Board chair volunteer roles in camp hill, warwickshire

AMR Action UK (formerly Antibiotic Research UK) is the UK Patient Organisation for Antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Its legitimacy to advocate for patients, with policy-makers and with NHS systems, comes from its insight, and therefore through its patient support services, patient-focussed research and direct patient and public engagement activities.

The organisation is at an exciting stage of its development. Following the appointment of a new Chief Executive in late 2024 it has a new strategy in place and by greatly increasing its impact over the next 3 years intends to significantly reduce the harm from AMR across all four nations of the United Kingdom. The charity is also committed to expanding its services to meet the growing demand from patients and families directly impacted by AMR. This growth will be underpinned by a new name and new brand, a fresh approach to communications that will greatly increase awareness of the charity’s work with the UK public, and a new fundraising strategy that will both grow and diversify income and also increase sustainability.

The charity is now looking for a dynamic new Chair of Trustees who is excited by our plans, and by the difference this will make to peoples’ lives. Given the growth agenda for the period 2025-28, the suitable candidate at this point in time is likely to come from a commercial background, with a strong understanding of strategy, investment, business development, and communications in the context of a rapidly changing environment. They are also likely to have a track-record of successfully managing risk v reward in a growing business. Increasing donations from corporates and philanthropists is important to the charity at this stage in its development and the new Chair will be comfortable operating in these environments.

A key part of the role will be to support the new senior executive team charged with delivering the growth agenda, including establishing and maintaining a strong working relationship with the CEO.

Please note we are in the process of updating post name change, email addresses and website may still reflect previous name of Antibiotic Research UK. 

We are seeking a trustee with a finance and/or accounting background who will work with the Board of Trustees and Management to ensure the charity's financial viability.  There is also a more ‘hands-on’ function managing the charity’s investments and cash deposits. 

The Treasurer will maintain an overview of the organisation’s finances, ensuring financial viability, advising and guiding on financial requirements and best practice and providing advice, assistance and information to Trustees (Committee Members) on their financial stewardship responsibilities. 

ShowerBox is a registered charity that has been providing free and secure showers as well as toiletries and supplies, warm drinks, snacks and haircuts to individuals facing homelessness since 2018. Our mission is to enhance our guests’ sense of physical well-being and dignity, help combat social isolation, and provide access to other essential resources such as health clinics and mobile libraries. By empowering individuals, we hope to help them make long term improvement in their lives.

Learning of individuals having passed away from preventable illnesses on the streets due to an inability to get clean and the social stigma associated with poor personal hygiene, Sarah Lamptey (our CEO) started offering weekly showers in St. Giles churchyard in Soho, London, from 2019. ShowerBox became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in 2021 and since then has been expanding nationally. Now, we operate in multiple sites – Central London, Birmingham, and Barking – either independently or in partnership. Central London remains our biggest site, followed by Birmingham and Barking, and we are in initial discussion with others. We receive our funds through philanthropy – currently supported by National Lottery Community Fund, Vitol Foundation, HS2, amongst others. 

The Board of Trustees is the ultimate governance body for the organisation, serving as stewards of the organisation’s resources, and is ultimately responsible for ShowerBox’s strategy, operations, adherence to law and regulation and financial management. The Trustees serve on a voluntary basis, and meet four or five times a year (online or in person in London).

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a Chairperson to take ShowerBox forward into an important and influential role following and building on the success it has had since becoming a CIO and expanding into 3 locations.

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees and works closely with ShowerBox’s CEO to achieve its goals. The Chair is responsible for key areas, including:

• Providing effective strategic leadership and management to the Board of Trustees enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of ShowerBox

• Providing support to the CEO and ensuring s/he is held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives

• Ensuring the Board meets regularly to review activities, major risks and opportunities

• Ensuring Trustees fulfill their duties and responsibilities for effective governance of ShowerBox

• Ensuring the Board is regularly refreshed and incorporates the right balance of skill, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead the charity effectively

• Conducts an annual appraisal and remuneration review of the CEO in consultation with other Trustees

• Acts as an ambassador for ShowerBox, representing it at external functions, meetings and events as appropriate and as spokesperson for the organisation when appropriate

• Ensuring financial stability and effective and efficient administration of ShowerBox

• Safeguard the good name and values of ShowerBox

Person Specification

• Interest in making a difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness/housing insecurity

• Experience serving as a Trustee or Board member (in either for-profit or non-profit organisation). Previous experience as Chair of a voluntary organisation is an advantage.

