Advice and information manager volunteer roles in fife, dorset
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 Board of Trustees and Help Drive Positive Change!
Are you passionate about making a difference in people’s lives? Do you thrive in a team environment and want to give back to the community where you live, work, or study?
We are a local charity dedicated to providing social welfare advice, information, and support through our incredible team of staff and volunteers. We are now seeking two new Trustees to join our board and help guide our organisation forward.
Last year, we:
✅ Assisted over 15,000 clients in finding solutions to their challenges
✅ Addressed over 37,000 separate issues for those in need
✅ Secured nearly £2 million in additional income to support people during the cost-of-living crisis
Who We’re Looking For
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities across Cheshire West—your age, background, origins, or health conditions are not barriers. We actively seek diverse perspectives to better serve our community.
We are particularly interested in individuals with:
Experience in digital and AI solutions implementation
Expertise in volunteer engagement
A strong commitment to our mission, enthusiasm, and a supportive approach
However we welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, skills and experience including lived experience.
What’s Involved?
As a Trustee, you will:
Attend at least five board meetings per year (in-person and remote, often in the evenings)
Participate in one annual trustee development day
Have opportunities for further involvement in shaping our work
This is a voluntary role, but all reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Volunteering does not affect state benefit entitlement.
If you’re ready to play a key role in shaping the future of our organisation, we’d love to hear from you!
We advise, support and empower people to improve their lives providing the best, impartial advice and influencing policy for a more equal society
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
At PAS we believe that everyone has the right to be treated fairly, properly and with respect. Prisoners can be ‘ out of sight, out of mind’, or considered to not be as deserving of good treatment as other people – but not for PAS; our reason for existing is ensuring that prisoners can fully exercise their rights.
It is my privilege to be Chair of Trustees for PAS, I believe that the work we do is fundamental to my belief that we judge our society by the way in which we treat the most vulnerable people. Contrary to popular culture, prisoners are some of the most vulnerable, neglected people in our society, and I am proud to be a part of an organisation that helps to protect them.
My fellow trustees are an impressive group of people, actively engaged with PAS, who energise me whenever I meet with them. However, our numbers have dwindled over the past year, as it can been difficult for people to fit in the demands of being a trustee around their busy lives. We also very sadly lost one of our most long-standing trustees to cancer – he is still sorely missed by us.
If you feel that you could offer your skills and experience, but most importantly your commitment and enthusiasm to our cause, we would be very interested in considering you joining us as a new Trustee.
As a Trustee, you will contribute to the strategic governance of the organisation and the setting and monitoring of overall policy; refine strategic priorities; agree targets and budgets; evaluate organisational performance and help the organisation fundraise.
Meetings take place quarterly in central London in the evening (with some virtual attendance), with additional attendance requested at Awaydays and PAS’s Annual Lecture and debates.
The Board encourages applications from candidates with disabilities or experience of mental health services, as well as black and minority ethnic applicants and ex-prisoners.
PAS does not accept Home Office or Prison Service money as this may affect its independence.
Trustees are volunteers, but travel costs and reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
The Prisoners’ Advice Service (PAS) is the only independent registered charity dedicated to offering free legal advice and representation to adult prisoners on their rights and prison rules in England and Wales.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
osition: Treasurer (Non-Executive Director)
Location: Remote / UK-based
Time Commitment: Approximately 8–10 days per year
Remuneration: Voluntary role – reasonable expenses reimbursed
Application Deadline: 18 May 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.
ETI is a leading alliance of trade unions, NGOs, and companies, working together to advance human rights in global supply chains.



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!
The role: Our scholars are eager to meet graduates and professionals who can support them in achieving their ambitions. Mentors are mainly responsible for providing support and career advice to pupils. Mentors must also be committed to supporting us at our events, which take place in the evenings and on Saturdays throughout the term. These events include our scholar enrichment days, our parent and pupil information sessions and our volunteer social events which are held in London.
Availability: Mentors must be available for approximately 2-3 hours a month to meet with their mentee, and discuss via phone, email or in person. There is a minimum commitment of one year (three terms).
In addition to this, you will need to support a minimum of 2 events throughout the year. Enrichment and skill-building events for our scholars usually take place in the evenings and at weekends, with events ranging from 2-8 hours in length.
Location: Mentoring sessions and events can take place online or in person.
