Board members volunteer volunteer roles in Brentwood, essex

�� Guardian Light Foundation Board of Directors – Roles, Expectations & Benefits �� Our Mission

Guardian Light Foundation (GLF) is a for-profit social enterprise dedicated to transforming the lives of homeless and abused children, teenagers, and struggling single-parent families. We provide safe housing, education, career pathways, legal aid, and life-skills support to help individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

We are building not just an organisation — but a movement of hope, empowerment, and social impact.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Socially Connected Ambassador (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Purpose: To leverage personal and professional networks to expand GLF’s reach and influence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Represent GLF at social, political, and business networking events.

• Connect GLF with potential partners, donors, and sponsors.

• Support awareness campaigns through social media and public engagement.

• Advocate for youth and family issues in community forums.

Requirements/Skills:

• Strong public presence or social influence.

• Excellent networking and relationship-building skills.

• Passionate advocate for vulnerable children and families.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to be the public face of a growing national movement.

• Exclusive access to elite events, media appearances, and social recognition.

• Personal fulfillment from using influence to create tangible change.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?

ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy so that everyone has the freedom and security to live a good life. 

We are now recruiting for ECU’s first Treasurer, who will lead at board level on monitoring ECU’s financial performance and sustainability, ensuring that we have robust financial policies and processes in place, and supporting other board members to fulfil their collective responsibilities around finance. 

This is an exciting time to join ECU. We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue. Our work is challenging, fascinating, and fulfilling – and, with rising levels of inequality, an unfolding climate emergency, overstretched public services and a growing concentration of corporate power, it couldn’t be more important.

�� BOARD EXPECTATIONS (Applies to ALL Members)

Every GLF board member plays a direct role in the success and sustainability of the organisation.

�� Core Expectations

• Fundraising Commitment:
  Every board member must actively participate in fundraising campaigns, donor outreach, and sponsorship drives.
  Each member is required to make a personal monthly donation to the organisation (amount optional but meaningful).

• Time Commitment:
  Minimum of 20 hours per month, including board meetings, subcommittee work, fundraising events, and strategic planning.

• Ambassadorship:
  Represent GLF publicly as a visible ambassador at community events, speaking engagements, and networking functions.

• Governance & Accountability:
  Ensure the organisation operates ethically, transparently, and in alignment with its mission and legal obligations.

• Strategic Leadership:
  Contribute skills, knowledge, and professional networks to advance the organisation’s growth, partnerships, and visibility.

• Passion for the Mission:
  Demonstrated commitment to supporting children, teenagers, and single-parent families experiencing hardship.

�� OVERALL BOARD MEMBER BENEFITS

• Prestige: Founding member of a ground-breaking national social enterprise.

• Networking: Exclusive access to philanthropists, public officials, and corporate leaders.

• Leadership Development: Gain board-level governance and strategic experience.

• Impact Legacy: Directly shape programs that provide homes, hope, and opportunity for hundreds of lives.

• Visibility: Public recognition through GLF website, media, and national campaigns.

• Personal Fulfilment: Be part of a purpose-driven organisation changing the narrative for children and families in need.

�� IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE (For All Roles)

We are looking for leaders who are:

• Deeply passionate about social impact, youth empowerment, and family stability.

• Professionally experienced (1+ years) in their area of expertise.

• Team players who bring creativity, positivity, and initiative.

• Connected and influential, willing to open doors and amplify GLF’s message.

• Dedicated, committing time, expertise, and monthly donations.

Position: Board of Director - Marketing & Communications Expert (Unpaid Volunteer Role)

Reports to: Board Chairperson

Location: Hybrid (remote + in-person events as needed)

Purpose: To lead GLF’s brand, public image, and outreach campaigns.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute marketing, social media, and PR strategies.

• Build brand visibility across TV, radio, digital, and print.

• Collaborate on storytelling campaigns that attract donors and partners.

• Support fundraising campaigns through brand partnerships and sponsorships.

• Mentor GLF’s in-house communications staff.

