Audit an risk committee chair volunteer roles
The University of Northampton is seeking a new member of its Board of Governors.
The members of the Board of Governors work together to oversee the activities of the University. The Board ensures the long-term future of the University, approves its strategy, and safeguards its good name and reputation. As a Board member, you will play a key role in driving forward the University’s mission and strategy.
In return you will build your professional experience, profile and networks, working alongside a strong and supportive team of your fellow governors and staff. You will be part of an organisation which has social impact as its purpose. The University is an economic engine and a force for social change for the county, the region, and the UK. Our latest Economic Impact Report showed that for every £1 spent running the University, £4 is returned to the economy – a 300% return on investment.
We are currently seeking skills, knowledge and experience in one or more of the following:
- community and region in Northampton, Northamptonshire and the surrounding areas
- finance
- IT.
There is further information about the University, the role and how to apply in the 'Further information' document, on our website, or available by contacting Miriam Lakin.
The University is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity and inclusion. This commitment, along with our legal and moral obligations, provides an inclusive environment for staff, students, governors and the public who may be affected by our activities.We believe strongly that having Board members from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds ensures the diversity of thought and rigour of debate which characterises a high-performing Board. Applications from women, those with global ethnic majority backgrounds, with declared disabilities, and from LBGT+ candidates are warmly received. We seek a broad and diverse range of previous professional and personal skills and experiences. Appointments to the Board take account of the personal and professional skills and experience of applicants in the context of the overall composition of the Board.
The role is voluntary and reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
If you have any questions about the role or making an application, you are welcome to contact Miriam Lakin, Associate Director of Governance, Compliance and Risk.
To apply please send your CV and a covering letter explaining your suitability for the role with reference to the role description and person specification. Please send your documents by 5pm on 30 May 2025. Interviews will take place on 13 June 2025.
Your cover letter should outline your suitability for the role with particular reference to the person specification which you will find in the role description.
Our ultimate purpose is social impact.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.
We are seeking a qualified and practicing legal professional to join our Board and provide legal insight, ideally with a minimum 10 years post qualification experience. You don’t necessarily need to be a specialist in healthcare, but an understanding of legal risk, charity law, commercial, governance, or regulatory frameworks would be valuable.
You will help ensure that we fulfil our legal duties as a charity, protect our interests, and make well-informed decisions—particularly when reviewing policies, commercial agreements, or collaborations with our NHS partners and other bodies. Crucially you will advise the CEO and Board of Trustees when seeking external professional legal advice.
Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.
What’s in it for the volunteer?
You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.
Time commitment
- Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
- Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
- The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.
How to apply
Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.
RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.
Join a dynamic board supporting primary schools in diverse, deprived areas. Use your strategic finance skills to shape the trust’s future, ensure sustainability, and help every child thrive through smart, impactful use of resources.
What will you be doing?
We are seeking a Lead Finance Trustee to join our committed and dynamic board of trustees, working to support primary schools in some of the most socially diverse and economically deprived areas. This is a rewarding opportunity for an experienced and strategically-minded finance professional to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children.
As Lead Finance Trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping the trust’s financial strategy, ensuring long-term sustainability and effective resource allocation. You will use your knowledge of strategic financial management to help oversee budgets, support informed decision-making, and provide robust challenge and assurance to the executive team.
Your expertise will help ensure that public funds are used wisely and transparently, so that every pound spent has a direct, positive impact on pupils. Working closely with other trustees and leaders, you’ll help ensure the trust’s priorities align with its mission to support children in overcoming barriers, reaching their full potential, and thriving at school.
This is an opportunity to apply your skills and values where they truly matter—supporting equity in education and contributing to brighter futures for the next generation.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for a finance professional with the vision, integrity and commitment to contribute meaningfully to the strategic leadership of our trust. As Lead Finance Trustee, you will provide expert guidance and challenge on the trust’s financial sustainability and ensure that public funding is used effectively to support the best possible outcomes for children.