• An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship, together with an understanding of the financial aspects of running a charity.

• An ability to work effectively as part of a team contributing an independent perspective.

• Strong leadership, people management skills and the ability to chair meetings effectively.

• Ability to devote time and effort to support a small and growing charity and fulfill the duties outlined above.

• Prepared to attend four board meetings per year (mostly online) plus one or two ad hoc committees and/or events in line with their expertise, specific interest, or as needed

Terms of Appointment

Chair of Trustees is appointed for a 2 year, renewable term. It is anticipated that the time commitment should be no more than 2 days a month but there could be occasions when extra time will be required (for instance, during planning of new projects or when dealing with unexpected situations). The role of Chair is unpaid.

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining why you are interested in working with ShowerBox. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. 

Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees at Music For Youth (MFY); a national youth music charity that provides life-changing musical experiences for young people aged 25 and under. 

Music for Youth brings together over 40,000 young people a year to perform in live music festivals and concerts across the UK. The charity uniquely provides open access to young people, from whatever background or ability, to perform live to audiences: from grass-roots community halls to the Royal Albert Hall. We develop their musicianship, showcasing the richness and diversity of their music through our impactful live performance and development programmes. The wider social and life skills developed by participating in our events benefits all who take part and propels some of the UK's most promising young musicians onto career-changing platforms.

Our vision is to ensure that every young person in the UK can achieve their musical potential by performing the music they love. We believe that music, and the chance to participate in high-quality musical activities, should be open to every young person.

As Chair, you will guide a committed and experienced Board of Trustees, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, and champion our cause at the highest levels. 

This is a crucial time for Music For Youth, as we navigate a changing funding landscape and continue to innovate to reach even more young people.

If you are an experienced leader with a passion for the vision, mission, impact and potential of this unique organisation, we would love to hear from you.

About Us

Who We Are

Music For Youth is a national youth music charity that works with schools, youth groups, music hubs, and community organisations to break down barriers to music-making and showcase the incredible talent of young musicians.

Our Programmes and Impact

Each year, Music For Youth reaches over 40,000 young people across the UK, offering them platforms to develop their musical talents across all music genres, and gain confidence. Many of our alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and beyond.

National Music Festivals and Concerts:

We produce and stage high-quality professional standard live music events (including gigs, concerts, and festivals) for young musicians, both regionally at grass roots level, and at the UK’s most prestigious live music venues.

Young Artist Development:

We nurture and develop young musicians so they can realise their musical potential, by initiating adventurous collaborations, commissioning new music, and providing a robust music mentoring programme.

Creative Skills Development:

We provide skills and training development for young people looking for a career in the creative industries in non-performance and stagecraft roles such as stage management, sound engineering, lighting and digital production skills. 

Advocacy for Young Musicians:

We campaign to highlight the brilliance of young musicians.

Our work takes place across the whole of the UK with events in all nine regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This coverage enables us to support and tour the work of other partner organisations so they can reach young people further afield.

For over 50 years, Music for Youth’s annual cycle of regional festivals, local events, a national festival and showcase concerts has made a significant contribution to the music education calendar, bringing together regional providers and young performers, and putting young people’s own achievements into a wider national context:

The Music for Youth Regional Festival is a collection of festivals across the UK aimed to inspire musicians at every level of experience and across every genre of music. This collection of regional festivals forms the UK’s largest festival for young musicians. 30,000 musicians take part every year and many go on to perform again at the Music for Youth National Festival and Music for Youth Proms.

The National Festival is a coming together of musicians, bands and ensembles from across the regions to perform on world-class stages including Symphony Hall, and the CBSO Centre. It is a key date in the Music for Youth calendar, hosted by the city of Birmingham in July. Over 12,000 young musicians aged 4-21 from across the UK take part, featuring all styles, instruments and genres of music. 

