Age uk volunteer roles

Securing our Future: championing sustainable, innovative care and strengthening community impact.

This is a pivotal moment to join St Helena. Under our Securing our Future programme, we took action to protect our specialist palliative care and bereavement support services for north east Essex. This has been a challenging period for the hospice sector as we navigate rising costs, increasing demand and evolving income streams. We have been innovating how we deliver truly person-centred care whilst diversifying our income streams, with an increasingly commercial focus to how we deliver our charitable purposes. 

This role forms part of the board of St Helena Hospice Trading Ltd, the wholly owned trading susidiary of St Helena Hospice. As we continue to diversify our income to support specialist palliative and bereavement care across north east Essex, our trading company plays a vital role in generating sustainable revenue through retail and enterprise.

To help us thrive, we are recruiting two new Trustees:

1. A philanthropic leader with a proven track record in major gifts, diversified fundraising strategy and nurturing high-net-worth relationships
2. A digital strategist skilled in digital transformation, data-driven decision-making and enhancing online engagement.

Please read the candidate pack for more information.

We are a small, friendly, place-based funder seeking up to 3 new volunteer Trustees to take us into the next decade.

Opportunity – Volunteer Trustee (we have 10 currently)

Location – London Bridge/Borough High Street SE1 (hybrid meetings, in-person encouraged)

Salary - Voluntary (Reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Hours – equivalent to 1 day per month

Trustees attend 4 required board meetings each year in March, June, September, December. We also encourage attendance at our quarterly Finance Committee and/or occasional grant assessment meetings. All are hybrid meetings run from our office near to London Bridge SE1.

About Us

Wakefield Tetley Trust is a long-established grant-maker working in Tower Hamlets, Southwark and the City of London since 2008 as a joint entity, originally created in the 1930’s as two separate charities. We support people in need by funding local charities and community groups who work with individuals and communities who are marginalised or disadvantaged, for example because they have difficulty in accessing resources, face discrimination or may experience poorer social, economic and health outcomes. In 2024 the Trust made grants of £213,152 towards work in support of our aims.

The opportunity

We are looking for up to 3 community-minded individuals who might live or work in our area of benefit. You will be keen to engage in high quality grant-making through informed understanding of the needs and challenges facing the charities and communities that we support.  We always need to add to our professional skill base so if you have experience relating to governance, finance, property, strategic and operational management, that is equally welcome. You’ll play a key part in developing our future plans and, as we are looking to incorporate in the next 12 months, you will play a part in achieving that and other changes.  

Time Commitment

Being available, engaged and a sounding board for staff and other Trustees is just as important as attending 4 mandatory meetings each year. We hope you’d take up the opportunity to visit and meet with grant holder charities, and to develop your knowledge and intelligence of issues that affect people in our area of benefit.

Who You Are

We’re looking for up to three individuals who bring enthusiasm, knowledge or interest in the local area we cover (or willing to learn), commitment to sound governance and the intention to make high quality grant-making. You might have a specific social interest or issue that you want to champion, and you’ll be a collaborative team member of the Board.

We particularly welcome applications from people currently living or working in the London Boroughs of Southwark, Tower Hamlets or City of London. 

Are you an experienced leader with a finance background and the passion for making a difference?

Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care is seeking a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer to help guide the charity’s strategy including a focus on financial responsibilities. This voluntary role is ideal for someone with strong knowledge of accounting, audit and risk management who can balance strategic thinking with attention to detail. If you are a confident communicator with extensive financial experience and a desire to use those skills to support a local charity, we’d love to hear from you.

Your expertise, insight and judgment could make a real difference to the lives of the local people we support.

Role requirements:

• Extensive senior financial leadership experience
• Strong knowledge of accounting standards, audit and risk management
• Understanding of best practice in governance
• Exceptional communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills
• Strategic thinker with sound independent judgement 
• Commitment to the mission, vision and values of Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care

Join us as a trustee and transform lives!
Are you an experienced professional driven by a desire to make a real difference? Do you want to collaborate with highly effective leaders to empower people to live independent, fulfilling lives?

If so, we want you on our Board of Trustees!

What we’re looking for

We are looking for experienced and thoughtful leaders to play an active role in helping Transform expand our positive impact on clients and pave the way for an even brighter future.

We are recruiting three new trustees. If you have board-level experience and expertise in any of the following areas, we'd love to hear from you:

■ strategic finance

■ consumer/client-facing

■ legal and/or governance (preferably in social housing)

Don’t worry if your background doesn’t perfectly match these areas – what matters most is the unique perspective, insight and skills you can bring. We value diversity of thought and experience and believe this strengthens our Board and the communities we serve.

Ready for a unique opportunity?

Help govern a successful organisation dedicated to transforming lives.

What is in it for you?

Although trustees are unpaid, research shows that being a non-executive director for a respected and valued organisation such as Transform is rewarding and has a positive impact both on wellbeing and career progression.

We also cover expenses for travel, childcare and care for dependents. Plus, we offer an induction package and ongoing training.

Join us

We strive to reflect the diversity of the clients we support so particularly welcome applications from women, candidates from black and minority ethnic backgrounds, individuals with disabilities and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

If you would like to discuss the roles in confidence, please contact our recruitment consultant Julie Kellaway at The Housing Executive.

The closing date for applications is Monday 20 October and we will be interviewing from November 2025.

We can’t wait to hear from you!

We are looking for a Trustee to act as the board’s lead on people and workforce matters, ensuring effective policies, systems, and culture to support staff and volunteers.

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

You can find out more about being a trustee at Paradise Cooperative in our Trustee Recruitment Pack.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Professional experience in HR or organisational development.