Responsibilities:
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Working collaboratively with parents to give students guidance and advice on how to achieve their aspirations
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Informing pupils of opportunities to them so that they can achieve their aspirations
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Meeting with pupils for one to one mentoring sessions
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Supporting pupils with university, sixth form or job applications
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Monitoring and reporting on each pupils progress
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Giving feedback to parents and programme coordinators
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Working collaboratively with other tutors and mentors
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Supporting at events including:
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Collaborate effectively with other volunteers within the events team
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Assist with setting up and clearing up at events
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Support workshop facilitators with managing groups of young people or parents
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Assist with the coordination of lunch or refreshments for attendees
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Assist the event coordinator with ensuring the health and safety of attendees and overall risk management at events
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Give feedback to the event coordinators and programme managers at the end of each event.
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Person specification:
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Be passionate and committed to tackling educational inequality
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Enjoy working with children and young people
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Be educated to a minimum of degree level or equivalent
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Possess strong communication skills both written and verbal
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Be punctual and organised
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Be able to remain calm under pressure
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Have excellent time management skills
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!
Volunteer Helpline Advisor – Role Description
Purpose of role:
As a Volunteer Helpline Advisor, responding to Helpline enquiries from parents and carers, you will be playing a part in helping ERIC to achieve its key goal of reaching even more families.
You will work remotely, with equipment and training provided.
If you are passionate about helping to improve the lives of families whose children are affected by continence issues, and can commit your time on a regular basis, we’d love to hear from you.
Terms:
Due to the nature of the work, our helpline volunteers are continence nurses or qualified healthcare professsionals.Volunteer sessions are a full day of 5 hours, on the same day each week, please note that currently we need more volunteers on Mondays & Tuesdays only. We ask volunteers to commit to this regular weekly pattern, ideally for a period of one year or more. This helps to maintain consistency and a high standard of professional practice.
Expenses may be paid, subject to agreement in advance .
Tasks could include:
· Answering calls on the Helpline
· Signposting to information on our website
· Responding to & following up enquiries by email
· Entering information onto our IT system
Skills and qualities:
· Professional qualification and/or clinical experience
· Enjoy working as part of a team
· Friendly and positive with a can-do attitude
· Well organised with good time management skills
· Empathetic and non-judgmental
· Able to use standard IT packages including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word and Outlook)
· Able to follow ERIC’s policies, including safeguarding and confidentiality
· Willing to continuously develop professional practice.
To get everyone talking about good bladder & bowel health from birth, to empower families, deliver professional training & influence research & policy
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!
The Senior Researcher in an Initial Research Team is the operational lead for one
particular project at a time, they will work with the Research Manager and within
the Initial Research Framework in order to plan and execute the research. At the
conclusion of research projects the Senior Researcher is responsible for providing
an accurate research report which allows for consideration as to what happens
next with the research inline with our organisation's purpose.The role of Senior
Researcher is key in our organisation's progress and overall positive output as it is
the starting point for all of our work. It is therefore important Senior Researchers
are committed and capable.
Responsibilities may include:
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To oversee and take part in the planning and execution of initial research projects
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To supervise a team of approximately 4 research volunteers, delegating and creating tasks according to the research plan
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To work with and support the Research Manager, ensuring task coordination across platforms such as ClickUp and a high level of communication across the team
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To ensure outputs such as literature reviews and surveys are completed to the highest standard possible, in line with ethical considerations if relevant
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To comply with and advise on using the OSCOLA referencing system
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To organise analysis of Freedom of Information request data sets
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To collaborate with the rest of the team and the RM to provide an internal research report at the end of the research project, including a summary and key recommendations for next steps
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To conduct 1-1s and lead team meetings where necessary
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To regularly communicate with team members about their task progress, welfare and support needs
Required experience and qualifications:
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To have experience in supervising or managing a group of people
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Clear communication skills and a demonstrable level of academic writing to a high standard
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In depth knowledge of qualitative research methods and secondary data analysis, quantitative experience a plus
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To have knowledge on children’s human rights in the UK and other related areas
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To have an undergraduate degree, master’s degree a plus, in a related subject
A Little About Us!
Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organization. We use a research-led approach to protect the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work, research, services, events. We promote and empower change.
Why we need you!
Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for volunteers to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organization. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. Without our volunteers we cannot grow and appreciate those who apply with us!
What we offer!
Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to apply for one of our volunteering positions. We will speak to you about what your aims are to ensure that the volunteering position you are applying for is suitable. By volunteering you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organization who is looking to help young people in the UK.