The Music for Youth Proms takes place at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London. This two-day showcase celebrates the incredible diversity, talent and creativity of young musicians from all corners of the UK. From orchestral ensembles to choirs, bands, soloists, and more, these talented young performers get the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and share their music with a wider audience.

Staff and Head Office

Given the charity’s national reach, the head office recently relocated from London to Birmingham, now based in CBSO Centre (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) close to the city centre. The staff team of seven permanent staff are based across the UK, with hybrid home / office working arrangements.

Board and Governance

There are nine Trustees, each co-opted on to one (or more) subcommittees: the Audit & Risk Committee, Programmes Committee, and Fundraising Committee.

How Music For Youth is Funded

Music For Youth is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving 42% of its funds from the annual grant of £279,980 in 2023/24. In addition, the charity raises income from fundraising (sponsorship, institutions, individuals) totalling 33% of annual turnover £672,938 in 23/24, with 10.6% from earned income including event ticket sales of £71,785 in 2023/24. 

The charity’s turnover in 2023/24 was £672,938, ending the year with reserves of £101,224.

For further information, please see our latest Annual Account and Report here.

The Opportunity

We are excited to be seeking our next Chair of Trustees to lead the organisation, as our current Chair, John Dixon, comes to the end of his term of service. 

With an energetic, skilled and focused Executive Team led by Phil Castang MBE - and a highly experienced supportive Board of Trustees bringing their wealth of collective experience spanning leadership in music, education, arts, fundraising and industry - now is an exciting time to join this unique national music charity, as we prepare for the next phase of development.

The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and governance to Music For Youth, ensuring the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable, and delivering on its charitable objectives: 

Leadership 

• Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that it runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions. 
• Creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately. 
• Provide clear strategic direction for the charity, working with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals.
• Act as an ambassador for MFY as required, promoting our work and advocating for youth music at national and local levels.
• Support MFY in maintaining strong partnerships with funders, arts organisations, schools, and the wider music sector.

Governance & Compliance

• Lead an engaged and effective Board of Trustees, ensuring good governance and compliance with charity law.
• Manage, support and appraise the performance of the CEO, ensuring they and their senior leadership team have the resources and guidance to deliver MFY’s mission.
• Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational policies.

Fundraising & Advocacy

• Work with the Board and executive team to develop fundraising strategies, securing income from grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
• Represent MFY at high-profile events, engaging with stakeholders and championing the value of youth music.

What we are looking for

As our new Chair, you will share a commitment to the mission of Music For Youth. While it is not essential to be from a Music or Music Education background, we are looking for someone who has passion for the impact - and potential - of the charity and can demonstrate how their experience can help us navigate the pivotal years ahead.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
• Financial literacy
• High level networking and advocacy skills.
• Knowledge of charity and corporate governance.
• Experience and confidence in managing risk, change and innovation.
• Understanding and awareness of broader social, political and economic issues.

In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.

• Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
• Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
• Working in or with public bodies or national policy makers

The organisation recently undertook a Skills Audit of the Board and identified the following areas where we are looking to continue strengthening the experience. While not essential for the role of Chair, alongside the core skills and experience outlined, we would certainly welcome individuals who may also be able demonstrate experience around:

Digital: to take advantage of the potential for digital transformation

Finance: to provide additional oversight and financial rigor 

Fundraising: with income from individuals a future opportunity to explore further

Time Commitment

The Chair can expect to commit the equivalent of 12-15 days per year at - and in prep for - key Trustee meetings, including full Board Meetings held four times a year (at least one in person in Birmingham, where the charity is headquartered). This time also includes regular meetings with the CEO (the majority online), and regular comms with the CEO as required, which may ebb and flow, depending on the time of year. In person meetings are kept to a minimum.

In addition, the Chair would be expected to attend a minimum of two of our: Regional Festivals (March – April), National Festival (Birmingham or elsewhere, early-mid July) and the Youth Proms (London, end of November), to represent the Board and host key stakeholders, including funders. ,

Term 

We are looking for someone who can commit to an initial three-year term, which could then be renewed for a second term.

Learn more and apply

If you would like to have an exploratory conversation with the current Chair or Vice Chair about the charity or the role, please contact John Dixon (current Chair).

