Board member volunteer roles

Purpose of the Role

Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. As a trustee of The Sussex Reptile Rescue Centre, you will help ensure the charity is well-run, financially sound, and working effectively to rescue, rehabilitate, and care for reptiles.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

• Comply with the charity’s governing document and relevant laws

• Act in the charity’s best interests at all times

• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly and ensure financial stability

• Safeguard the charity’s reputation and values

• Contribute to setting the charity’s strategy and long-term plans

• Monitor the charity’s performance against objectives

• Attend trustee meetings, read papers in advance, and contribute constructively

• Represent the charity positively in the community and at events

Skills & Experience

We welcome applications from people with a variety of backgrounds. Skills that are particularly helpful for our board include:

• Finance, accounting, or business management

• Fundraising or marketing

• Animal welfare knowledge (especially reptiles)

• HR, governance, or legal expertise

• Networking and relationship building

• Strategic planning

Qualities Needed

• Commitment to the charity’s aims and values

• Willingness to dedicate time and effort to the role

• Ability to think strategically and make balanced decisions

• Good communication and teamwork skills

• Integrity and sound judgement

What You’ll Gain

• A chance to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare

• Opportunity to use your skills and experience for a good cause

• Experience in charity governance and strategy

• Being part of a supportive and passionate team

The Sleep Charity is an ambitious, award winning organisation based in Doncaster with a national coverage.  We are actively recruiting for an experienced financial professional to take over the role of Treasurer.  We are seeking a motivated team member who is a strategic thinker and has a deep commitment to our mission. 

We are looking for somebody with accountancy and financial leadership skills.  Experience of charity governance is desirable but not essential.  We need you to be able to communicate financial information effectively to those of us who are not financial experts.  You should have sound judgement and be willing to speak up in the best interest of the charity. 

We are entering a pivotal phase in our strategic development and the Treasurer will provide a key role in ensuring financial oversight and contributing to our success.  You will act as a sounding board for the CEO and Finance Manager, providing challenge and support.  

Sleep issues can lead people into crisis, your support can help us to make a significant difference to preventing sleep issues and offering the help that people need when they do exist.  This can be life changing for many of our beneficiaries. 

Your values will align with ours and you will be committed to our vision. A team player who wants to make a difference is what we are looking for. We are passionate about inclusivity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.

CHIPS is looking for new trustees to support our peacemaking work internationally.

About CHIPS

CHIPS (Christian International Peace Service) aims to bring about peace and reconciliation in areas of conflict or tension. We have over 59 years’ experience helping communities in the UK, Cyprus, India, the Philippines, Northern Ireland and Uganda; with our current projects being in Northern Ghana and Brixton, UK. We help communities build futures free from violent conflict through practical projects that both tackle the root causes of the division and bring the sides together to build trust and healthy relationships.

Our Vision: Our vision is for a world where conflict is met with peacemaking, division gives way to reconciliation, and communities work together to build sustainable peace.

Our Mission: Rooted in Jesus' example of peace and reconciliation, we accompany communities affected by violent conflict, fostering relationships, taking practical action, and building a foundation for lasting peace.

Our Philosophy:

• We go where we are invited
• We live in the heart of the conflict
• We take sides. Both sides.
• We are committed for the long term

About Being a Trustee

CHIPS (Christian International Peace Service) trustees play a crucial role in advancing peace in communities worldwide. Working collaboratively as part of the Board, they provide strategic oversight to the organisation, helping to strengthen its impact and sustainability by bringing their unique expertise and skills to the team. We're particularly looking for a trustee with a strong background in finance, accounting or bookkeeping in order to help support our Director and Board in there oversight of financial matters.

