apply to a small charity)
• Expertise in marketing, digital or similar technological areas
• Welfare benefits system and welfare rights advice or lived experience.

About the Role

All Trustee positions are voluntary with reasonable expenses remunerated. To be an effective Trustee, you will need to commit up to 1-2 days per quarter to attend and prepare for board meetings which are held virtually.

Effective Trustees support our work by:

• ensuring we are working towards our vision, mission and values in everything we do
• ensuring the effective and efficient use of resources, maintaining proper financial and regulatory oversight and best practice as a charity
• approving the annual budget, and supporting strategic decision-making by actively contributing advice and guidance
• appointing key personnel such as the Chief Executive, and determining pay and conditions for the wider team
• constructively guide the Senior Leadership Team in the delivery of the organisation’s strategy
• actively representing and championing the work of the Welfare Benefits Unit.

About the Charity: Path To Prosper is a UK registered charity that provides professional training to vulnerable young adults in Uganda, enabling them to escape extreme poverty through gaining employable skills. 

Role Overview: The Finance Lead will play a key role in overseeing our financial management, ensuring the charity remains financially sustainable and compliant with all relevant regulations.

You will be responsible for overseeing the financial health of the charity, working closely with the CEO to provide strategic financial advice and support to the Board. You will ensure that our financial operations are transparent, efficient, and compliant with charity law, while reporting to the CEO and Board on key financial matters. You will be entrusted with the responsibility of managing the charity's finances, preparing financial reports, and ensuring that the charity is financially well-positioned to achieve its goals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial administration

   1. Maintain accurate financial records, recording income and expenditure as per agreed categories.

   2. Ensure bank statements match internal financial records.

   3. Process all necessary charity expenses.

   4. Process all invoices received by the charity.

   5. Manage international transfers, and accounts held by international transfer providers. Responsible for transferring funds to agreed providers as per approved budgets and the annual operating plan.

   6. Maintaining charity’s financial signatures as directed by the Treasurer.

2. Financial Oversight:

   1. Lead the charity’s financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes in collaboration with the CEO.

   2. Oversee the financial tracking of restricted and unrestricted funds, ensuring that funds are used according to the terms set by donors or funders.

   3. Monitor cash flow, ensuring that the charity’s financial position is healthy and sustainable.

   4. Advise the CEO and Board on financial strategies, risks, and opportunities.

3. Financial Planning

   1. To continually research and suggest to the CEO any changes to banking arrangements that would benefit the charities financial position, such as more favourable banking terms, international financial transfers or interest rates.

   2. To support the operations lead with any approved changes to banking arrangements

   3.  

4. Financial Reporting:

   1. Prepare financial reports for the CEO, including income and expenditure statements, balance sheets, and cash flow forecasts, in line with the organisations agreed income and expenditure categories

   2. Ensure the charity’s financial statements are accurate and comply with accounting standards, charity law, and other relevant regulations. 

   3. Work with external auditors and independent examiners to ensure a smooth annual audit process.

   4. Maintain accurate records and respond to adhoc requests for financial information from the operations team.

5. Compliance and Governance:

   1. Ensure compliance with financial regulations; including the Charity Commission’s requirements and other applicable laws 

   2. File annual returns and financial statements with the Charity Commission in a timely manner.

   3. Advise the CEO and Board on financial governance and risk management.

6. Fundraising and Grant Management:

   1. Support the Fundraising Lead by providing financial insights and reports for grant applications and donor reports.

7. Team Collaboration:

   1. Assist with training or guidance on financial matters where necessary.

Person Specification:

• Essential:

  • Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) or substantial relevant experience in financial management.

  • Experience with accounting software (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks).

  • Understanding of charity finance; including statutory reporting, VAT, and charity-specific financial regulations.

  • Strong attention to detail and ability to analyse and interpret financial data.

  • Excellent communication skills, with the ability to explain financial information to non-financial stakeholders.

  • Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.

• Desirable:

  • Previous experience as a trustee or in a senior financial role within a charity.

  • Familiarity with charity fundraising practices and grant management.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives and families of vulnerable young adults living in extreme poverty

• Gain valuable experience in charity finance and governance.

• Work with a committed and passionate team of trustees and volunteers.

• Flexible role that can be done remotely with occasional meetings.

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.