Activity volunteer volunteer roles in edinburgh
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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!
Why we need you?
The Halifax Charity Gala is organised by a committee of local volunteers in their spare time. The work required to plan and execute the gala is quite large & growing, with Committee members working all year round to support the 40 or so local good causes we represent. This all requires keeping the public (our customers) updated with relevant information, as well as openly engaging with our member organisations & suppliers.
What will you be doing?
Helping to organise Calderdale’s longest-running annual not-for-profit family event! On a more practical level, you’ll be sharing confirmed information (such as the arena acts, the Procession floats, where tickets are on sale) proactively on our social media channels, as well as republishing the posts into relevant groups. You may also post “call outs” for local performance groups, specialist vehicle owners, independent traders, etc to apply to be part of our next event. Furthermore, you’ll respond to any comments/replies/messages received, forwarding the query to the appropriate team internally if required.
As the Social Media Officer, over Gala weekend you will be asked to share photographs captured by our volunteer photographers, repost content shared by members of the public, and schedule “coming next” posts for our timetable of events.
What skills do you need?
You will need to be able to communicate well in written English. You’ll need access to a suitable device which can access Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn & X, and you’ll need your own accounts on those (so we can grant you permission to act as our channels).
How much time do you need to commit?
Scheduling proactive posts can be done at any time to suit you; over winter months, this may only amount to an hour per month, but as the event gets closer, could take 2-3 hours per week. Responding to comments/etc varies, though in winter is likely less than an hour per month, but in May & June can be 2-3 hours per week; this can be done flexibly to suit you, if notifications are responded to within a reasonable time.
Regular meetings over the year. These are held on weekday evenings usually once a month; we have an additional one in May as well as two charity meetings a year. You should aim to be able to attend every meeting, however there is provision in our constitution to attend our meetings virtually (via a web browser or mobile app).
As much time as possible over the weekend of the second Saturday in June, although this is not a requirement as we do have some Committee members that cannot help with setup or take down.
What support will you be given?
You can always speak to anyone else on the committee or the one of the other officers. We work as a supportive team and help each other when workloads are high, or life gets in the way.
What are the benefits?
Satisfaction of knowing you are making a valuable contribution to a successful, high-profile event supporting local good causes and providing the people of Halifax a great family day out.
Enjoyment of meeting new people within your community and being a part of our team.
Knowledge that you will have made a positive impact and improved the experience of the public and our member organisations.
The opportunity to develop various skills.
Brunch & evening meal on setup day and lunch on Gala Day.
How to sign up?
Join as a Committee member and speak to one of the elected officers (Chairperson, Treasurer, Charity Liaison Officer, Committee Administration Officer or Honorary Secretary) to say that you are willing to be appointed as the Social Media Officer
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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 amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of the issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sport. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to sports clubs, sporting venues and facilities and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a sporting world without barriers.
What you’ll be doing
1. Talks to sports and physical activity providers to support and encourage them to consider the needs of blind and partially sighted people by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local leisure centres, sporting venues and sports clubs.
2. Delivering talks to raise awareness of existing sporting and physical activity opportunities for blind and partially sighted people.
3. Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service.
What you’ll gain from the role
1. A chance to give something back in an area you are passionate about.
2. A chance to make a difference with a sense of achievement.
3. A chance to build a strong community of sports people with sight loss.
4. A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people, increasing your confidence and skills to talk to groups of people with impact, with an opportunity to develop your role into delivering independently over time.
5. Opportunity to explore different roles within our organisation including our internal recruitment vacancies
In return for donating your time we will support you with:
1. A rewarding role
2. A great Induction and Training, in particular training in public speaking and story telling will be given.
3. A supportive Manager
4. Regular catch-ups
5. Expenses
6. An opportunity to connect with other volunteers
How often will I be needed?
- 4 Hours per Month
Key requirements
- This role requires 1 reference.
Location
Region
- Scotland
Who this opportunity will suit
- This role is reserved for blind and partially sighted applicants
Minimum age
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply
What skills and experience are needed?
