Appointed Trustee Volunteer Roles
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This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Can you spare a few hours a month to support STAMP Revisited, a local mental health charity?
We are, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), which has provided advocacy services for the people of Teesside for almost 30 years, and we are currently looking for new Trustees to join our Board.
Our advocates provide advocacy to adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties that impact on their ability to make their voice heard and are unable to independently navigate personal issues such as aspects of their health, finances, or housing needs.
Trustees are essential to the success of a charity, and the Board is the charity’s governing body. Trustees are responsible for ensuring the charity meets its objectives and are responsible for its general administration and control of the charity.
If you are interested in finding out more about being a Trustee and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in your community? Do you have expertise in finance and a desire to contribute to a cause that positively impacts lives? If the answer is yes, then this could be the perfect role for you!
STAMP Revisited is a small but ambitious charity, which provides advocacy and emotional support to those experiencing mental health difficulties. We support them to access vital services they need that they would not be able to access independently. We have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and respected.
We are currently recruiting a new Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. As a Trustee of STAMP Revisited, you will play a crucial role in setting the strategic direction of the charity and ensuring good governance. You will contribute to ensuring that the charity fulfils its mission, operates effectively, and remains accountable to those experiencing mental health issues.
In addition to the general duties as Trustee, as Treasurer you will play a pivotal role in securing the financial integrity and sustainability of our charity. You will ensure that effective and appropriate financial measures are put in place and report to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.
If you are interested in finding out more about being a Treasurer and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about making a positive impact to the lives of individuals with severe and complex disabilities? Do you believe in the power of storytelling to unlock imaginations and challenge limitations?
Since 1993, Bag Books has been on a mission to bring joy and connection to individuals with severe and complex learning disabilities through the magic of multi-sensory books and multi-sensory storytelling. Our work is multifaceted: we hand-craft unique multi-sensory "books in our London-based workshop," host captivating storytelling sessions led by our dedicated team of storytellers across the UK, and empower others by teaching the art of multi-sensory storytelling technique (MSST) to parents, carers, librarians, and teachers.
Bag Books are currently in search of individuals to join our board as trustees. Trustees, serving as voluntary board members, play a crucial role in charting the course of our charity, ensuring its alignment with its founding mission. You would be joining Bag Books at an exciting time when our impact has never been higher, and the board is working to grow and strengthen the charity.
As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to contribute to our strategic direction and ensure effective governance for the continued growth and success of Bag Books. Your diverse background and expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of our organisation.
We want to appoint up to four new trustees. Our new trustees will have the following skills, knowledge or experience (we don’t expect to find all these skills in one person):
• Special Needs Education especially working with people with severe and complex learning disabilities (SLD and PMLD)
• Business Development /Change Management
• Small Scale Manufacturing/Production
• Craft Work
• Health and Social Care
You do not need to have been a trustee before as support and training is provided.
Bag Books is an equal opportunities employer and organisation welcomes applications from all sections of the community. Following an audit of our board, we are particularly keen to hear from younger applicants, people of colour, disabled people and LGBTQIA+ people.
Time commitment: Trustee meetings are held four times a year and are a mix of in-person (based at our workshop in London SW8) and online meetings.
How to apply: Please submit a cover letter (of no more than two sides of A4) and a CV (which can detail volunteering and/or employment experience) through CharityJobs or by email to Lucy Barrett - lucy[at]bagbooks[dot]org
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Job Title: Trustee (3 roles) – with one or more areas of core expertise
Responsible to: The Board of Trustees
Salary: Non-salaried post
Level of commitment required: 4 Main meetings a year (evenings) and 1 full day. The member may also be linked to a sub-committee who meet prior to each main meeting. Additional time may be assigned to visit staff and the offices and for reading and additional research.
Genuine Occupational Requirement: Must strongly align with the charity’s Vision, Mission and Values.
TECHNICAL EXPERTISE
The Baca Charity is currently looking for Trustees with expertise in at least one of the following areas:
- Property /social housing expertise including an understanding of housing law, regulations and property market/trends.
- Education – access to education, apprenticeship, progression to FE or HE education to facilitate development of opportunities to support vulnerable people towards employment / entrepreneurship. Safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
- Relational Fundraising and Financial Governance.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Knowledge
- Good understanding of the role and function of a Charity Trustee role
- Expert in specific area of Charitable Operation (see areas of Technical Expertise listed in Job Description above)
- Good understanding of the nature of challenges and or opportunities linked to the work carried out by Baca is desirable.
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
Experience
- Lived experience as an individual who has sought refuge, been trafficked and experience of the immigration system is highly desirable.
- Experience of being a Trustee in charitable organisation is desirable but not essential.
- Experience of working in teams, contributing to strategic decision making in a group is desirable.
Skills and Abilities
- Strong ability to think strategically is essential
- Ability to communicate your ideas verbally and in writing to other board members
- Ability to relate to others with cultural sensitivity
- Capacity for self-reflection and active learning is essential.
- Ability to work in a team
- Ability to analyse information, make decisions and influence others
Personal Qualities
- Ability to behave in line with values of the organisation and therefore a strong role model that represents Baca with integrity is essential.
- Be willing to undertake training in the role is essential.
- A team player, able to encourage and maintain focus during periods of pressure.
- Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity in the workplace.
- A willingness to meet the minimum time commitment
- Qualities of Integrity, Selflessness, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership is essential.
- Motivated by compassion.
- An ability to think strategically.
- Good, independent judgement.
- Ability to think creatively.
- Willingness to speak their mind.
- An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Baca.
- Capacity for self-reflection and active learning
Applicants must be willing to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
LEVEL OF COMMITMENT
All trustees are required to attend quarterly evening and one full day Board meetings. Board meetings usually take place at the Baca main office, Loughborough, Leicestershire. As appropriate, meetings could also take place virtually.
In addition to reading papers and preparing for meetings/conference calls, Trustees may be called upon for specific advice if they have particular expertise in a given area.
According to their individual skills and experience, Trustees may also be invited to serve on Baca’s Finance or Staff & Young People Wellbeing Committees or on ad-hoc Working Groups. Committees meet quarterly, usually in advance of Board meetings.
Further details of the role are contained in the Recruitment Pack.
It is our mission to serve young people who have been forced to flee their home country – offering safe homes, education, therapeutic care and support
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
In our new Chair, we are looking for someone with leadership experience and board level credentials who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders. Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do.
However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.
You will be a confident and positive leader and an ambassador on our behalf with the strategic acumen and emotional intelligence to promote our work and vision, and support our Managing Director, and our leadership team
Role Description
Objective
The Chair will hold the Board and Executive Team to account for YSS’s mission and vision, providing inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring that each trustee fulfils their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support, and, where appropriate, challenge the Managing Director and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the entire Executive of the charity to achieve agreed objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and the public face of YSS in partnership with the Managing Director.
Principal responsibilities
Strategic leadership
• Provide leadership to YSS and its Board, ensuring that the charity has maximum impact for its
service users.
• Support the Managing Director to lead and manage the organisation well, give regular feedback on performance and conduct an annual appraisal.
• Ensure that Trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of YSS.
• Ensure that the Board operates within its charitable objectives and provides a clear strategic direction for YSS.
• Ensure that the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated opportunities and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and manage and mitigate the risks.
• Ensure that the Board fulfils its duties to ensure sound financial health of YSS (in combination with the lead finance Trustee), with systems in place to ensure.
Governance
• Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for YSS and that the Board regularly reviews major risks and associated opportunities.
• Develop the knowledge and capability of the Board of Trustees.
• Encourage positive change, where appropriate address and resolve any conflicts within the Board.
• Ensure that the Board of Trustees is regularly refreshed, reflects the wider population and service users of YSS and incorporates the right balance of skills, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead YSS effectively.
• Work within any agreed policies adopted by YSS.
External Relations
• Act as an ambassador for YSS objectives and mission.
• Act as a spokesperson for YSS when appropriate.
• Represent YSS at external functions, meetings, and events (taking into account time commitments outside of the role).
Relationship with the Managing Director and the wider management team
• To work in partnership and support the Managing Director to ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission, and strategic direction.
• Support the Managing Director, whilst respecting the boundaries which exist between the two roles, ensuring regular contact in an open and supportive way with opportunity for professional development and external professional support when agreed.
Person Specification
In addition to the qualities required of a Trustee of YSS, the Chair must also meet the following requirements:
Personal Qualities
• Personal gravitas and clear leadership style to lead an ambitious charity and communicate a
sincere commitment to the mission and vision of YSS
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in a
leading role
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of YSS (particularly in the sectors and services that YSS cover).
• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment.
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.
Experience - all essential
• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of or appreciation of charity governance (or wider governance) and Civil Society and current issues affecting it, and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Experience of chairing meetings and events and representing organisations externally from public platforms and through effective stakeholder management
Knowledge and Skills - all essential
• Broad knowledge and understanding of the charity sector and current issues affecting it.
• Leadership skills, ability to bring people together.
• A level of financial management and charity finance understanding.
• Good understanding of governance issues (ideally in a charity setting).
Terms of Appointment
Remuneration
The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable out of
pocket expenses can be claimed.
Location
YSS operates across Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin, and Warwickshire. Our offices are in Blackpole, Worcester.
Time commitment
Between 2 and 3 days per month. The YSS Board currently meet 6 times a year and holds 2 Audit & Risk committee meetings and up to 2 strategy planning days per year. The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Managing Director and may, subject to an individual’s time commitments, represent YSS at essential events. All board members are encouraged to attend YSS events, including visits from our charity Patron and are welcome to make occasional visits to projects to see first-hand the work of YSS, the people supported, staff and volunteers.
The charity’s Chair (and board members) will be elected for an initial term of one year, after which they may be eligible for re-appointment for additional three-year terms, for a maximum of 10-year term.
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
YSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports and encourages underrepresented groups,
and values diversity.
Applications
Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Appointment is subject to eligibility in line with The Charity Commission criteria.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Bring your financial expertise to our engaged and committed board of trustees
Unlock has achieved a great deal for the people we support and that is testament to the talents of our dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and trustees. Through listening and engaging with people who face difficulties because of their criminal records we have an impressive track record of identifying issues, finding solutions, and putting them into practice. We also influence policy and create systemic change.
We have an opportunity to join our engaged and committed board of trustees as our treasurer.
About the role
Trustees play an important role in the leadership, strategic direction and governance of Unlock.
Alongside this, the treasurer’s role is to maintain an overview of Unlock’s finances, ensure our financial viability and to ensure proper financial records and procedures are maintained.
About you
Can you bring the following attitudes and skills to our board?
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Financial qualifications and experience.
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Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
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The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
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Willingness to be available to staff for advice on an ad hoc basis, with “hands on” involvement where necessary.
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Commitment to the vision, values and mission of Unlock.
While experience in charity finance is desirable, we are happy to train and support a successful candidate without this previous experience. So if you’re looking to step into the charity sector, don’t let that hold you back from applying.
We’re committed to increasing diversity across the organisation, including our board of trustees. We’re especially keen to appoint people who have themselves met with and overcome the disadvantages of having a criminal record.
If you’re excited by this opportunity to support, and drive, the work of a small criminal justice charity with an impressive national impact, we’re looking forward to hearing from you.
How to apply
Read the full Treasurer application pack.
Download and complete the application form.
To help people overcome the long-term disadvantages caused by their criminal records, and work with government, employers and others to enable people
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Recruitment to the Board of Trustees:
Seescape
Who we are
Since our formation as Fife Society for the Blind over 150 years ago, we’ve been dedicated to serving those living with visual impairment in Fife – giving them the information, skills and confidence they need to thrive. Now, as Seescape, we’re building on this legacy by increasing awareness of the life-changing services we offer, boosting our capacity to deliver support, and extending our reach across Fife.
Why become a Trustee?
· Influence: your ideas will help shape our strategies and decisions, and your vision will guide us towards success
· Impact: your actions will directly impact the lives of people with a visual impairment
· Leadership: develop your leadership skills, and work closely with our management team to guide our life-changing work.
Who we’re looking for
We are particularly keen to hear from people who have the following skills and experience, however we are also interested to hear from people with other relevant skills and experience:
· IT / digital, including digital transformation and improvements
· Accounting / finance
· Lived experience of a visual impairment
· Business management, including planning, development and change
· Accessible technology
· Fundraising and income generation
· Marketing and communications
Seescape is committed to increasing the diversity of our Board and team, and welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, and faith. We particularly welcome applications from those with a visual impairment.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Been There is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced individual to join a small, supportive and dynamic team as a Trustee Treasurer for the board.
What will you be doing?
About Been There
Been There is a charity in the form of an app that connects people aged 18 and over with a vetted and trained mentor to help with any body image issues they may be experiencing. This gives them the opportunity to speak to someone who has ‘Been There’ themselves. Our Mentors are here to support, empower and, most importantly, listen.
About the role
Been There is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced individual to join a small, supportive and dynamic team as a Trustee and Secretary of the board. Alongside relevant experience, you will also possess an ability to work to tight deadlines, prioritising multiple tasks, and will be a natural team player with excellent written and spoken English.
Main Responsibilities
● Financial Oversight: Oversee and present budgets, accounts, and financial statements to the board in a clear and understandable manner.
● Strategic Financial Planning: Work with the board to ensure that financial strategies and decisions are fully integrated into the strategic plans of the charity.
● Compliance and Risk Management: Ensure that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place to safeguard the charity's assets. Monitor and manage financial risk.
● Statutory Reporting: Ensure that the charity complies with all legal and statutory financial reporting requirements.
● Audit and Financial Analysis: Lead in the appointment and liaison with auditors, and provide insightful analysis on financial reports and audits.
● Budgeting and Forecasting: Oversee the development and review of the charity's annual budget and financial forecasts.
● Fundraising Support: Play an active role in guiding and supporting the charity's fundraising efforts, ensuring financial goals are met and resources are secured for future sustainability.
What are we looking for?
Person Specification
Individuals are sought who have a strong empathy with any body image issues and related mental health concerns. Experience, skills and expertise in charity law, an interest in the well-being of people combined with an in-depth understanding of our work and ambitions are particularly sought.
Knowledge, skills and understanding:
● Experience: A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in finance, accounting, or a related field, with a strong understanding of charity finance and governance.
● Qualifications: Recognised accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) is highly desirable.
● Skills: Excellent financial and analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly.
● Commitment: Ability to commit time for board meetings, committee involvement, and preparation work. Expected to attend quarterly board meetings and contribute to special projects as needed.
● Ethics: A commitment to the values and mission of Been There, with a passion for making a difference in the community.
What difference will you make?
Been There is a charity for people struggling with their mental health relating to body image.
The Trustees are a core part of the team and very hands on. We have a tight knit team and your support will ensure we are always acting in the best interests of our beneficiaries.
We are an app-based charity that connects people over 18 with a vetted and trained Mentor (who has also 'been there') to help with body image issues.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Vision Action is a unique organisation, that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses, and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal.
The role of the Board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The Board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.
1. Terms of service
For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years. Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.
Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online. Papers are circulated for reading in advance.
In addition to this, it is expected that trustees attend the AGM held on a weekend and occasional Members’ Forums or other Vision Action events, which are usually arranged on the same day as a Board meeting in the evening. There may be other ad hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics. Trustees will be expected to commit time to receive a proper induction.
2. Main tasks
Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the three sub-committees (Fundraising and Investment; Programmes; Finance, Administration and Remuneration). The Committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings.
3. General Responsibilities
- Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
- Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
- Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
- Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
- Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
- Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
- Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
- Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
- Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his/her performance.
In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each Trustee should attend Board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.
4. Additional Specific Responsibilities
In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair designate and assume the role of Chair in November 2024.
Vision Action is looking for a Trustee who will be able to support us in 3 key areas:
1) Provide advice and experience at the level of Chair so that they can provide leadership to the Board of Trustees as well as the CEO
2) Act as the Chair designate until they assume the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees in November 2024.
3) Provide insight, knowledge and connections to help us build our reputation and position as a worthy international charity in the eye health sector in the UK and Internationally so that Vision Action can grow its relationship with individuals, bodies and corporates in the sector.
Person Specification
Each Trustee must have:
- A commitment to the mission and value base of Vision Action.
- A commitment to the key policies of Vision Action – on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistle-blowing, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti-Bribery.
- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
- Integrity.
- Strategic vision.
- Good, independent judgement.
- An ability to think creatively.
- A willingness to speak his/her mind.
- An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training/information will be offered in this area).
- An ability to contribute effectively to the workings of the Vision Action Board and any sub-committees or working groups.
In addition to the above, this specific appointment is looking ideally for Trustees who have:
- Previous experience of leading and Chairing at the senior level in an organisation;
- Previous experience of governing and managing at the Board level;
- Previous Board level experience in the charity sector;
- Willingness to undertake obligatory tasks with the Charity Commission on behalf of the organisation;
- Willingness to stay updated on changes to governance issues and policies that might impact Vision Action;
- A willingness to engage in activities in the vision sector as it relates to the work of Vision Action, including fundraising.
We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may have a connection to the vision sector either through personal or professional experience and those who might come from one of the countries that Vision Action is currently active in – Zambia, Ghana, Sierre Leone, and Ethiopia.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:
• Can this be stopped?
• How do I (or my child) live this life?
The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now the only significant national funder with the efficiency,
capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.
We are now seeking up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.
We have worked through our merger and have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.
As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.
We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”
Dr Heather Giles, Chair
“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”
Keith Valentine, CEO
ABOUT US
We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.
It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’
Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.
THE MERGER
Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.
Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.
The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:
- generate further investment into the sector,
- accelerate clinical progress,
- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss
Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified
mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.
OUR FUTURE
Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Historically, Vision Foundation has funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.
As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.
We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.
As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.
The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.
We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.
OUR FINANCES
The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we
have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.
OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM
Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.
The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.
The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.
Follow this link to find out more about our Board.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:
- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)
- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)
- People Committee
- Retail Committee
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.
- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.
Governance
- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.
Engagement
- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.
- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.
Evaluation and Accountability
- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.
- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:
Specialist experience
At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:
- Scientific and/or medical research
- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice
- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations
Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
General attributes
Knowledge & experience
- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.
Skills & abilities
- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.
Styles & behaviours
- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.
- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.
- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.
TERMS OF APPOINTMENT
Remuneration
This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.
Time commitment
While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:
- A minimum of four Board meetings per year
- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)
- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.
- Annual Strategy Day with full Board and executive team.
- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.
- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.
Location
At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to join a Board with an ambitious strategy to grow the amount of care we provide to people with complex disabilities, within a well established care organisation? At Vision Homes, we are seeking to recruit passionate and committed new trustees to our Board to help shape future strategy and growth.
We are seeking Trustees to bring additional knowledge and input to our Board. It is an opportunity for those that who are keen to use their skills and experience, whether professional or personal, to make sure Vision Homes can continue to serve and to grow the excellent care that it provides to people with complex needs such as sensory impairment with acquired brain injury. Those in our care range in age, and have differing needs, and we aim to offer personalised care so that everyone can live the best life that they can.
We’re particularly interested to hear from you if have direct experience of adult care services (care homes or home care) or experience in the supported housing sector. We also have a need to add to our skills and diversity, as a Board, in areas such as charity, governance, strategic management, or experience as a Chartered Surveyor. No prior experience of sitting on a board is necessary as we offer induction and training.
We are here to provide opportunities for people with care and support needs to lead valued and fulfilling lives.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join the team at Newcastle Rugby Foundation with some exciting trustee and committee opportunities now available for enthusiastic individuals.
Are you ready to be part of a team that’s making a real difference in our community?
Newcastle Rugby Foundation are offering two unique volunteer roles where your passion and expertise can help drive positive change. Whether you’re interested in guiding the charity’s strategic direction as a trustee or lending your marketing skills to support our mission through our marketing and commercial committee, we have a place for you.
Who are Newcastle Rugby Foundation?
Newcastle Rugby Foundation is the official charitable arm of Newcastle Falcons and Newcastle Thunder rugby teams. Our purpose is to make rugby the positive difference that changes lives for good.
Roles Available:
1. Trustee position (specialising in Education, health, or social inclusion): As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of our charity, influencing regional and national policy, and contributing to our mission of using rugby as a force for positive change. No trustee experience or formal qualifications are necessary; we provide training and support for the right individual who shares our values and vision.
2. Marketing and commercial committee member: As a member of the marketing and commercial committee, you will work closely with the committee chair, supporting the development and execution of our marketing strategy. This voluntary role is not a trustee position but offers a valuable opportunity to contribute your skills and expertise to a worthy cause.
What Newcastle Rugby Foundation Offers:
- A chance to make a tangible difference in our community.
- Training and support provided for both roles.
- Opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and grow both personally and professionally.
How do I apply?
A full job description for both roles, as well as how to apply can be found in the Trustee and Committee Recruitment Pack.
Applications close on Wednesday May 15.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role Summary
We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who will offer strategic and supportive leadership to our highly effective, collaborative and committed Board. The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, in service of the charity's vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the Board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity.
Chair role & responsibilities
Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that Glass Door achieves its mission with the interests of Glass Door's guests at its centre.
Work collaboratively with the CEO, staff and volunteers to achieve our mission and optimise the relationship between the Board and Glass Doors's staff and volunteers.
Provide leadership within the Board, ensuring that it fulfills its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation and promoting governance among fellow Trustees, providing clarity around boundaries between governance, management and operations.
Plan and chair the bi-monthly board meetings and the AGM, with colleagues as appropriate and liaise with the CEO, Company Secretary and Governance Trustee with regard to setting up meetings, agenda items and annual report content.
Facilitate meetings ensuring all have equal involvement in discussions, clarifying any uncertainties, confirming decisions made and actions to be taken and ensuring effective time management of meetings whilst providing appropriate periods of discussion and reflection.
Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for Glass Door when required.
Support Glass Door functions and events eg attendance at supporter events.
Support the Head of Fundraising & Major Donors with the cultivation of high-level donors, occassionally attending meetings where value can be added.
Represent the Board at staff Town Hall meetings.
Support the team liaising with partner churches and statutory authorities as required and be the public face of Glass Door in the local community.
Liaise with the CEO and he Board to keep an overview of the charity's affairs.
Provide supervision and support to the CEO as necessary in addition to planned monthly/bi-monthly 'catch up' meetings and, with the People Trustee, lead the CEO's annual performance review.
To act as final stage adjudicator for disciplinary and grievance procedures if required.
What we are looking for
Experience of being a Trustee, ideally in the third sector, and an understanding of the legal responsibilities and liabilities of a Trustee/Director.
A keen sense of strategic purpose.
Strong leadership skills, able to foster and promote a collaborative team environment and an inclusive and collaborative leadership style; able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.
An ability to facilitate, mediate, influence and respect the confidences of colleagues. The ability to listen and engage effectively. You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment.
Excellent presentation and communication skills.
Advocate and ambassador - possess gravitas to lead the organisation and be able and willing to champion Glass Door.
Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to Glass Door's guests and ensure that the interests of our guests drive the decisions of the Board.
A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
A willingness to devote necessary time and effort to your duties as Chair and be available and responsive (e.g. when things sometimes 'come up' that require the Chair to advise, support or give consent to).
What's in it for the new Chair?
Our vision is a world where no one has to sleep on the streets of London and we're working every day to achieve this. Your role as Chair will offer you an incredibly reqarding experience to use your skills and collaborate with the rest of the Board and staff members for the benefit of people experiencing, or at risk of homelessness.
For more information please see the full role description and Glass Door information pack attached,
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thank you for your interest in Phoenix Enterprises; we’re passionate in our mission to support people living with mental health issues and learning disabilities in Swindon. We are a small, friendly charity, with big impact.
We are looking to recruit a trustee to join our Board, a voluntary position which offers so much. Whilst the position is unpaid, you will feel the rewards of being part of a charity that is making a real difference. We are committed to our objective of building the employability skills of our service users. In the UK only 48% of people with mental health problems, and 17.6% of people with severe learning difficulties, are in employment, versus the national 75%. Mental health issues and learning disabilities can be financially debilitating and very isolating. In addition, those living with mental health problems often face complex and challenging issues ranging from wellbeing, managing the benefits system and finding accommodation. Good work and the right help make all the difference, and that’s what Phoenix is all about.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance, strategic direction and business continuity of the charity, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the Governing Document and legal and regulatory guidelines. Taking our responsibilities seriously requires a meaningful commitment and the ability to work as part of a small, friendly team.
Trustees bring different skills, experiences and perspectives, all really important and valuable in our work, ensuring a healthy approach and objective discourse. Previous board experience is not a pre-requisite, with a welcoming induction, mentoring and opportunity for training; we work as a team with a supportive approach.
Applications for this trustee role are invited from people who are based in or near to Swindon who would like to join our Board and have the capacity to be involved in our work. Trustees are expected to be able to attend the Board meetings and have the time to make an effective contribution to our work. Typically, there are 4 meetings per year. Occasional additional support will be valued for example at meetings with key stakeholders such as grant assessors and Swindon Borough Council.
We are committed to reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve, particularly those with experience of living with mental health issues or disabilities. We look forward to hearing from people who can bring a new perspective and fresh ideas to inform our thinking.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Role title: Chair of the Board of Trustees
Location: Flexible (travel to London will be required at least once a quarter)
Salary: N/A (Volunteer role)
Time commitment: 1.5-2 days per month
Contract: The Chair is appointed for an initial 3-year term with the option of renewal for up to 3 terms. The maximum term for all trustees (including the Chair) is 9 years.
Purpose of the role:
Are you seeking a board opportunity with a high-impact charity that aligns with your values and vision for society? Passionate about refugee welfare, integration, and unlocking talent for the UK? This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to join a growing, impact-focused and ambitious charity supporting refugees to access meaningful employment and build a new life.
The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs Breaking Barriers effectively, in service of our vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity.
The Chair of Breaking Barriers provides visionary leadership and strategic direction, ensuring that the organisation effectively achieves its mission while adhering to its core values. This pivotal role involves governance oversight, board leadership, executive support, and serving as an ambassador for the organisation.
What’s in it for you?
Holding the high-profile role at the Chair of Trustees have a number of benefits, including the following:
- Contributing to an important cause: Having appropriate support for refugees in the UK to access meaningful employment does not only benefit the refugee community. It also supports businesses to have access to a wider talent pool and helps foster integration in the society.
- Opportunity to make a difference: As the new Chair for Breaking Barriers, you will have the opportunity to drive the growth of a highly impactful Charity with current funding of circa £4 million per year. Breaking Barriers have ambitious plans to extend its impact and you will play a part in spearheading this.
- Expanding your network: Breaking Barriers partners with some of the most high-profile corporates such as Macquarie, Bank of America, LinkedIn, Ikea, and the Big Yellow Group. Being the Chair of Trustee means that you will have exposure to these organisations. You will also have access to other senior stakeholders within Breaking Barriers’ wider network, amongst the trustees, executive, and founding teams.
To view the full job description and person specification, as well as details on our accessible recruitment process, please view the attached recruitment pack.
Other considerations:
- As part of our safeguarding commitment to our clients, we carry out pre-employment checks to ensure that successful applicants are suitable to work with adults at risk. These include basic DBS checks, obtaining references and verifying a candidate’s identity and right to work in the UK.
- Breaking Barriers is committed to protecting an adult’s right to live in safety, free from abuse and neglect and for their views, wishes and beliefs to be fully considered when deciding action.
- We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, sex, sexual orientation, marriage and civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion or belief.
How to apply:
If you are looking for a role where you can make a real difference, we want to hear from you. Please apply via Charity Jobs by submitting a cover letter (up to approximately 2 A4 pages), referencing how you believe you best meet the person specification. You are also welcome to include any reasonable adjustments you require for the interview process. Please view the attached recruitment pack for further essential information for candidates.
Closing date for applications is 11:59pm on Sunday 2nd June. Interviews will be held on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
We belong to the Experts by Experience Employment Initiative, which advocates and supports organisations to employ more people from a refugee background. With this in mind, we particularly welcome applicants with experience of seeking asylum and/or a refugee background. If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network. Please reach out to HR Manager Dani Meier for further details (we are unable to include email addresses in this advert, but you can find contact details on the final page of the attached recruitment pack).
Breaking Barriers exists so that every refugee can access meaningful employment and build a new life.