We hope that the experience of being a trustee for CHIPS will be rewarding. As well as making a difference to the communities that we support, we hope you will gain satisfaction from generously giving of your time. We want to have a Board of Trustees who are diverse in their experience and knowledge so that impact can be sustained. Whilst specific roles may vary, the overall duties are:

• Ensuring that CHIPS pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its constitution, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy in coordination with CHIPS staff and project teams
• Ensuring that CHIPS complies with its constitution, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensuring that CHIPS applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of the public
• Ensuring that CHIPS defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets
• Safeguarding the good name and values of CHIPS
• Ensuring the effective and efficient governance of CHIPS, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• Ensuring the financial stability of CHIPS
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the senior leadership of CHIPS
• Communicating on behalf of the organisation, if necessary
• Facilitating any feedback or complaints so that any issues are addressed swiftly

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help 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 issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Finance Trustee specific role

• Reviewing quarterly management accounts and highlighting any variances or financial risks to the board.
• Supporting the annual budgeting process by advising on assumptions, cost control, and sustainability.
• Overseeing the preparation of annual accounts with CHIPS staff and working with the auditor or independent examiner as needed.
• Helping develop and monitor financial policies such as reserves, investments, and internal controls.
• Providing strategic financial insight to guide decision-making on fundraising, staffing, or new initiatives.

Person specification
CHIPS is particularly looking for new trustees who have strong backgrounds in finance to support the Director and team members. However, CHIPS is also looking to more generally increase the number of trustees so if you feel you have expertise which could benefit CHIPS, please still get in touch.

• A commitment to and passion for CHIPS and its objects and vision
• A commitment to CHIPS’ statement of faith
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgement and a willingness to speak their mind
• An ability to think creatively
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• A committed Christian willing to contribute to the spiritual life and development of CHIPS
• Experience or knowledge specific to the area in which they will oversee

If you're interested to join as a trustee, but want to find out more first - do get in contact with us.

Reducing the Risk is an Oxfordshire-based charity. We work locally, regionally and nationally to empower professionals, volunteers and communities who support victim-survivors of domestic abuse.

Join us in empowering survivors of domestic abuse and expanding our impact, using your financial expertise to ensure our stability and drive sustainable growth.

What will you be doing?

The Treasurer plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of Reducing the Risk. This role involves overseeing the charity's financial affairs, ensuring financial viability, and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the Board of Trustees and supports the charity's mission through sound financial management.

Time commitment: 

• Estimated on average 1 day a month, with an expected increased time commitment at Year End and the Annual Return months. Initially, the time commitment will be slightly higher whilst you settle into the role and complete our induction. 
• Board meetings: 4 board meetings and 4 committee meetings a year
• Meetings may be in person or online and timings are agreed by those involved

What are we looking for?

Essential:

• A strong background in financial management, or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Understanding of SORP requirements and charity law, or willingness to undertake necessary training.
• Experience in financial planning and budget management.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Reducing the Risk.
• Commitment to developing a knowledge of Charity Finance regulations and practices (guidance will be provided)

Desirable:

• Previous experience as a Treasurer or in a similar role within a charity.
• Experience with financial software and systems used by charities.

What difference will you make?

By joining us, you’ll help sustain a charity known for its safe, trusted services and innovative partnerships. Your financial expertise will support our plans to expand community-based programs, develop our training into a self-financing enterprise, and enhance our impact on victims of abuse and their children, both locally and beyond.

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Reducing the Risk with their Trustee recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to the board.

Who are we looking for?

At present we are working towards being fully operational, over the next year Living Reasons will be looking to expand its reach and part of that journey is to develop an online food bank, allowing people access to a food bank that may not get help through their local council/Job Centre and may only want to use the service online.

People may want to use the online service of a food bank for many reasons, whether due to disability or not. 

The role of Project Co-ordinator role will oversee this project with guidance and input from the trustees, lived experience board members and with the support of other co-ordinators that are relevant to the outreach, funding and running of the service.

You do not necessarily need experience of this kind of role but good attention to detail and task management potential will be key, we can work the rest out together. If you like the idea of this, please get in touch with us and we can arrange an informal chat.

What is the plan?

The person who is starting the charity up is autistic, has ADHD, CPTSD and also multiple physical conditions that effect daily life and is part of the LGBTQ+ community and has faced a lot of issues in life because of these things.