- You’ll ideally have 1. Lived experience in playing, spectating, or delivering sport or physical activity sessions as a blind or partially sighted person. 2. Lived experience of issues affecting blind and partially sighted people in relation to sports and physical activity. 3. Be comfortable speaking to different audiences to share your sporting story, or a willingness to try with our support. 4. Have effective communication skills. 5. An outgoing friendly approach to meeting new people
HiDDEN are looking for an inspiring, forward-thinking Independent Chair to lead our growing network of heritage organisations into an exciting new chapter.
Job Description
HiDDEN is a dynamic and supportive network that champions Greater Manchester’s rare, overlooked, and underrepresented heritage.
This voluntary leadership role is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a dynamic, mission-driven network that champions the hidden stories of Greater Manchester — stories that deserve to be uncovered, celebrated, and preserved. As Chair, you will bring strategic vision, support strong governance, and act as a key advocate for the network at both regional and national levels. You’ll play a vital role in steering our growth, deepening our impact, and ensuring that inclusion, integrity, and collaboration remain at the heart of everything we do.
Key Responsibilities
- Governance and Oversight Ensure alignment with HiDDEN’s purpose, vision, and values.
- Oversee the adherence to the HiDDEN Code of Conduct.
- Facilitate the annual review of the members’ agreement and the Code of Practice.
- Meeting Facilitation Chair bi-monthly HiDDEN planning meetings, fostering inclusive and balanced discussions. Guide decision-making processes to achieve majority consensus in line with network objectives.
- Strategic Leadership Lead the development and refinement of HiDDEN’s strategic initiatives. Advocate for the network’s sustainability, identifying opportunities for growth and impact.
- Collaborate closely with Manchester Histories, the identified organisation for project management, to ensure effective implementation of strategies and initiatives.
- External Representation and Advocacy Represent HiDDEN at national and regional conferences, events, and within the heritage sector.
- Act as an ambassador for HiDDEN, promoting its mission and objectives to external stakeholders. Build and maintain relationships with key partners and funders.
- Conflict Resolution Mediate disputes within the network, ensuring fair and transparent resolutions.
- Provide impartial guidance and support to members to maintain positive relationships.
- Evaluation and Reporting Report on network activities and outcomes at planning meetings to ensure transparency and accountability.
- Lead the process for reviewing and adjusting network goals and strategies based on the needs of the network
Person Specification
Experience:
- You may have gained experience in leadership, governance, or planning through a variety of paths — including study, early career roles, volunteering, activism, or community engagement.
- A background in the heritage, cultural, or nonprofit sectors is helpful but not essential. We value lived experience and insight into the challenges and opportunities facing small or underrepresented organisations.
- Skills and Attributes: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to facilitate inclusive discussions and achieve consensus.
- Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to act impartially and mediate conflicts.
- Passion for heritage and a commitment to HiDDEN’s values of inclusivity, knowledge sharing, and environmental responsibility.
- Commitment: Willingness to commit 1-2 days per month, including participation in bi-monthly planning meetings.
- Enthusiasm for working with a network of small to medium organisations to achieve shared goals.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about the natural world and inspiring others to engage with it?
Join us as a Trustee at the Field Studies Council and help shape the future of environmental education.
- You can be based anywhere in the UK
- You’ll need to commit approx. 10 days a year
- It’s a voluntary position but reasonable expenses are reimbursed
About Us
Field Studies Council is an environmental education charity. For over 80 years, we've been inspiring people to understand and care for the natural world. Through our network of centres across the UK, we provide fieldwork and outdoor learning experiences for all ages — from school groups and university students to families and lifelong learners.
We are a leader in biodiversity training, the publisher of best-selling wildlife ID guides, and a champion for accessible outdoor education, particularly for disadvantaged young people. Our mission is simple but vital: to create outstanding opportunities that inspire everyone to engage with and care for the environment.
Your Opportunity to Make a Difference
We’re currently looking to appoint four new Trustees to bring fresh perspectives and help us grow in diversity, representation and expertise. As a Trustee, you'll help guide and shape our charity’s future.