Application Process

To apply for the role of Chair at Music For Youth, please submit:

• 1. A CV.
• 2. A cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing:
• Why you are interested in this role.
• How your skills and experience align with MFY’s mission.
• What you would bring to the organisation.

Please send your CV and Cover Letter to Phil Castang (CEO) with the subject line: Application for Chair of Music For Youth.

Deadline for Applications: Friday 27th of June at 12pm.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Music for Youth National Festival taking place between Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th July in Birmingham. (Please note - this is not a requirement of the application process but a chance for you to see the work of the charity in person).

Interviews: will take place on Wednesday 10th September in Birmingham.

The week before the interview (week commencing 1st September), you will have the opportunity to have an informal conversation with the CEO and other Trustees online. Date to be confirmed.

If you have any access needs or other practical questions - or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the role with the Vice Chairs before applying - please get in contact.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

We are working with Canine Partners, a registered charity that transforms the lives of people with physical disabilities by partnering them with assistance dogs. Their amazing dogs bring a greater independence and quality of life to their partners, offering security, companionship, and practical help with everyday household tasks. These life-changing dogs also provide psychological and social benefits including increased independence, confidence, social interaction, and self-esteem.

With the planned departure of the Chair, the Board of Trustees are now seeking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees. The new Chair will foster an environment of consensus and collaboration, ensure Canine Partners' mission and vision is met and provide 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 work in partnership with the Senior Leadership Team, helping them achieve their vision for the organisation, while serving as a line manager to the CEO.

The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate:

• Experience of charity governance and of serving on a Board of Trustees, as a trustee, vice-chair or chair.
• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role. 
• Experience operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation. 
• Significant experience of indirect leadership, chairing cross-functional meetings and events.

The Chair is expected to attend quarterly Board meetings, the Annual Retirement Meeting and 1-2 strategy days per annum. The Chair can also participate in sub-committees. The Chair’s time commitment is likely to be around 2 days a month (4 days a month initially for induction). Trustees are elected to serve terms of three years with an expectation that they will service no more than 2 terms of three years (6 years in total), with the exception, that service as an Officer might over-ride this.

Canine Partners particularly welcomes applications from people from minoritised ethnic backgrounds who are currently under-represented within the organisation.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your expression of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and a supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Should you require any support or adjustments during the application process, please contact Charisma who will be happy to discuss this with you. 

Closing date: Wednesday 2nd July 2025

Interviews with Canine Partners: TBC

Charisma vetting interviews must be completed by lunchtime on Wednesday 9th July, prior to shortlist submission by end of day. 

We’re looking for a new honorary treasurer who will work closely with the chair of the business management and finance committee to advise the trustee board on all aspects of business management and finance matters related to the work of Girlguiding Scotland.

The honorary treasurer will contribute to the delivery of Girlguiding Scotland’s strategy as a member of Girlguiding Scotland’s trustee board and the business management and finance committee.

As honorary treasurer you will have oversight of the finance function, provide guidance on matters of finance and investments to the trustees, and work closely with the finance manager and with the chair of the business management and finance committee (BM&F committee).

As a trustee you will be an active member of the Girlguiding Scotland trustee board which is chaired by the chief commissioner. The board focuses on the strategic direction and current performance of Girlguiding Scotland ensuring we continue to develop in response to member needs.

The key skills and attributes that we’re looking for in an honorary treasurer:

• Experience of setting and monitoring investment strategies and supervising the performance of a significant investment portfolio.
• Experience of reporting to board level, audit and knowledge of charity SORP (FRS102).
• Experience of preparing budgets and forecasting, management accounting and statutory financial reporting.
• Ability to work and join meetings remotely using a variety of technology and the ability to access papers and information online (instructions and support will be given).
• Eligibility to become a trustee in Scotland.

 The following would be an advantage:

• CA, CIMA, ACCA, ACA or other similar qualification.
• Experience of working with volunteers.
• Ability to think of the bigger picture for the benefit of members and potential members across Scotland.
• Approachable, open minded and flexible, with the ability to work with others.
• Excited to be part of shaping the future and responding to challenges.
• Capacity to be proactive and involved in building relationships with key volunteers and staff to facilitate the work between meetings.

