Board of trustees volunteer roles in thornton heath, greater london

About 1st Place
1st Place was established in 2005 as part of the Aylesbury Sure Start Programme, shaped by the vision of local children and parents. It was created to be a welcoming and supportive space where families come first—where parents could access the support they need, professionals could collaborate, and services could evolve to better serve the local community.

Families remain at the core of everything 1st Place does today.

The Opportunity
1st Place Children and Parents’ Centre is a respected Family Hub and provider of early years education. Through outreach, nursery provision, and a range of family-focused projects—particularly for children under five—the organisation delivers high-quality, consistent services to the local community.

The Board of Trustees is seeking a new Honorary Treasurer to succeed the outgoing postholder. The Treasurer chairs the Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committee and holds responsibility, on behalf of the Board, for overseeing budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements. The role also ensures that appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of the voluntary sector, charity governance, finance, and risk management. Strategic thinking, effective communication with trustees and senior managers, and leadership experience are essential. A commitment to dedicating time and energy to the organisation’s mission is vital.

About Refugees at Home

We are a leading provider of hosting with an annual income of £1 million, dedicated to the prevention of homelessness for those claiming asylum or with Refugee status by offering temporary placements within our volunteer hosts homes. We recruit and support volunteer hosts who are willing to offer a temporary home and a helping hand.  Our role is to carefully match each guest and host, to assess and prepare them ready for hosting, to advise on hosting arrangements and accommodation, and to provide ongoing support to hosts throughout each stay. We provide support to our guests across all four nations of the UK and to date have provided over 700,000 nights of accommodation. 

We are looking for a passionate and experienced Fundraising professional to join our Board of Trustees. We are open to the type of experience candidates may posses and recognise the importance of transferrable skills. 

We particularly encourage applications from those with lived experience. 

Village Preschool E17 is a small charity in Walthamstow offering high-quality early years education. We’re currently undergoing a strategic transformation to improve operations, strengthen sustainability, and deepen our community impact.

What will you be doing?

Village Preschool E17 is a small, community-based educational charity in Walthamstow, providing high-quality early years education to local families. We are currently entering an exciting phase of transformation, and we’re seeking a new Chair of Trustees to guide us through this journey.

As Chair, you will play a vital leadership role in ensuring strong governance, strategic direction, and a sustainable future for the preschool. You’ll work closely with the Headteacher of Preschool and a committed board of trustees to improve operations, shape long-term plans, and uphold our values and charitable mission. You’ll also provide support and supervision to the Headteacher, lead termly board meetings, and act as a key representative of the organisation.

This role is both strategic and supportive, requiring sound judgement, strong interpersonal skills, and a collaborative leadership style. We’re looking for someone with experience in governance, leadership, or strategic planning—ideally within the charity, education, or early years sector. You should be confident in leading group discussions, supporting senior staff, and helping to identify funding and sponsorship opportunities.

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and community development, and want to use your skills to make a lasting local impact, we’d love to hear from you.

What are we looking for?

Leadership and Governance:

• Lead the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance, strategic oversight, and compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
• Chair termly trustee meetings and ensure all trustees are actively engaged and informed.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and development of trustees to build a strong and effective board.
• Ensure board decisions are actioned and followed up appropriately.

Support and Supervision:

• Provide regular line management and support to the Head of Preschool, including:
  • Leading the annual performance appraisal.
  • Acting as a sounding board for strategic and operational issues.

Communication and Representation:

• Main point of contact between the Board and the Head of Preschool.
• Create a positive, open relationship with staff, trustees, and stakeholders.

Strategic Oversight:

• Lead on the long-term development of the board and organisational planning.
• Facilitate effective collaboration and decision-making across the board.
• Take urgent action between meetings when necessary (not including decision-making unless explicitly authorised by the board).

Crisis Response:

• Act quickly and effectively in the event of emergencies or significant issues, working closely with the Head and trustees to coordinate an appropriate response.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience in governance, leadership, or strategic oversight—preferably within a charity, education, or early years setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and facilitate group discussions and decision-making.
• Confidence in supervising and supporting senior staff.
• A genuine interest in early childhood education and community development.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of charity regulation, Ofsted requirements, or early years sector.
• Previous experience on a board or in a chairing role.
• Local to Waltham Forest or strong understanding of the local community.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of Village Preschool E17. Your leadership will help guide our charity through an exciting period of transformation—strengthening governance, improving operations, and ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality early years education to local families.

You will be a key source of support for our Head of Preschool and a driving force behind a collaborative, effective trustee board. By bringing your skills and insight to strategic planning, compliance, and funding development, you will directly impact the lives of the children and families we serve.

This is a meaningful opportunity to use your experience for good—helping a valued local charity remain sustainable, inclusive, and deeply rooted in its community. Your voice, leadership, and vision could help secure a brighter future for Village Preschool E17.

Before you apply

Please provide a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience.

**We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close the opportunity once we've found the right person to join our board - early applications are encouraged.**

Trustees x 2 (Chair of Audit & Risk Committee and member of the Finance, Investment & Resources Committee)

Join our Board and support us as we embark on a new chapter; launching our ambitious five-year strategy focused on helping more children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability to live the best life possible.

• Location: Tadworth Court, Tadworth, Surrey KT20 5RU
• Applicatiosn close on Friday 17th October

Who we are

The Children’s Trust is the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injury and neurodisability. With a clear vision for the future and a renewed leadership team, we are positioned to lead innovation in childhood brain injury and neurodisability rehabilitation. We have an ambitious new strategic direction focusing on innovative rehabilitation approaches that will help more children rebuild their lives after brain injury and neurodisability, and we’re seeking exceptional Trustees to help guide us through this transformational phase.

Every year, 40,000 children in the UK acquire a brain injury and neurodisability through accident or illness, often losing fundamental abilities like walking, talking, or feeding themselves. At The Children’s Trust, we help these children rebuild not just their skills, but their confidence and self-esteem. Through our unique combination of therapy, healthcare, education and joyful activities, we show children what they can achieve rather than focusing on what they cannot do.

Based at our specialist centre in Tadworth, Surrey, we deliver residential rehabilitation, operate a pioneering special school, and provide community services that reach families across the country. With recent CQC and Ofsted inspections continuing to be extremely positive, we are about to launch our ambitious five-year strategy, focused on helping more children and young people with brain injury and neurodisability to live the best life possible. There has never been a more important time to join us.

About the role

We have made a number of key appointments to the Board and senior leadership team in the last 12-18 months, including a new Chair and Chief Executive. With some of our longest serving Trustees approaching the end of their terms, we are looking to make further appointments to our Board and committees to bring fresh, external perspective, challenge and leadership.

We are seeking two outstanding individuals to join our Board as Trustees, each bringing distinct expertise to support our continued growth and excellence.

• Chair of Audit & Risk Committee:

This pivotal role will take over from our departing Chair of the committee when her second term concludes in April 2025. We need someone with substantial financial expertise and a deep understanding of governance and risk management who can provide both effective oversight and practical support. The ideal candidate will have recent experience with audit committees and external audits, bringing the technical knowledge and confidence to engage with auditors when necessary.

While we’re open to various professional backgrounds, some understanding of regulation and the charity context would be particularly valuable.

Above all, we need someone who understands what good governance, risk management and Board assurance looks like and can help us maintain the highest standards in a regulated environment.

• Finance, Investment & Resources Committee Member:

Our second Trustee will join a committee that covers not just finance, but the full spectrum of our resources, including estates, people, and digital infrastructure. This is very much about financial management and commercial acumen rather than purely technical accounting.

We’re looking for someone who has run operations and can contribute to the strategic changes we’re implementing. Whether you’re a CEO, COO, or senior leader with a financial background, we want someone who brings that broader perspective of leading and managing an organisation and can help support executive leaders.

Who we are looking for

Both roles require Trustees who align with our mission and are genuinely excited by our work with children with brain injury and neurodisability. You’ll be joining a Board that’s been significantly refreshed over the past two years. We’re particularly committed to increasing diversity on our Board and would be especially pleased to hear from candidates with lived experience of brain injury, neurodisability, disability or neurodiversity, those from diverse ethnic backgrounds, lower socio-economic backgrounds, or who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ communities.