While the day-to-day running of our charity is handled by our staff and volunteers, the Board of Trustees plays a key role in making sure everything stays on track.
That includes overseeing our work, making big-picture decisions, and ensuring we meet our legal and regulatory responsibilities. It’s an important role, but you won’t be doing it alone. You will:
- Provide strategic oversight and guidance to support our mission and values
- Use your insight and experience to influence decisions that impact tens of thousands of learners annually
- Act as an ambassador for environmental education and social inclusion
- Contribute to Board and committee meetings, and participate in key annual activities including visiting one of our field centres each year to see our work in action
- Use your knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to help us innovate, grow, and reach more people
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need to be an academic, ecologist or environmentalist to join us or have charity trustee, company director or equivalent experience — we welcome applicants from all walks of life. We are especially interested in candidates with skills in:
- Charity governance
- Finance (qualified professionals – potential Honorary Treasurer role)
- Fundraising & stakeholder engagement
- Marketing & communications
Above all, we want individuals who are:
- Passionate about equal access to outdoor learning
- Ready to speak up and bring a new perspective
- Willing to give their time and energy to support the Field Studies Council
We’re committed to building a Trustee board that is inclusive, representative, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve.
We warmly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in charity governance — including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQIA+ communities, young people, and those with lived experience of social or economic disadvantage.
If you're excited by our mission and ready to help others experience the power of nature, we’d love to hear from you.
What’s Involved
- Approx. 10 days per year commitment for an initial 3-year term (this includes board and committee meetings, and a centre visit)
- Most meetings are held virtually, with one in-person event annually
- All reasonable expenses are covered
- Appropriate training and support will be provided
Please download the Trustee Candidate Information Pack to learn more and take the next step in helping us connect people with the natural world
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.
Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.
As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.
This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.
Apply
1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)
2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member
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!
At MS Society all our activities and services are shaped by our MS community – people affected by MS, volunteers, staff and other experts.
We involve our community in every level of shaping our work – from consultation and engagement, to decision-making and insight groups. That’s how we make sure we meet the needs of our whole community and that what we do works for everyone.
We are looking for Co-production Champions so they can raise awareness about principles of involvement and co-production within the MS community, so that members of our Community can help us to ensure that co-production is at the core of all our activtites.
In this role you will:
represent our MS community
engage with and influence decision makers
inspire people to get involved by delivering presentations at events
and make sure our community’s voice is heard.
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!
At MS Society all our activities and services are shaped by our MS community – people affected by MS, volunteers, staff and other experts.
We involve our community in every level of shaping our work – from consultation and engagement, to decision-making and insight groups. That’s how we make sure we meet the needs of our whole community and that what we do works for everyone.
We are looking for Co-production Champions so they can raise awareness about principles of involvement and co-production within the MS community, so that members of our Community can help us to ensure that co-production is at the core of all our activtites.
In this role you will:
represent our MS community
engage with and influence decision makers
inspire people to get involved by delivering presentations at events
and make sure our community’s voice is heard.
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!
At MS Society all our activities and services are shaped by our MS community – people affected by MS, volunteers, staff and other experts.
We involve our community in every level of shaping our work – from consultation and engagement, to decision-making and insight groups. That’s how we make sure we meet the needs of our whole community and that what we do works for everyone.
We are looking for Co-production Champions so they can raise awareness about principles of involvement and co-production within the MS community, so that members of our Community can help us to ensure that co-production is at the core of all our activtites.
In this role you will:
represent our MS community
engage with and influence decision makers
inspire people to get involved by delivering presentations at events
and make sure our community’s voice is heard.
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!
At MS Society all our activities and services are shaped by our MS community – people affected by MS, volunteers, staff and other experts.
We involve our community in every level of shaping our work – from consultation and engagement, to decision-making and insight groups. That’s how we make sure we meet the needs of our whole community and that what we do works for everyone.
We are looking for Co-production Champions so they can raise awareness about principles of involvement and co-production within the MS community, so that members of our Community can help us to ensure that co-production is at the core of all our activtites.
