Board members volunteer roles

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year, 

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location: Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager  

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee  

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are:

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association  

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be  

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth  

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds  

● Ensure appropriate safeguarding governance, processes, training and competences are in place to safeguard children, young people, adults, staff and others that OY may come into contact with

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance  

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4.Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours, these usually take place in the evening. Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee should have:

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims

Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticize

● Integrity

● An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship (although further training will be provided)

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management  

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise  

● Safeguarding experience and expertise  

● Public policy and public affairs  

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the marketing, pubic relations and business development profession; or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide marketing, pubic relations and business development advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6.Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees  

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary  

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

4. Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.

As a Trustee of Durham Action on Single Housing (DASH), you will work alongside other board members to provide strategic leadership and governance to the charity. Your primary role will be to ensure that DASH meets its charitable objectives and complies with legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are responsible for overseeing the direction of the charity, ensuring financial sustainability, and ensuring effective delivery of services to individuals in need of housing support.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:
   • Work with fellow trustees to set the strategic direction of DASH.
   • Ensure that the charity’s mission is being fulfilled and that its activities align with its objectives.
   • Provide guidance and support in decision-making, ensuring that the charity stays relevant to the needs of its service users.
2. Governance & Oversight:
   • Ensure that the charity is properly governed, complies with legal and regulatory requirements, and adheres to its constitution and policies.
   • Oversee the performance of the Director and senior leadership team, offering guidance and support as needed.
   • Monitor the charity’s financial health, ensuring appropriate financial controls, budgeting, and reporting mechanisms are in place.
3. Financial Management:
   • Approve the annual budget and ensure effective use of resources.
   • Monitor and manage financial risks and help ensure the charity remains financially viable.
   • Support fundraising efforts and ensure the charity meets its financial targets and fundraising goals.
4. Advocacy & Representation:
   • Act as an ambassador for DASH, promoting its work and advocating for the needs of single housing tenants.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, other charities, funders, and the community.
   • Provide expertise in areas such as housing, legal, fundraising, or community services to assist in achieving the charity’s objectives.
5. Risk Management:
   • Identify and assess potential risks to the charity and help develop strategies to mitigate them.
   • Ensure the charity operates within a framework that balances risk and opportunity, ensuring the safety and well-being of service users.
6. Board Development:
   • Participate in board meetings and decision-making processes, providing insight, expertise, and constructive feedback.
   • Help recruit new trustees and contribute to the development of the board, ensuring its skills and diversity align with the charity’s needs.
7. Compliance & Reporting:
   • Ensure DASH meets all legal and regulatory obligations, including Charity Commission requirements.
   • Ensure that DASH’s work is transparent and that all reports (financial, impact, and governance) are accurate and timely.

Person Specification:

• Passion for housing issues and the work of DASH.
• Strong commitment to the values and mission of the charity.
• Previous experience in a governance or leadership role, preferably within the charity sector.
• Knowledge of housing, social justice, or related sectors is desirable but not essential.
• Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and constructively with other trustees, staff, and stakeholders.
• Experience in financial oversight and risk management would be an asset.

Time Commitment:

Trustees typically meet Bi monthly , with additional subcommittee meetings and ad-hoc responsibilities. Meetings may be in-person or virtual, depending on the needs of the organisation.

Benefits:

• The opportunity to make a significant difference to the lives of individuals in housing need.
• Gain valuable experience in governance, financial management, and leadership.
• Work with a dedicated and passionate group of individuals who share a common vision.

Join us on a transformational journey

Be part of something powerful. As a Trustee on the Board of AfriKids UK, you’ll help shape the future of a proven, high-impact organisation that’s ready to go further. You’ll bring your ideas, insights and perspective to help us improve and grow for the children and communities we serve.

About AfriKids

AfriKids is an award-winning, locally-led charity dedicated to ensuring the rights of children in northern Ghana. Our mission is to help unlock the power of communities to ensure child rights, with a focus on helping people secure the means, motive and opportunity for every child to complete a quality basic education, as the most sustainable route out of poverty. Locally-led and internationally supported, we work hand-in-hand with local communities to design and deliver programmes that create lasting change for children, so they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow. AfriKids UK exists to support this mission through faciliating access to international funding, partnerships, technical support and expertise — working in close collaboration with AfriKids Ghana, our independent local implementing partner.

The Role

With nearly 25 years of experience behind us, our Boards in the UK and Ghana are now helping to lead us through a period of transformational change, to impact more children than ever. We are seeking two more trustees to join the Board of AfriKids UK. As a Trustee of AfriKids, you will share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the charity, with guidance and support to learn about your responsibilities as a trustee if you have not been one before. Trustees play a crucial role in ensuring that AfriKids operates in accordance with its mission, values, and legal obligations.​ This is an opportunity to lend your unique knowledge, skills and experience to help advance our mission and make a difference for children. 

Aspens are looking for trustees to join us on the next exciting part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you if you have accountancy, social care, business development or fundraising experience.

What will you be doing?

Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism? Do you have the skills, experience, and dedication to help guide a forward-thinking charity? If so, we’d love to hear from you!

About Aspens CharitiesAt Aspens we provide high quality care and support to people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; and their families; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.

Why Become a Trustee?As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of Aspens Charities. You will work alongside a committed Board to ensure our services remain impactful, sustainable, and aligned with our core values.

Your Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership, ensuring Aspens meets its charitable objectives.
• Oversee financial management, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
• Support and challenge the Executive Team to drive excellence in service delivery.
• Act as an ambassador for Aspens, promoting our work and values.
• Attend Board meetings and contribute to key strategic decisions.

What We’re Looking For:We welcome applications from individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Key attributes include:

• A strong commitment to the aims and values of Aspens Charities.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
• Willingness to dedicate time to Board meetings and governance activities.
• Integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively.

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

• Accountancy
• Health & Social Care sector knowledge
• Fundraising and business development

Time Commitment & LocationThis is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses covered. The Board meets approximately three times a year, with 3 committee meetings and occasional additional meetings or events. Meetings are held in person and virtually.

What are we looking for?

• Commitment to the goals and aims of the charity. 
• Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time. 
• The ability to make good independent judgements. 
• Being able to think creatively. 
• Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties. 
• Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans. 
• Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions.
• Proven experience working as a member of successful teams. 
• Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.

Experience of either accountancy or fundraising / income generation. 

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, your leadership will directly shape the future of Aspens Charities and the lives of the people we support. You will help:

• Improve Quality of Care – Ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autism receive the best possible support.
• Drive Strategic Growth – Expanding and developing services to reach more people in need.
• Ensure Financial Sustainability – Overseeing resources to secure long-term impact.
• Strengthen Governance – Upholding transparency, compliance, and ethical leadership.

Your expertise will make a lasting difference, creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.

Oxfordshire Youth Trustee – Finance Role
Description: Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year. Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location: Oxfordshire
Reporting: To the Board of Trustees
Reference Documents:

• Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide
• Charity Governance Code
• Charity Commission Guidance

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1. Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles:

• the Chair of the Board of Trustees
• the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager
• the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee
• the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2. The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility.

Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3. Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are:

• Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association
• Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be
• Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization
• Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth
• Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds
• Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4. Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5. Person Specification

Each trustee must have:

• A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth
• A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement ● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims
• Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind
• Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise
• Integrity

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:

• Leadership and human resource management
• Financial management, income generation and enterprise
• Safeguarding experience and expertise
• Public policy and public affairs
• National and local youth sector
   

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the finance profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide financial advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work.

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6. Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

• As a board of trustees
• As a sub-committee
• Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary
• CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.
2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.
3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.
4. Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-posting people to OY.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Wiltshire Law Centre achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Wiltshire Law Centre has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable Wiltshire Law Centre to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission. 

A Trustee at Durham Action on Single Housing (DASH) plays a crucial role in supporting the organisation's mission, ensuring its financial health, and guiding its strategic direction.

Role Title: Trustee

Location: Durham (meetings and occasional site visits)

Reports to: Board of Trustees

Role Overview:

As a Trustee of Durham Action on Single Housing (DASH), you will work alongside other board members to provide strategic leadership and governance to the charity. Your primary role will be to ensure that DASH meets its charitable objectives and complies with legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are responsible for overseeing the direction of the charity, ensuring financial sustainability, and ensuring effective delivery of services to individuals in need of housing support.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Leadership:
   • Work with fellow trustees to set the strategic direction of DASH.
   • Ensure that the charity’s mission is being fulfilled and that its activities align with its objectives.
   • Provide guidance and support in decision-making, ensuring that the charity stays relevant to the needs of its service users.
2. Governance & Oversight:
   • Ensure that the charity is properly governed, complies with legal and regulatory requirements, and adheres to its constitution and policies.
   • Oversee the performance of the Director and senior leadership team, offering guidance and support as needed.
   • Monitor the charity’s financial health, ensuring appropriate financial controls, budgeting, and reporting mechanisms are in place.
3. Financial Management:
   • Approve the annual budget and ensure effective use of resources.
   • Monitor and manage financial risks and help ensure the charity remains financially viable.
   • Support fundraising efforts and ensure the charity meets its financial targets and fundraising goals.
4. Advocacy & Representation:
   • Act as an ambassador for DASH, promoting its work and advocating for the needs of single housing tenants.
   • Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including local authorities, other charities, funders, and the community.
   • Provide expertise in areas such as housing, legal, fundraising, or community services to assist in achieving the charity’s objectives.
5. Risk Management:
   • Identify and assess potential risks to the charity and help develop strategies to mitigate them.
   • Ensure the charity operates within a framework that balances risk and opportunity, ensuring the safety and well-being of service users.
6. Board Development:
   • Participate in board meetings and decision-making processes, providing insight, expertise, and constructive feedback.
   • Help recruit new trustees and contribute to the development of the board, ensuring its skills and diversity align with the charity’s needs.
7. Compliance & Reporting:
   • Ensure DASH meets all legal and regulatory obligations, including Charity Commission requirements.
   • Ensure that DASH’s work is transparent and that all reports (financial, impact, and governance) are accurate and timely.

Person Specification:

• Passion for housing issues and the work of DASH.
• Strong commitment to the values and mission of the charity.
• Previous experience in a governance or leadership role, preferably within the charity sector.
• Knowledge of housing, social justice, or related sectors is desirable but not essential.
• Strong communication, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively and constructively with other trustees, staff, and stakeholders.
• Experience in financial oversight and risk management would be an asset.

Time Commitment:

Trustees typically meet Bi monthly , with additional subcommittee meetings and ad-hoc responsibilities. Meetings may be in-person or virtual, depending on the needs of the organisation.

Benefits:

• The opportunity to make a significant difference to the lives of individuals in housing need.
• Gain valuable experience in governance, financial management, and leadership.
• Work with a dedicated and passionate group of individuals who share a common vision.

Lead the Board of Via, the charity delivering vital substance use, mental health and well-being services across the UK, and help provide high-quality, person-centred care to the people and communities affected.

Location: Flexible (Via has services across London, NW England and SW England)

Closing date: Tuesday 27th May

Who we are.

Via is an exceptional charity that puts people at the heart of everything we do. Over three decades, we’ve evolved from our origins as Westminster Drug Project, with a new now award-winning name and brand, into a dynamic, multi-service organisation delivering vital support across substance use, mental health, employment, sexual health, smoking cessation and youth services. With a turnover of £36m for 24/25 and remarkable growth of over a third in 2023/24, we’re now supporting over 12,500 service users annually across an expanding geographical footprint from London to Gloucestershire.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation is evident in our industry-leading services, which consistently perform significantly above the national average. We’re particularly proud to be pioneering the development of the UK’s first women-only detox facility, demonstrating our commitment to addressing crucial gaps in service provision.

Our Approach Makes Us Different

At Via, we believe in doing things differently. This starts with our commitment to staff well-being, including up to six months of full sick pay – a policy that exemplifies our trust in our people and our understanding that supporting our staff enables them to better support our service users. We achieved Investors in People Gold certification and were nominated for UK Employer of the Year and Third Sector Employer of the Year at the Investors in People Awards 2024, recognising our dedication to creating an outstanding workplace culture.

Our active Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group drives real organisational change, ensuring our services are accessible and effective for all communities. These aren’t just initiatives – they’re expressions of our core values: Care, Be Human, and Do the Right Thing, which guides everything we do.

The opportunity.

As we have experienced growth and are launching our new strategy, we had new Trustees join our Board as others have come to the end of their terms. As our current Chair, Yasmin Batliwala MBE comes to the end of her term later this year, we are looking to appoint a new Chair.

What Makes a Great Via Chair

• A Strategic Leader with proven experience operating at a senior level with a successful track record of achievement. You’ll have the personal gravitas to lead a significant, complex, national organisation, alongside the ability to lead a newly evolving and forming Board.
• Passionate About Our Cause: You will bring your expertise and passion for improving lives and reducing inequality. You’ll be someone who understands the complexity of our work yet can think strategically about our future. Your genuine enthusiasm will inspire others and strengthen our impact.
• Governance Experience: you will bring the experience of being on Boards and will work to lead the board to ensure sound financial health and accountability while effectively managing risk and continuing to innovate in service development and delivery.
• An Inclusive Champion committed to fostering diversity that reflects the communities we serve, promoting DEI training and growth, and holding staff and trustees accountable to these practices.
• A Relationship Builder with excellent interpersonal skills and diplomatic tact. You’ll develop a strong working relationship with the Chief Executive, maintain connections with key stakeholders, and represent Via as an effective ambassador.
• A Collaborative Leader who can bring people together, foster a team environment, and work in partnership with our board and team to drive our ambitious strategy.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

Diversity in governance isn’t just a goal for Via – it’s a necessity. Our services support people from every part of society, and we want our Board to reflect this diversity. We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of addiction/recovery (whether personal or as family members/carers), and people from communities currently underrepresented at board level.

Time Commitment

The Board meets quarterly, usually in person. Including preparation time, representation at events, and strategic input, we estimate a commitment of the equivalent of 2-3 days per month. This includes:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Quarterly committee meetings
• Annual strategy and away day
• Ad hoc conversations with fellow board members and the Executive
• Occasional representation at events and meetings with key stakeholders, including at services.

Making a Difference Together

This is an extraordinary time to join Via. As we implement our new 2025-29 strategy and expand our geographical reach, innovate our evidence-based offer and increase access to more people. We’re not just growing – we’re evolving. You’ll help shape innovative services like our women’s detox facility while ensuring we maintain our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and person-centred care

Please click 'Apply via website’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close on Tuesday 27th May. 

Board Chair for Enterprise Oxfordshire

Are you an experienced business leader either living or working in Oxfordshire with a passion for driving economic growth, innovation, skills and employability that will enhance the area and prosperity of your community? 
Enterprise Oxfordshire is seeking a persuasive and influential senior business leader to join their Board as Chair. This is a unique opportunity to build your network and play a pivotal role in the sustainable development of Oxfordshire through the implementation of their strategic economic plan.

About Enterprise Oxfordshire:

Enterprise Oxfordshire, formerly known as the Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership Ltd, is committed to advancing economic growth and innovation within Oxfordshire. With a history of successful initiatives such as the City Deal and the Local Growth Fund, they have contributed over £1 billion to the local economy and secured an additional £2.3 billion in investments from both public and private sectors. Building on its significant achievements as OxLEP, Enterprise Oxfordshire now oversees a comprehensive suite of business, skills, investment, and trade support services. They also support various strategies aimed at realising Oxfordshire’s economic potential in a sustainable and inclusive manner.

Role Overview:

As the Board Chair, you will bring energy and passion to their newly established Board, fostering positive relationships with key stakeholders and acting as a high-level advocate regionally, nationally, and internationally. You will lead the Board in delivering their original Oxfordshire Strategic Economic Plan priorities and driving prosperity through the Local Industrial Strategy and Economic Recovery Plan. 

The new Board is made up of 2 other members representing an elected member of Oxfordshire County Council and an Officer of County Council. The Board report into the Shareholder Committee who are made of elected members of the Oxfordshire’s County Council’s cabinet. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strong leadership to the Board
• Represent Enterprise Oxfordshire at external high-profile events and advocate for the interests of Oxfordshire's economy.
• Engage in high-level negotiations with key influencers in government, business, and community to drive a positive future for Oxfordshire.
   

Candidate Profile:

• The Board Chair must ideally live and work in Oxfordshire.
• Have significant and current experience of leading and SME and/or large business.
• Ideally be an influential and persuasive business leader with a high profile in Oxfordshire
• Ability to provide clear strategic vision, and a demonstratable understanding of the economic drivers and challenges facing Oxfordshire.
• Strong empathy and ability to work with and influence a wide range of stakeholders including business, local authorities, MPs, national government and other stakeholders.
• Demonstrable track record of engaging and supporting communities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; articulate and able to influence, broker, and build strong networks.
   

Commitment:

• Commitment 20-30 days per annum initially, including monthly Board meetings, external events, and committee engagements (once the board is established it’s expected to be more around 20 days).
• Serve for a minimum three-year term with an option to extend
• Unremunerated with reasonable expenses
   

Application Process
Please send an up to date CV. In the first instance you will be sent a link to a candidate pack microsite with further details on the opportunity and how to submit a formal application.

Application deadline is Tuesday 20th May at 5.00pm.

The team at TPP, Lisa, Sema and Matt are on hand to answer any questions.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so that we can help with making the application process work for you.

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved as a Learning Trustee in an engaging, decision making role in a charity that inspires and empowers young disabled adults to live fulfilling, independent lives – promoting personal development through the arts.

About the Orpheus Centre

The Orpheus Centre is a charity and college which supports young disabled adults aged 18-25 to learn essential life skills, gain formal qualifications and prepare for future employment.

There are currently 66 students with 21 living on site in Godstone, Surrey. Students come from across the UK and all have a love of the arts.

Started by lyricist and musician Sir Richard Stilgoe, the organisation offers learning, care and development opportunities at the college and in the wider community, working with professional artists, businesses and other charities.

The overall aim is to equip the students with the skills they need to live as independently as possible and to pursue their chosen careers.

Our core values are to be Joyful, Bold, Inclusive, Resilient and Determined. These values are the foundations for all our work and are what the organisation stands for.

Why should you apply?

Orpheus is a vibrant Independent Specialist college for young disabled adults who have a passion for the arts and a desire to live independently. Orpheus believes that disabled people should have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers.

The Board of Trustees are looking for a new Trustee who is passionate about our vision to empower and equip young disabled people with the skills and confidence they need in order to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community.

Time commitment

The time commitment is between 10 and 15 days per annum, including four Board meetings including the AGM (mainly in person), four committee meetings (mainly virtual), one or two awaydays and ad-hoc attendance.

What will you be doing?

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Orpheus, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document and with legal and regulatory guidelines.

The role of the Learning and Care Committee Co-Chair includes but also goes beyond the role of other Trustees. So in addition to your duties as a Trustee, you will take a leadership role in ensuring that the Board fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the Orpheus Centre in relation to Learning and Care. You will also work closely with the Chief Executive, Principal and Head of Care to support them in achieving the aims of the Orpheus Centre in the areas of Learning and Care, and will act as the channel of communication between the committee and the Board.

You will lead the committee, ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for good governance, and will work in partnership with the Principal and Head of Care, helping them to achieve the department’s aims.

Your responsibilities will include:

• providing effective scrutiny, challenge and questioning related to curriculum and learner progress;
• supporting the learning management team with quality activities, including annual trustee learning walks and quarterly deep dive activity;
• ensuring that you undertake a thorough induction programme;
• leading the Learning and Care Committee, including chairing committee meetings effectively;
• monitoring progress in implementing decisions taken at committee meetings and keeping in close touch with the work of the Learning and Care Departments in general – while always respecting the boundary between the respective roles of executives and non-executives; 
• acting as a spokesperson for Orpheus when requested and as appropriate;
• providing a written and oral update of the last committee meeting at each Board meeting;
• assessing and monitoring risks relevant to the Learning and Care functions of the Orpheus Centre;

and

• monitoring and scrutinising performance data within the Learning and Care Departments.

How to apply

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following:

• A detailed CV setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements.
• A covering letter (maximum two sides) highlighting your suitability for the role and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the covering letter is an important part of your application.
• Contact details of two professional referees together with a brief statement of their relationship to you and over what period of time they have known you; referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

The Orpheus Centre is proud to be a disability confident employer

We have made a positive commitment to employing disabled people. Reasonable adjustments will be made to the recruitment procedure as required in consultation with the applicant to ensure no-one is disadvantaged because of their disability. If a disabled person is selected for a position, reasonable adjustments will be made to the workplace, including premises and equipment, work duties and practices or policies, as appropriate. All disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role as set out in the role profile and person specification will be considered for interview.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are:

• Challenging attitudes towards disability
• Increasing understanding of disability
• Removing barriers to disabled people and those with long-term health conditions
• Ensuring that disabled people have the opportunities to fulfil their potential and realise their aspiration

Gingerbread is the charity for single parents. We challenge discrimination, and campaign against the inequalities single parents face. We are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board. This is an exciting opportunity to join a passionate and inclusive organisation making a real difference to single-parent families across England and Wales.

What will you be doing?

Our Board combines their skills and experience to provide stewardship to Gingerbread and its staff.

The role of Treasurer is to enable the board to maintain an overview of Gingerbread’s affairs, ensure its financial viability and ensure that proper financial records and procedures are maintained.

Trustees generally meet for full Board meetings a minimum of five times a year. Each of these meetings is two hours long. Trustees would need to allow for preparation time ahead of these meetings. We estimate there would be 2 hours of work a month outside of Board meetings.

What are we looking for?

The Treasurer should have the following qualities: 

· A commitment to Gingerbread’s work and mission

· Financial qualifications and experience 

· Some experience of charity finance, fundraising and pension schemes 

· The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences 

· Being prepared to make unpopular recommendations to the board 

· A willingness to be available to staff and trustees for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis

Gingerbread wishes to actively encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds, including underrepresented communities and single parents. Previous Trustee experience is not essential. Full training and induction will be provided.

What difference will you make?

There are over 2 million single parents in England and Wales. Although the majority of them are working, they’re twice as likely to live in poverty as couple parents. And too many single parents experience loneliness, worry and the impact of negative stereotypes in the media and wider society.

As Treasurer, you will join us in leading the fight to create a society where all single parents and their children can thrive.

As you’d expect, we’re a family-friendly charity. We offer a supportive team culture and good work-life balance, while delivering impressive results.

Offering your skills and time each month will give our fledgling organisation the boost it needs as we deliver our long-term strategy. Carers' Hub is an independent local charity based in Brixton. Our mission is to improve carers’ lives in Lambeth through quality services and community engagement. We achieve this through four core workstreams: raising awareness of carers, influencing local policy through community engagement activities, improving carer wellbeing and connecting carers to each other and to support and training opportunities through our services.

Caring for a loved one, family member, friend or neighbour, can have a significant impact on all aspects of a carer's own life. Our dedicated and passionate team work with carers to help overcome challenges around managing at home, finances, caring with confidence, education and employment, physical health and emotional wellbeing.

We have an exciting opportunity for new Trustees to join the Carers’ Hub Board, responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity.  We have recently reviewed the current Board and we are particularly interested to hear from people with the experience or skills outlined below, but these are not mandatory, and we would like to hear from anyone with an interest in being a trustee:

• Finance: accounting, managing budgets, producing financial reports. You might be a qualified accountant, or someone who has good financial management experience. We are looking for someone who can help ensure that the Board can provide adequate scrutiny, assurance, and support of the charity's finances. 
   
• Fundraising: writing bids, securing corporate partners or raising donations from individuals. We are keen to diversify our income and we are looking for someone who has fundraising experience to advise and support our staff team to raise funds. 
   
• Legal: employment law, charity law or a different discipline. We are looking for someone who can offer us advice and guidance when needed and help us with reviewing contracts and other documents.

At Carers' Hub, we want our Board to be representative of the diverse community we support. We are keen to hear from anyone who is interested, even if you haven't previously pictured yourself as a trustee or aren't sure if you have the experience or skills required. 

Meetings take place at our offices, in person, in Brixton approximately once every two-three months.  They currently run from 4pm until 6pm and we value our Trustees being able to attend meetings in person.  It is hoped that you will be able to contribute your time to help develop pieces of work outside of meetings depending on your skill set and availability. 

How to apply: Click the Quick Apply button below. You’ll be asked to submit a CV and answer a few short screening questions about your relevant skills and motivation.

Closing date: 9am Friday 30th May

Could you be our New Charity Trustee? We are seeking to recruit a new Trustee to our Board who is passionate about ensuring inclusion for all young people with additional needs and disabilities.

Every year, Me2 Club matches over 130 children who have additional needs or disabilities with committed and passionate volunteers to help them attend and take part in mainstream leisure activities. We tackle the impact of exclusion and social isolation experienced by children and young people and help build their confidence, self-esteem and independence. 

As a member of the Board of Trustees you will be jointly responsible for the legal, effective and safe running of Me2 Club. Working with other Trustees and the Chief Executive Officer you will provide strategic leadership to a growing and ambitious charity. As one of our ‘guardians of purpose’ you’ll make sure that all our decisions put the needs of children and their families first. 

You’ll attend and contribute at regular Board meetings and have the opportunity to get involved in charitable activities from fundraising to meeting beneficiaries at family events. 

As one of our ‘guardians of purpose’ you’ll make sure that all our decisions put the needs of children and their families first, and ensure the legal, effective, and safe running of Me2 Club along with the other Trustees and Chief Executive Officer.

We would particularly welcome applications from Parent/Carers with lived experience of caring for a child with additional needs. Take a look at our Vacancy page to find out how you could join our Board and make a difference to the lives of local families. 

Overview of the role

Uttlesford Foodbank are seeking someone with financial experience to join the board as a trustee, who will be able to lead on financial matters, ensuring we meet our financial obligations and help us build a sound financial strategy as we move forward. This role involves leading on the financial affairs of the food bank and ensuring that they are conducted within the required legal, accounting, and good practice frameworks.

Responsibilities

As a trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of the food bank and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, is compliant with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable. It is also the responsibility of the treasurer to work in partnership with the chairperson and other trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the organisation.

Key tasks:

• ensure the Board of Trustees fulfils its financial responsibilities
• ensure that the food bank has proper systems for budgeting, financial control, insurance and reporting
• ensure that financial reports: are comprehensible and properly discussed at trustee board meetings; are provided in the proper format and at the proper time, as required by the relevant charity regulator body (Charity Commission of England & Wales); have properly appointed auditors or independent examiners

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support, and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk, and not over-commit the charity
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate to ensure that key risks are identified, monitored, and controlled appropriately
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, and progress is evaluated
• to review and approve financial statements
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

About you

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Uttlesford Foodbank
• previous experience or an ability in: financial accounting and reporting procedures; communicating financial information to those who may have little or no financial background; keeping financial records up to date.
• A knowledge and passion for your local community
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Willingness to actively participate in discussions concerning needs of the foodbank’s beneficiaries, staff, and the trustee board
• Willingness to act in the best interest of the charity
• Sound, independent judgement and ability to think creatively
• Working effectively as a team member and demonstrating a willingness to learn and develop

Benefits of volunteering

• feeling you are making a difference whilst volunteering with us
• meeting new people and being part of a motivated team who share a passion to eradicate poverty in our community
• building a movement of change with our volunteers, staff, and the people who use our food bank
• bringing our staff, volunteers, and trustees together to achieve our vision
• gaining a greater insight and understanding of local agencies and partnerships

This role would be ideal for an early- or mid-career financial professional who is looking to broaden their range of skills and experiences within a friendly, welcoming, charity setting.

Impact of your role

By leading on the financial matters of the food bank operation, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting, or anyone who comes into contact with, Uttlesford Foodbank.

Support

A full trustee induction is in place to support the prospective candidate within their role, as well as access to local voluntary action trustee training.