Living Reasons is being created to fix what we think is a challenging situation that is getting harder to achieve every week, month and year in the current economic, political, environmental and societal landscape. It is not easily defined but we hope the charity objects below will help put context to what we want to achieve, what we can say is that below are the issues we are trying to address, how we do this will change as quickly as society does, but the issues we want to tackle are these:

1) Outdated and damaging employment practices

2) Accessibility to services

3) Limited employment, training and education opportunities

4) Lack of support during times of crisis or need

5) Lack of equity and agency for many people in society

6) Institutional discrimination that is not challenged

7) Abuse of the legal system at all levels

8) Abuse of power in government bodies

9) Poor access to healthcare

10)  Unequal treatment of many people in society by large corporations

11)  Assumptions made by wider society based on incorrect, outdated or discriminatory rhetoric that is used in daily life

12)  Outdated company engagement with the public

13)  Lack of support that is not talked about and not being addressed

Our Living Values -

Creativity

1) Imaginative Development (Individual)

2) Instilled Collaboration (Internal)

3) Changing The Status Quo (External)

Prospectivity

1) What Can You Do (Individual)

2) What Can We Do (Internal)

3) What Can They Do (External)

Revolutionary 

1) Inspire With Confidence (Individual)

2) Boundaryless Innovation (Internal)

3) Challenge Traditions (External)

Attentivity

1) Analyse and Redesign (Individual)

2) Rebel and Reform (Internal)

3) Enquire and Reimagine (External)

We are looking for new Trustees to join our Board. We welcome applicants with varied skills and experience and we are also hoping to appoint a medical trustee.

The role of a trustee is to ensure that the charity fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries and delivers on its vision, mission and values. The board of trustees are jointly and individually responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

About us:

Sobell House is a hospice based on the Churchill Hospital site and is part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. It is jointly funded by the NHS and Sobell House Hospice Charity. We offer specialist palliative care to those facing life threatening illness, death and bereavement in Oxfordshire. This encompasses physical, psychological, social and spiritual care and includes supporting their families and those close to them. We care for around 3,000 patients and their families every year. The Charity contributes funding towards the care provided at Sobell House and also entirely funds the transport service, bereavement support, social work team and chaplaincy service.

Our team values:

Impact: We aim to make a positive difference to the lives of others through our work.

Integrity: We are honest, transparent and accountable for our actions and outcomes.

Compassion: We treat ourselves and others with kindness, respect, empathy and care.

Collaboration: We believe together is better. Working with colleagues, partners and our community to achieve more.

Continuous Improvement: We have a ‘growth mindset’. We embrace feedback and positive change and are continually looking for improved ways of working.

If you’re interested in becoming a Trustee, please click on Apply and complete the Application form on our website and we will get in touch with you.

SHELTERBOX IS LOOKING TO RECRUIT 2 NEW TRUSTEES TO JOIN OUR BOARD.

Position Type: Voluntary - The position of Trustee is unpaid

However, all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred on charity business will be reimbursed in line with our Expenses Policy.

Time Commitment: Around 12 - 15 days per year

The Board meets four times year. Two of these meetings are in London or Truro (Cornwall) and two of the meetings are online. Trustees are also encouraged to be a member of one of three committees which meet quarterly for two hours online via Microsoft Teams. There is also an annual two-day Board retreat, which is held in person and is combined with a Board meeting.

Attendance: In person and online

Trustees may also be invited to attend occasional fundraising or networking events.

Term of Appointment: Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, which may be renewed at the end of the term. Trustees cannot serve more than three terms (nine years).

Historically, the organisation’s financial resources have surged in line with high profile disasters and public response. Therefore, it is vital that we continue to build strategies that focus on developing predictable funding growth and ensure we have a sustainable and diverse income profile globally.

As a global organisation, we are seeking applications from across the world, particularly from the global south and from individuals with protected characteristics. We are actively seeking applications from people who may be typically underrepresented or absent from boards and charity governance. This is a fantastic opportunity to use your skills and experience – including lived experience – to support ShelterBox to deliver its strategic goals.