In this role you will:
represent our MS community
engage with and influence decision makers
inspire people to get involved by delivering presentations at events
and make sure our community’s voice is heard.
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!
We are looking to expand our Board with up to four new members, initially on a co-opted basis but with a path to trusteeship within the next six months if you feel it is right for you.
What will you be doing?
East Lothian Foodbank provides emergency food and compassionate, practical support to people in crisis. Without our volunteers, selflessly donating their time, we simply would not be able to provide the support our community needs.
Our Board, comprising both Trustees and co-opted advisory board members, are essential members of our volunteer community, offering their time and expertise to ensure that the management team have all the support and advice they need to deliver our mission effectively, efficiently and in compliance with all regulatory expectations.
About the role
We are looking to expand our Board with up to four new members, initially on a co-opted basis but with a path to trusteeship within the next six months if you feel it is right for you.
We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty whilst support the foodbank to continue to provide emergency food to people who find themselves in crisis.
Co-opted Board membership does not have a fixed term but we would ask that candidates be prepared to offer at least six months, so that collectively we can assess whether a path to trusteeship is desirable. No prior experience of Board membership or third sector working is necessary, and full induction training will be provided to help ease you into the role.
What are we looking for?
Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:
- Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board.
- Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity.
- Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively.
- Ability to work effectively as a team member and willingness to learn and develop.
As an inclusive organisation we welcome applications from anyone, but are particularly keen to bolster our collective knowledge and experience in areas we know the Board currently has gaps:
- Data protection, information security and cyber risk
- Talent acquisition, management and retention
- Direct, personal lived experience of financial difficulty/poverty
No prior experience of Board membership or third sector working is necessary, and full induction training will be provided to help ease you into the role.
What difference will you make?
By supporting the governance of East Lothian Foodbank as a member of its Advisorary Board you are part of a team providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with the food bank.
Please apply through CharityJobs in the first instance, providing a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Board of Trustees at East Lothian Foodbank.
Applicants must be primarily resident in the UK when applying for this post. This is to enable successful applicants to fulfil the duties of this post and have access to any systems or programs required for the role in line with the charity’s data protection policies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
Barefoot and Free are looking for a creative volunteers who have fresh ideas with the expertise and passion to make them a reality.
What will you be doing?
A wonderful opportunity for vibrant creative individuals to come up with new fundraising ideas and put them into practice.
We would love to hear from anyone who is passionate about fundraising and loves organising events, from cake sales to fun runs. If you feel you are someone who can motivate others, steer new supporters to sign up and support them, to organise their fundraising events and organise our own fundraising charity events then get in touch..... we need your help.
This fundraiser role is an important role, it will help bring in much needed funds to support what we do, your involvement will include
- Research, identify and develop new fundraising opportunities and areas of potential support
- Represent the charity where needed, at other events and functions organised by third parties if/when required
- To cultivate relationships with volunteers, individual supporters and partnerships. Including local businesses, schools and community groups
- Help to deliver presentations to groups and schools in your local community
- Network within the local community to raise awareness of the charity and grow supporters
- Source raffle/auction prizes from existing supporters as well as approaching new / cold leads
- Support the Charity with promotion and sign up for challenges
Experience Required:
- Minimum one year fundraising/events planning experience required
- Enthusiasim for the role
What are we looking for?
We’d love people who are passionate about supporting the families we serve, someone who is creative and can put a plan in action, someone who has had experience in successful fundraising activities, events or online success or individuals that may not have experience but have the drive to succeed in the role. Commitment and professionalism is a must.
What difference will you make?
We are a small charity fighting hard to support our families, as we grow, we need to bring in more unrestricted funding to help with core costs, could you be the person to support us? Are you creative with vibrant ideas that could work to boost our fundraising?
Your support will help us to grow and support more families, our families are extremely important to us, we support amazing children and young people fighting big issues due to neurodiversity or trauma resulting in mental health issues, we work hard as a team to fund staycations so our families can breathe and take a break so they can recuperate to face the challenges they so unfairly face. You will have the chance to make a huge difference to the lives of the vulnerable families we support at Barefoot and Free.