We’re for all girls and we want Girlguiding Scotland to be a safe and welcoming space for every person that wants to join us. Our volunteers should be as diverse as the girls that we support and inspire, which is why we encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. In particular, we would welcome applications from people with disabilities and individuals from ethnic minority groups.

Overview:

The Vice-Chair will provide governance and strategic support, ensuring strong board engagement and external advocacy. This role focuses on maintaining board effectiveness, stakeholder relationships, and operational oversight while assisting with non-financial fundraising initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Board Leadership:

• Work closely with the Chair to oversee governance and compliance.

• Ensure trustees are engaged, informed, and fulfilling their roles effectively.

• Chair board meetings in the Chair’s absence and ensure inclusive decision-making.

Fundraising & Stakeholder Engagement:

• Assist in developing and executing fundraising strategies.

• Represent CWV at external meetings, networking events, and with donors.

• Support the development of partnerships with businesses and local organisations.

• Encourage board members to contribute actively to fundraising efforts.

Operational & Team Support:

• Monitor team morale and performance, ensuring an efficient work environment.

• Assist in volunteer recruitment and structuring their roles effectively.

• Support the Operations Manager and Coordinator in streamlining organisational processes.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Experience in governance, strategic planning, or nonprofit leadership.

• Strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills.

• Background in fundraising, stakeholder engagement, or nonprofit operations preferred.

• Passion for community work and empowering young people.

Active Humber trustee vacancies

Support us to encourage people across the Humber to benefit from an active lifestyle

Due to the four-year term ending for a number of our trustees, Active Humber are looking to recruit to the following Board vacancies:

• Chair of the Board
• Senior Independent Director
• Welfare and Safety Director
• Non-Executive Trustee

These are crucial roles for our Board, and we are looking for people who share our passion and energy to work with us to create a happier, healthier and stronger community across the Humber.  To achieve our goals, we need a board of trustees who are as diverse as the people we are trying to reach.

Active Humber is a registered charity and is one of 42 nationwide Active Partnerships who are funded by Sport England to improve lives through physical activity and sport. 

Our vision is that the Humber is a place where everyone, everyday is physically active.

Our mission is to get the most physically inactive to be active.

Our role is to help people think differently about physical inactivity.

What is it like to be a Board Member at Active Humber? 
The Board at Active Humber is integral to what we are trying to achieve in the Humber.  If you join us as a trustee you will help to lead Active Humber to achieve their mission and purpose - you might ask questions to challenge us to think differently, make suggestions to move things forward, or act as a sounding board for ideas.

To learn more about Active Humber and what we have achieved and what we are hoping to achieve, please explore our website.

What we’re looking for:

We’re seeking individuals who are enthusiastic about our vision and have the time and skills to contribute to the board. We are particularly looking for expertise in one or more of the following areas;

• Experience of chairing a Board
• Knowledge of Safeguarding and Welfare, in relation to Children and Young People and/or Adults at Risk
• Experience of governance matters, or legal issues
• Experience within environmental sustainability matters
• An understanding of equality and inclusivity

Application Process
Each of the vacancies has its own areas of responsibility, and there are role descriptors for each of the roles that we are advertising. We also have a recruitment pack giving more details about the expectations of being an Active Humber trustee, which is relevant to all the roles. 

This information is available via our vacancies pages.  Please read these documents fully to support you in making a decision about whether to apply.  You should also consider which role suits your skills and experience so reading each of the role descriptions is recommended. 

We would suggest an informal chat with our CEO, David Gent or our Chair, Richard Smith as the first step in your application.  Please email the hr email address and we would be happy to arrange this.

If you then wish to go ahead and apply, please send the following information:

1. A covering letter expressing which role you are applying for.
2. Your covering letter should explain why you are interested in being an Active Humber trustee, and how your skills and experience meet the criteria set out in your preferred role and person specification.
3. A copy of your current CV.

Applications should be submitted by 9th July 2025.

Interviews will be held in person at the Aura Centre on 23rd or 24th July 2025.

If you have any queries about the role or the application process, please do not hesitate to email HR who will be happy to help.

Become our Trustee Tresurer and chair our Finance Committee.We need a Trustees with energy, enthusiasm and commitment to help accelerate our influcence on wildlife and nature recovery issues in the country and beyond.