You will be part of a global team working to ensure that no one is without shelter after disaster. Our values run through everything we do. They are the principles that guide how we approach our work with the people we support, our volunteers and our staff.

We would especially like to hear from you if you have experience in fundraising and communications, organisational risk management, charity governance, working with or as a volunteer, or HR and People management.

Role Purpose:

Trustees are responsible under the governing documents of ShelterBox for the governance of the charity.

Upon appointment you will be provided with all applicable governance documents. Management and administration are delegated to the CEO and staff of the organisation.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who are as passionate and committed as us to ensuring no one is without shelter after disaster. In an increasingly complex world, more and more families are in desperate need of emergency shelter.

We must do more. We want people to join us in taking on that challenge.

We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive board and are actively seeking to improve gender balance among our trustees.

Please see here for general duties and expectation of a Trustee role: The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do (CC3) - GOV UK

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES                                                       

As a member of the Board:

To ensure that ShelterBox is beneficiary led in our decision-making processes.

To agree and regularly monitor ShelterBox’s strategic direction, ensuring that the strategy will deliver on the organisation’s charitable aims and objectives.

To ensure that ShelterBox functions within the legal, charitable and financial requirements set by statutory and regulatory authorities and that it strives to identify and achieve best practice in the management of these areas.

To ensure the effective and efficient administration of ShelterBox by defining goals and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

To act in the best interests of ShelterBox as a whole and to put the interests of ShelterBox before those of any other organisation or person.

To identify areas for improvement and opportunities to maximise our performance, particularly in relation to the effective support, development and deployment of our people.

As a Trustee:

To help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This will include the scrutiny of proposals, leading and initiating discussions, providing advice or guidance on new initiatives and utilising any specialist expertise and experience.

To chair and/or attend bodies given delegated authority by the Board.

To participate in Trustee and Chair appraisal processes, including giving and receiving feedback and conducting Trustee exit interviews.

To adhere to the principles and processes set out in the ShelterBox Board Manual.

To safeguard the good name and of the organisation and actively demonstrate adherence to ShelterBox’s values.

We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. Women are currently underrepresented in this area of our work, and we particularly encourage female applicants to help us address this imbalance. All volunteer roles are open to everyone and will be allocated based on interest and suitability.

Balance Support CIO is a specialist provider of learning disabilities services across SW London. We are seeking new trustees to support the charity's widening strategic partnerships and business growth.

What will you be doing?

Reshaping our Board

Balance has trustees with substantial experience across a range of disciplines from housing law to management consultancy and information technology. This experience and knowledge have been critical in supporting the charity's executive leadership restructure operations and qaulity assurance standandards.

As a result they have steered the charitys growth and development increasing turnover from £2.3 Million in 2022 to £4.2 Million in 2024. With additional new work likely in 2025, the board see's strengthening it's knowledge and specialisms as critical in leading this new phase of our development.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for new trustees who have a commitment to driving high quality and empowering social care services. You will recognise the importance of your role in being both a critical friend to the executive leadership as well as an expert in your given field.

Following some recent resignations the board is looking for trustees who can bring backgrounds: 

• finance -  insight, support and guidance to help develop a sustainable and financially resilient charity
• marketing - knowledge of and ability to support the charity's approach to marketing its services to new customers, commissioners and other business partners
• human resources - a background in HR that provides guidance and support to board in ensuring our personnel governance aligns with our legal obligations

Previous experience as a trustee is not necessary as we will offer training and support where there may be gaps in knowledge. However we are particularly keen to hear from candidates who may be from a black and minority ethnic background, women and people living with a disability. 

Where you live

We are a charity based in Kingston with operations across a number of boroughs in SW and Central London. Whilst insight and knowledge of SW london may be an advantage, our flexible approach to attending board meetings in person or online offers wider opportunities for participation from beyond the charity's base. 

What are we looking for?

We are looking for trustees with the following experience and skills:

Financial

• Strong commercial background in a senior finance role.
• Knowledge of (or willingness to get to grips with) charity SORP and any impending changes.
• Strong ability to communicate financial information to members of the Board and other stakeholders.
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising governance and good finance practice.