We can’t wait to see what you can do! Please do get in touch.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
This is a fantastic role to get involved locally and be at the forefront of solutions to help save nature in the Exeter area.
Join us as the volunteer leader of the RSPB Exeter & District Local Group and lead a group of enthusiastic members who are passionate about supporting the RSPB and exploring local wildlife. The group runs a full programme of activities, from outdoor walks and indoor talks to fundraising events. As the group leader, you will primarily lead the group and oversee the programme. You will be part of a friendly and helpful committee that share the same vision of bringing members closer to nature. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to use your leadership skills to make a valuable contribution to the work of the RSPB.
If you want to have an informal chat about the role, please ask for Richard, the current group leader. We’d love to hear from you.
The RSPB brings people together – people like you – to protect the things that matter to us all.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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!
We have 250 local groups which play a vital part in supporting people affected by MS across the UK. They provide sense of belonging, unity and friendship. And they deliver services and support for their local MS community.
We are looking to recruit a Group Coordinator for our Lothian-wide group. As our local Group Coordinator you’ll take the lead in making sure your local group works as effectively as possible. You’ll recruit, induct and support other group volunteers to make sure your group’s activities meet the needs of your local MS community. You can see a video about one of our Group Coordinators here.
In this role you’ll be able to develop your leadership, management, communication, organisation and motivation skills.
Time Commitment
We estimate this role will need around 5 hours a week. Our roles are flexible and aim to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities. This is an ongoing role.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones. We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally. You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. You’ll be confident using Microsoft Office, the internet and email. You’ll be able to apply disability, equality and inclusion practices and understand and apply our risk management system. Ideally you’ll understand the local area and organisations that provide local services.
You will be reliable and easy to contact and you need to live in or near the Lothian-wide area to carry out this role.
The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.
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!
Bright Futures UK are looking for warm and energetic volunteer befrienders to provide support and a fun, safe space for young people with serious illness.
Provide companionship virtually for just one hour per week to fit flexibly around your schedule. If you have a hobby that you enjoy, a topic you are particularly passionate about or you just enjoy being sociable, we would love you to join us as a Volunteer Befriender!
What are we looking for?
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Positive Engagement: Ability to engage with young people in a positive and friendly way.
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Empathy and Understanding: A kind and understanding nature, especially towards those facing health challenges.
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Reliability: Consistent availability for the agreed-upon time commitment for a minimum of 14 weeks.
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Adaptability: Willingness to try new activities and adapt to the needs of the young person you are paired with.
What difference will you make?
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Impactful Contribution: Make a significant difference in the lives of young people who have missed out on many school experiences.
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Personal Fulfillment: Gain personal satisfaction from helping young people feel less isolated and more engaged with their education and hobbies.
What will you gain?
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Enhanced DBS will be provided
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Safeguarding Level One Training
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Skill Development opportunities
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Direct experience working with children and young people
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Introduction
Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.
The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.
You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution. If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.
We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.
About Us
We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.
As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.
We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.
We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.
Our Board
Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.
We have three sets of Trustees:
• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.
• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.
• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.
The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.
Why Should You Become a Trustee?
Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.
You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.
Job Description
We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.
Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.
Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:
• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.
• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.
• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).
Term of office: three years, up to three terms.
Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.
Role Purpose
The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.
• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.
• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.
• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.
• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.
• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient
• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.
• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.
• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.
CRITERIA
All Trustees must display the following characteristics
Commitment to and passion for The SU.
Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.
Strategic vision.
Good, independent judgment.
Ability to think creatively.
An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.
Willingness to speak their mind.
Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.
A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.
We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors
Finance
Higher Education
Human Resources
Charity or Employment Law
How To Apply
Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.
You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.
Eligibility
There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:
• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register
• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:
o deception or dishonesty
o terrorist offences
o money laundering
o bribery
o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice
o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)
o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences
• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation
• You have been convicted of contempt of court
• You have been removed from:
o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement
o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct
• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction
• You have an undischarged bankruptcy
• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register
As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.
Data Protection
We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.
Equal Opportunities
We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.