You’ll need to be an effective communicator who can build relationships across our organisation, absorb complex information, and think laterally to find pragmatic solutions. Most importantly, you must be able to commit the time needed to help drive the charity forward through this period of change, demonstrating high ethical standards and a clear commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

Time Commitment

We estimate both roles require approximately the equivalent of two days per month.

This includes preparation for and attendance at board meetings, which typically meet 6 times a year, including our annual strategy away day, and committee meetings (committees typically meet 4-6 times annually). Outside of the formal meeting schedule,  it is likely that additional time for relationship building and ad hoc discussions with the executive team and fellow board members.

Board meetings take place in person at our Tadworth site, in Surrey, though we maintain flexibility for online participation where appropriate. Committee meetings are generally held online.

This is an ideal time to join The Children’s Trust. We have stable finances, a clear strategic direction, and the opportunity to be at the forefront of innovation in childhood brain injury rehabilitation.

If you’re looking for a trustee role where you can make a real difference to some of the most vulnerable children in our society, where your expertise will be valued and utilised, and where you’ll be part of a forward-looking organisation with genuine ambition for the future, we’d love to hear from you.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ 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 Friday 17th October.

We are seeking new Trustees to help guide our next chapter. We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience in fundraising, finance, property, charity management, or with lived experience that reflects the voices of our members. We also warmly welcome applications from younger people, those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, and people with disabilities, who are currently under-represented on our Board. This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills and insights to strengthen a much-loved community charity and shape its future.

1. About Katherine Low Settlement
Katherine Low Settlement is a much-loved, busy charity that has been at the heart of the
community in Battersea, South West London, since 1924. Our recent-released
documentary, The Heart of Battersea – 100 Years of Katherine Low Settlement, brings our
century of work to life through the voices of members, staff and volunteers.
We support local older people and children, young people and their families from
sanctuary-seeking backgrounds. With an annual turnover of around £1m, our small team
of 32 mostly part-time staff, along with over 120 volunteers run a range of our own
community services. We campaign for social change and we support other charities and
communities to thrive. Our building is used for community activities and events by
over 500 people a week, and our rooms are available for hire at affordable rates. KLS is
funded from supporters, trusts and foundations which enable us to achieve our goal to
reduce poverty and isolation and bring Battersea together.
The Settlement is situated on Orville Street and Battersea High Street and aims to serve
the communities of SW11 and SW8, which includes areas of significant deprivation
alongside some of the most prosperous neighbourhoods in the country. Its vision is to
bring people together, to discover a common humanity in the process and to work together
for some of the most vulnerable people in London.

2. The Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees is the legal guardian of Katherine Low Settlement to ensure that
KLS complies with its governing document (Memorandum and Articles of Association),
charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for directing the Settlement’s strategy and vision, for
overseeing the work of its Chief Executive and Staff, and for settling policy, administering
its finance and offering advice and support in the delivery of services. The board is
currently made up of seven serving members, and has vacancies for up to three new
Trustees, to a maximum of ten. Trustees are appointed by the Annual General Meeting for
a period of three years, renewable by mutual agreement.
Gaps we’re looking to fill
The Trustees have identified gaps in its membership in terms of experience of fundraising,
finance, property, charity management and the voice of Settlement members. The board
also recognises that it lacks diversity and lived experience, particularly in representation by
UKME/Global Majority Heritage people, younger people and those with disabilities. Most of
all we are looking for willing and able trustees who are aligned with our vision, mission and
values and who are committed to this local community of Battersea.

3. Key Responsibilities of Trustees
Trustees are expected to:
▪ Formulate and review regularly the strategic aims of the Settlement in accordance with
its legal objects, and to ensure the policy and practices of the Settlement are in keeping
with its aims.
▪ Monitor the performance of the charity against the agreed strategic aims.
▪ Ensure that the Settlement functions within the legal and regulatory requirements of a
charitable organisation and strives to achieve best practice.
▪ Act as guardians of the charity’s assets, tangible and intangible, taking all due care
over their security, deployment and proper application.
Within that broad responsibility, shared among the Trustees, the main tasks and
accountabilities include:
a) Formulating and reviewing strategic aims
▪ Ensure the Settlement has a clear vision, mission and strategic plan, and that there is a
common understanding of these by Trustees and management.
▪ Work with management to formulate the business, operational and other plans
necessary to support the vision, mission and strategic objectives.
▪ Agree and review the Chief Executive’s annual and longer-term objectives, to ensure
that these support the vision, mission and strategic priorities.
▪ Agree policies which support the vision, mission and strategic priorities of the
Settlement, and monitor their implementation.
▪ Follow best practice as recommended by the Charity Commission.
b) Monitoring Performance
▪ Appoint the Chief Executive and ensure there is appropriate investment in their
professional development.
▪ Agree the method for measuring objectively the progress of the Settlement in relation
to its vision, mission and strategic priorities, business plans and annual targets, and to
receive regular reports from the Chief Executive and senior staff on the performance of
the Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the views of members on the Settlement’s performance are regularly
gathered and considered by the Board.
▪ Hold the Chief Executive to account for the management and administration of the
Settlement.
▪ Ensure that the Chief Executive receives regular, constructive feedback on their
performance in managing the Settlement and in meeting annual and longer term goals.
c) Legal and Regulatory Compliance
▪ Ensure that the Settlement complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.
▪ Has a sound grasp and awareness of its duty of care in safeguarding and that policy
and practice are aligned to make the Settlement a safe place for members, especially
children and vulnerable adults.
▪ Understand the rules and constitution that govern the Settlement, and to review the
effectiveness of such rules and constitution periodically.
▪ Agree the levels of delegated authority, whether to the Chief Executive, the Chair, ViceChair and Treasurer of the Board, or to other groups or individuals.
d) Guardians of the Settlement’s Assets
▪ Ensure that the Settlement has satisfactory control systems and procedures for holding
in trust for the beneficiaries all monies, property and other assets.
▪ Ensure that monies which are invested on behalf of the Settlement are well-managed,
within the constraints of the law and ethical and other policies laid down by the Board.
▪ Ensure that the major strategic and operational risks to which the Settlement is
exposed are reviewed annually and that systems have been established to mitigate
these risks.
▪ Ensure that the income and property of the Settlement are applied for the purposes set
out by law and for no other purpose, and with complete fairness between people who
are eligible to benefit.
▪ Ensure that intangible assets such as organisational knowledge and expertise,
intellectual property and the Settlement’s good name and reputation are properly
safeguarded.
e) Promotion of the Settlement and Engagement with Stakeholders
▪ Be prepared to act as an ambassador for the Settlement when asked to by the Chief
Executive or Chair of Trustees, and to work within an agreed brief.
▪ Attend events as an ambassador for the Settlement, to network and promote the work
of the Settlement.
▪ Seek at all times to raise awareness of the work of the Settlement to potential
beneficiaries.
▪ Assist with fundraising and awareness-raising through appropriate speaking and
networking events, with support and training as appropriate.
4. Recruiting Trustees with particular experiences
As part of a regular process of self-audit, the Trustees have identified a particular need to
recruit Trustees with experience of:
▪ Fundraising – from the perspective of either charitable trusts or high net worth
individuals or both, to help maximise our chances of success in fundraising activities
▪ Finance – to be a second finance Trustee, in addition to the Treasurer
▪ Property and general management – to help us to maintain, refurbish and develop
plans for our historic building
▪ Charity experience – to bring knowledge of financial and operational management in
that sector
▪ Lived experience - Ensuring the perspective of volunteers, members and alumni is
represented in decision making
Although the Board is very effective, it lacks significant diversity, which diminishes its
capacity to be even more effective. The Trustees would therefore particularly welcome
interest from those from UKME/Global Majority Heritage backgrounds, younger people and
people with disabilities, all of which are under-represented on the Board.

5. Person Specification
Expressions of interest are invited, in writing, with examples of experience in these areas :

Essential Experience & Skills

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Ability to contribute to the strategic vision and direction of KLS
• Ability to work as an active and vocal part of the Trustee board
• Effective communicator – both verbal and written 
• Willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries 
• Committed to KLS’s mission, vision and values and its work 
• Knowledge of Battersea / Wandsworth

No prior experience is needed. Full training and support will be given.

6. Further Information

• Katherine Low Settlement is committed to equal opportunities.
•  All offers to volunteer at Katherine Low Settlement are subject to two satisfactory references, which is standard KLS policy applicable to all roles. KLS may ask for an enhanced DBS check.
• You will adhere to matters of confidentiality concerning this role and the KLS team.
•  An induction is given. This includes sharing KLS policies and procedures relevant to each post. 

We are looking for a Trustee who is passionate about arts and social justice, who wants to make a difference and is able to compliment our Board of Trustees, Artistic Director, and Executive Director as we work together to develop the impact and profile of Cardboard Citizens.

We are looking for strategic thinkers and committed collaborators who are passionate about the arts and social justice.

We especially welcome those who can bring lived or professional experience in areas such as communications, campaigning, public engagement, fundraising, or media- skills that will help us grow our public profile and deepen the impact of the stories we tell.

We believe that the need for Cardboard Citizens is as urgent as it ever has been with the current external environment and the challenges for our communities with experience of homelessness and poverty.

Whilst we'd like to hear from applicants from a range of backgrounds and experiences, we are particularly keen to hear from those with skills in any of the following areas:

• Digital, New Media
• Communications / public relations
• Environment & Sustainability
• Development
• Strategic partnerships

The general attributes we're looking for in a potential Trustee include:

• Good judgement
• An ability to think creatively and strategically
• An ability to collaborate and work as part of a team
• Effective interpersonal skills
• An active commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion
• An ability to command trust and respect
• An understanding and acceptance of a Trustee's legal duties and responsibilities
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort required.

Trustees will be required to:

• To serve an initial term of 4 years, with the possibility of re-appointment until 8 consecutive years' service has been reached.
• To attend 4 x 2-hour Board Meetings a year, committee meetings as required, as well as an annual Away Day.
• To attend events, performances, workshops and other engagements, to gain a full experience of the breadth of Cardboard Citizens work.
• To sit on one of the Board's Committees.
• To provide specialist advice and expertise as required and appropriate.
• To advocate and champion Cardboard Citizens' work, values, ambition, and strategic direction.

South Mitcham Community Association (SMCA) is looking for new Trustees.

We are a small charity, running a much-valued community centre in the heart of Mitcham.

We are looking for people to join our Board of Trustees, helping us to meet our ambitions in creating a Community Hub.

If you have an interest in any of the following, then we would love to hear from you:

• Community development and outreach – meeting new people
• Developing new projects and activities
• Listening to others and putting forward their ideas and views
• Being an advocate and representing the charity

We need people with a range of skills, but commitment, interest and passion are just as important.

We meet every 2 months, and there may be the odd additional meeting, bit of work in-between.

This is a voluntary (unpaid) role.

Mind in Havering, Barking & Dagenham is looking to recruit a number of people to join its Board of Trustees and provide positive leadership and direction. As a Trustee, you will be part of a team responsible for the strategic and financial management of the charity, ensuring that our core purpose is carried out and help promote our positive vision:

 “We will not give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both support and respect.”

About Mind in Havering, Barking & Dagenham

Established over 50 years ago, we are a local mental health charity based in Havering. We provide services to people living in Havering and Barking & Dagenham who are experiencing mental health problems. We also campaign for better services, deliver training and raise awareness of mental health. We are affiliated to national Mind, but we are an independent charity and raise our own funds.

What we are looking for

We welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds. We want to broaden the diversity of our Board to create a group that truly represents the communities that we serve across both Boroughs. We are particularly interested in applications from individuals who have skills and expertise in one of the following areas:

• Hands on support for our events
• Digital marketing
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Health Inequalities and NHS
• Barking & Dagenham Borough
• GDPR
• Safeguarding
• Clinical/public sector commissioning
• Legal

The competencies we are seeking include

• Interest in or lived experience of mental health problems.
• Leadership skills, strategic thinking and strong networking abilities.
• The ability to analyse complex information, to think creatively and to generate solutions.
• An ability to work effectively and constructively as a member of a team.
• Time management skills to handle multiple priorities.
• Previous Board and/or Trustee experience is desirable but is not essential.
• You must be willing to participate in Board meetings every two months and join one of our four, active sub-committees.

How to apply for the role

Please take a moment to explore our website, where you can submit your application and hear directly from one of our current Trustees as they share their experience in the role.

BABY BASICS NORTHAMPTON

Trustee Recruitment 

Volunteer role 

An exciting opportunity to volunteer your skills to support a much-needed local charity working across Northamptonshire. 

Baby Basics Northampton is a registered charity that provides moses basket starter packs to parents with new babies in Northamptonshire, via referrals from healthcare professionals and local agencies. 

The charity is in its 12th year, and ready to grow in line with community demand for our vital service.  We are recruiting new Trustees, to join the Board to ensure this much-loved local charity thrives as it increases both its reach and impact.

If you believe you could make a difference, we’d really like to hear from you.

Areas of special interest to us include experience of: 

Health/NHS Sector

Fundraising

Marketing & Communications

Charity board experience is desirable but not as important as a desire to make a positive contribution to the wider community.

Trustees are expected to attend monthly meetings, preferably in person, and a full induction will be provided.  In addition to board meetings, we encourage Trustees to visit and occasionally support the small staff team at the Baby Basics Northamptonshire office.

Please send your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant skills, experience and interest in joining the Board of Trustees.

If you are interested in applying but would like to have an informal conversation to find out a little more, we are very happy to facilitate that. 

Thank you for your interest. 

Purpose

Young Carers’ Crew is a registered charity (number 1176778) and runs a group which meets to provide emotional and practical support to Young Carers through recreational activities. We give support to local children and young people, who perform a caring role supporting another member of their household. 

Young Carers’ Crew is a small grassroots community group. We are hoping to bring in more people with diverse skills and experience to build sustainability.  

We are looking for Volunteer Trustees with a range of skills, to help steer and direct the organisation. 

The Board of Trustees takes on the ultimate legal and financial responsibility for all the activities of the organisation. They maintain an overview of policy and strategic direction rather than being involved in day-to-day operations. This position will not have any regular contact with the children or the volunteers running the Group activities. 

Role Description 

Volunteer Trustee for Young Carers’ Crew 

Volunteering is an unpaid position. Appropriate out-of-pocket expenses will be re-imbursed.

Location: Most tasks will be home-based.  Meetings will be held in and around Hitchin, Herts.

Hours: Up to 2.5 hours per month for Board meetings. Additional time for position is estimated to be 3 to 4 hours per month.

Reports to: Chair of Board of Trustees for Young Carers’ Crew

DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) requirement: Appointment to these posts is subject to an up-to-date, satisfactory, enhanced DBS check with a check against the barred lists for children and adults.

Duties and Responsibilities

We are seeking to fill these specific positions which are currently available:

• HR lead
• Safeguarding lead
• Fundraising
• Website Development

It is anticipated that the successful applicants will help to define the details of the position.

For all positions the following will be expected:

• Attend Board meetings as arranged. 
• Work as flexibly as may be required, also to carry out any other reasonable duties that may be required from time to time. 

The broad role of the Board of Trustees is summarised below:

• Be committed to the vision, mission and values of the organisation.
• Provide strategic direction, including agreeing and monitoring strategic plans.
• Keep informed of the activities of the organisation and the wider issues that affect its work.
• Ensuring that the work of the organisation is monitored and evaluated.
• Maintain that the organisation complies with its governing documents, e.g. constitution.
• Ensure the organisation complies with current Safeguarding Guidelines and Core Standards set out in the Children Act 2004 and Working Together 2013
• Ensure the organisation operates within the law.
• Safeguard the organisation in making efficient use of resources, in particular that all monies are applied to its objectives, agreed plans and budgets.
• Mitigate and manage the risks to the organisation, volunteers and service users.
• To be accountable to membership, funders and other stakeholders.

Person Specification

Please note all items are essential:

• Ability to maintain absolute confidentiality.

• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Good IT skills including Microsoft Office.

• Ability to work effectively, both individually and as part of a team.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Impartiality and fairness.
• Understanding of and commitment to the organisation’s mission & values.
• Ability to work in a way that promotes the safety and well-being of children and young people.
• Ability to work in a way that promotes equality of opportunity and respect for diversity.
• Commitment to continuing learning and training.

Experience

No experience is necessary for a general position on the Board of Trustees, just enthusiasm and a willingness to help the organisation grow and support the young carers.

For more specific positions; it would be highly desirable that you bring some experience in the charity sector, social care or in business development. 

So, for example, we would welcome someone with experience of working in a safeguarding role with young people specifically or from an HR background or someone who can help us raise money for the charity. .

Selection Process 

To ensure equal opportunities in recruitment, we request that all applicants complete the application form provided. A shortlist will be created and suitable applicants will be invited to interview.

English PEN is the founding centre of PEN International, a worldwide writers’ association with over 135 centres in more than 90 countries. English PEN is one of the world’s oldest human rights charities and works to promote literature and the right to freedom of expression through a wide range of campaigns, events, projects and publications.

We are looking for a new Treasurer to join our established Board of Trustees and help guide and advise us on financial affairs. The role of Treasurer is to oversee the accounts of the charity, chairing the Finance and Audit Committee, and acting as a point of liaison between the Board and the Director and Head of Operations. It does not involve day-to-day responsibility for the finances.

Duties and responsibilities

The Treasurer will provide financial expertise and oversight to help the Board carry out its financial responsibilities.

Specifically, they will:

• Chair the Finance and Audit Committee
• Work closely with the Director and the Head of Operations to monitor the financial stability of the charity
• Liaise with auditors and sign off the annual accounts
• Present the annual accounts to members at the annual general meeting
• Engage with PEN International on relevant matters

We are seeking a new Chair to provide strategic leadership at a time when demand for our advice services is at an all-time high. Help shape our vision, champion our mission, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing challenges.

About Citizens Advice East Berkshire
Citizens Advice East Berkshire offers crucial help and advice when people need it most. No one but Citizens Advice sees so many people with so many different kinds of problems, and that gives us a unique insight into the challenges people are facing today. 

What will you be doing?
We are at an important stage in our development and we are seeking a new Chair to replace our current Chair who will be standing down as her term finishes. We have ambitious plans for our future and we are looking for a Chair who can help drive our mission forward.

Building on our successes to date, we want a new Chair to lead us through the next exciting phase of our journey. You will have a strong background and track record of providing leadership at board and/or senior executive level and will have a passion for supporting people facing tough life challenges. You should have the judgement and vision to operate effectively at strategic level and you should demonstrate the skills and expertise to help drive our mission forward. We are looking for someone with 3 years+ professional experience in one of the fields of Fundraising strategy, Governance, Operations management or Advice / Advocacy. 

We are looking for someone who has:

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Passion for supporting people facing tough life challenges
• Ideally has served as a Chair or Vice Chair and is familiar with leading a Board

What are we looking for?

You’ll need to:

• Understand the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice and the Citizens Advice network
• Understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities of a trustee
• Be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
• Have a good basis of leadership skills (and preferably you have served within a Board, ideally as Chair or Vice Chair or led a Committee)
• Have the ability to facilitate and lead meetings
• Have good interpersonal skills
• Have good listening, verbal and written communication skills
• Be able to exercise good independent judgment
• Have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the treasurer
• Be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection
• Be willing to undertake mandatory training in your role
• Line manage and support the Chief Executive Officer

What difference will you make?
Citizens Advice East Berkshire makes transformational differences to people who need support when facing life crises. As Chair you will play a significant part in ensuring we are able to expand and grown our services to make a significant difference to many more individuals and families. 

Finance Trustee - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Finance Trustee to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For: 

We are looking to recruit a Finance Trustee who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.

As a Finance Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually.

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

Trustees play a vital role in ensuring Brent Foodbank meets its core purpose by overseeing the management and administration of the charity and ensuring that the foodbank has a clear strategy in line with our vision and goals.

What will you be doing?

The role involves acting as a charity trustee to set the strategic direction for the foodbank.  Providing good governance, ensuring that the foodbank meets its objectives and fulfils its charitable purpose.  Ensuring the foodbank operates within its budget and in compliance with its charity, legal and operational goals.

Key tasks

Key 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 sub-committee meetings and any Trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the Brent Foodbank
• a passion for the foodbank’s vision and strategy
• experience of working or volunteering in a governance role or equivalent experience
• an ability and experience to contribute to matters in a supportive and confident manner
• the ability to listen and engage with people with a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences
• an understanding of our local community and the services, agencies, faith communities and other groups within it

We welcome applications from new and experienced Trustees.

What difference will you make?

By serving as a trustee at the foodbank you are part of providing a vital support function in our local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with Brent Foodbank.