The Network of Wellbeing (NOW) is looking for two new Trustees to guide and support the NOW team (above). We’re particularly keen to find someone to act as our Company Secretary and another to advise and guide the management of our staff and volunteers. Do you think you could help? If so, we’d love to hear from you. The roles are unpaid but immensely rewarding.
The Network of Wellbeing connects people, supports projects and inspires action for the wellbeing of people and the planet. We would love to bring on board two new Trustees who care passionately about our vision of people and the planet thriving together.
Trustees play an essential role in any charity and the Network of Wellbeing is no exception. Trustees are the supreme governing body in a charity. They determine its aims, its strategy and oversee all its operations. They are responsible in law for ensuring that it delivers its charitable objects.
Trustees also bring vital skills and experience to the charity’s management. We have reviewed the expertise and roles played by our existing Trustees – and found that they have strengths in business development, charity governance and environmental sustainability, to name but a few. They use their knowledge – and their wisdom – to guide the staff and inform key strategic decisions – and our existing Trustees gain a deep sense of joy and fulfilment from the role they play.
We are now looking for two new Trustees to complement and strengthen our existing Board. We are especially keen to find:
- someone to be our Company Secretary: This person will be responsible for:
- advising Trustees and the Director on corporate governance and financial management;
- overseeing the preparation of agendas and the taking of accurate minutes;
- keeping up to date with regulatory or statutory changes and policies that might affect us;
- liaising with our auditors, Companies House and the Charities Commission.
- someone to advise on and guide the management of our team of staff and volunteers. This would include:
- advising Trustees and the Director on all matters relating to the management of staff and volunteers;
- ensuring we have an up to date suite of policies and procedures;
- guiding the management of the staff, including on pay, to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Trustees have the opportunity to use their skills and experience to help others and to further a cause they are passionate about – something wellbeing experts argue is key to living a meaningful life.
The commitment is four two-hour meetings per year – three of which meetings which are held online. We also like our Trustees to come and see us annually (in Devon) in person at least once.
We are committed to diversity, fairness and inclusion – and to building wellbeing together for everyone. We’re therefore keen to diversify our existing Trustee group to ensure it more broadly reflects the diversity of people in the UK. With that in mind, we’d welcome applications from people from a range of different backgrounds and experiences.
Could you be a Trustee of the Network of Wellbeing? If you are interested, please see here for the role profile and details on how to apply.
All applications will be considered by a panel of Trustees with advice from the Director.
To connect people, support projects and inspire action for the wellbeing of people and the planet.




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!
Description
Join our amazing team and make a real difference to people living with sight loss. Help create a welcoming and safe environment for people to share their experiences, ask questions and support each other and connect with a local community in a group setting via Facebook.
In this role you will be:
• Managing group membership – authorising Requests to Join.
• Creating a warm and welcoming environment.
• Supporting group conversations.
• Working with a Volunteer Moderator Team to create engaging content for the Group.
• Ensuring House Rules are followed and content is appropriate.
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
We know that thousands of people in need of bereavement support are waiting to access ongoing bereavement support. We are now recruiting for additional volunteers, if you would like to know more about volunteering for this popular service, we would love to see you at our UYBO Open Day.
What will you be doing:
- Presenting and facilitating one off online group sessions for bereaved people with fellow volunteers
- Creating a safe, confidential, non-judgemental space to deliver practical bereavement information and guidance
- Facilitating peer engagement in small discussion groups
- Delivering clear messaging for onward signposting
Skills and experience you’ll need:
- Effective listening and communication skills
- Good IT literacy or an ability to learn (training will be provided)
- Access to a computer
- Comfortable talking about grief and death
- Empathetic and warm
- Confident facilitating discussion in a group setting
Want to find out more?
Join us for an Open Day on Wednesday 28th May 2025 (2:00pm to 3:30pm or 6:00pm to 7:30pm) to learn more, talk to current UYBO volunteers and find out about our training programme and the support we offer volunteers.
Please note that should you wish to become a UYBO Volunteer after attending the open day, we will be holding informal interviews from Monday 2nd June.
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.
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.
As well as the responsibilities of being a trustee, which the Treasurer shares with all the Board members, the Treasurer is expected to be the financial expert on the Board, and to provide advice on all financial matters. Their role is to ensure the Board fulfils its duties to ensure the sound financial health of SMK, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability and sustainability.
For more information see our website, and the recruitment pack.
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!