With a refreshed 3-year strategy (23-26), “A Wilder Herefordshire, More Nature Everywhere” we’re working hard to recover nature at scale through deeper collaborations, working with local community organisations and networks to develop a clear plan for nature’s recovery. We are also working with neighbouring Wildlife Trusts, river partnerships and national partners such as the Woodland Trust, National Trust, and Duchy of Cornwall.

So, with lots happening, it’s an exciting if challenging time for the Trust.  Urgent action is needed to address the decline of wildlife in our beautiful county – and we need to muster all the resources and skills we can to succeed.

We are a welcoming board who support and challenge each other to do better for wildlife.

We look to recruit trustees from a range of backgrounds, life stages and skills to join us.

At this time, we wish to recruit someone to take on the role of Treasurer, and chair our Finance Committee. You would need the following skills and qualities:

· A strong commitment to wildlife conservation and the Vision of the Trust;

· Demonstrable experience of financial management;

· The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences;

· A good understanding of governance, gained either as a Trustee of another charity, a director of a company, or as a manager who has worked with Boards;

· The ability to apply clear logical thinking and creativity to developing our strategy

If you are successful, you will be welcomed and supported by a talented and committed board of trustees, a strong and experienced staff team and an active and expanding band of volunteers and by the wider Wildlife Trust movement. We hope you are inspired to apply, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Alison McLean OBE, Chair, March 2025

We are seeking to appoint a treasurer (voluntary role) to sit on the board of trustees at Know Your Worth. Know Your Worth is a charity dedicated to helping teenage girls grow self-esteem. Trustees are at the heart of this mission. As a trustee, you help shape the future of our charity. You bring your experience, insight, and care to help guide our strategy, hold us accountable to our values, and ensure our resources are used wisely. 

 We are specifically looking for someone with:

• A passion for the cause of helping teenage girls to grow self-esteem
• Senior finance experience (10+ years).
• Previous treasurer experience on another board (ideally within the charity or non-profit sector).
• An ability to work as a team, courage to challenge constructively where appropriate, whilst being self-aware.
• An awareness of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. Being available (within reason) to support the CEO with any financial queries or issues

We'd love to hear from you, if you'd like to find out more.

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie. 

In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.

 As well as the responsibilities of being a trustee, which the Treasurer shares with all the Board members, the Treasurer is expected to be the financial expert on the Board, and to provide advice on all financial matters. Their role is to ensure the Board fulfils its duties to ensure the sound financial health of SMK, with systems in place to ensure financial accountability and sustainability.

For more information see our website, and the recruitment pack. 

We are looking for Trustees to join us on this journey. Following a recent skills audit, we are particularly looking for individuals with experience in the following areas: accountancy, clinical expertise (medical, nursing or other healthcare backgrounds), marketing and communications, digital technologies, and the charity sector.

I encourage you to review the profiles of our current Board members to understand the breadth of expertise and perspectives we already have. We are proud to have a dynamic and highly engaged Board. Our discussions are strategic, forward-looking, and always centred on how we can best serve our patients, families and communities.

Purpose

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity. They will oversee all aspects of the organisation, working closely with the Group Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team.

Ensuring the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other subjects in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Legal Context

Trustees are responsible for the legal stewardship of St Giles Hospice. This involves ensuring that the Hospice is compliant with legislation and its own governing documents. They are also responsible for the corporate governance of the organisation and report annually to the Charity Commission and Companies House. We expect all Trustees to be aware of the Charity Governance Code.

Charity Commission guidance states that Trustees must:

Ensure that everything they do helps and supports to meet the charity’s objectives Comply with the charity’s governing documents and law

Act in the charity’s best interests

Manage the charity’s resources responsibly; Act with reasonable care and skill and take advice where necessary

Ensure the charity is compliant with statutory accounting and reporting requirements

The person specification sets out the essential qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge, personal attributes and other requirements, which the post holder requires to perform the role to a satisfactory level. Without these qualities, the applicant cannot be appointed to the post.