Requirements/Skills:

• Proven marketing, PR, or media background (agency or nonprofit experience preferred).

• Strong storytelling, digital strategy, and branding expertise.

• Ability to connect emotionally with audiences through campaigns.

Benefits:

• Showcase your expertise in building one of the UK’s most inspiring social brands.

• Public exposure and leadership in major awareness events.

• Creative freedom to shape messaging that impacts real lives.

Compensation:
This is an unpaid volunteer position.

Are you passionate about building a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient economy? Are you looking for a meaningful way to use your finance expertise?  ECU is a small, dynamic non-profit working to transform the economy. Join us!

What will you be doing?

In addition to the responsibilities of all board members, the Treasurer will: 

1. Support the Board to review and monitor ECU’s financial performance and sustainability
2. Ensure the Board receives timely, accessible and accurate financial information
3. Support the team to develop and maintain robust and proportionate financial policies, processes and risk management systems

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to ECU’s mission and values
• Commitment to the legal duties and responsibilities
• Financial management experience, policies, risk
• Qualifications
• Able to interpret, interrogate and communicate financial information
• Work as part of a diverse team, and devote the time 

Desirable - treasurer experience

What difference will you make?

We have an ambitious vision for change, a strong analysis of the opportunities and barriers to progress, and a clear view of our role in building a better economy. Our board is committed, collaborative and inclusive, with a strong understanding of its role and remit, and a culture of open dialogue.

Before you apply

• Your interest in this role and what you could bring to it
• What would you want to learn and gain?

Interview 25 Feb in London (expenses paid)

Use your financial expertise to shape the future of a national bereavement charity. Aching Arms is seeking a volunteer Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic financial leadership.

Aching Arms is recruiting a committed and experienced Treasurer to oversee the charity’s financial affairs and support the Board in ensuring long-term sustainability, transparency, and compliance. This is a significant governance role within a respected organisation that provides vital support to bereaved families across the UK.

As Treasurer, you will play a central part in strengthening our financial stewardship. You will provide oversight of budgets, forecasts, cash flow, reserves, and investments, ensuring the charity has a clear and accurate financial position at all times. You will review management accounts, annual reports, and audited statements in preparation for Board approval, and ensure effective use of accounting systems such as Xero.

Working as a full member of the Board of Trustees, you will contribute to the charity’s governance, strategic planning, and risk management. Your expertise will help inform key decisions, ensuring they are financially sound and aligned with our charitable objectives. You will also maintain oversight of statutory and regulatory compliance, offering clear, accessible financial reporting during Board meetings.

The role involves constructive liaison with auditors and independent examiners, along with providing professional guidance to the Executive Team and Finance & Operations function. You will help strengthen financial controls, policies, and procedures, while offering appropriate scrutiny and challenge to support robust decision-making.

This opportunity is well suited to an individual with strong financial acumen, ideally with experience in accountancy, financial management, or charity finance, who would like to contribute their skills at a strategic level. By joining Aching Arms, you will play an essential role in supporting a charity dedicated to helping families through some of their most difficult moments.

If you are motivated to use your professional skills to deliver meaningful impact, we would welcome your application.

Become a Trustee of Young Citizens and help light the spark of active citizenship for children and young people 

With citizenship education set to become statutory in primary schools, votes at 16 on the horizon, and growing concern about the health of our democracy, this is a pivotal moment to join Young Citizens as a Trustee. 

For over 35 years, Young Citizens has helped children and young people understand society, engage in democracy and make a positive impact in their communities. Through flagship programmes like The Big Legal Lesson, The Big Democracy Lesson, the Make a Difference Challenge and the National Mock Trial Competitions, we bring citizenship to life in classrooms and communities across the UK – reaching 300,000+ young people every year. 

Our five-year strategy, Lighting the Spark, is focused on making sure every young person in the UK experiences powerful, practical and immersive citizenship learning. As a Trustee, you will help shape this next phase of growth, strengthen our financial sustainability, and ensure we make the most of the opportunities ahead.

This is a voluntary role (reasonable expenses reimbursed) and a chance to play a strategic part in strengthening UK democracy through education. 

Role Snapshot 

• Shape Young Citizens’ strategic direction and monitor performance 
• Ensure compliance with charity law and our governing document 
• Safeguard the charity’s values, reputation, and financial integrity 
• Oversee effective use of resources and long-term sustainability 
• Support and advise the CEO, ensuring delivery against agreed objectives 
• Act as an ambassador, promoting Young Citizens and building relationships with partners, funders, and supporters 

Why join as a Young Citizens Trustee? 

Being a Young Citizens trustee is a strategic and deeply rewarding opportunity. You will: 

• Help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education and democracy 
• Collaborate with fellow trustees bringing expertise in education, law, finance, communications, governance, and public affairs 
• See our impact first-hand by attending key events such as programme launches and the National Finals of our competitions 
• Support a small but highly skilled staff team (around 13 colleagues across the UK) and a network of 1500+ professional volunteers 
• Contribute to decisions on resource investment, digital development, programme growth, and deepening impact 

In short, you’ll help ensure hundreds of thousands of young people every year gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to participate meaningfully in society. 

What We Are Looking For 

We’re seeking two trustees who can help Young Citizens expand our reach, influence, and financial resilience. You don’t need prior trustee experience, we provide a full induction, safeguarding training, and ongoing support.

We’re especially interested in those with expertise in one or more of the following areas: 

• Citizenship teaching or school leadership – understanding how schools work and how to embed civic learning and active citizenship across the curriculum. 
• Marketing, communications and influencing – building brands, running campaigns, shifting perceptions and engaging educators, young people and supporters. 
• Business growth, strategic partnerships and business development – scaling organisations, securing strategic partnerships and growing mission-aligned income streams. 
• Digital transformation or innovation – using digital tools, products or platforms to grow impact. 
• Fundraising and income generation – philanthropy, trusts and foundations, corporate fundraising or individual giving. 

We continue to welcome applications from those experienced in leadership, public service, law, finance, policy or youth engagement.

If you’re ready to help steer a national charity at a pivotal moment for citizenship education, influence strategy and strengthen UK democracy through education, we’d love to hear from you!

Role Requirements 

The role requires around 4–6 hours per month, including preparation and engagement between meetings. Trustees attend four board meetings a year at our St Paul's office (usually weekday evenings), monthly online finance updates, and an annual Away Day. Appointments are for an initial three-year term, with potential renewal. While day-to-day operations are led by the Chief Executive and senior team, trustees hold ultimate responsibility for governance and compliance.

To learn more about the role and the application process, please refer to the job pack for full details. 

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

We have a huge breadth of volunteer roles at Cats Protection, including caring for cats, fundraising, in our shops and many more! We also need volunteers to help us be more efficient, effective and to ensure we comply with charity law and governance.  

The purpose of the Audit & Risk Committee is to assist the Board of Trustees in fulfilling its obligations in respect of financial and governance reporting, internal control and risk. Our Audit & Risk Committee volunteers contribute to a well-run organisation, and their time and expertise help our Committee work in the best, most effective way possible.

The Board of Trustees delegates authority to the Committee to oversee the Cats Protection financial reporting process. This ensures the balance, transparency and integrity of published financial information to:

• ensure that there is a framework for accountability
• examine systems and methods of control, with particular emphasis on risk management and the effective use of risk-based outsourced internal audit receive reports from external auditors and consider rotation of audit partners
• ensure that Cats Protection is complying with statutory and regulatory requirements and good practice
• ensure implementation of recommendations from internal and external auditors
• ensure ongoing objectivity and independence

Your role will also include:

• attending Committee meetings
• reading papers
• preparing for meetings
• raising appropriate challenge or concerns undertaking any actions required in the agreed timescales
• supporting the Chair of the Audit & Risk Committee
• keeping informed about the activities of the charity and wider issues affecting the charity and the Audit & Risk Committee in particular

If you have strategic vision and an appreciation that there is much more to helping cats than meets the eye, then this is the role for you.

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

• a commitment to Cats Protection and empathy with our vision, mission and values
• a willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• strategic vision
• sound independent judgement
• relevant financial, assurance or risk management experience
• willingness to be part of a team
• the ability to express views clearly
• willingness to respectfully challenge and bring the best out in others
• an understanding of the role, duties and responsibilities of the Audit & Risk Committee

Time expectation

Our Audit & Risk Committee meets three times a year (twice in person in London and once virtually) and our volunteers normally spend a total of three years in this role.

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

More information on the role is available through a candidate pack for applicants. 

To apply, please submit a cover letter of no more than 500 words and a CV. Please include your motivation for applying for the role and details of any relevant experience - whether paid or voluntary. 

The deadline for applications is Friday 19 December at 23:59.

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Could you lead the national conversation on international students in the UK? 

We’re looking for an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an influential charity at the centre of international student policy and practice, helping to shape the future of international student experience in the UK at a critical time for the UK’s international education policy. 

UKCISA is the UK’s national body supporting international students and the professionals who work with them. Our expert advice, guidance, training and advocacy helps to ensure that every international student studying in the UK has the best possible experience. As Chair, you will guide a committed Board of Trustees, ensuring strong governance and effective decision-making. You will work closely with the Chief Executive to set UKCISA’s strategic direction, safeguarding its mission and ensuring it continues to innovate and deliver value for members and students. 

You will be a prominent ambassador for UKCISA, representing the organisation externally and building relationships with sector leaders, government, and partner organisations. Your leadership will help ensure that the perspectives of international students are reflected in policy development at a government and institutional level. 

We are looking for an experienced charity trustee with executive leadership experience in the UK education sector. You will bring credibility, vision, and a commitment to international education, inspire confidence and command respect across our stakeholders, and lead with integrity and compassion. You will be supported by an experienced and knowledgeable team of staff and trustees, passionate about the international student experience and the objectives of our organisation.

• Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed) 

• Location: UK-based, with travel to meetings and events. 

• Time Commitment: Four Board meetings per year (plus preparation), regular meetings with the Chief Executive, and representing UKCISA at external events. 

• Term: Three years, renewable for two more terms plus one year. Starting summer 2026. 

Applications close at 10 am on Monday 12 January 2026. Download the recruitment pack for details on how to apply. 

Finance Trustee (Treasurer) – fueling ADHD Aware's mission to support adults living with ADHD

ADHD Aware, a Brighton-based national charity, empowers adults with ADHD, their partners, and families through peer support groups, courses, neurodiversity training, and online resources – all run hands-on by volunteers like you. As our Finance Trustee, you'll safeguard our growth by keeping accounts current, ensuring governance excellence, and driving financial strategy in a small, agile board with no full-time staff – perfect for those ready to commit real hours to make a tangible impact.​

Why This Role Matters

In this voluntary Treasurer position, you'll oversee financial reporting, budgeting, compliance with Charity Commission rules, and risk management using tools like QuickBooks, directly fueling our vital ADHD support services. Your oversight ensures every pound advances our objects: peer-led groups, neurodiversity training for employers, and accessible online help that transforms lives affected by ADHD. Hands-on involvement means you'll keep our accounts up-to-date, liaise with stakeholders, and provide board guidance – a pivotal role in our volunteer-driven sustainability.​

We Champion Neurodivergence

ADHD Aware celebrates neurodivergence: we prioritise clear, structured language, flexible remote meetings via Teams/Zoom (with occasional in-person meetings in Brighton), and we are happy to chat about any accessibility needs before you apply. Expect transparent processes, no jargon overload, and understanding for variable focus – submit your CV and covering note detailing finance experience (ACA/ACCA/CIMA ideal, charity finance experience highly desirable) by 9 January 2026. We're seeking collaborative hands-on contributors who are committed to our mission and values.​

Time and Support

• Trustees serve a 3-year term (which can be renewed) and attend our AGM and 6 board meetings a year 

• Hands-on: maintain timely accounts, cash flow, audits, and forecasts amid growth.

• Remote-first, volunteer-led – your strategic input shapes our future.​

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• 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 chief executive (if the charity employs staff)

In addition to a charity Trustee’s statutory duties, the Finance Trustee (or Treasurer) plays a vital role in overseeing the financial affairs of the charity, ensuring its financial viability during a potential growth period, and making sure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the board and ensures compliance with relevant financial legislation and best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Oversight and Reporting:

• Oversee the charity’s financial activities, ensuring they align with its mission and objectives.
• Provide regular financial reports to the board of trustees, highlighting key issues, trends, and risks. These include monthly management accounts and updated forecasts.
• Manage the cash flow of the charity by ensuring that receipts and payments are collected and paid in a timely manner.
• Monitor the financial performance and position of the charity, ensuring sustainability and sound management of resources

2. Budgeting and Strategic Planning:

• Lead the finance committee and provide regular updates.
• Manage the development of the annual budget in conjunction with the finance committee.
• Assist in the creation and review of the charity’s strategic plan, providing financial insights and risk assessments.
• Ensure that financial resources are aligned with the charity's strategic priorities.

3. Governance and Compliance:

• Ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations, including the Charity Commission requirements and UK financial legislation.
• Ensure that proper accounting records are kept and that effective financial procedures and controls are in place.
• Liaise with external auditors, managing the annual audit process and ensuring timely submission of annual accounts and reports.

4. Risk Management:

• Identify and manage financial risks, providing the board with clear advice on risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the charity’s investments and reserves policy, ensuring prudent management of funds.

5. Supporting the Board:

• Act as the main point of contact for financial matters, providing guidance and support to fellow trustees.
• Work closely with other trustees to ensure that the board is fully informed of the charity’s financial status and has the necessary information to make sound decisions.
• Contribute to the board’s overall decision-making process, offering a financial perspective on strategic matters.

6. Stakeholder Engagement:

• Liaise with key stakeholders, including funders, regulatory bodies, trustees and volunteers on financial matters.
• Arrange regular meetings with staff on financial matters and give advice and guidance as appropriate.
• Provide input to fundraisers for fundraising tenders.
• Represent the charity in financial negotiations and discussions as required.

PERSON SPECIFICATION:

Qualifications:

• A recognised financial qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) is desirable.

Experience:

• Proven experience in financial management, preferably within the charity sector.
• Experience of charity finance, fundraising, and pension schemes is advantageous.
• Experience in strategic planning and risk management.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong financial analysis skills and the ability to communicate complex financial information clearly.
• Experience of Quickbooks or similar accounting software package.
• Knowledge of charity accounting principles and regulatory requirements.
• Understanding of financial governance and compliance in the charity sector.

Personal Qualities:

• Commitment to the charity's mission and values.
• Strong ethical standards and integrity.
• Collaborative and supportive approach, with the ability to challenge constructively.

TIME COMMITMENT

• Standard terms of Board Trustees are a period of three (3) years. Board members can usually be re-elected for a period of another three (3) years thereafter, for one (1) further term
• ADHD Aware Board Trustees will regularly attend Board meetings and/or send apologies with sufficient warning (no less than two days ahead of meeting)
• All Board members are also expected to respond within two (2) weeks to a request for review of information and comment by any other member of the Board
• If a Board member misses more than three (3) consecutive meetings, it may be appropriate to ask that Board member to resign or take a leave of absence
• Trustees will provide a minimum three (3) month notice period if they choose to step down LOCATION Please note: this role can be carried out largely remotely (via Teams or Zoom). Very occasionally, the Board may gather or take meetings at its main headquarters location in Brighton, East Sussex.

ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT

At ADHD Aware, we are committed to ensuring that all of our activities are as accessible and as inclusive as possible. These include applying for and interviewing for roles. Whilst we understand that we can never be fully accessible as everybody's needs are different, we strive to be proactive with thinking about accessibility requirements. When applying for a role at ADHD Aware, if you would like to get in touch to talk about any access requirements, please contact us using the details below and we will arrange a date and time to have a conversation with you.

About Bliss

With an impact in all corners of the UK, Bliss is the leading national neonatal charity, championing and developing the services for the 90,000 sick and premature babies born each year, supporting both them and their families. At Bliss, we are committed to improving care, giving voice to babies, and supporting parents to be partners in care. 

This is a really exciting time to join our board. We’ve just launched our new four-year strategy, which puts equity at the heart of everything we do. With NHS reforms underway, a new 10-Year Plan on the horizon, and growing attention on maternity and neonatal care, there’s a real opportunity to raise Bliss’s profile and make a lasting difference for premature and sick babies across the UK.

Chair opportunity

Our new Chair will be an experienced Trustee or Board member with proven ability to manage meetings effectively and foster productive, inclusive discussions. They will bring energy and drive, ensuring robust governance and alignment between strategy and operations. They will enjoy leading inclusive and thoughtful discussions, and share our passion for giving every baby the best possible start in life.

You can find more information about Bliss and the Chair role in our recruitment pack.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining Bliss!

Ready to apply?

Eastside People is supporting Bliss in the recruitment of these roles. Please by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why is Bliss’ work important to you and how can you contribute to the charity as our Chair?
• How do you ensure board meetings are focused, inclusive, and lead to clear decisions?
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level?

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Bliss’ Chair, CEO and Trustees will be hosting a 30-minute drop-in session on Mon 8th December at 12pm via Teams. This is an opportunity to learn more about Bliss and what’s involved in joining our Board. You can register to attend here.

The closing date for applications is Mon 5th Jan. 

Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place mid-January, with shortlisted candidates invited to panel interviews with Bliss during the week commencing 2 February.

Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to take part in open sessions with staff and Board members, with final interviews scheduled for the week commencing 23 February.

Bliss is an equal opportunities organisation. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, and lived experiences. We strive to reflect the diversity of the communities we serve and are committed to equity and inclusion at every level of our governance.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Mavar is currently seeking a seasoned networker to join the Mavar Trustee Board as a Trustee with special responsibilities for strengthening our fundraising practice and broadening the charity’s donor base. Working with our Board and CEO, you’ll bring experience, insight and strategic guidance to help develop our fundraising capacity in support of the strategic development of the charity.

Mavar’s Mission

Founded on the belief that everyone has the right to choose their own path in life, Mavar’s central mission is to empower individuals who choose to explore opportunities beyond the strictly orthodox community to fulfil personal goals. Mavar supports our members’ efforts to achieve independence, live authentically and cope with the obstacles they may encounter as they explore options to live, work or study in the secular world – whether or not they choose to leave the Charedi community.

Mavar’s Service Users

Some men and women who have grown up in the closed world of the Charedi community hold personal and religious values that are not in line with the rest of the community. Attempts to follow their own path often bring them into direct confrontation with family, friends and neighbours who regard expressions of individualism or self-determination as heresy. These individuals fear that the community will ostracise them, leaving them feeling trapped, isolated and helpless.

Some may simply wish to explore options for obtaining a general education or improving their access to employment opportunities whilst wishing to remain within the ultra-orthodox community; others may look to divest themselves of the strictures of ultra-orthodoxy and to lead a more mainstream lifestyle. They all typically lack the everyday life skills to cope with the challenges of the secular world, which appears to them as a confusing, frightening and alien planet. Any effort to integrate with the outside, secular world is hampered by limited English language skills, cultural disorientation, lack of basic education or qualifications and negligible skills for employment.

Trustee Role Details

The day-to-day operations of Mavar are conducted by staff and volunteers under the leadership of our CEO and with the overall oversight of the Trustee Board.

Main Duties of the Fundraising Trustee:

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is planned and executed in alignment with Mavar’s budget framework and objectives.
• Act as a fundraising champion on Mavar’s board, working with the CEO and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If you have personal networks with fundraising potential, utilise them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, as well as Mavar’s policies and procedures.

You are expected to give at least one day per month to your role. Board meetings take place four times a year in London, with a mixture of online and in-person meetings and are complemented by occasional online or in-person feedback meetings with the CEO and the Treasurer.

Person Specification

Essential

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns)
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice
• Strong communication and networking skills

Desirable

• Experience of charity fundraising
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing
• Familiarity with Jewish cultural context

Who are Guts UK Charity?

Guts UK Charity is committed to a world where digestive conditions are better understood, better treated and everyone who lives with one gets the support they need. Too many people are suffering or dying in silence or alone. They don’t know where to turn for information or support, diagnosis takes too long for many, and treatment can often come too late.​

We are the only UK charity that covers the entire digestive system. We raise vital awareness of digestive conditions, fund life-saving research, and provide patients and loved ones with expert information and support – we are informed by evidence and expertise, our community, and the patient voice.​ 

Our mission is simple: to improve the lives of millions of people affected by digestive conditions 

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking an experienced treasurer who has a comprehensive understanding of charity finances, requirements and regulations and will actively support other board members to fulfil their collective responsibilities around finance.

You will play a pivotal role in ensuring the Gut UK’s ambitious growth plans are achievable, and sustainable for the long term. As a charity we need to do more, fund more, and support more people and we need a treasurer who shares our passion in achieving this. 

As treasurer, you will play a vital role in ensuring our financial health, sustainability, and transparency. You guide and advise the Board on financial strategy, budgeting, and risk management, Chair the Finance, Fundraising, Audit & Risk Committee, ensuring robust oversight of financial and operational matters, support the CEO and COO, offering expert insight and challenge on financial planning and reporting, and champion good governance, transparency, and accountability across the organisation. 

Become an Enter & View Volunteer

Do you want to help improve local health and social care services?
We’re looking for volunteers who live in Barking and Dagenham and can take a fresh, solution-focused approach to assessing how services are run.

As an Enter & View Volunteer, you’ll:

✔️Receive full training from Healthwatch Barking and Dagenham

✔️Visit health and social care settings to gather feedback from patients and residents

✔️Help identify what’s working well and where improvements are needed

What you’ll need:

❤️Good communication and listening skills

❤️Professionalism, reliability, and empathy

❤️Ability to follow guidance and work as part of a team

Time commitment:
Flexible – you can choose when and how often you volunteer.
All reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Please get in touch to express your interest and request an application form.

elop runs a programme of weekly and monthly LGBTQ+ social, support and wellbeing clubs, groups, meet-ups and events; provided by and for LGBTQ+ communities.

Joining our LGBTQ+ volunteer facilitator team you will be part of an enthusiastic and dedicated team who value & appreciate the benefit of face-to-face socialising & networking, supporting LGBT people to come together in a welcoming, safe and supportive environment with opportunities to meet new people, form new friendships, gain peer support and much more. 

Each of elop’s dedicated clubs, groups or meet-ups run planned activities that supports shared interaction, positive LGBTQ+ identities and a feeling of being valued.

Volunteering in this role will give you opportunities to contribute & support the planning & promotion of group programmes, help in organising & facilitating sessions, along with supporting & enabling the involvement, voice & inclusion of all members attending, ensuring a welcome, supported, safe and comfortable environment for all.

Our clubs, groups, meet-ups and activities are delivered on various days and times across the week and weekends, plus during the day and evenings, so there are plenty of opportunities to get involved. 

You may already have some previous experience of activity facilitation, which is fantastic; however it isn’t necessary to come with all the skills & experiences already on board, just a friendly or outgoing personality with good communication abilities, the rest you’ll be supported to develop. 

Respecting diversity, understanding and upholding professional boundaries and confidentiality are of course fundamental to all of our work and you will be required support this. 

What you can expect as part of Team elop is to feel proud of being part of our dynamic team & volunteer community, to develop confidence, have enjoyment and know your contribution really does make a difference.

We know life can be busy, but ask all group volunteers to make a 6 month minimum commitment or around 2-3 hours a week average. 

All our volunteer facilitators must positively identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual and/ or trans (Schedule 9, Part 1, Paragraph 1 of the Equality Act 2010 applies).