Overview:
The Vice-Chair will provide governance and strategic support, ensuring strong board engagement and external advocacy. This role focuses on maintaining board effectiveness, stakeholder relationships, and operational oversight while assisting with non-financial fundraising initiatives.
Key Responsibilities:
Governance & Board Leadership:
• Work closely with the Chair to oversee governance and compliance.
• Ensure trustees are engaged, informed, and fulfilling their roles effectively.
• Chair board meetings in the Chair’s absence and ensure inclusive decision-making.
Fundraising & Stakeholder Engagement:
• Assist in developing and executing fundraising strategies.
• Represent CWV at external meetings, networking events, and with donors.
• Support the development of partnerships with businesses and local organisations.
• Encourage board members to contribute actively to fundraising efforts.
Operational & Team Support:
• Monitor team morale and performance, ensuring an efficient work environment.
• Assist in volunteer recruitment and structuring their roles effectively.
• Support the Operations Manager and Coordinator in streamlining organisational processes.
Qualifications & Skills:
• Experience in governance, strategic planning, or nonprofit leadership.
• Strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.
• Background in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, or nonprofit operations preferred.
• Passion for community work and empowering young people.
About the National Tremor Foundation:
The National Tremor Foundation (NTF) is a leading charity dedicated to providing support and advocacy for individuals living with neurological tremor-related conditions, including Essential Tremor (ET) and other movement disorders. Our mission is to improve the lives of those affected by tremor through research, education, and the provision of vital services.
Position Overview:
The National Tremor Foundation is seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our Board of Trustees
Trustees provide strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that the Foundation fulfils its mission and objectives while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people living with all kinds of neurological tremors.
Key Responsibilities:
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Strategic Leadership: Work closely with the Chairperson and other trustees to provide strategic direction and oversee the implementation of the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values.
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Governance and Oversight: Ensure that the Foundation complies with all legal and regulatory requirements and uphold the highest standards of governance. This includes financial oversight and reviewing organisational performance.
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Fundraising and Advocacy: Support fundraising efforts by leveraging personal networks, helping raise the Foundation’s profile, and engaging with key stakeholders. Advocate for the needs of people living with all kinds of neurological tremor.
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Policy and Program Development: Contribute to the development and review of policies and programs that meet the needs of those living with neurological tremors and their families and care giver.
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Risk Management: Ensure that the Foundation is effectively managing risks and developing strategies to mitigate them.
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Collaboration and Support: Engage with staff, volunteers, and the community to support the delivery of services and activities.
Skills and Experience:
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Experience in Governance: Previous experience in a trustee or non-profit governance role is highly desirable, although not essential.
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Commitment to the Mission: A passion for improving the lives of individuals living with neurological tremors and a commitment to the mission of the National Tremor Foundation.
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Skills in Leadership: Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills. The ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
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Financial Acumen: Experience with financial oversight and the ability to understand budgets and financial statements.
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Fundraising or Advocacy Experience: Experience in fundraising, marketing, or advocacy would be beneficial but is not essential.
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Personal Qualities: A collaborative and solution-oriented approach, with a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, and empathy for those affected by tremor conditions.
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Medical Knowledge: Having a medical background would be advantageous for this role, especially someone that is aware of the current care pathways and treatment options for neurological tremors.
Time Commitment:
Trustees are expected to attend at least four Board meetings per year (approximately 2 hours each), plus additional time for fundraising activities and events. Trustees will also be required to attend our annual conference and other ad-hoc meetings as necessary. Trustees are also expected to take on a portfolio lead and provide support to the General Manager to deliver on this.
Term:
Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?
We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.
As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community.
If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!
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!
This is an opportunity to lead the protection of the vital footpaths and rights of way network across the countryside of East Sussex and ensure walking in the natural environment is accessible to all.
You will coordinate a team of Local Footpath Wardens and will be responsible for assessing proposals affecting paths and for developing Ramblers' response to and comments on those proposals, liaising with Ramblers' central office and other stakeholders as necessary.
You will represent Ramblers' Sussex Area on rights of way issues with the local authority and at meetings and public events.
To undertake the role you will need to keep up to date with legal and policy information about paths and planning issues nationally as well as in your local area.
The skills required for the role are to be confident but diplomatic; able to understand complex rights of way and legal issues; be friendly and personable with the ability to influence; and good at presenting arguments in writing and in person.
The role will offer you the opportunity to use your existing networking skills; to develop new skills and knowledge in relation to rights of way issues; and to work with a small group of fellow volunteers to influence local policy.
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.