Marketing and Communications

• Knowledge and experience in a marketing and/or communications role
• Can provide industry knowledge and adivce on marketing and communications to grow brand and public awareness.
• Understand the role of strategic planning in relation commuications and market development.

Human Resources

• Experience and knowledge of HR management at a senior level
• Able to provide insight and strategic direction on our governance obligations in relation managing our workforce and supporting their development.

General

• Skilled in analysis, evaluation, and sound judgement
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of being a trustee, or a willingness to undertake training at their appointment.
• A collaborative and team-oriented approach to problem solving and to management.
• The Board meets at least 6 times a year and each trustee is expected to attend all board meetings (even if remotely) to contribute to discussions and decisions and occasional attendance at other community events, service visits and away days.

The difference you will make

As a new member of our board you will be joining at an exciting time for the charity. We are increasingly recognised as a quality provider of services to people with a range of specialist and complex needs. 

The roles we are looking to fill on the board will provide expertise and insight key to our growing portfolio. You will support our growing level of privately sources income, the charity's social enterprise arm and the charity's push to grow its brand for generally.

Your commitment to transforming the lives of people with learning disabilities and/or enduring mental health support needs will also inform your application. As a trustee you will instrinsically align with our 6 values:

• Idependence
• Empowerment
• Staff Recognition
• Professionalism
• Sustainability
• Partnership

And be able to mobilise you knowledge in maximising the boards ability to lead our development in relation to them.

Before you apply

Trustee applicants will be invited for an informal discussion with the CEO prior to a more formal discussion with a selection of trustees. This will enable any candidate to find out a little more about the charity, to discuss dates when they can meet with trustee's and ensure they have space to ask any questions necessary to inform their decision making.

We are looking for an Education trustee for Lancaster Independent School for Alternative Learning with senior educational experience.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for an Education Trustees who can contribute to the strategic direction of our small independent school based in Lancaster, Ofsted rated "Good"; attending termly Board meetings required by the independent school standards. 

The Board meetings are usually on a Friday afternoon and can be attended remotely.

Be the trustee presence on the Education Committee (other members of the committee are senior teaching staff), to provide oversight of the School Improvement plan and report back to the board of Trustees on status; attending bi-termly Education Committee Meetings.

The Education Trustee has line manager responsibility of two members of the school senior leadership team, including annual performance reviews.

At least once per term (3 times per year) the Education trustee will be expected to spend at least half day at school to complete lesson observations of direct report.

We are looking to make prompt appointment to better support our school.

What are we looking for?

Commitment to the ethos and values of the school and a willingness to devote time, enthusiasm and effort to the duties and responsibilities of a Trustee.

Specific professional knowledge and strategic experience in at least one of the following:

▪ Leadership experience within a school

▪ Experience of Independent School Standards  

Willingness to attend meetings of the Board and other meetings as required . Willingness to undertake training and participate in evaluation of the Board’s work.

The Charity and schools are committed to safeguarding and promotes the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff to share this commitment.  An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful candidates.      

Conduct as a Trustee is underpinned by the seven principles of public life, as identified by the Nolan Committee:

Selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

What difference will you make?

The opportunity carries the responsibility and purpose of ensuring the future viability of a very special school offering alternative education in the Lancaster area.

The school is not running at optimum capacity and strategic direction and support to broker key relationships to ensure student recruitment is operating in a way which reaches the young people most in need of our support is vital to the overall success of the charity and to open up opportunities for future investment and growth.

Join the board of the national charity dedicated to supporting disabled children, young people and their families.

Trustee

Employer – Kids

Location – London (Meetings in Person)

Salary - Voluntary (Reasonable expenses reimbursed)

Hours - Approx. 1 day per month

Trustees also take part in at least one committee—such as the Finance and Audit Committee, Services and Safeguarding Committee, or People, Culture and Governance Committee—which typically meet online up to four times a year

Who we are:

Kids is on a mission to create a world where all kinds of kids have all kinds of opportunities.