Skills and experience

Essential

• An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Successful track record of consistent achievement at board or executive level
• Robust governance experience
• Knowledge and understanding of equal opportunities
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Desirable

• Medical / clinical background
• Digital leadership skills
• Fundraising experience
• Marketing experience
• Knowledge of working within the charity and/or healthcare sector

Personal attributes

• Empathetic
• Team player
• Able to work under pressure
• Collaborative
• Ambassador for St Giles Hospice
• Strategic thinker

Key tasks and responsibilities

The role entails but is not limited to:

• Ensuring that St Giles complies with all its governing documents, charity law and other legislation or regulations
•  Attending and contributing to Board meetings/sub-committee meetings
• Representing St Giles at events, conferences and media as and when required
• Bringing impartiality to decision making
• Always acting in St Giles’ best interests and with reasonable care and skill to provide clear strategic direction
• Proving guiding principles and overall plans for St Giles to progress against the strategy objectives
• Ensuring the financial stability, probity and sustainability of the organisation in relation to the financial aspects of the charity to safeguard the charity’s reputation and values
• Adhering to the Trustees code of conduct (known as the Trustee Charter) and comply with it
• Supporting and advising the Executive Leadership Team in your areas of expertise
• Being collectively responsible for the governance of the charity with other Board members
• Overseeing organisational risk registers, ensuring adequate assurance is provided or risk mitigations in place
• Exercising control over the financial affairs and protecting its assets
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Ensuring and maintaining efficient administration of funding, insurance and premises
• Sitting on recruitment/disciplinary panels as and when required by the Head of HR
• Ensuring the Boards agreed position is represented when speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation
• Ensuring information gained during the course of working as a Trustee is kept confidential and in particular the contents of emails and board papers

Do you believe in a future where no animal suffers for science? 

Do you have spare time you can volunteer to make a difference to the lives of animals and humans? 

If so, we would love you to consider being one of our new trustees.

At Replacing Animal Research, we’ve been working for over half a century to replace the use of animals in research. We have significantly contributed to the development, and uptake, of non-animal methods by:

• Empowering scientists with our educational opportunities.
• Funding exciting research aimed at replacing animals and improving human healthcare.
• Collaborating with policymakers to ensure more rigorous policy on the use of animals in science. 

Our mission is to ensure scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing. It’s a better future for animals and humans. For us to achieve this, we need to ensure that Replacing Animal Research is a resilient organisation with sufficient skills, support, and income to continue its work in the long term. Our trustees are critical to the future of the organisation. 

We are currently seeking more trustees to strengthen our board by providing strategic and governance support. We are looking for enthusiastic individuals with an interest or experience in scientific and medical research and testing and the development of non-animal methods. We’d also be interested in hearing from anyone passionate about eliminating animal use in research. We encourage applications from all people regardless of age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, belief or race. We are looking for trustees who can demonstrate:

A commitment to our purpose and aims and the strategic vision to support the Replacing Animal Research's future development.

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to support the charity. (Please see below for more details on the time commitment).
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Sound, independent judgement and the ability to challenge constructively.
• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team and make decisions for the good of the charity.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

A full induction is provided for new trustees as well as ongoing CPD opportunities and support. The role of trustee requires an annual time commitment of around 8 working days which works out around 5 hours per month. This includes:

• Preparation for and attendance at 6 general board meetings, which are held remotely.
• Preparation for and attendance at sub-committee meetings as appropriate.
• Between meetings, trustees may be asked to contribute to discussions via email or ad hoc telephone conferences on specific issues.
• Trustees may be asked to sit on or contribute to other project groups or activities from time to time.
• Attendance at 1 or 2 in-person board away days.

For more detailed information on being a trustee for Replacing Animal Research please take a look at our Trustee Role Description.

To apply for this opportunity please do so via Charity Job and submit your CV and a supporting cover letter. Please detail why you are interested in the role and how you can fulfil the role requirements and be an ambassador for Replacing Animal Research. Please ensure you read our Trustee Role Description and refer to this in your application.

Thank you for your interest in working with Replacing Animal Research and we look forward to hearing from you.

Benefits

The role of trustee is voluntary but travel and subsistence expenses are covered as required.

Notes

Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview in the week of 23/06/2025 and successful candidates will be invited to attend the next Replacing Animal Research board meeting as an observer on 17/07/2025. Full details will be given to candidates nearer the time.

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications: 11th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling