Board of trustees volunteer volunteer roles

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is an exciting time for the Helen Bamber Foundation as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our services for survivors of torture, trafficking and human cruelty, as well as those seeking protection. Our work is more crucial than ever as we advocate for vulnerable individuals within a challenging and evolving global landscape.

This year, we are looking to recruit a Trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee to replace the current postholder, who is retiring from the role. This is a key position within the Helen Bamber Foundation’s Board of Trustees, providing oversight of the charity’s financial health and helping to ensure strong financial governance.

Working closely with the CEO of the Helen Bamber Foundation, the Director of Finance and Governance, and the Board, the Trustee will support strategic decision-making by ensuring that trustees have clear and accurate financial information and that the charity operates with robust financial controls. The role also plays an important part in helping the Board balance ambition and growth with responsible financial stewardship.

As a Trustee, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the charity and supporting its long-term stability.

Full details are available in the Recruitment Pack.

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to apply for the role of trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee, please submit your CV and a short statement.

Your statement should then address the following three questions:
1.What is the main thing that interests you about applying for the role of trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee?
2.What is the particular skill (or skills) you have that you feel would be beneficial to this role? Please relate your answers to (1) and (2) to the information in this pack about Helen Bamber Foundation and the skills we are looking for.
3.Do you have any previous experience of working with a charity board in particular or supporting a charity in general? If you do, please let us know what this was.

The questions can be responded to in one of four different ways:
1.Written A4 (No more than 2 sides of A4)
2.PowerPoint (No more than 3 slides)
3.Audio recording (No more than 5 mins)
4.Video Recording (No more than 5 mins)

If you would like to submit your application using these methods, please email us.

Please apply upload  your CV and statement by 10am on Monday 14th September
If you would like to get more information about the role - or talk to the Chair of Trustees at Helen Bamber Foundation, Adam Epstein - before you express an interest in our trustee position please contact Hannah Padfield, Director of People (details on our website).

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on Monday 14th September
Preliminary interviews (online): Wednesday 23rd September
Final panel interviews (in person): Friday 9th October

EXPERTS BY EXPERIENCE SUPPORT

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network , which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources at their website.

About Care4Calais

Care4Calais is a volunteer-powered charity supporting refugees in northern France and the UK. We work alongside people seeking safety to provide daily essentials, fill the gaps state support leaves, and open up access to justice. We also press the public and policymakers to act. Our vision is an inclusive society where people seeking safety have a safe home and a bright future free from inequality.

In northern France we operate year-round from Calais, providing warm clothing, shelter, services and assistance to people living in dangerous conditions. In the UK, our Field Operations teams distribute clothes and essentials, run language lessons, sports and music workshops, and connect people to medical, educational and specialist services; our Legal Access teams secure legal representation and make sure people are informed and empowered throughout their asylum claim.

Our work is informed by an Advisory Board of people with lived experience of seeking safety, who provide strategic input and feedback.

About the role

We're appointing more Trustees with lived experience of seeking asylum. You'll join as we begin a strategic review that will shape our priorities for the coming years - so your insight will help decide where a charity working on the front line of the hostile environment puts its energy next, and make sure those decisions reflect the realities and aspirations of the people we exist to serve.

As a member of the Board, you’ll be working to set Care4Calais' strategic direction, hold us to our governing documents and legal duties, and support and challenge the leadership team so the charity can grow and thrive.

You don't need previous governance experience. We will support you and give you what you need to do the role well.

What Trustees do

Purpose and compliance

• Ensure Care4Calais complies with its governing document, charity law and other applicable regulation

• Ensure we pursue our charitable objects, and that all activities and resources advance that purpose

• Contribute to regular reviews of our own governance

Strategy and direction

• Shape and review strategy, and advise on our purpose, vision, goals and activities

• Review what we're achieving and how effective our activities are

• Stay alert to changes in our operating environment and ensure our purpose and activities remain relevant

Risk, finance and oversight

• Ensure key and emerging risks are identified, monitored and mitigated

• Oversee financial plans and budgets, monitor progress, and review and approve financial statements

• Ensure robust processes for handling money and accurate record keeping

• Ensure income generation is on target, lawful, and doesn't expose us to undue risk

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation

Judgement and stewardship

• Use your own judgement to make decisions that are honest, lawful and in Care4Calais' best interests

• Avoid conflicts of interest or loyalty where you can; declare and record those you can't

• Support and challenge the leadership team in exercising their delegated authority

• Promote our aims and reputation through your skills, knowledge and contacts

• Attend Board meetings prepared to contribute

Who we're looking for

• Lived experience of seeking asylum

• Willingness to understand and accept a trustee's legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities, and to act in the charity's best interests

• Strong commitment to our cause, values and strategic objectives

• A strategic, critical thinker who is comfortable asking questions, challenging assumptions and sharing views with respect and confidence

• Ability to work as part of a team, understanding that trusteeship is collective

• The time to do the role well  - attending meetings and taking an active part in discussion

Support you'll get: structured onboarding, a buddy from the Board, and external mentoring through the Experts by Experience Employment Network.

Terms of service

The role is voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term which is renewable. We expect trustees to attend all scheduled Board meetings, with reasonable allowances for extenuating circumstances. 

As a small charity, there will be times we need you beyond Board meetings — scrutinising papers, advising on new initiatives, or lending expertise on a particular issue. Trustees are encouraged to visit our operations in the UK and northern France.

All appointments are subject to the standard requirement that candidates are not disqualified from acting as a charity trustee under the Charities Act; you'll be asked for the relevant declarations.

How to apply

Send a CV and a letter of interest (1–2 pages) setting out why you want the role and how you meet the person specification.

Skills and insight come from a wide range of life experiences, not only paid work -  tell us about any experiences, learnings or perspectives you think would help you thrive here.

You will never be asked to describe your lived experience at any stage of this process unless you choose to.

Want an informal chat first? Contact Wilf Sullivan, Chair of the Board wilf [@] care4calais .org

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed online after the closing date.

We can help with digital access or a quiet space for interviews. Tell us about any reasonable adjustments you need and we'll arrange them.

Equality and safeguarding

Care4Calais is an equal opportunities employer and an anti-racist organisation. We actively encourage applications from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, people from refugee and migrant backgrounds, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled candidates, and those with lived experience of the immigration system.

We are a proud member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network (EBE), which works towards a charitable sector led by people with lived experience of the asylum system. We've moved away from one-size-fits-all recruitment to make our process fair, supportive and accessible. Applicants are welcome to use the guidance at ebeemployment .com and to contact the EBE support team for help with your application and, where available, one-to-one interview preparation.

We are committed to safeguarding. Our selection process includes rigorous background checks and assessments to ensure post holders demonstrate attitudes and values aligned with a culture that promotes safeguarding.

Join Our Board - Help shape the future of Merton’s vibrant voluntary, community and social enterprise sector.

Merton Connected is seeking two to three new trustees to join us at an exciting time of growth.

Merton's voluntary, community, social enterprise and faith sector is full of energy, ideas and people determined to make a difference. As the borough's infrastructure charity, Merton Connected sits right at the heart of it: connecting, supporting and championing the organisations that support local people every day.

Now we want you to help shape what comes next.

Who we're looking for

We're seeking people who bring curiosity, strategic thinking, and a genuine commitment to inclusive community development. Whether this would be your first governance role or you've supported other boards before, what matters most is your perspective and your willingness to engage.

We're particularly keen to hear from people with insight or experience in:

• Charity management
• Public health, health and social care integration, or partnership working between statutory and VCS organisations
• Marketing and communications
• Digital and AI operations
• Income generation and fundraising
• Impact and performance measurement

We also warmly welcome applicants with diverse lived experience, fresh perspectives, and a strong connection to Merton. There's no single profile we're looking for, and different viewpoints make us stronger.

What you'll be doing

As a trustee, you'll help shape our strategy, strengthen good governance, and champion the voices of local organisations and residents. You'll join a collaborative, supportive board that works closely with our leadership team to ensure Merton's voluntary, community and faith sector continues to thrive.

What you'll gain

• The chance to influence local priorities and make a meaningful difference to people's lives
• Insight into how a well-connected, values-driven infrastructure charity works from the inside
• Opportunities to share your knowledge and develop your own strategic and leadership skills
• A place on a welcoming, inclusive board committed to learning and collective impact

The practical bit

Time commitment: 4–6 meetings per year (including strategy days), with occasional subgroups or events
Support offered: A full induction is provided, and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed.

We are actively seeking to expand our board and hope to make at least two trustee appointments over the next two months.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and we may appoint additional trustees where their skills and experience complement the board.

Ready to find out more?

Please apply with your CV and a few screening questions

Volunteer Trustees

Volunteer Trustee opportunities

We are seeking to appoint new Trustees to become actively involved in the strategic direction, governance and decision making of the charity.  As a Trustee you will join a dynamic and supportive team committed to making a difference to people affected by cancer.  With a new, incoming Chair, this is an exciting time to join the Board as it works toward shaping the charity’s future.  The role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact while providing a rewarding and satisfying experience that enables personal development and growth.

The charity is happy to hear from people across the country and in particular anyone with the following experience or expertise.

Healthcare
Medical Practitioners or Allied Health Professionals with recent experience of working with cancer patients/or cancer treatment, ideally within the NHS.

Commercial
The Penny Brohn UK National Centre offers external organisations a unique environment for their own business use which includes daily and residential bookings as well as tenancy agreements.  Due to a successful period of growth in recent years, the charity would welcome the expertise of a Trustee with significant experience in this area who can support the development of this income stream further.

Values and Behaviours
All Trustees are expected to uphold and model Penny Brohn UKs values of courage, resilience, compassion, warmth and community and to champion an inclusive, evidence-informed approach to holistic cancer care.

Support for new Trustees
New Trustees are fully supported through a planned induction into the organisation, starting with an introduction to each area of the Charity.

Time commitment
The Trustee Board meet four times in-person each year at the National Centre in Bristol on Fridays, generally between 9am – 4pm.  Trustee representation is also required on one or two online sub-committees, which are held up to four times per year for each committee and Trustees will be appointed to the sub-committees once recruited into post in accordance with their relevant skills and experience.  Attendance is also required for the AGM and an annual Trustee Away Day as well as occasional events or strategic discussions

Attendance at Key Events
As ambassadors for the Charity, the Trustee Board is encouraged to ensure that there is Trustee representation at key events throughout the calendar year such as fundraising, networking and other high-profile events.

Tenure
Trustees are appointed for a three-year term with a maximum appointment of four terms (12 years).

 Expenses
All Trustees are eligible to be reimbursed for expenses incurred whilst on Board business, this includes attendance at Board Meetings.  Eligible expenses include:

• Reimbursement of petrol costs, rate currently set at 45p per mile, (15p per mile after 500 miles incurred annually) or the equivalent 2nd class rail fare, whichever is the lower.
• Any car parking fees associated with the travel.

Thank you for your interest in this important voluntary role.  For further information, please download the attached information pack.

How to Apply

Thank you for your interest in becoming a Trustee at Penny Brohn UK. For full details about the role, recruitment process and application requirements, please download the attached information pack and visit the Penny Brohn UK website, where you will find instructions on how to submit your application.

At Penny Brohn UK, we are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion throughout the organisation.  We are proactively taking action to support EDI and Wellbeing to support our ethos of creating a diverse culture that is reflective of both our employees and the lived experience of all communities touched by cancer. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds regardless of age, gender, gender identity, gender expression, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability.

Make a difference in the lives of children, families and women. Become a PACT Trustee.

We are seeking two voluntary trustees to join our exceptional Board of trustees: One with professional experience in Safeguarding and one with professional experience within the Violence Against Women and Girls sector, or closely aligned areas.

If you are committed to making a lasting impact and guiding a charity that makes a positive difference to hundreds of lives every year, this is an incredible opportunity to join us on our mission.

You do not need previous trustee experience as we provide a full induction and ongoing training. This is a unique chance to apply your expertise at strategic level, playing a pivotal role in ensuring we continue delivering high-quality, trauma-informed services, championing the welfare of vulnerable families, and shaping supportive policies that protect children and strengthen communities.

PACT (Parents and Children Together) has been building and strengthening families since 1911 through outstanding adoption services and specialist therapeutic and trauma informed support services across Reading, the Thames Valley, and southern England. As one of the UK’s leading voluntary adoption agencies, we place children with loving, permanent families (over 81 placements last year) and offer lifelong specialist support through services like our Strengthening Families Team, CATCH and Adopter Champions. Alongside our adoption service provision, we empower women facing multiple disadvantages through our Alana House women’s centre and help children and their non-abusing parents recover from trauma via our Bounce Back 4 Kids programme.

Who we are looking for

We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and actively encourage individuals from underrepresented groups, including those with lived experience of adoption, care or disadvantage to apply. Diversity of thought and experience strengthens our Board, and we value perspectives from different communities, cultures and lived experiences. Your expertise will help us deliver inclusive, high quality services for children, families and women.

These trustee roles are voluntary positions that are home-based with occasional travel to our Reading head office for in person board meetings or to collaborate with PACT colleagues relevant to your lead role (reasonable expenses covered) and support for our events. The time commitment is around one day per month, including quarterly Board meetings and input into wider charity matters. We aim to be flexible and will make adjustments where we can support accessibility and your availability.

For the Safeguarding Lead Trustee role, we would welcome applications from interested individuals who have current strong understanding and experience of safeguarding legislation, especially in children’s social care.

For the Violence Against Women and Girls Trustee role, we are looking for individuals with demonstrable experience of working in this sector, or in closely aligned areas (e.g. domestic abuse, sexual violence, women in the criminal justice system, safeguarding, trauma informed services). You will have a strong understanding of the policy, commissioning and funding landscape relating to this field.

What would you get as a PACT trustee?

· Satisfaction of helping vulnerable children, women and families, and giving something back

· An opportunity to exercise your skills and knowledge, possibly in a different environment or context

· A chance to contribute to the charity’s strategic growth

· A chance to expand your experience of charities and gain new skills

· An opportunity to work alongside other skilled and committed trustees

· High-quality induction, training and support from us and other charity-support organisations

· Being a Trustee can support the acquisition of valuable skills and experience that support career development

We understand that becoming a trustee is a commitment and you want to ensure that you are applying for a role that matches your values and requirements. You will find lots more information about PACT on our website and one of our trustees also kindly provided this short video with further details.

If you believe you can contribute to the skills and diversity of our Board and would like to apply, please visit the volunteer page of our website  where you will find the trustee recruitment pack and application form.

We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible. If you need the information in a different format or require adjustments during the application process, please let us know.

We look forward to hearing from you!

The closing date for applications is 9am on Tuesday 01 September 2026.

Early applications are encouraged as we may review and appoint on an earlier basis if a successful candidate is secured.

Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do at PACT. We have robust measures and best practices in place to safeguard and protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we take pride in maintaining outstanding safeguarding standards.

Anyone joining our team is subject to PACT’s safer recruitment pre-appointment enquiries, including an Enhanced Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check.

The UK Men’s Sheds Association is seeking a small number of new trustees, based anywhere in the UK. The role is voluntary (reasonable expenses are covered) but is an opportunity to be part of an engaged, effective and friendly Board of an important national charity.

While the roles are primarily as general trustees, there will also be opportunities to serve on one of our two formal sub-committees – Audit & Risk and People. We are also recruiting for a trustee to act as our Treasurer (a role-specific advert is on our website). 

The UKMSA Board fulfils a governance function, ensuring we use our resources responsibly, and that we comply with our legal and regulatory obligations. As a trustee, you will play a key role in ensuring UKMSA’s sustainability and effectiveness, overseeing our strategy and governance, including ensuring we continue to operate to the public benefit. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to use their professional and personal expertise to make a meaningful difference to communities across the UK.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, and you do not need previous charity Board experience.

We regularly review the collective skills and experience of the Board members, and use this to inform recruitment. In particular, we are looking this time around for applicants who can bring significant charity or broader financial experience (not only for the Treasurer role but also to support our Audit & Risk function); experience of national or significant fundraising; and a background in HR or ‘people skills’. These are, however, not prescriptive and we welcome applications from anyone who feels they may have something to offer a medium-sized national charity which has significant impact which belies its size.

Our recruitment is also informed by our policies, especially our EDI and volunteering policies. While the Men’s Sheds movement itself has an understandable male focus, we are keen to maintain a truly diverse Board, both in terms of the protected characteristics under the Equalities Act and in terms of the diversity of experience and background our trustees bring. It is not a UKMSA policy per se, but we aim to maintain a balance of trustees who come from the Shedding movement alongside those who bring external perspectives. Trustees may be based in any part of the UK (we aim to have at least one trustee who is based in every one of the UK home nations). 

We ask that all trustees explicitly sign up to their responsibilities, both statutory and regulatory, with a commitment to good governance and ethical leadership. We also expect a willingness to work collaboratively as part of a diverse and supportive Board, and as a constructive critical friend with the CEO and staff senior leadership team.

Help shape the future of hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting across the UK.

The Hospital Broadcasting Association (HBA) is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. This is an opportunity to use your financial skills and strategic insight to support a national charity that helps more than 140 hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting organisations develop, collaborate and thrive.

What you'll do

As Treasurer, you will work closely with fellow Trustees to oversee the charity's finances and support effective decision-making. Responsibilities include:

• Providing financial oversight and helping to ensure the charity meets its legal and regulatory obligations.
• Working with the Board to develop annual budgets and longer-term financial plans.
• Monitoring financial performance and presenting reports to Trustees.
• Preparing the annual accounts and financial review for inclusion in the Trustees' Annual Report.
• Liaising with the charity's Independent Examiner.
• Overseeing financial systems, controls and banking arrangements.
• Maintaining and reviewing financial policies and procedures.
• Supporting the Board to ensure the charity's long-term financial sustainability.

About you

We're looking for someone who:

• Has experience in financial management, accounting, bookkeeping, finance leadership or a related discipline.
• Can interpret financial information and communicate it clearly to non-financial audiences.
• Understands, or is willing to learn, the responsibilities of charity trusteeship.
• Can think strategically and contribute to the long-term direction of the organisation.
• Is organised, reliable and able to work to agreed deadlines.
• Is comfortable using digital collaboration tools, including Microsoft 365, Teams and SharePoint.
• Enjoys working collaboratively as part of a volunteer-led team.
• Shares our commitment to supporting hospital, health and wellbeing broadcasting.

Previous charity trustee experience is welcome but not essential, and we encourage applications from people with transferable financial expertise gained in the private, public or voluntary sectors.

Trustee responsibilities

As a Trustee, you will share collective responsibility for the governance, financial sustainability and strategic direction of the HBA.

The HBA is an entirely volunteer-led charity with no paid staff. As a result, our Board operates as a working Board, with Trustees contributing not only to governance and decision-making but also, where appropriate, to the delivery of the charity's objectives. This may include supporting projects, overseeing volunteer teams, working with external stakeholders and providing professional expertise in your area of knowledge.

We're looking for someone who is comfortable balancing strategic oversight with practical involvement in the organisation and who wants to play an active role in helping the charity grow and succeed.

Meetings and commitment

The time commitment is approximately 4 hours per week on average, with some busier periods throughout the year.

The Trustee Board meets formally, in-person, every two months, usually on the third Saturday, with informal catch-up meetings taking place via Microsoft Teams on a weekday evening in the intervening months.

Location and travel

This role can be carried out from anywhere in the UK, with most Board business conducted online.

Trustees are expected to attend Board meetings and may occasionally be asked to attend sector events, including the HBA Annual Conference and Awards, meetings with stakeholders and visits to member organisations.

Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses incurred while carrying out Trustee duties will be reimbursed in line with the Association's expenses policy.

Please note that we are not actively interviewing for this role at present. However, we reserve the right to close applications early should we receive a high volume of suitable applications.

Chair of Trustees

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire

Voluntary role | Buckinghamshire

Are you a well-connected leader in Buckinghamshire with the energy and ambition to help a respected local charity grow its impact?

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire is seeking an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees.

About Us

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network, providing free, confidential and impartial advice to thousands of people each year across Buckinghamshire. We have offices in Aylesbury, Buckingham, High Wycombe and Chesham.

Our work helps people resolve problems around debt, housing, employment, benefits and consumer rights, often preventing crises, reducing pressure on public services and enabling individuals to regain stability and independence.

The organisation is stable, well-managed and ambitious. Following reductions in statutory funding and changes across the national network, we are now focused on strengthening income streams, raising our local profile and entering a new phase of growth.

The Opportunity

It is an opportunity to build on strong foundations and take the organisation forward.

As Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees.

• Help strengthen funding and sustainability.

• Raise the profile of Citizens Advice across Buckinghamshire.

• Represent the organisation with funders, partners and the wider community.

• Champion the difference we make to people’s lives.

We are particularly interested in candidates who live in, or have strong knowledge and networks within Buckinghamshire (ideally central or south).

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking someone who brings:

• Strategic leadership experience (board or senior executive level).

• The confidence to support and constructively challenge a CEO.

• Strong networking skills and credibility locally.

• Commercial awareness and financial literacy.

• An interest in fundraising and partnership development.

• A genuine commitment to community impact.

Prior Chair experience is welcome but not essential. Energy, judgement and the ability to build relationships are key.

Time Commitment

• Four face-to-face Board meetings per year (2 hours each).

• Four subcommittee meetings per subcommittee annually Finance & Risk, Operations, People, and Fundraising).

• Annual strategy Away Day.

• Annual Staff & Volunteers Day.

• Attendance at selected fundraising and stakeholder events.

• Approximate commitment: 2 -4 days per month.

Why This Role Matters

Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire helps people solve problems that, left unaddressed, cost families, councils and government far more in the long term.

As Chair, you will help ensure this essential service continues to thrive, supporting residents to become more financially secure, resilient and able to contribute fully to society.

For more information and how to apply download the Appointment Brief.

Closing date: 9am Friday 11 September 2026

Join us in shaping the next chapter of Citizens Advice Buckinghamshire.

As leading charity recruitment specialists and a certified B Corp™, Harris Hill is committed to high and ever-improving standards of equitable and inclusive recruitment. We actively welcome applications from all sections of the community regardless of age, disability, gender, race, religion, sexuality and other protected characteristics.

Who we are

The Humane League UK (THL UK) is dedicated to ending the abuse of animals raised for food by influencing the policies of leading food companies, advocating for stronger animal protection laws, and encouraging individuals to take action. We are part of a global network of organisations working to create a future where all animals are treated with respect and compassion.

Thanks to our effectiveness, The Humane League has been named Top Charity by the independent evaluator Animal Charity Evaluators for every rating period since 2012.

THL UK is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to furthering equity and inclusion, and we value diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds who will bring a fresh perspective to the team, not just because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Committed Employer, demonstrating our commitment to recruiting, retaining, and supporting disabled people and people with health conditions, based on their skills and talent.

The Position

We are seeking two new Trustees to add to the current Board of four voluntary members.

Board members (trustees) of THL UK are responsible for providing strategic leadership, ensuring strong governance, and safeguarding the organisation’s mission, values, and financial sustainability.

This is a voluntary position, and trustees are expected to act in the best interests of the charity and in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
 

Whether you are an experienced charity trustee or looking for your first board position; if you believe you can share our commitment for ending the abuse of animals raised for food and have the qualities, knowledge and experience we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you.

For full details about the role of trustees please view our information pack which you can find in the application resources below.

If you would like to watch a recording of our recent webinar where we discussed the role in more detail, you can view this by following the link to our website.

Person specification and requirements for this role

While specific experience in animal protection is not essential, all Board members must:

• Demonstrate a commitment to the aims and values of THL UK.

• Understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.

• Bring a strategic mindset and the ability to make well-reasoned, independent decisions.

• Be able to communicate in ways that build understanding and trust, and contribute positively to collaborative team working.

• Be willing to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.

• Be committed to moving forward with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion best practices.

Specialist Expertise Sought

In addition to the general requirements above, we are particularly seeking candidates who can bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:

1. Charity Governance

• In-depth knowledge of charity governance best practice, preferably gained through prior trustee, board, or senior charity leadership experience.

• Understanding of regulatory compliance and governance frameworks for UK charities.

• Legal skills relating to charity law, contracts, risk management, or related fields (desirable).

2. Charity Fundraising

Experience and understanding of charity fundraising, with particular relevance to EA-aligned funding environments.

• Knowledge of charity fundraising principles, governance considerations, and ethical fundraising practice.

• Understanding of the Effective Altruism funding landscape, including grant-making bodies, donor expectations, and impact-led funding criteria.

• Experience supporting or advising on grant applications, funder relationships, and individual donor stewardship.

3. Farmed Animal Campaigning

Knowledge of campaigning and advocacy within animal protection movements, with a particular focus on farmed animals.

• Understanding of the strategic landscape of farmed animal protection, including corporate campaigns, legislative advocacy, public engagement, and movement priorities.

• Experience of designing, advising on, or evaluating campaigns that seek measurable improvements for farmed animals.

• Awareness of the wider animal protection movement, including key organisations, campaign tactics, risks, and opportunities for collaboration.

• Scientific or veterinarian understanding and experience with farmed animals (desirable).

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and with a range of perspectives. Having reviewed existing Trustees' diversity we would particularly welcome applications from ethnic minorities, disabled people and marginalised groups.

Where candidates bring similar skills and experience, we may take lived experience or background into account to help us build a more representative and inclusive board.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in giving strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, and evaluating performance.

• Ensure that THL UK complies with its governing document, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Oversee the financial health of the charity, approving annual budgets and monitoring financial performance.

• Champion the fundraising work of THL UK in various ways–for example by introducing new donors from your network, actively promoting THL UK’s fundraising initiatives (like our end of year appeal), or by donating directly if you have the means to do so.

• Protect and promote the charity’s values, reputation, and effectiveness.

• Support and challenge the executive team to achieve the organisation’s objectives.

• Act as an ambassador for THL UK, promoting its work to stakeholders and the public.

• Participate in Board meetings (typically four per year) and occasional sub-committee meetings, as well as contributing advice and guidance outside formal meetings when required.

Key competencies

• Strategic thinker: Looks at consequences, implications, interdependencies, and indirect effects, all in both the short and longer term. Looks beyond the immediate goal or issue and with the greater context, not just the content of the moment. Is able to think and act creatively in difficult situations.

• Problem solver: Identifies issues, effectively structures problems, analyses information to produce insights and generates wise, actionable recommendations. A forward-looking thinker who anticipates the needs of the organisation.

• Effective: Strategically able to focus our energy, resources and talent toward impactful actions that will reduce, and ultimately end, the abuse of animals for food.

• Communication and strong interpersonal skills: Ability to communicate in ways that build understanding and trust and can adapt to different tones and styles and be able to engage with people from all walks of life.

What does it look like to Chair a charity at a pivotal moment of change?

Voluntary Action North Somerset (VANS) is an established infrastructure charity supporting, connecting and championing voluntary and community organisations across North Somerset and beyond.

With a strong local reputation and a clear ambition for the future, VANS plays a vital role in strengthening communities by bringing organisations together, amplifying collective voice, and enabling others to deliver impact.

Now, at an important point in its development, the organisation is focused on building on its strengths, refining how it works, and positioning itself to be futureproof. We’re looking for a new Chair to lead the charity into its next phase.

Location: Based in North Somerset working across the South West and beyond
Remuneration: Voluntary, with expenses covered

Time commitment:Governance commitment supported by a Vice-Chair. Currently, 4 Board meetings and 2 Development days per annum, 3-4 Governance group meetings, regular meetings with the CEO, as well as ad-hoc meetings, preparation and urgent matters arising.

About the opportunity

This is a Chair role with real scope to shape both direction and approach. You’ll work alongside a committed Board and Chief Executive to provide strategic leadership, focus on achieving growth, and building a high-performing team and organisation as it continues to evolve.

As Chair, you’ll play a key role in:

• Keeping the Board focused, effective and forward‑looking
• Providing support and constructive challenge to the Chief Executive
• Ensuring clear governance, decision-making, and delivery

About you

We’re open to different backgrounds and pathways into this role. You may already be a Chair, or an experienced trustee or senior leader ready to be one. What matters most is your ability to provide confident, thoughtful and effective leadership.

We’re particularly interested in people who can:

• Operate at a senior strategic level and see the bigger picture
• Build strong, effective relationships across a Board and executive team
• Balance support and challenge in a constructive way
• Bring a level of commercial awareness and focus on sustainability

Experience of the voluntary sector, health or place‑based working would be valuable, but it’s not essential if you can quickly build that understanding.

Why this role matters

VANS has laid solid foundations under the previous Chair’s tenure, with a strong local reputation, passionate people and now gathering momentum.

The next Chair will play an important role in ensuring the organisation is:

· Strategically-focussed, well governed and meets its goals

· Investing in building VANS and financially resilient

• Ready to grow its impact across North Somerset and beyond

This is a unique and special opportunity to meaningfully contribute to an organisation at the heart of community life.

How to apply

A CV or short profile is a great first step. We’d also welcome an informal conversation if you’d prefer to ask some questions first.

Amelia Lee at Charity People is leading this search.

Deadline: As this role has been advertised previously, we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis. If you feel this approach disadvantages you in any way at all, please get in touch with Amelia, who will ensure you are given full and fair consideration and do not miss out.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who wants to get involved in an impactful charity making a tangible difference to the lives of refugees here in the UK.

Our work is simple – we refurbish unwanted bikes and donate them to refugees and people seeking asylum, many living on less than £7 a day, giving them freedom and independence whilst they rebuild their lives.

A bike makes a huge difference – not only is it a practical tool for tackling poverty, those who receive bikes from us report they are more connected in their community, happier and healthier as a result:

• 91% of people use their bikes weekly for essential journeys

• 84% of people are better able to access legal and other vital support services 

• 93% report better physical and/or mental health

Alongside our core Bike Donations Programme, we support refugee women to learn to cycle through our Pedal Power Programme; provide ongoing support with bike maintenance through our Repair or Replace Programme; and offer the opportunity for connection and friendship through our volunteer-matching Bike Buddy Programme.

“The Bike Project has given me so much more than just a bicycle — it has given me confidence, independence, and a sense of belonging. Receiving a bike as a gift allowed me to feel free in society, explore my community, and even join a cycling group where I’ve met wonderful people. 

Thank you again for everything you do. Your work changes lives, including mine.”  
Ladan, Bike Recipient 

About You and the Role  

You don’t need to have experience of being on a Board. In fact, the role would be ideal for someone considering taking on their first role as a trustee. We will work with you to understand your duties as a trustee and support you.

You will, however, have experience of one of more of priority areas we are looking for:

• Personal experience of our programmes and/or the UK asylum system
• Press and PR
• Charity governance
• Public, philanthropy and/or high-net worth giving
• Sector experience and/or contacts relevant to the work of The Bike Project

You will be joining a highly committed group of trustees who give their time, expertise and contacts to support the charity. Our trustees are critical in enabling us to thrive and this role plays a key role in supporting the wider board to fulfil its financial responsibilities.

You will work together with the wider staff team to set our strategic direction and improve our work with refugees. At the heart of everything we do is the real and immediate impact a bike makes to the lives of those who have been through so much. You will be part of us achieving that.

The time commitment for a trustee generally totals approximately 8 hours per month. Please see the role description for further details. 

Application Process  

Deadline for Applications: Friday 28 August 2026

Interviews: Late September – Early October 2026.

Appointment: October 2026 

We particularly encourage applications from people with personal experience of the asylum process, women, people of colour / people of the global majority, and people with disabilities.  

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact hradmin [at] thebikeproject [dot] co [dot] uk

Fort Amherst Heritage Trust cares for Fort Amherst in Chatham, Kent, preserving an important historic site and making it available for the benefit, enjoyment and education of the wider community. The Trust relies heavily on volunteers to help maintain, restore, interpret and promote the site for present and future generations.

Role Purpose

Trustees are collectively responsible for the governance, strategic direction and long-term sustainability of Fort Amherst Heritage Trust. As a Trustee, you will help ensure that the charity fulfils its charitable purposes, complies with its legal duties and makes decisions in the best interests of the Trust and the communities it serves.

Key Responsibilities

· Work with fellow Trustees to set and review the Trust’s vision, strategy and priorities.

· Ensure the Trust carries out its charitable purposes for the public benefit.

· Oversee the responsible management of the Trust’s finances, assets, buildings, grounds and collections.

· Support good governance by complying with the Trust’s governing document, charity law and relevant regulations.

· Monitor risks, policies and procedures, including health and safety, safeguarding, finance, data protection and volunteer management.

· Contribute to discussions and decisions at Board meetings, reading papers in advance and offering constructive challenge and support.

· Act as an ambassador for Fort Amherst, promoting its heritage, community value and volunteer-led work.

· Support fundraising, partnership development and community engagement where appropriate.

· Declare and manage any conflicts of interest and maintain confidentiality where required.

Skills and Experience

We welcome applications from people with a commitment to heritage, community benefit and good governance. Previous trustee experience is helpful but not essential. The Trust is particularly interested in people who can bring one or more of the following areas of experience:

· Heritage, museums, archives, conservation or historic buildings.

· Finance, fundraising, grant applications or business planning.

· Education, learning, interpretation or visitor experience.

· Volunteer management, community engagement or inclusion.

· Marketing, communications, events or digital engagement.

· Legal, governance, risk management, health and safety or safeguarding.

· Property, estates, facilities management or environmental stewardship.

Personal Qualities

· A genuine interest in Fort Amherst, local heritage and public benefit.

· Sound judgement, integrity and a willingness to act collectively with other Trustees.

· Ability to think strategically while understanding practical operational challenges.

· Confidence to ask questions, offer constructive challenge and support good decision-making.

· Commitment to equality, diversity, inclusion and respectful working relationships.

· Willingness to give sufficient time and attention to the role.

The Alec Dickson Trust is a grant making charity looking to recruit one volunteer to join its Board with expertise in Fundraising. The Trust supports young people who, through volunteering or community service, aim to enhance the lives of others, particularly those most marginalised by society.

We are seeking two enthusiastic and committed individuals to serve on our Board. This is an exciting opportunity to join an ambitious organisation working at the intersection of law, campaigning and social justice. As a Trustee, you will help shape the future of PILC, ensuring that we remain true to our purpose while continuing to deliver meaningful impact for the communities we serve.

We are committed to developing and maintaining a Board that is as inclusive as possible and representative of the communities we work alongside. Therefore, having lived experience in an area of our work would be advantageous. We welcome applicants from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, recognising that a diverse Board strengthens discussion, improves decision-making and helps us better fulfil our mission.

We are particularly interested in applications from individuals who have legal expertise (ideally in the non-profit sector), or expertise in Human Resources or Finance.

As a member of the Board of Trustees, you will oversee the strategic direction, governance and financial sustainability of the organisation. You will help ensure that PILC has a clear strategy, that its resources are used effectively, and that its activities remain aligned with its charitable objectives and values. You will also provide constructive support and challenge to the Senior Management Team, helping the organisation to develop, grow and achieve its mission.

Trustees have collective responsibility for the governance of the charity. This means that decisions are made collectively by the Board and trustees share responsibility for those decisions, always acting in the best interests of PILC.

Please note that this is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. The time commitment for this role is approximately 8-10 days per annum. The Board meets online on the 3rd Monday of every other month from 6-8pm and trustees are required to attend with their cameras on. All Board papers are circulated usually 2 weeks ahead of the meeting.

Duties
As a Trustee, you will be expected to:
• Attend bi-monthly Board meetings (held remotely), having read the papers in advance and being prepared to contribute constructively to discussion and decision-making.
• Attend the annual Board away day and Annual General Meeting (AGM).
• Support, promote and provide advice on PILC’s charitable purpose, vision, values and strategic objectives.
• Approve operational strategies, policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee PILC’s financial sustainability by reviewing and approving budgets, PILC’s financial statements and monitoring and evaluating financial performance.
• Ensure that the charity is well governed, effectively managed and compliant with its legal and regulatory obligations.
• Support the effective management of risk and ensure that appropriate systems of internal control are in place.
• Provide appropriate support, constructive challenge and accountability to the Director in the exercise of their delegated authority.
• Keep informed about developments affecting PILC, the non-profit legal sector and the wider operating environment.
• Contribute to the regular review and continuous improvement of the Board's effectiveness and governance arrangements.
• Exercise independent judgement, act with reasonable care and skill, and always act in good faith in the best interests of PILC’s, managing any actual or potential conflicts of interest appropriately.
• Act as an ambassador for PILC, promoting its work and using your skills, knowledge, experience and networks to support the organisation where appropriate.