Founded in 1970, we have grown into a national organisation supporting over 22,000 children, young people and families each year across England.

We are on an ambitious journey to reach at least 120,000 disabled children, young people and their families each year by 2027. Our vision is bold yet achievable: a society where disabled children, young people and their families enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

Now in the fourth year of an ambitious five-year strategy, we’re pursuing four bold goals:

• Support – Delivering impactful, sustainable services
• Innovate – Designing new models to transform lives
• Speak Up – Empowering young people to be agents of change
• Sustain – Building the financial and structural strength to grow

The Role

As our next Trustee, you’ll play a vital leadership role in bringing our vision to life. Working closely with our Chair, CEO, and Executive Leadership Team, you will provide strategic oversight, guide our governance, and help scale our impact.

Time Commitment

This role is about more than simply being available—it’s about being genuinely engaged. We're hoping to find someone who feels inspired to make this a meaningful part of their journey. It may be your primary board or leadership role, given the depth of involvement, but it also offers the opportunity to contribute in a truly rewarding way.

Who You Are

We’re looking for four passionate individuals who bring compassion, curiosity, and credibility. People who value respectful dialogue, champion inclusion, and lead with integrity.

You’ll bring your unique perspective to enhance our culture—not just fit into it. You’ll contribute to a dynamic board that balances strategic scrutiny, inclusive leadership, and good governance with genuine care and collaboration.

You don’t need to have all the answers, but you should bring:

• Experience in governance or senior leadership
• A passion for disability rights, equity, and inclusion
• A commitment to empowering diverse voices
• A collaborative spirit and systems-thinking mindset

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of disability, those from underrepresented communities, and individuals who reflect the diversity of the families and children we serve.

Our Culture

At Kids, we celebrate what makes each of us unique. Our culture is rooted in care, collaboration, creativity, and professionalism. We actively listen and strive to ensure everyone we work with feels heard, respected, and included.

We are committed to breaking down systemic barriers, including racism, ableism, sexism, and other forms of injustice. This is an ongoing journey, and we’re dedicated to learning and growing together.

We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible. If you need information in an alternative format or adjustments at any stage, please contact us —we’d love to hear how we can support you.

In Closing

You’ll be joining a brilliant team of Trustees, a passionate leadership team, and an organisation ready for change. Together, we’ll help build a world where disabled children and young people are celebrated for who they are and supported to reach their full potential.

This isn’t just a role. It’s a chance to reimagine what’s possible.

Join us. Lead with us. Grow with us.

For more information about this role, please visit our careers page

Application & Recruitment Process

• Closing date: 30th September 2025
• Online Interview and Face-to-Face meeting: October 2025
• If you’re inspired to join our Board, please complete our online application and upload an up-to-date CV, with a 2-page limit on an A4 document. Shortlisted candidates will have the chance to showcase their strengths and discuss important topics alongside our leadership team.

Help us create life-changing opportunities for young people with additional support needs (SEND). 

At The Usual Place in Dumfries, we are more than a café; we are a unique skills academy where the potential of young people with learning disabilities is nurtured, confidence is built, futures are shaped, and an inclusive workforce is created. We have proved time and time again that when young people are given the right support, they don’t just participate in their communities—they enrich them.

Our mission is simple yet life-changing and we are guided by our values where everyone is of equal worth, everyone can contribute, and everyone should be treated with dignity and respect. The Usual Place/Inspired Community Enterprise Trust is a registered charity in Scotland (SC050602), and a company limited by guarantee (SC412597).

This year marks 10 years since The Usual Place first opened, responding directly to young people with additional support needs who asked for opportunities to learn, work, and be part of something meaningful. In that time, we have supported thousands of young people, many of whom would have otherwise been marginalised and unseen.

The Commitment

The Trustee Board generally meets every 6 weeks on a hybrid basis (usually 2 hours per meeting) and there is an expectation that trustees will also take opportunities throughout their term to get involved, join a subcommittee, attend events and meet the young people in the Café.

Applicants

We value the diversity of opinion, thought and experience that a new board member can bring. We welcome applicants that reflect the community we serve and who share our values and aspirations for young people.

The role may appeal to someone wishing to volunteer as a trustee for the first time, or to an experienced trustee seeking a new challenge. We are especially keen to hear from candidates with experience in marketing/communications digital skills, fundraising or general business/finance knowledge.

A full induction will be provided including training in safeguarding and governance. As a third sector trustee appointment, the post is unremunerated.

A PVG is required for this post as it is considered a regulated role.

Inspired Community Enterprise Trust (The Usual Place) is a company limited by guarantee. Co No SC41259 Char Reg No SC050602.

How to apply:

If you wish to have an initial, exploratory conversation please contact Amy Wright, Chair of The Board, please use the email for applications.

Closing Date for Applications Monday 8th September 2025 at 12 noon

Interviews Week of 15th September 2025

If you wish to apply, please send a cover letter explaining why you want to become a Trustee and what you think you can

offer to The Usual Place, together with your CV . Please also send a

completed ICET Equalities Monitoring Form which you can download, together with further information at our website.

We will be in touch soon afterwards to discuss your application.

We are a Disability Confident Leader, flexible throughout the recruitment process, welcoming the opportunity to discuss alternative application methods and interview formats with you.

We are committed to fair work practices and are a Living Wage employer.Trustee Job Description

We' re seeking three passionate Trustees to join our Board to expand the range of our expertise and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Inspired Community Enterprise Trust - The Usual Place.

As a Trustee, You Will:

• Set the Vision: Define our strategic direction and ensure our ethos shines through, ensuring good governance is applied
• Drive Excellence: Hold management accountable for performance and financial stewardship.
• Amplify Voices: Ensure the perspectives of young people and their community are heard.
• Secure Sustainability: Contribute to long-term financial planning and responsible resource management.

Why Join Us?

• Make a Real Impact: Contribute to the lives of young people and your community.
• Develop Your Skills: Gain valuable board-level experience and enhance your leadership abilities.
• Be Part of a Visionary Team: Collaborate with passionate individuals dedicated to ensuring that the young people are given the support they deserve.
• Comprehensive Support and Training: We will support you at every stage.

What We're Looking For:

• Individuals who share our commitment to the wellbeing and development of young people with additional support needs.
• Value driven individuals who instinctively understand our social impact, demonstrate and embrace our core values and can apply them consistently in both governance and professional practice.
• Strategic thinkers with sound judgment and a collaborative spirit.
• Professionals with expertise and acumen in areas such as digital marketing and/or fundraising or general business/finance experience.
• An ability to bring the work of ICET into wider relevant networks would be desirable.
• A desire to make a difference.

Time Commitment:

The Trustee Board generally meets every 6 weeks on a hybrid basis and there is an expectation that trustees will also take opportunities throughout their term to get involved, join a subcommittee, attend events and meet the young people in the Café

A full induction will be provided including training in safeguarding and governance. As a third sector trustee appointment, the post is unremunerated.

A PVG is required for this post as it is considered a Regulated Role.

The Ouseburn Trust was established as an independent development trust for the Ouseburn Valley in 1996. Currently it manages property, shapes the regeneration of the area, delivers a programme of heritage activity, a programme of green spacemanagement and an annual festival. The Trust works in partnership with volunteers, thelocal authority and the business community to enhance the physical, social and economicenvironment of the Valley. 

General Responsibilities of the Chair:
1. Strategic Leadership
Provide clear, visionary leadership to the board to ensure the successful delivery of the Trust’s new 3-year strategy. Support and challenge the Chief Executive and leadership team to align operations with strategic goals.
2. Governance and Oversight
Ensure effective governance, risk management, and compliance with the Trust’s legal and regulatoryobligations. Chair board meetings effectively, ensuring decisions are democratic, inclusive, and action-oriented.
3. Support and Supervision
Act as line manager and critical friend to the Chief Executive, offering support, challenge, and regularperformance review. Promote a positive, open culture between the board, staff, volunteers, and wider stakeholders.
4. Ambassadorial Role
Represent the Trust with external stakeholders, funders, partners, and community members.Champion the Trust’s values, mission, and strategic direction within and beyond the Ouseburn Valley.
5. Board Development
Lead in recruiting, developing, and retaining an effective, diverse, and skilled board of trustees. Encourage learning, reflection, and accountability across the board.

Specific Responsibilities (Tailored to Ouseburn Trust and Strategy Delivery):
1. Strategic Plan Implementation
Ensure that board agendas and priorities are aligned with the delivery of the 3-year strategy.Monitor and evaluate progress against strategic milestones, adjusting course where necessary.
2. Place-Based Advocacy
Be a strong and visible advocate for the Ouseburn Valley as a vibrant place for culture, heritage,
business, and community life.
Work collaboratively with key local partners (e.g. Newcastle City Council, local businesses, cultural
organisations).
3. Income Generation and Sustainability
Support the Chief Executive and staff in diversifying income, particularly through partnerships,
commercial activity, and fundraising.
Take an active interest in financial oversight and long-term resilience planning.
4. Community and Volunteer Engagement
Promote meaningful community involvement in the Trust’s activities and ensure the board reflects and
values the views of local people.
Champion the role of volunteers and the importance of their ongoing support and development.
5. Governance Development
Oversee the review and modernisation of governance frameworks if necessary, ensuring they are fit for
purpose for the future.

Time required
Board meetings are held bi-monthly usually on the last Thursday evening from 5.30-7.30pm
Finance Group meetings are held four times a year, usually on a Monday or Tuesday afternoon.

Trustee Vacancy

Care Ashore is a charity with a long and proud history. Since the 1920s Care Ashore has offered living accommodation, respite breaks and support to seafarers in need. Uniquely situated on a 260-acre estate in Surrey, Care Ashore provides accommodation for Merchant Seafarers and former members of the Royal Navy, RFA, Fishing Fleets and others with a maritime link, and their dependants.

With around 60 current beneficiary residents, the charity offers accommodation in purpose-built properties. The support provided to beneficiaries is funded by both rent and the commercial activities of the estate which include fishing, camping, a social club and clay pigeon shooting, making it a unique and exciting place to be part of.

Following an ambitious commitment from the trustees to invest in the accommodation and services provided, Care Ashore is at the start of an exciting journey with the creation of a new Strategic Plan, to ensure fit for purposes accommodation and services are delivered to our beneficiaries and facility users.

The current Board has a mix of backgrounds and experience but wishes to strengthen the diversity further to ensure the needs of those they serve, along with the wider community are met. There are currently 3 board vacancies and ideal candidates will bring to the board experience in one or more of the following areas:

· Legal/HR/Finance Expertise

· Property/ Surveying/ Development/ Estate Management.

· Health and safety/ Welfare/ Safeguarding

· Maritime Industry/ Seafaring background

We are looking for candidates who will be committed to the work of the Charity sector; understand good governance; and have a strategic vision combined with independent judgement.

If this challenge appeals to you, and you share our enthusiasm for providing excellent housing to our beneficiaries together with our facility users, then we are very keen to hear from you.

Further Information

The position is unremunerated (reasonable expenses paid) and there are 4 board meetings per year with the option to attend in person or remotely.

In addition to board meetings, the successful candidates will be expected to attend in person Care Ashore’s AGM, strategic away day, and committee meetings.

If you believe you can contribute and would like further information, please get in touch with the Chair of the Board of Trustees, Vince Bick. Please select the "How To Apply" button at the top of the advertisement to access the contact email address.

The deadline for applications is Sunday 24th August 2025.

The Ark Gedling is a Christian charity that exists for the prevention and relief of poverty and hardship; it is a UK registered charity and a member of Advice UK. It provides a community café, with a range of activities to support community development and mutual support, which operate in conjunction with advice sessions, so that local people receive expert advice alongside compassionate community support and empowerment. It works in close partnership with other charities and with local churches. We are excited to announce we are recruoting new trustees to support the project into a new phase in our 20-year history.