You should bring:
- Proven experience in strategic financial leadership, ideally at board or senior management level, within a public, private or charitable sector organisation
- A strong understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, risk management, and long-term financial planning
- The ability to interpret complex financial information and communicate it clearly to non-financial colleagues
- A track record of constructive challenge and oversight, with sound judgement and a strategic mindset
While experience in education is not essential, an understanding of public sector funding, academy trust structures, or governance in a regulated environment would be advantageous.
You will also bring the following personal qualities:
- A commitment to educational equality and improving life chances for children in disadvantaged communities
- Independence of thought, professional curiosity, and a willingness to challenge assumptions in the best interests of pupils
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a diverse and values-driven board
- Integrity, discretion, and a deep sense of accountability for public resources
This voluntary role is ideal for someone who wants to apply their financial expertise to a cause that matters. You’ll play a key part in helping us deliver sustainable, high-impact education for children who need it most.
What difference will you make?
As Lead Finance Trustee, your influence will reach far beyond balance sheets.
You will ensure that financial decisions directly translate into better outcomes for children, particularly those facing disadvantage. By applying your expertise, you’ll help the trust allocate resources effectively—supporting high-quality teaching, inclusive learning environments, and targeted interventions where they’re needed most.
Your strategic oversight will:
- Strengthen the trust’s financial resilience, enabling it to adapt and grow sustainably
- Guarantee that public funds are used transparently and in the best interests of children
- Help shape long-term goals that reflect the needs of diverse, underserved communities
- Provide assurance to stakeholders, parents, and regulators that the trust’s finances are robust and ethically managed
Ultimately, your role will empower the trust to deliver on its mission: to raise aspirations and improve life chances for every child.
Before you apply
A simple CV or application plus an informal interview to assess suitability
Aspens are looking for trustees to join us on the next exciting part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you if you have accountancy, social care, business development or fundraising experience.
What will you be doing?
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism? Do you have the skills, experience, and dedication to help guide a forward-thinking charity? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
About Aspens CharitiesAt Aspens we provide high quality care and support to people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; and their families; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.
Why Become a Trustee?As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of Aspens Charities. You will work alongside a committed Board to ensure our services remain impactful, sustainable, and aligned with our core values.
Your Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership, ensuring Aspens meets its charitable objectives.
- Oversee financial management, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
- Support and challenge the Executive Team to drive excellence in service delivery.
- Act as an ambassador for Aspens, promoting our work and values.
- Attend Board meetings and contribute to key strategic decisions.
What We’re Looking For:We welcome applications from individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Key attributes include:
- A strong commitment to the aims and values of Aspens Charities.
- Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
- Willingness to dedicate time to Board meetings and governance activities.
- Integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively.
We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:
- Accountancy
- Health & Social Care sector knowledge
- Fundraising and business development
Time Commitment & LocationThis is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses covered. The Board meets approximately three times a year, with 3 committee meetings and occasional additional meetings or events. Meetings are held in person and virtually.
What are we looking for?
- Commitment to the goals and aims of the charity.
- Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time.
- The ability to make good independent judgements.
- Being able to think creatively.
- Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties.
- Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans.
- Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions.
- Proven experience working as a member of successful teams.
- Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.
Experience of either accountancy or fundraising / income generation.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, your leadership will directly shape the future of Aspens Charities and the lives of the people we support. You will help:
- Improve Quality of Care – Ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autism receive the best possible support.
- Drive Strategic Growth – Expanding and developing services to reach more people in need.
- Ensure Financial Sustainability – Overseeing resources to secure long-term impact.
- Strengthen Governance – Upholding transparency, compliance, and ethical leadership.
Your expertise will make a lasting difference, creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
Thank you for your interest in joining our board of trustees. Blue Ventures is an award-winning charity working to rebuild coastal fisheries. We are committed to making conservation work for people, demonstrating powerful win-wins for marine biodiversity and coastal livelihoods.
We have a bold ambition: we’re working to create a world where small-scale fishers have bigger catches, better livelihoods and improved food security, and where healthy oceans teem with life for generations to come.
We are a diverse family of conservation and development professionals. Across 13 countries, our 300+ staff put fishers first. We fight for their rights, support them to fulfil their potential, and supply them with everything they need to manage and protect our oceans in ways that benefit people and nature alike. Our decentralised structure keeps us close to the coastal communities we serve and ensures our work is effective and sustainable.
Blue Ventures is going through rapid and sustained growth and is uniquely positioned to drive impact at scale in the marine conservation sector. We seek new board members to help maintain our commitment to strong and inclusive governance. We are truly committed to ensuring diversity and gender equality within our global organisation and board and welcome applications from candidates with lived experience in the countries and communities we serve.
If you believe you have what it takes to succeed in this role and share our values and ambitions, we would love to hear from you. You will find more information about the role in the rest of this pack and on our website, along with further information about our work and our plans for the future.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Sincerely,
Fiona Holmes
Chair, Board of Trustees
Location: Global, preferably in locations that intersect with BV’s work in our programmatic countries. (Bristol or London - UK, Madagascar, Indonesia, Kenya, Tanzania, Senegal)
Closing date for applications: 15 May 2025, 12:00 A.M GMT.
Start date: June 2025
Term duration: 3 - 6 years
We rebuild tropical fisheries with coastal communities
Blue Ventures is a marine conservation organization that puts people first. We support coastal fishers in remote and rural communities to rebuild fisheries, restore ocean life and build lasting pathways to prosperity. Our work began two decades ago in Madagascar’s remote coastal communities and is growing globally.
Across a dozen countries, we’re partnering with traditional fishers and community organizations to design, scale, strengthen and sustain fisheries management and conservation at the community level. We bring partners together in networks to advocate for reform, and share tools and best practices to support fishing communities across the globe.
Summary Terms of Reference
We currently have nine trustees on our board and three established subcommittees. One is tasked with overseeing our People and Culture function, and the other is Finance, Risk, and Audit. We also have a Safeguarding Reporting sub-committee.
We seek a trustee with expertise in data governance, digital oversight, and Data Protection compliance to support Blue Ventures as we scale our digital infrastructure and strengthen our organisational technology capability. This trustee will provide strategic guidance and assurance over our digital transformation, particularly as we implement changes across enterprise resource planning (ERP) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platforms. The role will also be key in helping to ensure that data governance frameworks uphold compliance, integrity, and ethical standards across all operating regions.
The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of data protection laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the UK Data Protection Act 2018, and practical experience advising on digital risk, cybersecurity, and data architecture in complex, international environments. Experience in the charity or international development sector is welcome but not required.
Experience in governance and compliance oversight relating to the confidentiality, availability, and integrity of core systems across Blue Ventures is key.
Knowledge of Technology, Service and Change best practice frameworks, including ITIL, TOGAF, APM would be an advantage.
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.
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 exciting opportunity to get involved as a Finance Trustee in an engaging, decision making role in a charity that inspires and empowers young disabled adults to live fulfilling, independent lives – promoting personal development through the arts.
About the Orpheus Centre
The Orpheus Centre is a charity and college which supports young disabled adults aged 18-25 to learn essential life skills, gain formal qualifications and prepare for future employment.
There are currently 66 students with 21 living on site in Godstone, Surrey. Students come from across the UK and all have a love of the arts.
Started by lyricist and musician Sir Richard Stilgoe, the organisation offers learning, care and development opportunities at the college and in the wider community, working with professional artists, businesses and other charities.
The overall aim is to equip the students with the skills they need to live as independently as possible and to pursue their chosen careers.
Our core values are to be Joyful, Bold, Inclusive, Resilient and Determined. These values are the foundations for all our work and are what the organisation stands for.
Why should you apply?
Orpheus is a vibrant Independent Specialist college for young disabled adults who have a passion for the arts and a desire to live independently. Orpheus believes that disabled people should have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers.
The Board of Trustees are looking for a new Trustee who is passionate about our vision to empower and equip young disabled people with the skills and confidence they need in order to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community.
Time commitment
The time commitment is between 7 and 12 days per annum, including four Board meetings including the AGM (mainly in person), four committee meetings (mainly virtual), one or two awaydays and ad-hoc attendance.
What will you be doing?
The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Orpheus, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document and with legal and regulatory guidelines.
The role of the Finance Trustee includes all the above, but with a particular focus on the financial stability and wellbeing of the Orpheus Centre. As a member of that committee, you will play a full and active part in the work of the Finance and HR Committee, and in ensuring that the Board fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the Orpheus Centre in relation to finance and HR. You will also work closely with the Chief Executive, Director of Finance & Operations and Head of HR (as well as with the Board Chair and the committee Chair) to support them in achieving the aims of the Orpheus Centre in the areas of finance and HR.
Your responsibilities will include:
- monitoring the charity’s financial management, and seeking assurance that ensuring expenditure is in line with Orpheus objects;
- liaising as necessary with the Chair of Trustees, Chair of Finance and HR Committee, Chief Executive, Head of Finance and Head of HR;
- supporting the Finance and HR Committee and Board to monitor Orpheus’ financial viability;
- monitoring the financial processes and procedures for the control of Orpheus’ assets;
- advising on the financial implications of Orpheus’ strategic plan;
- reviewing the annual accounts and, if necessary, liaising with the Orpheus Centre’s external auditors to ensure the accounts are compliant with current SORPs;
- reviewing the auditors' representation letter and monitoring and advising on any necessary remedial measures;
- ensuring that you undertake a thorough induction programme;
- monitoring progress in implementing decisions taken at committee meetings and keeping in close touch with the work of the Finance and HR Departments in general – while always respecting the boundary between the respective roles of executives and non-executives;
- assessing and monitoring risks relevant to the finance and HR functions of the Orpheus Centre;
and
- monitoring and scrutinising performance data within the Finance and HR Departments.
How to apply
If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following:
- A detailed CV setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements.
- A covering letter (maximum two sides) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the covering letter is an important part of your application.
- Contact details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you; referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.
If you have any questions or would like to arrange a call to discuss the role, please contact the Orpheus Centre to speak to our Head of HR.
The Orpheus Centre is proud to be a disability confident employer
We have made a positive commitment to employing disabled people. Reasonable adjustments will be made to the recruitment procedure as required in consultation with the applicant to ensure no-one is disadvantaged because of their disability. If a disabled person is selected for a position, reasonable adjustments will be made to the workplace, including premises and equipment, work duties and practices or policies, as appropriate. All disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role as set out in the role profile and person specification will be considered for interview.
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are:
- Challenging attitudes towards disability
- Increasing understanding of disability
- Removing barriers to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions
- Ensuring that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspiration
We are focused on inspiring and empowering young disabled students to live fulfilling, independent lives




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!
Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.
Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year
Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.
Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.
Location:Oxfordshire
Reporting: To the Board of Trustees
Reference Documents:
Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide
Charity Governance Code
Charity Commission Guidance
Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at
Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.
To apply, please send a copy of your CV accompanied by a covering letter to our recruitment team, alternatively, visit our website or more information.
Oxfordshire Youth
Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.
1.Charity Trustees
The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles:
● the Chair of the Board of Trustees
● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager
● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee
● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee
2.The Role of the Board
At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.
3.Duties of a Trustee
The statutory duties of a trustee are
● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association
● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be
● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth
● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization
● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth
● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds
● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance
In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.
4. Minimum Time Commitment
Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.
5.Person Specification
Each trustee must have:
● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth
● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement
● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
● Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind
● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise
● Integrity
The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:
● Leadership and human resource management
● Financial management, income generation and enterprise
● Safeguarding experience and expertise
● Public policy and public affairs
● National and local youth sector
For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the legal profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide legal advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.
Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work.
Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.
6. Trustee Role Boundaries
Trustees in a decision-making capacity:
● As a board of trustees
● As a sub-committee
● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:
1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.
2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.
3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.
Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-p
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!
Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.
Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year,
Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.
Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.
Location: Oxfordshire
Reporting: To the Board of Trustees
Reference Documents:
Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide
Charity Governance Code
Charity Commission Guidance
Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at
Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.
Oxfordshire Youth
Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.
1.Charity Trustees
The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles:
● the Chair of the Board of Trustees
● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager
● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee
● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee
2.The Role of the Board
At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.
3.Duties of a Trustee
The statutory duties of a trustee are:
● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association
● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be
● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth
● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization
● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth
● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds
● Ensure appropriate safeguarding governance, processes, training and competences are in place to safeguard children, young people, adults, staff and others that OY may come into contact with
● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance
In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.
4.Minimum Time Commitment
Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours, these usually take place in the evening. Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.
5.Person Specification
Each trustee should have:
● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth
● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement
● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind
● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticize
● Integrity
● An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (although further training will be provided)
The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:
● Leadership and human resource management
● Financial management, income generation and enterprise
● Safeguarding experience and expertise
● Public policy and public affairs
● National and local youth sector
For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the marketing, pubic relations and business development profession; or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide marketing, pubic relations and business development advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.
Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work.
Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.
6.Trustee Role Boundaries
Trustees in a decision-making capacity:
● As a board of trustees
● As a sub-committee
● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:
1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.
2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.
3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.
4. Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join Our Board of Trustees – Help Tackle Educational Inequality
Location: UK-wide (remote meetings with one in-person meeting annually in London)
Time Commitment: Approx. 4 Board meetings and sub-committee involvement per year
Start Date: July 2025
Application Deadline: 9am, Wednesday 21st May 2025
Are you passionate about tackling educational inequality and improving life chances for young people and adults across the UK?
Get Further is an award-winning education charity on a mission to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pass GCSE English and maths – the gateway qualifications needed to unlock future opportunities. Through high-quality tuition and sector-leading resources, we are reshaping the landscape of post-16 education.
We are now recruiting new trustees to join our dynamic and committed Board. As a trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding the strategic direction of the charity, supporting our senior leadership team, and ensuring effective governance during a crucial phase of our growth. We are especially keen to hear from individuals with expertise in one or more of the following areas:
- Further Education (teaching, leadership, or policy)
- The apprenticeship sector
- Fundraising and income generation
- Legal (particularly charity law)
- Impact and evaluation
- Lived experience of FE or resitting GCSEs post-16
We are committed to diversity and inclusion and strongly encourage applications from individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, especially those with first-hand experience of the FE sector or of educational disadvantage.
MAIN TRUSTEE DUTIES:
Governance
- Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing documents and charity law
- Ensuring that the charity’s strategy is fit for purpose to deliver its mission / objectives
- Ensuring the financial stability of the charity, protecting and managing the charity’s assets
- Championing the charity’s mission within your network and the wider community
- Safeguarding the charity’s reputation and values, ensuring that risks are properly recognised and mitigated and promoting the public profile of Get Further
- Supporting and providing guidance to the management team of Get Further
Additionally, trustees will be responsible for:
- Attending and participating fully in Board of Trustees meetings
- Attending and participating fully in strategy workshops, where relevant
- Taking a lead role in fundraising for the charity
- Inspiring effective leadership, monitoring performance and ensuring accountability and resourcefulness
- Utilising skills and contacts for the benefit of the charity
- Championing and demonstrating a commitment to our cause
Check out the Recruitment Pack to get full details of what it means to be a Get Further Trustee, who we are looking for and how to apply.
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To support students in further education from disadvantaged backgrounds to secure gateway English and maths qualifications that unlock opportunities.
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!
Oxfordshire Youth Trustee – Finance Role
Description: Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.
Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.
Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year. Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.
Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.
Location: Oxfordshire
Reporting: To the Board of Trustees
Reference Documents:
- Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide
- Charity Governance Code
- Charity Commission Guidance
Oxfordshire Youth
Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.
1. Charity Trustees
The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles:
- the Chair of the Board of Trustees
- the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager
- the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee
- the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee
2. The Role of the Board
At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility.
Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.
3. Duties of a Trustee
The statutory duties of a trustee are:
- Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
- Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association
- Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be
- Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
- Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth
- Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization
- Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth
- Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds
- Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance
In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.
4. Minimum Time Commitment
Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.
5. Person Specification
Each trustee must have:
- A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth
- A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement ● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
- Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
- Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind
- Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise
- Integrity
The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:
- Leadership and human resource management
- Financial management, income generation and enterprise
- Safeguarding experience and expertise
- Public policy and public affairs
- National and local youth sector
For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the finance profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide financial advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.
Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work.
Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.
6. Trustee Role Boundaries
Trustees in a decision-making capacity:
- As a board of trustees
- As a sub-committee
- Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
- CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:
- Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.
- Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.
- Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.
- Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Safeguarding Lead Trustee
Location: London (Hybrid)
Remuneration: This is an unremunerated role. However, expenses such as childcare, care for other dependants, and travel will be covered to support attendance at board meetings.
Our client is a registered Charity Incorporated Organisation that aims to support and invest in young people (predominantly 18-25 years old) through their adolescent years which can be difficult because of both personal circumstances and the injustices in society. They fund work nationally, as well as having a specific focus on several counties in the South East of England. The grants they make total c. £3 million per year.
The Trust has evolved a lot over the years and is very much values driven around their mission “to bring lasting change to the lives of young people; investing in them as powerful forces for change and acting upon their right to be heard in pursuit of a fair and just society.” They really want to be a foundation that listens well and gives young people power to change and improve society whilst staying responsible, trusting and progressive. They do this primarily by providing grants to organisations working with young people, influencing youth policy alongside them and investing directly in young changemakers.
The Trust is looking for a new Safeguarding Lead Trustee to join their inclusive, inspiring and professional Board. You will be the champion for safeguarding throughout the organisation and Board and will bring excellent experience around safeguarding young people, with support from the Safeguarding Committee. Our client encourages applications from younger candidates for those who feel they have similar and relevant experience even though this may be your first time board/trustee role.
Most importantly, this individual will be motivated to live the Trust’s values and share their vision of a world where all young people have hope, access to the support they need, a stake in society and influence over their futures. Our client are committed to centering the voices of those they seek to serve. Their board and staff team have relevant lived and learnt experiences to help us fulfil their mission. They listen to the communities they seek to serve both directly and broadly to have as accurate of an understanding as possible about the issues that those they’re here to serve are facing.
For further details about this exciting opportunity, please refer to the full appointment brief attached below. To apply, please click ‘Redirect to Recruiter’.
Deadline for applications: 18th May
Interviews with client: w/c 26th May or 2nd June
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!
Our Branch is seeking a new Treasurer for our Committee. We would love to hear from a finance professional with a passion for animal welfare!
About us:
RSPCA Lincolnshire Mid, NE & Lincoln Branch rehabilitates and re-homes animals rescued by the RSPCA's national Inspectors. We also promote responsible pet ownership and hold animal action days such as for microchipping.
We currently run three charity shops and regular fundraising events, to rehabilitate more than 100 animals each year, and help them find their forever home.
Our Branch is extremely passionate with twelve Trustees currently forming the Committee.
We have a very strong financial position, with excellent controls, having had the support of a dedicated Treasurer for over 10 years. We are now looking for her successor and would love to hear from you!
What is involved?
As a Trustee of an RSPCA Branch you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals.
Our Treasurer acts as principal financial trustee maintaining and administering the accounts of the branch.
What you can bring to our board:
You will have a professional finance qualification or be working towards one, such as CIMA or ACCA. You will ideally have charity finance experience, such as an understanding of gift aid, charity commission reporting requirements and restricted funds.
You will have experience of using finance software, with Xero experience being particularly desirable as it is our current software. You will also be familiar with how HMRC rules work, i.e., PAYE, Employer’s National Insurance and charity rules in respect of VAT.
Our Treasurer is a key role, with responsibilities to:
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implement and maintain sound financial systems in order to retain full control of branch funds.
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take a lead role in ensuring the committee set annual financial budgets and forward plan the branch income and expenditure so that the accounts balance in the long term.
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provide a written financial report for every branch meeting showing the branch’s income and expenditure since the last meeting.
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liaise with auditors/independent examiner regarding the production of the annual branch accounts and treasurer’s report for the AGM, including SORP statement.
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maintain control of all bank accounts as authorised by the committee.
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execute and operate branch committee financial decisions and act as branch co-signatory on all branch cheques, if required.
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make quarterly VAT returns via the Branch’s Xero accounting system.
Working with our Branch Manager, the Treasurer will also:
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maintain control over all branch debit/credit cards, paying-in books and receipt books and to ensure their correct use.
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ensure correct responsibility for the branch network of collection boxes.
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arrange payment of the annual branch contribution to the appropriate RSPCA fund.
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coordinate financial control of all branch fundraising activities.
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ensure the retention and safekeeping of all branch financial documentation for the appropriate time as set by the charity commission.
Additionally, in conjunction with your fellow trustees, our Treasurer will:
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conduct regular reviews of the branch accounts and investment portfolio to ensure the best return on branch funds.
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ensure the production, monitoring and annual review of the branch’s financial risk management strategy in accordance with the charity commission’s requirements.
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liaise with Branch officers and Branch Partnership Manager on financial affairs as necessary and alert them immediately to any possible difficulties or irregularities.
Things to know about the role
You will ideally live and/or work in our branch area in Lincolnshire, UK, to bring local insight to our branch decisions. Our branch covers the city of Lincoln, out to Mablethorpe, Woodhall Spa and Gainsborough, and all the way up to Grimsby.
We meet monthly as a board, with most of these online but we like to also meet at least 3 times each year in-person, including our AGM, as well as support local fundraising events.
If you would like an informal chat about the opportunity, please contact the Chair Sophie Easteal or Treasurer Penny Kemp.
Our Trustees need to be or become a member of the RSPCA.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.
We are looking for an experienced marketing or fundraising professional to help raise our charity’s profile and enhance the impact and innovation of our fundraising campaigns. Ideally operating at executive director level or equivalent. If you have a track record of delivering successful marketing or fundraising initiatives, we would like to hear from you.
You will play a key role in supporting our team to diversify and grow our funding streams; particularly unrestricted income. We would welcome applications from across both commercial and charity sectors.
In this role, you will:
- Provide strategic guidance on the planning and execution of marketing and fundraising campaigns, with a focus on channel strategy and donor engagement across digital, social and traditional media.
- Advise on market and competitive analysis to inform campaign development and positioning.
- Bring expertise in successful campaign delivery and marketing best practice reflecting appropriate legal and ethical considerations.
Your insight will help strengthen our financial sustainability, ensuring we can continue supporting high-impact services for patients.
Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.
What’s in it for the volunteer?
You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.
Time commitment
- Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
- Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
- Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
- The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.
How to apply
Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.
RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.
Who we are
As the charity partner of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), we are dedicated to advancing the quality of veterinary care for the benefit of animals, the public and society. We achieve this through evidence-based veterinary medicine, research and education. By working together with veterinary teams, animal owners and all those involved in animal health, we strive towards our vision of healthier animals, people and planet.
The role
We are looking for individuals who share our commitment to improving animal health to join our Board as lay trustees. Lay trustees (ie, trustees who are not vets or vet nurses) play a crucial role in ensuring that the Board benefits from a diverse range of perspectives and skills.
We are particularly seeking people who have experience of:
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Fundraising and/or leadership in the charity sector, or
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Business development and entrepreneurship, or
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Commercial leadership experience, with a strong understanding of business operations and strategic management, or
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Quality Improvement in human healthcare
This is a voluntary position, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction and governance of a dynamic charity.
Key responsibilities
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Attend and actively participate in three Board meetings each year and additional committee meetings as required.
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Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge to the Board’s decision-making processes.
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Ensure the charity adheres to its mission, values and legal obligations.
What we offer
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The opportunity to make a significant impact on animal health and welfare, the veterinary profession and experience of animal owners.
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A supportive and collaborative board environment.
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Reimbursement of travel expenses.
Trustees are appointed for a term of three years, with the option of re-appointment for a further term.
If you are passionate about making a difference to the veterinary care that animals receive, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of our charity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you passionate about the natural world and inspiring others to engage with it?
Join us as a Trustee at the Field Studies Council and help shape the future of environmental education.
- You can be based anywhere in the UK
- You’ll need to commit approx. 10 days a year
- It’s a voluntary position but reasonable expenses are reimbursed
About Us
Field Studies Council is an environmental education charity. For over 80 years, we've been inspiring people to understand and care for the natural world. Through our network of centres across the UK, we provide fieldwork and outdoor learning experiences for all ages — from school groups and university students to families and lifelong learners.
We are a leader in biodiversity training, the publisher of best-selling wildlife ID guides, and a champion for accessible outdoor education, particularly for disadvantaged young people. Our mission is simple but vital: to create outstanding opportunities that inspire everyone to engage with and care for the environment.
Your Opportunity to Make a Difference
We’re currently looking to appoint four new Trustees to bring fresh perspectives and help us grow in diversity, representation and expertise. As a Trustee, you'll help guide and shape our charity’s future.
While the day-to-day running of our charity is handled by our staff and volunteers, the Board of Trustees plays a key role in making sure everything stays on track.
That includes overseeing our work, making big-picture decisions, and ensuring we meet our legal and regulatory responsibilities. It’s an important role, but you won’t be doing it alone. You will:
- Provide strategic oversight and guidance to support our mission and values
- Use your insight and experience to influence decisions that impact tens of thousands of learners annually
- Act as an ambassador for environmental education and social inclusion
- Contribute to Board and committee meetings, and participate in key annual activities including visiting one of our field centres each year to see our work in action
- Use your knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to help us innovate, grow, and reach more people
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need to be an academic, ecologist or environmentalist to join us or have charity trustee, company director or equivalent experience — we welcome applicants from all walks of life. We are especially interested in candidates with skills in:
- Charity governance
- Finance (qualified professionals – potential Honorary Treasurer role)
- Fundraising & stakeholder engagement
- Marketing & communications
Above all, we want individuals who are:
- Passionate about equal access to outdoor learning
- Ready to speak up and bring a new perspective
- Willing to give their time and energy to support the Field Studies Council
We’re committed to building a Trustee board that is inclusive, representative, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve.
We warmly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in charity governance — including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQIA+ communities, young people, and those with lived experience of social or economic disadvantage.
If you're excited by our mission and ready to help others experience the power of nature, we’d love to hear from you.
What’s Involved
- Approx. 10 days per year commitment for an initial 3-year term (this includes board and committee meetings, and a centre visit)
- Most meetings are held virtually, with one in-person event annually
- All reasonable expenses are covered
- Appropriate training and support will be provided
Please download the Trustee Candidate Information Pack to learn more and take the next step in helping us connect people with the natural world
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.