Board of trustees volunteer roles

Seeking a Trustee Director for The Retreat Clinics.  We have delivered mental health treatment and care for over 200 years, and we are still governed by Quaker Values. We offer psychological therapies and assessments for Autism and ADHD, both online and from our home base in York and our offices in Manchester.

Following major changes in our structure, we are now refreshing our strategy and business plan to better meet the needs of young people and adults through in-person and online assessment and talking therapy, supported by prescribing and shared care.  We hold an NHS contract and also offer privately funded care.

Do you have the experience and skills to shape the future of mental health care? 

Our Trustee team would like to expand, and seek one or more colleagues to support and enhance Board skills with your experience and knowledge base.  Board meetings are held every other month in person in York (approx half a day), with an informal meeting online between.  Trustees with specialist skills may be asked to serve on Committees (Quality & Safety / Finance  etc) and these meetings are all held online. Quakers and people who are happy to work with Quaker Values are warmly invited to apply via CV and accompanying letter

Can you bring your vision, passion, and experience to strengthen our board to deliver our strategy? North Cotswold Foodbank are looking for a trustee to join their board and lead on the key area of Marketing and social media.

What will you be doing?

Responsibilities (specific to your role):

• Establish a marketing strategy, offering leadership, guidance and support, in particular in the realm of social media, with the aim of helping to raise the charity’s profile and increasing donations, ensuring that the strategy aligns with NCFB’s overall goals and values. 
• Take responsibility for ensuring the charity's marketing activities comply with all relevant laws and regulations. Take responsibility for the annual review of relevant policies, such as the social media policy.
• Manage any risks associated with marketing activities, including conflicts of interest, and ensure the charity's reputation is protected. 
• Trustees have a responsibility to scrutinize the marketing budget and ensure that marketing activities are properly funded and monitored. 
• Play a key role in ensuring the charity's marketing activities are conducted ethically and in accordance with all legal requirements and in line with NCFB’s overall goals and values. 
• Follow and actively engage with the charity’s social media accounts.
• Maintain a good understanding of online threats, such as trolling, deepfakes and misinformation, and how these should be managed.
• Trustees may be involved in representing the charity at events or speaking to donors and the public. 

Responsibilities (common to all trustees):

• Collaborate with the trustee board to ensure that North Cotswold Foodbank’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined and made publicly available when necessary.
• Ensure your charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law. 
• Ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as looking after contractual agreements with external partners that award money for core costs and additional projects.
• Ensure that North Cotswold Foodbank has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding & GDPR compliance/data protection etc.
• Act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role.
• Give good counsel and measured advice on any matter that requires it, acting in a collaborative, positive, and constructive way.

What are we looking for?

North Cotswold Foodbank seeks someone with senior-level experience of marketing, and in particular, social media marketing. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Experience of working with the media (in particular in the realm of social media) and contacts within media organisations and/or agencies.
• A robust knowledge of contemporary IT, systems, and data management.
• An ability to lead on any matters relevant to your role.
• The ability to provide carefully considered advice in a constructive way.
• A knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of North Cotswold Foodbank and Trussell. 
• Sympathy towards the ethos and principles of Trussell.
• An understanding of the reasons why people face hunger, food insecurity, and/or food poverty.
• Someone who enjoys working as part of a team.
• An understanding that some periods throughout the year are busier than others.

We welcome applications from new and experienced Trustees

What difference will you make?

By leading on Marketing and Social Media for the food bank, you are providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with North Cotswold Foodbank.

About It’s Time:

It’s Time is a charity created by and for young adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Founded by people who know this grief first-hand, the charity ensures no one aged 18–35 has to navigate such loss alone. Through peer-led support, events, free group therapy, and tailored resources, It’s Time offers connection and understanding during an often isolating time. The charity also partners with universities, workplaces, and families to promote better bereavement support - recognising that grief doesn’t follow a timeline, and the help offered to young adults shouldn’t either.

The charity was founded in 2021 and we now run local peer support groups throughout England, have a year long waiting list for our group therapy and supports around 500 people in the online community.  We recognise that as we grow our needs and those of our community are changing and are looking for someone skilled in charity growth to steer us into the next phase of our development.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary role with no financial remuneration. Travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Location: Remote, with one in-person strategy day per year (usually on a Saturday in London).

Time Commitment:

• 4 board meetings annually (Tuesday evenings via Zoom)

• 1 annual in-person strategy day (usually a Saturday in London)

• Participation in any relevant sub-groups

• Ad hoc involvement in events, meetings, or training as needed

Reporting to: Chair and the Board of Trustees

Role Overview

The Vice Chair supports the Chair and Trustee Board in ensuring the effective governance and strategic direction of the charity. This includes providing inclusive leadership, promoting accountability, and upholding the mission and values of the organisation.

The Vice Chair will work closely with the Chair and the senior staff team to help the Board function effectively, and may represent the charity externally when needed.

Principal Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure the charity delivers maximum impact for its beneficiaries

• Uphold the Board’s responsibilities in effective governance

• Support the development and delivery of strategic direction

• Monitor major risks and opportunities, ensuring systems are in place to manage them

• Safeguard the financial health and accountability of the charity

Governance

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure governance arrangements are fit for purpose and effective

• Support trustee development and capability building

• Encourage positive change and help resolve conflicts

• Ensure a diverse and skilled Trustee Board

• Operate within agreed charity policies

External Relations

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Represent the charity at external functions, meetings, and events

• Act as an ambassador for the cause

• Support the management of external relationships and stakeholder engagement

Efficiency and Effectiveness

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Ensure meetings are well-structured, objective, and lead to effective decision-making

• Maintain strong engagement and collective ownership among Trustees

• Foster constructive relationships within the Board

• Support the senior staff in preparing meaningful agendas and ensuring implementation of decisions

Relationship with Senior Staff

Working with the Chair and Trustee Board to:

• Build and maintain an open, constructive relationship with senior staff

• Support accountability of senior staff for strategic objectives

• Provide guidance and act as a sounding board while respecting staff autonomy

• Offer support on organisational matters as appropriate

• Contribute to the annual appraisal of senior staff if requested

Person Specification

Personal Qualities

• Strong commitment to the charity’s mission and strategy

• Strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills

• Tact, diplomacy, and the ability to engage and listen

• Collaborative and team-oriented approach

• Ability to dedicate time to the role, including occasional out-of-hours events

Experience

• Experience in strategic leadership roles

• Track record of achievement in professional or voluntary contexts

• Experience in business/community growth

• Experience representing an organisation externally

• Familiarity with chairing or co-chairing meetings is desirable

Knowledge and Skills

• Understanding of the Civil Society sector and key current issues

• Leadership and motivational skills

• Understanding of charity finance and governance

Term of Appointment
The Vice Chair will serve a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term.

We are working in partnership with Guildford Sunset Homes (GSH) a small, well-respected charitable trust based in Merrow, near Guildford, registered under the Communities and Societies Benefits Act of 2014, and who provide 87 social rent apartments for retired individuals of limited means from the local area. The estate features a converted Grade II listed Manor House and several purpose-built apartment blocks set within peaceful and well-maintained grounds.

GSH now seeks a new Trustee to join their friendly and dedicated Board, to work alongside a supportive team and professional estate management company, ELM Group, who employ two members of staff to take care of the day-to-day running of the Estate.

This is an exciting opportunity, where you will help guide the development and direction of a thriving retirement community, and improve the estate for their residents.

They are looking for experience in the following areas:

• Housing associations
• Property sectors
• The charity sector

What’s in it for you:

• A chance to make a positive impact in the area.
• Gain additional experience in governance, leadership, and nonprofit management
• Develop valuable skills for your career and personal growth.
• Broaden your own networks

If you can commit to attend approximately 6 board meetings a year and are passionate about giving back to the community, we would love to hear from you.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

Closing date for applications: 2nd November 2025

Peterborough Women’s Aid mission is to provide a specialist response to domestic abuse and violence against women and girls; empower victims to be in control of their own future and create everlasting change. We are a growing and aspirational organisation.

As Chair you will play an important role in shaping our future and help to ensure that we continue to deliver our vital, life-saving work supporting survivors of violence against women and girls

What will you be doing?

The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, in service of the charity’s vision and mission. The Chair leads in an inclusive way, supporting the board to work together well, and providing support and challenge to the Chief Executive. The Chair is also an ambassador for the charity.

This is a voluntary position, but expenses are reimbursed.

Commitment

You will be required to attend a minimum of 8 meetings per year which are held on weekday evenings. These are currently being held on line however this may change. There are also two away day events in person. Three-year term, with a maximum of two terms.

What are we looking for?

• Experience of being a trustee (at least 3 years). 
• You do not need to have been a Chair before. 
• Knowledge of the Peterborough area. 
• Experience of strategic planning. 
• Strong leadership skills. 
• The ability to listen and engage effectively. 
• You are comfortable with challenge and debate and are able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment. 
• Advocate - be able and willing to champion PWA’s work through personal networks and other channels.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. 

PWA values diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination of all forms. We encourage and welcome applications from women of all backgrounds. We particularly welcome applicants from minoritised women and younger women. We also welcome applicants with lived experience of VAWG services.

What difference will you make?

As a Chair Person, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation and the lives of those we serve. Your expertise, passion, and fresh perspective will be invaluable assets as we navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and continue to make a meaningful difference to families experiencing abuse.

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting PWA with their recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. To apply please submit your CV/LinkedIn Profile, along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join PWA, the skills and experience you will bring to the board and what you would hope to get out of the role. 

Use your skills to help shape brighter futures for children, young people, and families across Kirklees

About Fresh Futures

Fresh Futures is a Kirklees-based charity aiming to improve lives and inspire change for vulnerable and disadvantaged children, young people, adults, and families.

Our vision is for everyone to have opportunities for a better life, now and in the future.

To achieve this, Fresh Futures focuses on four interwoven strands: Education, Health & Wellbeing, Employability & Skills, and Relationships.

What will you be doing?

One of Fresh Futures key services is Brian Jackson College, an alternative education provision. The college can support up to 100 young people aged 13 to 18 based across three sites, in Heckmondwike and Huddersfield. The College is rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted.

There are ambitious plans to grow the provision across Kirklees and neighbouring areas in the near future.

The Board of Governors is a sub-committee of Fresh Futures Board of Trustees. Governors can also be appointed as Trustees of the Charity, but do not need to be so.

The role of the Governors is to:

· Ensure clarity of vision, ethos, and strategic direction

· Hold the Head Teacher to account for the educational performance of the College students, and the performance management of staff

· Oversee the financial performance of the College and make sure budgets are allocated appropriately

Governors are asked to attend 4 meetings a year, one per term, usually held virtually via Teams, and one in-person awayday.

What are we looking for?

We are looking to fill vacancies on our Trustee board and on our Finance and Governors sub committees.

Members of these committees do not necessarily have to also be Trustees. We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

We are particularly interested in recruiting new Trustees/members who have experience in any of the following:

· Health and safety

· Charity finance

· Marketing & PR

· Charity fundraising

· The commercial sector

· Knowledge of Kirklees

· Safeguarding children and vulnerable adults

· Independent education

We strive to be more representative of the diversity of the communities we serve. Applications from first time Trustees/Governors are welcome, you do not have to have previous experience of being on a board. Training and induction are provided.

What difference will you make?

By joining Fresh Futures as a Governor, you’ll help guide our strategy, strengthen governance, and ensure we continue improving lives across Kirklees. Your skills and perspective will support vital services in education, employability, health and wellbeing, and relationships - helping thousands of children, young people, and families thrive.

We’re seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees!

Love Leeds Parks seeks to ensure people in Leeds have a green space that they love on their doorstep. We empower communities across the city to shape and use their local green spaces on their own terms, focussing our resource on the areas where it’s needed most. We see parks as an exciting vehicle for community health and well being and work in partnership with local people, funders and Leeds City Council to transform neglected green spaces into thriving community places. 

We have a small but mighty board who are passionate about communities and green space and we are looking to expand. Now is a great time to join as we renew our mission and embark on the next phase of our work.

What we are looking for

We are currently looking for a trustee with skills and experience in finance.

This post would suit:

- A recently qualified accountant or a strong trainee, in both cases some mentoring by a senior colleague in their company could be useful.

- Someone recently retired who is looking to continue to contribute their knowledge and time to a worthwhile cause.

- Someone who currently works in finance but who is looking to gain experience in the charity sector.

We are keen to recruit trustees from less well represented backgrounds, in particular people who live and or work in our focus areas, young people and racialised communities.

You do not need to have had prior board experience to express interest in this role. What is most important is having a shared passion for the purpose, enough time to commit and the ability to work collaboratively and as part of a team.

What you will gain

A chance to:

- Be part of a young evolving organisation that punches above its weight in supporting communities to access greenspace and parks as a foundation of community health and well being.

- Contribute your knowledge and skills to shaping an exciting and inspiring cause

- Gain experience of operating at a leadership board level in a charity

- Build skills in strategic visioning and leadership.

- Be part of a friendly and passionate senior leadership team with a shared passion for communities and green space

For more information on what you gain from taking on a trustee role please visit the 'Getting on Board' website.

Treasurer role and responsibility

This is a fantastic opportunity to use your financial skills to make a meaningful impact within our charity.

As Treasurer, you’ll play a key role in overseeing our financial health, helping to ensure we remain sustainable and accountable as we deliver our mission.

You will attend bi-monthly trustee meetings (c.90 minutes each) – most of these take place online, with three in-person meetings held each year in Kirkstall. Meetings take place on a Monday, 5 - 6:30pm. 

In addition to attending trustee meetings you will:

• Ensure that income is acknowledged and allocated to the correct heading.

• Book keeping roughly 2 hours per month, bank to accounts, allocating transactions, labelling and filing evidence.

• Ensure expenditure has been properly incurred, payments are made and similarly allocated and cashflow maintained.

• Provide the trustee board with a quarterly report on the accounts including a projection for the year ahead (rolling management accounts).

• Produce the annual accounts subject to independent examination by an accountant .

• Work with the CEO and some trustees to develop income growth plans.

• Contribute to the maintenance of financial policies.

• Advise the Board of regulation and tax implications as the turnover grows.

We are a small charity and so the volume of bank transactions is relatively low with 3 – 10 online authorisations per month. Payroll is contracted to Voluntary Action Leeds. There would be a transition period and handover/shared duties with our current treasurer. This is an unpaid trustee role – expenses incurred in undertaking the role will be reimbursed.

If any of this peaks your interest and you would like to have an informal chat to understand the role better, we’d love to hear from you.

British Blind Sport (BBS) is the National Disability Sport Organisation that represents blind and partially sighted people in sport. Our vision is to empower all people living with sight loss to get active and enjoy sport, whether it is taking their first steps or helping to secure talent pathways to encourage individuals to fulfil their potential. Working across both the sight loss and sport sector, we work with strategic partner organisations to fulfil our aim and, by doing so, we positively impact the lives of hundreds of people every year.

About the role:

To support our work and to help us to demonstrate our commitment to VI sport, we are looking for an Independent Director to provide support to our people development and HR services with expertise in HR, Mental Health & Wellbeing and Occupational Health.

Your experience:

• To provide advice and guidance to the BBS board and the CEO on matters related to employment.
• Support and advise on the employment affairs of the organisation and ensure they are legal, constitutional, current and within accepted practice
• Ensure proper records are kept and that effective employment and HR procedures are in place.
• Lead from the board on matters related to employment changes, disputes and related issues.
• Be a member of board sub-committees as requested by the Chair of Trustees and in relation to your expertise. Be an active member of the BBS HR sub-committee.
• To contribute actively to the board of trustees' role in giving strategic direction to the organisation. Setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.

Specifically

• Liaise regularly with the CEO on general matters related to employment and people development.
• Ensure that fellow committee members are aware of their obligations as an employer.
• Provide advice to both the CEO and sub-committees on issues related to employment at BBS.
• Work with senior leadership team and the board to ensure all employment related policies are legal and fit for purpose.
• Act as an independent advisor during recruitment processes.
• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

Skills, knowledge and abilities

• CIPD Qualified. Preferably to Fellow level.
• Those holding legal qualification with HR/Employment experience.
• Up to date practical knowledge of operating in an HR environment.
• Organisational and administrative skills.
• Experience of advising and working with senior members of staff.
• Understanding of IT programmes and HR systems.
• Personable with strong communication and relationship building capabilities across all levels of the business.
• Proven ability to liaise at all levels internally and external to the organisation.
• Leadership skills within this area.

Social Anxiety Alliance UK is a young and developing charity ideally looking for an experienced Trustee.

It may be possible for someone with a dedication and passion for helping those with social anxiety to apply for this role providing they are aware of the governance issues relating to the role (please read the charity commission document "The essential trustee")

Social anxiety involves an excessive fear of social situations. Sufferers will often fear being embarrassed or worry about being negatively evaluated by others. Anticipatory anxiety and situational avoidance are common, and individuals may endure social situations with a high level of discomfort. The scope of the anxiety may be focused on specific types of social situations or generalised to almost any social encounter.

We are the first UK charity dedicated to Social Anxiety.

What will you be doing

· Contribute towards the good management of the charity by carrying out key responsibilities as follows:

· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

· To ensure that the charity pursues its charitable objects as defined in its governing document.

· To ensure that the charity uses its resources exclusively to further its objects.

· To contribute towards setting the charity’s strategic direction and to evaluate performance and progress against agreed targets.

· To uphold the reputation and values of the charity.

· To commit to read papers in preparation for meetings and attend regular board meetings.

What we are looking for

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.

· Willingness to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· An ability to work effectively as a member of the team.

· Willingness to prepare for and attend monthly Board meetings.

· Willingness to participate actively in discussions.

· Enthusiasm for the charity’s vision and mission.

· Empathy for the challenges faced by people affected by social anxiety.

· A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

· Integrity and honesty.

· Good, independent judgement.

Experience or interest in some of the following areas:

· • Charity management, governance, compliance, law, or the dedication to learn about governance and what it takes to be a Trustee

What difference will you make

As part of our board, you will help to support and develop the charity and set its strategic direction. You will have the opportunity to offer your unique skill set, experience and enthusiasm to help us to achieve the charity’s mission and goals:
To foster a society in which social anxiety is widely understood, where there is easy access to appropriate information, support and treatment so that no one has to face social anxiety alone.

Board meetings and projects

We are a friendly board and we hold our meetings monthly online in the evening, typically on a Tuesday at 7pm to 8:30pm.

We would hope that Trustees can contribute to some other charity tasks and projects as the need arises. 

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available at colleges England.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you

Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.

This is an opportunity to:

• Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation

What you’ll do

As part of a governing board, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
• Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
• Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
• Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• Finance, Audit & Risk
• HR, People & Culture
• Strategy, Transformation & Operations
• Technology, AI & Digital
• Legal, Governance & Compliance
• Marketing, PR & Communications
• Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.

Time commitment

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:

• Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or remote)
• Reading papers and preparing questions
• Participating in training and occasional college visits

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.

Where you’ll be needed
Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you?

· Enhance your board-level and governance experience

· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role

· Expand your professional network

·Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact

· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

Help shape the future of child protection across the UK and Channel Islands as a Trsutee of the NSPCC.

Applications close on Monday 3rd November.

Location: UK-wide, with Board meetings in Central London

Who we are

The NSPCC stands at the forefront of protecting children today and preventing abuse tomorrow. For over 140 years, we have been the leading children’s charity dedicated to ending child cruelty across the UK and Channel Islands. Our mission is clear: every childhood is worth fighting for.

Through our comprehensive strategy “Preventing Child Abuse Together,” we focus on three transformative impact goals. We work to ensure everyone plays their part to prevent child abuse, that every child is safe online, and that children feel safe, listened to and supported. Our approach combines direct services like Childline with community-based prevention, policy influence, and innovative digital safety initiatives.

With an annual income of £124.7 million and over 1,600 dedicated staff, we reach millions of children each year. From delivering our Speak Out Stay Safe programme to over 1.3 million children in schools, to handling more than 187,000 Childline counselling sessions annually, our impact is both wide-reaching and deeply personal.

About the role

We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Trustee to join our Board during a pivotal time in our organisation’s journey. As a Trustee, you will provide strategic leadership and governance oversight for one of the UK’s most influential children’s charities. You will work alongside a collegiate Board and executive team to navigate the complex challenges facing child protection today.

The role offers the opportunity to shape policy, drive innovation, and influence systemic change that directly impacts millions of children’s lives. You will be part of an organisation that doesn’t just respond to child abuse but actively works to prevent it, creating safer communities and transforming how society protects its most vulnerable members.

This is an unremunerated position that comes with the profound satisfaction of contributing to meaningful change in child protection. You will help steer an organisation known for its courage in tackling difficult issues, from campaigning for the Online Safety Act to developing groundbreaking services that support recovery from trauma.

Who we are looking for

We seek a Scotland-based individual with board experience and strong commercial acumen who can contribute to our strategic direction during a period of significant opportunity and change. As our Scotland representative, you will bring valuable insight into the specific context, needs, and opportunities within Scotland while contributing to our UK-wide strategy. We are open to a variety of professional backgrounds, such as finance, legal, or CEO experience. What matters most is your commercial acumen, mindset and approach. You should be someone who has operated at the board level, navigated complexity and operated successfully across multiple contexts. Experience in organisation-wide change management, transformation and rebuilding will be particularly valuable as we continue evolving our approach to child protection in an increasingly technologically complex world.

You will bring intellectual rigour combined with emotional intelligence, able to engage with sensitive and challenging subject matter while maintaining focus on outcomes for children. The ability to think strategically while understanding operational implications will be essential, as will comfort with ambiguity and the willingness to challenge constructively and be a support.

We value Trustees who can contribute to our culture of innovation and a positive attitude to risk. You should be someone who embraces our role as a challenger, willing to speak uncomfortable truths and push for change even when it’s difficult. Your motivation should include putting children first.

• Time commitment and practicalities

Time commitment: the equivalent of circa 1 day per month

Trustees serve a three-year term and can be re-elected. The Board meets five times annually, complemented by two strategy days typically held in or around London. Most trustees sit on one committee, which usually meets quarterly.

The role requires approximately the equivalent of circa a day a month, including preparation for meetings, reading time, and ad hoc conversations with board members and the executive team, with a willingness to travel throughout the UK from time to time.

The successful candidate will help us navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead while ensuring we remain true to our mission of fighting for every childhood. The NSPCC values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender identity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.

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 close on Monday 3rd November.

Salary: N/A This is an unpaid volunteer role

Location: UK-based. Meetings are held in London, Manchester, Bradford, and Birmingham

About Refugee Action

Refugee Action exists to work with refugees and people seeking asylum who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes. We are a national charity with more than 40 years’ experience of empowering people who’ve survived some of the world’s worst regimes to secure the protection and support that they need to live with dignity and respect and build a new life in the UK. We do this by providing expert advice and casework, building the capacity of partner organisations and campaigning on the policies that affect them.

Our new 2030 Strategy

Here is the link to our 2030 Strategy; you can read more here.

Everyone involved in developing our new strategy was clear that if we want to create the future that refugees and many people in the UK want, we must demolish the hostile environment. It’s an environment that manifests itself in the racist rhetoric of our leaders and the systems they create; systems that are dehumanising and complex, which segregate people and sap their spirit. 

Our current leaders may be stooping to new lows with their words and policies, but they are simply repeating the behaviour of previous Governments. The hostility has been ramping up for years. And that hostility is rooted in a racialised logic that underpins the entire asylum and immigration system.

 As a trustee of Refugee Action

 We are currently looking to recruit 2 new trustees to join the Board of Refugee Action. Both roles are for people with lived experience of displacement.

You will be responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and steering the long-term stability of the charity. You will need to persuade, influence and communicate effectively with the rest of the board.

Please don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role. Please do consider applying if you have the courage and enthusiasm to encourage, challenge and support us to be the best we can be.

All our trustees are committed to being actively anti-racist and removing the barriers to power for people with lived experience. You will need to be committed to and demonstrate an understanding of shifting power to people with lived experience, anti-racist practice and decolonisation.

Overall duties of Trustees

 Statutory duties

• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document for public benefit
• To ensure the organisation uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects: the organisation must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are.
• To contribute actively to the board of Trustees’ role in giving firm strategic direction to organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
• To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
• To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
• To protect and manage the property of the charity and to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds

 Other duties

 In addition to the statutory responsibilities outlined above, other duties may include:

• Lead and provide guidance to the board in a given area of expertise
• Meet with donors and any other stakeholders to represent Refugee Action and its beneficiaries
• Keep up to date with Refugee Action’s services to clients, Influencing and Fundraising work
• Attend 5 meetings a year– 4 board meetings and 1 away day.
• Read and scrutinise board papers before a meeting so as to be able to contribute fully in the meeting
• Occasional participation in a working group
• Occasional participation in staff interview, disciplinary or grievance panels

 Skills, knowledge, and experience need for this role

•  Commitment to Refugee Action’s vision, purpose and values and to act in a manner consistent with these, including being committed to shifting power to people with lived experience, anti-racist practice.
• Sound independent judgement with the confidence and insight to make positive contributions to board discussions.
• An interest in and some understanding of charity governance, the role and expectations of trustees.
• An ability to work collaboratively and effectively as a member of a team.
• Ability and willingness to positively represent the organisation.
• A willingness to learn and to enable us to learn from you.
• Experience of strategic thinking and of setting monitoring and reviewing plans
• Ability to read and understand financial information, review organisational policies and practices and identify key areas of risk (Training also offered in these areas if needed)
• Understanding of the role of Trustee and the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities this involves. (Training also offered in these areas if needed)

To apply for the Trustee role

To apply for the Trustee role, you will need to submit a maximum of no more than 4 A4 pages explaining how you meet the Experience, Skills and Knowledge section outlined in page 3 – 4 of the Role Description.

Experience may be paid or voluntary, full or part-time, in the UK or overseas. Don’t be discouraged if this isn’t something you’ve done before, or if you don’t meet all elements of the role specification; we will provide mentoring and training to support new Trustees to understand their role.

Closing date: 23:59 28 September 2025

Interviews: 15 October 2025

Refugee Action only operates in the UK, so all roles are UK-based.

The Role: Secretary Trustee

We are seeking a new trustee to join our board who can take on the responsibilities of Secretary to the Board. This role is key in ensuring our board functions effectively and meets its legal obligations. The ideal candidate will have some experience or understanding of Human Resources (HR), as we value thoughtful, fair and informed support in matters relating to staff and volunteer welfare.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of board meetings (e.g. minutes, agendas).
• Support the Chair in preparing and circulating meeting papers.
• Maintain records in line with charity governance requirements.
• Help to ensure compliance with statutory duties (e.g. Companies House, Charity Commission filings).
• Provide oversight and support on HR matters, including policy reviews and recruitment processes, where relevant.
• Contribute actively to board discussions and strategic direction.
• Act as an ambassador for DOCA and support its mission and values.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Organised, reliable and able to manage documentation and communications efficiently.
• Understanding of charity governance or willingness to learn.
• A collaborative approach and commitment to inclusive practice.
• Strong communication skills and discretion.

Desirable:

• Experience in HR or related fields (e.g. people management, policy development, staff wellbeing).
• Previous board or committee experience (not essential).
• Knowledge of or enthusiasm for the arts and cultural sector.

What You’ll Gain

• An opportunity to shape and support the strategic future of a vibrant arts charity.
• A chance to make a real impact in the local community.
• Experience in charity governance and leadership.
• Connections with like-minded individuals passionate about creativity and inclusivity.

How to Apply

If you’re interested in joining our board, please email us a brief statement outlining why you’d like to become a trustee and what you would bring to the role. You can also include a CV if you wish.

We welcome informal conversations before applying — please get in touch to arrange a chat.

Cripplegate Foundation is looking for new Governors (trustees) to join our board. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a trusted, independent and innovative grant- making organisation that has been supporting Islington for over 500 years.

Working alongside our partners at Islington Giving, we invest over £2 million a year in local charities and community groups. Together we amplify local voices, improve access to opportunities and support lasting change.

 Who we’re looking for

• Do you want to make a real difference in Islington?
• Are you passionate about tackling local poverty and inequality?
• Can you help amplify the voices of those we work with, through your personal or professional experience?
• Could you bring additional diversity to our board so that we better reflect the communities in which we work?
• Do you have some frontline charity experience, senior leadership or otherwise?
• Are you able to commit the time required to make the most of joining us?

We are genuinely encouraging a wide range of people to come forward and cannot emphasise enough how your background, life experience, approach and values are more important than any knowledge or experience of grant making, or of being a trustee elsewhere.

Full induction, mentoring and ongoing support will be provided. This is a voluntary/unpaid role, with expenses covered.

The closing date for applications is 16th October at 5:00 p.m.

For more details and how to apply, please visit our website and download the full Candidate Pack.