·Understanding of employment law.

·Strategic and practical HR skills.

Desirable

·Experience in the charity or co-operative sectors.

·CIPD qualification.

Responsibilities specific to the People and HR Trustee role

·Oversee and approve HR policies covering recruitment, induction, training, appraisal, wellbeing, and grievance handling.

·Support the Executive Director on HR-related issues and act as a sounding board for people matters.

·Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop objective-setting and performance management frameworks.

·Provide oversight of the charity’s volunteer engagement strategy, ensuring it aligns with the charity’s objectives, promotes diversity, and fosters a positive volunteer culture.

·Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in all people-related policies and practices.

·Ensure compliance with employment law and relevant charity regulations.

Wider responsibilities of the role shared with the other trustees on the board

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organization.

·Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

·Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

·A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

We are looking for a Trustee to lead on safeguarding and ensure all non-HR policies are compliant, up-to-date, and effective. 

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Knowledge of safeguarding principles and regulatory requirements.

·Policy development experience.

·Strong governance understanding.

Desirable

·Professional safeguarding training.

·Experience liaising with safeguarding boards or regulators.

Responsibilities specific to the Safeguarding & Policy Trustee role

·Oversee safeguarding policies and procedures.

·Ensure appropriate Designated Safeguarding Leads are trained and supported.

·Lead the review and approval of non-HR policies (e.g. health & safety, data protection, risk management).

·Ensure regular training and awareness for staff, trustees, and volunteers.

·Review safeguarding and policy-related incident reports.

·Maintain relationships with statutory agencies and safeguarding boards.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

·Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

·Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

·A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

We are seeking a Trustee to champion community engagement, partnerships, and communications to strengthen our impact and visibility. The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Experience in community engagement, public relations, or communications.

·Understanding of inclusive outreach.

·Strong advocacy skills.

Desirable

·Experience in co-operative or community-led initiatives.

·Knowledge of digital communications tools.

Responsibilities specific to the Community Partnerships & Communications Trustee role

·Oversee strategies for community involvement and representation.

·Build and maintain strategic relationships with community organisations, local authorities, other charities, and aligned organisations.

·Review and sign off partnership agreements.

·Lead on shaping the charity’s communications approach, including social media strategy.

·Collaborate with staff and volunteers to create compelling content.

·Advise on measuring and reporting the impact of community and communications work.

·Ensure compliance with GDPR and charity advertising standards.

·Ensure compliance with employment law and relevant charity regulations.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Attributes and qualities

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will help broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organization.

·Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.

·Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.

·A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

·Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

·Willingness to lead according to our values.

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure The Paradise Cooperative fulfils its charitable objectives. You will lead and oversee the Board, collaborate with the Executive Director, and serve as an ambassador for the charity. This role is vital to ensuring the charity operates in accordance with the law, delivers public benefit, and remains financially and strategically sustainable.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Demonstrated commitment and passion to the values and purpose of The Paradise Co-Operative.

·Previous trustee/NED or Chair experience.

·Strong understanding of governance, strategy, and the legal duties of a charity trustee.

·Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

·Sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to build consensus.

Desirable

·Knowledge of or interest in urban agriculture, education in nature, or co-operative/community operating models.

·Experience of fundraising, charity finance, or stakeholder engagement.

Responsibilities specific to the Chair of the Board of Trustees Role

1. Strategic Leadership

·Lead the Board in setting the charity’s strategic direction and ensuring alignment with its vision, mission, and values.

·Facilitate regular review of strategic objectives and ensure that plans are delivered effectively by the Executive Director and their team.

2. Governance and Board Management

·Ensure effective governance in accordance with the Charity Commission’s guidance and relevant legislation.

·Chair trustee meetings, encouraging collaborative and inclusive decision-making.

·Promote a culture of accountability, integrity, and transparency across the organisation.

·Ensure the Board maintains appropriate skills, diversity, and succession plans.

3. Support to the Executive Director

·Provide guidance and support to the Executive Director, ensuring a clear distinction between strategic governance and operational delivery.

·Conduct regular one-to-one meetings and at least an annual performance review with the Executive Director.

·Act as a sounding board and mentor while maintaining appropriate oversight.

4. Compliance and Risk Management

·Ensure the charity operates within its legal and regulatory framework, including safeguarding, data protection, and financial controls.

·Oversee the risk management process, ensuring appropriate mitigation strategies are in place.

5. Advocacy and Representation

·Serve as a public ambassador for Paradise Cooperative, raising the profile of the charity at key events, stakeholder meetings, and in the media, as required.

·Build and sustain strategic partnerships and relationships that support the charity’s aims.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’s own governance.

·Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

·Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Lay Trustee role - Healthcare Infection Society - deadline: 23 September 2025

Our current Lay trustee demits in December 2025, and we are seeking a successor who is not from a clinical background but shares our values and vision This is an opportunity to bring your expertise to help shape HIS’s future, ensuring strong governance and supporting our ambitions for growth.

As a Lay Trustee, you will:

• Work with the Council and Chief Executive to uphold HIS’s vision, mission and values. Council meets quarterly.
• Work with Chief Financial Officer and serve on the Finance Committee, which meets quarterly to review financial performance, remuneration, and strategic and operational risks.
• Contribute to delivering the 2025-30 strategy.
• Oversee compliance with financial, legal and regulatory requirements.

No prior trustee experience is necessary – a full induction will be provided.

Who we are looking for

We are especially keen to hear from candidates with

• Financial investment and management experience (ideally in healthcare)
• Candidates should have no clinical background.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who support our mission and can actively contribute to our work. HIS is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture.