Board of trustees volunteer volunteer roles

At PSS, everything starts with people. We work alongside individuals, families and communities to create support shaped by real lives and real voices. Our mission is simple: to help create lives beyond limits, where everyone has choice, control and a genuine sense of belonging.

And we're looking for up to four new Trustees to join our brilliant Board as we move into an exciting new chapter. With a new Chief Executive, a fresh strategic plan for 2026–2030 and lots of ambition, now is a fantastic time to get involved.

Who we’re looking for

You don’t need previous board experience to apply. What matters most to us is who you are, what you care about and the perspective you bring.

We’d especially love to hear from people with experience in:

• Finance and audit
• Social care
• Commercial or market awareness
• Lived experience of services like ours

Above all, we’re looking for people who share our values – big-hearted, open-minded, genuine, professional and determined – and who believe in social justice, equity and inclusion.

What being a Trustee involves

As a Trustee, you’ll help shape the future of PSS by:

• Sitting on our Board and one of our sub-committees
• Helping guide our strategy and decision-making
• Making sure we’re safe, sustainable and true to our values
• Working in partnership with our teammates and the people we support

The time commitment is around one day a month, plus four Board meetings a year and two away days.

Why join us?

Being a Trustee at PSS is rewarding, meaningful and genuinely enjoyable. You’ll:

• Be part of a warm, supportive and values-led organisation
• Learn new skills and gain board-level experience
• Meet inspiring people from a wide range of backgrounds
• Do something you can be really proud of

Ready to find out more?

If this sounds like you (or someone you know), we’d love to hear from you.

Tall Roots is supporting us to recruit our new Trustees. Applications should be made via Tall Roots (click 'Redirect to Recruiter' to navigate to their website) and include a CV and covering letter that tells us why you want to join our Board and what you would want to bring to PSS as a Trustee.

The full candidate brief is available on Tall Roots' website, where you can you can also watch a short video to hear more about what it means to be part of PSS from some of the amazing people we support and our existing Trustees. 

We appreciate that applications can feel daunting. If you’d find it useful to speak to Mark at Tall Roots about any aspect of the roles or the process ahead of applying, please reach out direct via Tall Roots' website – he will be more than happy to help. The closing date for applications is Friday 13 February 2026.

Come and help us shape a future where everyone belongs.

Settled is recruiting new trustees to join its Board and support EU citizens and Ukrainian refugees to access their rights in the UK. This is a voluntary role, open to first-time trustees and those with board experience. We are particularly interested in skills relating to finance, fundraising, governance, or equity, diversity and inclusion, as well as lived experience. Meetings are mainly online, with one in-person away day per year. Closing date: 5pm, Monday 2 February 2026.

Volunteer Chair of the Board of Trustees - MINDSET Charity

Who We Are

MINDSET Charity is a brand new start-up, volunteer‑run organisation dedicated to transforming men’s lives across England. We will support men on their journeys of mental wellbeing and self‑improvement through workshops, creative programmes, community‑based activities, and online groups.

We are building a movement rooted in resilience, dignity, and brotherhood. As we enter our foundation stage, we are seeking a visionary Chair who can guide, inspire, and empower our emerging Board of Trustees — many of whom are stepping into governance for the first time.

This is a rare opportunity to shape the culture, direction, and legacy of a charity at the very beginning of its journey.

The Role of Chair of the Board of Trustees

As our Volunteer Chair, you will be the driving force behind our governance, culture, and strategic direction. You will:

• Lead and inspire a board of passionate, mostly first‑time Trustees, helping them grow in confidence, clarity, and purpose.

• Create a positive, energising team spirit where every Trustee feels valued, supported, and able to contribute their strengths.

• Guide the board in setting the charity’s strategic vision, ensuring decisions are mission‑aligned and future‑focused.

• Facilitate effective, engaging board meetings that bring out the best in people and move the charity forward.

• Support the development of strong governance practices, ensuring MINDSET is legally sound, transparent, and accountable.

• Act as a trusted partner to the CEO/Founder, offering wisdom, support, and encouragement as we build this movement from the ground up.

• Represent the charity externally when needed, championing our mission and strengthening our credibility.

This is a volunteer role — but your leadership will shape the foundation, culture, and long‑term impact of a national movement.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from leaders who share our passion for men’s mental wellbeing and believe in the power of community.

You may have experience as a Chair, Trustee, senior leader, or team builder — but what matters most is your ability to:

• Inspire and motivate others

• Bring out the best in a diverse team

• Lead with empathy, clarity, and confidence

• Navigate challenges with calm, strategic thinking

• Build a culture of trust, accountability, and joy

• Guide first‑time Trustees with patience and encouragement

If you thrive on building something meaningful from the ground up, you will feel at home here.

Why Join Us

• Shape the governance, culture, and identity of a pioneering charity at its foundation stage.

• Lead a passionate board united by vision, purpose, and brotherhood.

• Play a central role in improving men’s mental wellbeing across England.

• Be part of a movement that values dignity, resilience, and community.

• Leave a legacy that will impact lives for years to come.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to lead with heart, inspire a new generation of Trustees, and help build the future of MINDSET Charity, we would love to hear from you.

This is more than governance. It’s leadership, culture‑building, and movement‑building. Join us, and help shape the future of MINDSET.

Help shape the future of rural Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

Cambridgeshire ACRE is seeking committed and capable individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As a trustee, you will provide strategic direction and governance and financial oversight, while ensuring that our well-established rural charity continues to respond to the needs of the people and the communities we serve.

We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in finance, digital systems and cyber security, environmental management or rural housing. No previous trustee experience is needed, and we welcome applications from anyone who shares our purpose and brings a fresh perspective.

Trustees are required to attend five board meetings a year, contribute to one of our committees, and join our annual away day. Reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

For over a century we have supported rural communities. We are now delivering our 2025 - 2028 strategy to strengthen our role as a trusted voice across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

Apply by: Monday 6 February 2026

About The Creighton Centre

For over 100 years, The Creighton Centre has been at the heart of its community, providing connection, care and opportunities for generations of local people. With a rich heritage and an ambitious future, we are now seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to provide leadership to a well established, values driven charity at a pivotal moment in its history.

About the role

As Chair, you will lead our Board of Trustees and work in close partnership with our new CEO to ensure strong governance, clear strategic direction and long-term sustainability.

Over the coming year, the Board will be setting the charity’s strategic priorities and overseeing an exciting programme to renovate and future proof our historic building, unlocking new opportunities for community use and income generation. The Chair will play a central role in guiding this work at Board level.

Who we’re looking for

We are seeking a Chair who brings gravitas, sound judgement and a collaborative leadership style. You will be someone who values good governance, inclusive decision-making and clear strategic thinking.

You don’t need prior experience of The Creighton Centre’s services, but you will bring:

• Senior-level board experience and a strong understanding of governance
• The ability to lead a Board effectively, encouraging constructive challenge and collective ownership
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• An appreciation of the privilege and responsibility of stewarding a long-established community charity with premises

Most importantly, you will be motivated by the opportunity to help shape the next chapter of an organisation with deep community roots and real impact.

Why this role?

• A chance to chair a respected charity with over a century of community impact
• An opportunity to help guide a significant period of strategic development and renewal
• The privilege of stewarding an organisation with a strong sense of purpose, place and heritage
• A supportive, engaged Board and an experienced Chief Executive team

If you are looking for a meaningful Chair role where your leadership can make a lasting difference, we would love to hear from you.

Individually and as part of the Trustee team to be the ‘guardians of charitable purpose’, making sure that all Board and Committee decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first; safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation ensuring these assets are used well, and in ensuring that the charity is run sustainably. 

To act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and always bear the interests of The Hospice of St Francis in mind.

In certain circumstances, provide high-level entry to other organisations and institutions to which the charity might not otherwise have access, to further the interests of the beneficiaries of the charity

Individually and as part of the Trustee team to be the ‘guardians of charitable purpose’, making sure that all Board and Committee decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first; safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation ensuring these assets are used well, and in ensuring that the charity is run sustainably. 

To act reasonably and prudently in all matters relating to the charity and always bear the interests of The Hospice of St Francis in mind.

In certain circumstances, provide high-level entry to other organisations and institutions to which the charity might not otherwise have access, to further the interests of the beneficiaries of the charity

Main duties and Responsibilities:

· Set and maintain vision, mission and values

· Develop strategy, set overall policy, define strategic objectives and evaluating performance against agreed targets

· Assure continuous compliance with the legal and regulatory standards governing the operation of the charity, the charity governing document and any other relevant legislation, updating the articles of association as required.

· Assure proper financial control and ensure the application of resources is exclusively in pursuance of the charitable objects i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are

· Assure the effective and efficient administration of the charity including funding, insurance and premises

· Assure that The Hospice of St Francis pursues its objects as defined in its governing document (e.g. the promotion of any charitable purpose for the benefit of the community in the district of providing palliative care at the Hospice, at patients home, in our Spring Centre and in the community, and in particular the advancement of education, the protection of health and the relief of distress and sickness)

· Assure employment procedures and policy and procedures for volunteering are compliant with legislation and regulation, subject to regular review and support the fulfilment of strategic objectives

· Assure risk assessments for all aspects of the business are carried out including accurate and timely reporting using the format of risk registers

· To contribute to, assure and maintain effective performance of the Board and Committees, including systems and processes for external assessment of these arrangements

· Support the CEO and Executive Team to fulfil their delegated responsibilities and hold them to account for delivery of strategic objectives

· To attend Board meetings quarterly, up to two Board awaydays annually and serve as a member of up to two Committees.

· Operate as a member of the Board of Trustees

· Able to be registered as a Directors of the Charity at Companies House, sharing ultimate responsibility for governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run. 

· Act as an ambassador supporting the work of the Hospice in generating income and in its relationship with the communities served.

Term of Office

Appointments are made on an initial 4 year term, with annual appraisal, with the option to serve a second term.

Where a Trustee has completed two terms and is selected as Chair of the Board of Trustees, or asked to undertake specific project work their term of office will be reset by People Governance Committee and ratified at the AGM.

Bath Area Play Project are passionate about every child's right to play and enabling children to thrive. We are looking for a Chair of our small Trustee Board to support our vision and ethos, enabling the continuation of our support services for children and families, leading strategic oversight and ensuring we are resilient for change.

Our volunteer Trustees meet early evening, every 6 - 8 weeks, alternating in person in Bath and online. They are responsible for ensuring we are compliant with operational management delegated to the Director and other staff, allowing them to focus on governance and strategic decision making. Trustees support the staff to be the most effective they can be in their various roles through good knowledge and understanding of regulatory and legal frameworks.

Perhaps you have or are involved at a senior level in a Charity, have skills such as Marketing, Business or Early Years which can be used to help BAPP develop services for children and families.

BAPP provide a range of services including an Ofsted registered Nursery & Pre-school, Ofsted registered Holiday Playschemes for disabled children and those with additional needs, Children & Family Support, Alternative Provision for children with SEND and our long standing Community based Family Playdays. More information is available on our website  

As we work with vulnerable children, Trustees are required to have an Enhanced DBS and to register as one of our Trustees as part of our Ofsted registration. There are 8 Trustee Meetings each year, alternating in person in Bath and online which includes our AGM. Other commitments in addition can include attending events, representing BAPP, supporting with recruitment/staffing and policy review. 

For further information or if you have any questions, please get in touch.

Bucks Students’ Union is seeking to recruit a new Trustee to join our Board and help support our continued development. As a registered charity with a turnover in excess of £2.5 million and a career staff team of 50, Bucks Students’ Union provides a range of services to our diverse membership of c16,000 students.

Our services include an Advice Centre and Representation Department, a 1,200 capacity social space, a catering operation, a vibrant student newspaper and a wide-ranging programme of sporting, developmental, recreational and volunteering activities.

As part of our Board, you will support the Chief Executive Officer, the elected officers and the wider team in the continued delivery of our high-quality services and assuring the long-term sustainability of the organisation.

We would welcome applicants with a keen understanding of higher education and issues affecting students and a passion for supporting the development of organisations in the third sector as well as a strong alignment with our values. In particular, we would encourage applications from individuals with legal and/or governance experience.

All trustee positions are voluntary (expenses provided) and offer a range of personal development opportunities.

This is an exciting opportunity for passionate, innovative individuals to join our small but dynamic charity and make a lasting difference for people affected by alopecia.​Alopecia UK is a national charity with a vision for a world where people affected by alopecia live the life they want. The charity’s mission is to offer support, community and education to improve the lives of those with alopecia.

We are seeking talented trustees to strengthen our strategic leadership and support smooth succession as current trustees reach the end of their terms. This is an ongoing recruitment process, and we welcome applications at any time, particularly from those with expertise in the following areas:

• Charity fundraising: Leadership in a fundraising environment, ideally within the charity sector.
• Communications & Marketing: Senior communications or marketing role, with strong audience engagement insight.
• Legal: Experience providing legal advice at a senior level, preferably with charity or governance exposure.
• Dermatology in the NHS: Experience of treating patients with alopecia, with a deep knowledge of clinical pathways and related challenges in primary and secondary care.

About Alopecia UK

Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia. This includes those with alopecia, as well as their loved ones. We are a small charity, with an annual income under £500,000, working nationally across the UK. Despite being small, we are the largest alopecia charity in the UK and have big ambitions to continue our growth and development, reaching more people than ever before. We agreed a new strategy in May 2025, and are committed to our key goal, which is to increase our reach, particularly in the communities that haven’t yet found us.

We have a fantastic and dedicated staff team (5.4 FTE) and board of Trustees. We also rely upon the generosity of volunteers, many of whom have personal experience of alopecia themselves. Alopecia UK receives no statutory funding from the government and is funded by community fundraising, donations, funding grants, and corporate partnerships.

​Alopecia UK Trustee Board

The Alopecia UK Trustee Board are a group of dedicated volunteers who are committed to Alopecia’s aims.

The Trustee Board meets four times a year (two face-to-face meetings and two virtual meetings). Face-to-face meetings tend to be held on Saturdays from approximately 10am-4pm. Virtual meetings tend to be held midweek from approximately 6.30-8.30pm.

Trustees are encouraged to participate in charity campaigns and attend flagship events, e.g., our Big Weekend and Alton Towers trip. Trustees are not paid, but out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed. Trustees serve at least three years
 

Are you interested in joining Acorn’s board of trustees?

We’re looking for someone who wants to make a real difference. If you’re passionate about social impact and excited by the idea of helping to shape the future of a vibrant, friendly charitable social enterprise, we’d love to hear from you.

Who are Acorn Early Years?

Acorn Early Years is a charitable social enterprise providing high‑quality childcare and early education across day nurseries, forest schools, out‑of‑school clubs, and specialist early years catering and training services. We are continuing to grow, despite the challenges facing the early years sector, and now operate 18 nurseries with just over 500 employees.

What are we looking for?

We’re seeking an enthusiastic individual to join our welcoming team of voluntary trustees. We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, and we warmly encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates with finance, property, charity law and compliance, or local government expertise. You’ll bring:

• Strong communication and leadership skills
• A commitment to our values and mission
• Experience from any professional or personal context — previous trustee experience is desirable but not essential. We will support you to grow confidently into the role.

Our commitment to inclusion and support:

We want volunteering with us to be accessible to everyone. To support this, we:

• Reimburse all reasonable volunteer expenses, including travel to meetings
• Offer flexibility around meeting times where possible
• Provide accessibility support or adjustments as needed
• Foster a culture where every trustee’s voice is valued and respected

What does the role involve?

Being a trustee is an unpaid voluntary role, usually lasting at least three years. You will attend five Board meetings each year in Milton Keynes, and you may also choose to join one of our specialist trustee committees.

To find out more about the duties of a charity trustee, please see ‘The essential trustee (CC3)’ on the Gov. website. 

What difference will you make?

Our trustees play a very important role in our organisation, shaping and supporting our current work and the future direction and development of the organisation. As a trustee you will be joining the Trustee Board which has been making an impact since our charity was established in 2012.

How to apply:

To find out more, please see our Trustee Application Pack via our website - 'Work With Us/Become a Trustee' page.

If you would like an informal conversation about the role, please contact Santa Svike, Governance Lead, by visiting our website ('Work With Us/Become a Trustee' page)

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to the same email address.

Domestic abuse is always unacceptable. We support everyone affected by it and we act to prevent it. As a Trustee at Behind Closed Doors, you will work alongside our Trustee Board and CEO to drive our new strategy forward, finding opportunities to expand our income generating activity and building our capacity to deliver a range of quality services to everyone who needs our help. This is a pivotal role for our charity, helping to shape our future and support our vision: to build lives free from domestic abuse.

This is an exciting time to join our organisation, as we look to begin implementing a new strategy. You will be joining an established trustee board made up of dedicated, knowledgeable and supportive individuals. We welcome applications from all who resonate with our organisational values and objectives, and specifically from those with skills or experience in fundraising and income generation, and charity governance and risk management. Please note that we are also currently recruiting to the Treasurer role, find out more on our website.

Taking on a Trustee role is an excellent way to broaden your leadership experience and strengthen skills that you can then put to use in your core role, to the benefit of your career progression opportunities and the organisation that you work for.

As a Trustee, you will develop skills in:

• Strategic planning
• Governance
• Budgeting and financial analysis
• Risk management
• Chairing meetings

As you learn about a new organisation and potentially a new sector, you will also gain confidence in:

• Acting as a 'Critical Friend'; asking questions and providing support
• Experiencing the difference between a strategic role, and a hands-on operational role
• Absorbing and processing new information, and learning where you contribute value
• Finding your feet with a brand new team of people

Please download the recruitment pack for full details, including how to apply and who to contact for an informal discussion about the role and organisation.

As a board, we strive to be as diverse and representative as the communities we serve and would welcome those from underrepresented or marginalised groups. We also recognise hugely the value that lived experience brings to our board, so would welcome further representation in this area, but only when it is safe for you to engage with us in this way.

Behind Closed Doors is committed to improving inclusive recruitment practices. If you would prefer to apply for this position or express your interest in an alternative format (such as audio or video upload) or require any adaptions at this initial stage, please get in touch.

Behind Closed Doors is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A standard DBS disclosure will be required before taking up this position.

We are a dynamic charity, focused on helping survivors of modern slavery rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable freedom by providing invaluable training, coaching, work experience and advocacy across the UK. It is now two years since we launched a new strategy from which we have increased our impact whilst strengthening and broadening our services for survivors of modern slavery. In these challenging times it is even more important that we continue to be bold, resilient and effective.   

We are looking to find up to 3 inspirational Trustees with experience in one of more of the following areas: 

• Legal (employment, contract, and charity law)   
• Development/Fundraising (significant networks amongst corporate partners or major and mid-level donors) 
• Policy/Advocacy or Public Affairs (with an understanding of the Modern Slavery or adjacent human rights topics) 

As a trustee of the Sophie Hayes Foundation, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.   

Trustee Role & Responsibilities

The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.     

Responsibilities

As a trustee of SHF, you will work collectively with fellow board members to provide effective governance, oversight and strategic support. Your core duties will include:   

1.Upholding SHF’s Mission and Values

• Support and advise on SHF’s purpose, vision, goals and charitable objects.
• Act at all times in the best interests of survivors and SHF’s mission.
• Promote SHF’s values, including survivor-centred practice, inclusion and safeguarding.

2. Governance, Compliance and Ethical Oversight

• Ensure SHF complies with its constitution, charity law and relevant regulations. 
• Ensure resources are used responsibly and exclusively to further SHF’s charitable purposes.
• Maintain high standards of integrity, including declaring and managing conflicts of interest.  
• Support effective governance structures, including participation in learningfocused reviews.

3. Financial Stewardship and Risk Management

• Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring sustainability and protection of assets.
• Monitor financial performance, risks and internal controls.
• Contribute to board-level scrutiny of finance and risk, supporting informed decision-making.

4. Strategic Support and Constructive Challenge

• Provide strategic guidance and support to the Executive, helping to shape direction, priorities and performance.
• Contribute to discussions on strategy, planning and organisational development.
• Offer constructive challenge in line with SHF’s values and governance expectations.

5. Safeguarding, Culture and Psychological Safety

• Promote a safe, transparent and inclusive organisational culture.
• Support safeguarding responsibilities, ensuring staff, volunteers and people with lived experience feel safe to raise concerns.

6. Board Participation and Collaboration

• Use your skills, experience and networks to strengthen the Board’s effectiveness.
• Prepare for, attend and actively contribute to Board and relevant committee meetings.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with other trustees, the Chair and the Executive.

7. Advocacy and External Engagement

• Act as an ambassador for SHF, promoting our work and raising our profile.
• Advocate for survivors of modern slavery and support SHF’s influence, partnerships and fundraising efforts.

Specialist Responsibilities

We are seeking up to 3 trustees who can bring specialist expertise in one or more of the following areas, complementing the skills of the Chair and wider Board:

Legal

• Experience in employment, contract, charity or human rights law.
• Ability to advise on legal risk, governance obligations and regulatory duties.

Development / Fundraising

• Strong personal or professional networks with potential corporate, philanthropic or major donors.
• Ability to open doors, strengthen partnerships and support revenue generation.

Policy, Advocacy & Public Affairs

• Understanding of modern slavery or adjacent human rights issues.
• Ability to support SHF’s policy development, influencing work and external relationships. 

Chair of the Board of Trustees recruitment

Age UK Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham and Havering (RBH)

Age UK RBH is seeking an outstanding leader to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees, guiding our charity through its next phase of growth, resilience, and impact for older people across our three boroughs.

About Us

Age UK RBH is a trusted local charity supporting older people across Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, and Havering. We deliver vital services that promote independence, wellbeing, and dignity—from advice and information to social activities, home support, and specialist care. With a strong reputation for quality and compassion, we are proud to be a lifeline for older residents and their families.

The Role

As Chair, you will:

· Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and accountability.

· Champion our mission and values, safeguarding the charity’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and measurable impact.

· Support and challenge the Chief Executive and senior team, acting as a critical friend and strategic partner.

· Represent Age UK RBH externally, building partnerships with funders, local authorities, and community organisations.

· Ensure the charity remains financially sustainable and operationally strong, delivering excellence for older people.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a visionary leader with:

· Experience of chairing boards or holding senior governance roles.

· Strong understanding of charity governance, financial stewardship, and risk management.

· Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to inspire confidence across diverse stakeholders.

· Commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity.

· Passion for improving the lives of older people and strengthening communities.

What We Offer

· The opportunity to shape the future of a respected local charity.

· A collaborative, committed Board and senior team.

· The chance to make a tangible difference to thousands of older people across East London.

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The Chair is expected to commit around 2–3 days per month, including Board meetings, sub-committees, and external representation. There are six Board of Trustees Meetings usually on a Friday afternoon and additional training days as required.

How to Apply

If you believe you can bring strategic vision, governance expertise, and a deep commitment to older people, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a short supporting statement (no longer than 2 pages) outlining your interest and suitability to 

Closing date: 31st January 2026

Interviews: week beginning 9th February

For more information please email:

Alima Qureshi, Chair of the Board of Trustees

Andreea Albu, Chief Executive

Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering

We are a dynamic charity, focused on helping survivors of modern slavery rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable freedom by providing invaluable training, coaching, work experience and advocacy across the UK.   It is now two years since we launched a new strategy from which we have increased our impact whilst strengthening and broadening our services for survivors of modern slavery.  In these challenging times it is even more important that we continue to be bold, resilient and effective.  We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who has the vision, passion and expertise to collaboratively lead the organisation during this exciting period.   The Chair together with the trustees will work to ensure effective governance and provide guidance and support to the executive to ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.

Chair Role & Responsibilities

SHF aims to work in a proactive and collaborative manner, and the Chair will play an important part in setting the tone and bringing all the stakeholders together.  We are looking for someone who has considerable experience of leadership at an executive or board level in the charity or corporate sector and has an understanding of the modern slavery sector.   

The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.   

Governance and Culture

• Provide leadership and oversight to the board and executive team on strategy, governance and risk, ensuring that we meet our obligations and responsibilities, including but not limited to governance structures, financial responsibilities, ethos and charity law.
• Ensure that the charity is acting in accordance with its constitution and uses its resources responsibly and exclusively to further its charity objects.
• Support the strengthening of accountable and effective practice within the charity’s governance, helping to cultivate clear commitments, regular learningSustainable freedom from modern slavery 6 focused reviews, and a transparent understanding of impact against strategic priorities. 
• Ensure effective scrutiny of finance at board level and that the charity is financially sustainable.

Board Effectiveness

• Facilitate and guide conversations in a way that enables constructive discussion, draws out diverse perspectives and supports informed, shared decision-making. 
• Encourage full participation from all trustees, recognising and valuing different skills, identities and lived experiences.
• Work with the Chief Executive and committee Chairs to ensure that board meetings are well planned with agendas that reflect the priorities of SHF and the responsibilities of the trustees.
• Meet as appropriate with the treasurer and Chairs of any board committees. 
• Build strong, respectful working relationships between trustees, addressing challenges or conflict with openness and fairness.
• Model and promote a positive and collaborative board culture based on mutual respect rooted in SHF’s values and an appropriate balance of support and challenge

Advocacy and Strategic Development

• Work with the CEO and trustees to strengthen understanding of modern slavery issues, build recognition of the impact of our programmes and influence key decision makers.
• Support the CEO when required to strengthen SHF’s advocacy impact.
• Ensure our strategy is ambitious and financially sustainable and that risks are identified and effectively managed by the executive.
• Bring strategic and planning expertise to the process of ongoing evaluation and refreshment of the strategy.

Development/Fundraising: 

• Act as an ambassador for SHF by raising its profile through your networks.
• Build, maintain and develop partnerships which reflect our values and directly benefit our mission. 
• Play an active role in supporting the executive to reach its revenue goals.

CEO Mentor and Constructive Friend to the Managing Executive

• Provide a supportive, confidential space for the CEO as a sounding board and constructive friend. 
• Build a strong working relationship with the CEO to maintain an overview of SHF’s affairs, to support as necessary the management of sensitive, complex or contentious issues and, where appropriate, provide constructive challenge to the CEO.
• Build a strong working relationship with the executive, offering constructive advice and support whilst maintaining the boundary between the operational decisionmaking of the executive and governance oversight of the Board.
• Lead the annual appraisal for the CEO in line with SHF’s appraisal process and in consultation with other trustees.  Ensure that any identified professional development needs are put in place.

Safeguarding Ensure that:

• A Safeguarding Policy and Procedure is in place, is reviewed as least annually and is available to and understood/applied by staff.
• A culture of safeguarding is championed, where wellbeing and psychological safety is prioritised and staff, volunteers and people with lived experience can raise concerns without fear of judgement or reprisal.
• There is a staff Code of Conduct and policies such as Speaking Out (formally Whistleblowing) and Safer Recruitment are in place.
• Safeguarding concerns are managed effectively; there are systems in place for its management; safeguarding resources including training; a DSL is appointed whose role is stated in their job description.
• Regular feedback on safeguarding activity is received (such as gaps, threats, risks), oversee a risk register and the remedial actions required and the track progress.
• Chair of Trustees undertakes enquiries in the event of an allegation being made against the CEO  
• Compliance with the Charity Commission serious incident notification requirements, and other bodies such as regulators, commissioners, grant makers, and insurance companies