Board of trustees volunteer volunteer roles
Quartet Community Foundation is seeking a new chair of trustees to lead our dynamic and committed Board.
Quartet distributes approximately £5 million across 1,000 grants each year to support local communities and charities in the region. Trustees on our Board actively contribute to setting the strategic direction of Quartet, helping to advise and run the organisation. As Chair of Trustees, you will work with other members of the Board to form an effective, accountable governing body which provides leadership and support for the dedicated staff team in delivering Quartet’s strategic plan.
The role of the Chair of Trustees
The chair, along with their deputy is appointed by the Board with the following key responsibilities:
- To effectively chair board meetings, ensuring that the board considers and observes best practice governance of Quartet.
- To be actively engaged in setting the strategic direction and policy of Quartet.
- To contribute to the performance management and review of the strategic plan and related targets.
- To help set and agree a balanced financial budget and support the Chief Executive Officer and staff in remaining within it.
- To be an ambassador and advocate for the work of Quartet in the wider community, including representation at evening and daytime events (with and sometimes as a substitute for the CEO).
- To support the CEO in their work, conducting an annual appraisal of their work and setting realistic goals in agreement with them.
- To participate in grant-making panels as a representative of Quartet, as required and to visit at least one funded project per year.
- To attend quarterly board meetings, the AGM, meetings of our four sub-committees, and chair of chairs meetings.
- To ensure that Quartet complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law, internal policies and procedures, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
- To participate as appropriate in the national network of community foundations, contribute to its development and set the work of Quartet in the wider context. This usually involves two days a year at a UKCF south west chairs and CEOs workshop.
- Joining trustees are supported to understand and engage with all of these elements, and the successful candidate will also be offered the opportunity to shadow the existing chair for 6-9 months, before she leaves the role in 2026.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Are you keen to make Lambeth a better place for Deaf and Disabled people – inclusive, fair and just?
dasl (Disability Advice Service Lambeth) is looking for new Trustees.
We want to recruit up to 6 new members to our Trustee Board to shape our organisation as it evolves.
As well as being Deaf or Disabled people – having an impairment or a long-term health condition – we want trustees that reflect our Disabled community in Lambeth, with a diverse range of identities and lived experiences. If you are an individual from a Global Majority community (Black, Brown, Asian or mixed heritage backgrounds) your cultural expertise will be welcomed and could be transformative to our organisation.
If you are keen to work with other local Deaf and Disabled people to push for change, we would love to hear from you.
We are especially keen to recruit people with experience and skills in one or more of the following:
· Finance
· Influencing, campaigning or speaking up
· Previous experience as a trustee
About dasl
Disability Advice Service Lambeth (dasl) is Lambeth's pan-impairment Disabled People's Organisation, running for 25 years.
We are proudly peer-led – this means we put the voice and views of Disabled people first. We are led by what our members need.
We provide high-quality services and influence and campaign to change systems that exclude or oppress Disabled people.
We work for the full inclusion of Disabled people in Lambeth:
· to achieve our legal rights and entitlements
· to be in control of our lives
· to be active in our communities and not isolated
· to grow our skills and fulfil our personal ambitions
· to be listened to and influence change together
Two-thirds of our staff have lived experience as a Disabled person.
We have exciting programmes running and great plans for the future:
· our ground-breaking Leadership programme is developing confidence and skills in local Disabled people to make change happen
· we are building new work in training and consultancy, being respected for our knowledge and expertise
· our growing Advice team is influencing local and national policy, as well as ensuring Disabled people get the income they are entitled to
What dasl can offer you
Joining dasl, you will be valued for who you are in our supportive and friendly team. We will also offer:
· An accessible and informative induction process to build your confidence in your new trustee role
· An tailored programme of training around governance, equality and diversity, disability equality and more
· Real investment into your development
· A strong and supportive peer support network
If you share our values and are keen to be a part of user-led work challenging barriers and creating more accessible and inclusive communities, get in touch!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Could you lead the national conversation on international students in the UK?
We’re looking for an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an influential charity at the centre of international student policy and practice, helping to shape the future of international student experience in the UK at a critical time for the UK’s international education policy.
UKCISA is the UK’s national body supporting international students and the professionals who work with them. Our expert advice, guidance, training and advocacy helps to ensure that every international student studying in the UK has the best possible experience. As Chair, you will guide a committed Board of Trustees, ensuring strong governance and effective decision-making. You will work closely with the Chief Executive to set UKCISA’s strategic direction, safeguarding its mission and ensuring it continues to innovate and deliver value for members and students.
You will be a prominent ambassador for UKCISA, representing the organisation externally and building relationships with sector leaders, government, and partner organisations. Your leadership will help ensure that the perspectives of international students are reflected in policy development at a government and institutional level.
We are looking for an experienced charity trustee with executive leadership experience in the UK education sector. You will bring credibility, vision, and a commitment to international education, inspire confidence and command respect across our stakeholders, and lead with integrity and compassion. You will be supported by an experienced and knowledgeable team of staff and trustees, passionate about the international student experience and the objectives of our organisation.
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Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
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Location: UK-based, with travel to meetings and events.
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Time Commitment: Four Board meetings per year (plus preparation), regular meetings with the Chief Executive, and representing UKCISA at external events.
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Term: Three years, renewable for two more terms plus one year. Starting summer 2026.
Applications close at 10 am on Monday 12 January 2026. Download the recruitment pack for details on how to apply.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About Protect Our Winters UK
Protect Our Winters UK (POW UK) is a charity that rallies the outdoor community to drive meaningful action on climate change. We are a community of athletes, scientists, creatives, collaborators, and business leaders advancing non-partisan policies that protect our world today and for future generations.
We were founded in 2017 by a team of UK outdoor enthusiasts (like you) to mobilise the UK outdoor sports community. We work with athletes, creatives, the outdoor community, and outdoor industry to bring about a net zero society.
POW UK is an independent charity, separate from the other Protect Our Winters chapters and responsible for our own funding and campaigns, although we collaborate with international chapters on cross-border campaigns and fundraisers.
We are a growing charity, with an ambitious strategy to expand our reach, influence, and impact across the UK outdoor community.
Role Purpose
We are seeking a trustee with experience in advocacy, public policy or lobbying to help shape and drive POW UK’s efforts to influence government policy, regulatory frameworks and corporate commitments on climate and sustainability. As a trustee, you will have general oversight of the charity, while taking strategic responsibility for advocacy and lobbying initiatives, helping POW UK strengthen its voice and impact.
Key Responsibilities
● Strategic Leadership:
○ Develop and advise on POW UK’s advocacy strategy to influence climate policy at national and local levels.
○ Identify opportunities for campaigns that amplify the charity’s voice and align with our mission.
● Policy & Lobbying Expertise:
○ Provide guidance on legislation, government engagement and stakeholder relations.
○ Support the charity in navigating policy environments and regulatory changes affecting outdoor sports and climate action.
● Stakeholder Engagement:
○ Leverage your professional network to build relationships with policymakers, regulators, industry bodies and partner organisations.
○ Represent POW UK at key meetings, consultations and relevant forums where appropriate.
● Support Campaigns:
○ Work with the POW UK team to translate policy insights into effective campaigns and advocacy initiatives.
○ Mentor staff in policy research, lobbying and advocacy activities.
Person Specification
● Experience in advocacy, lobbying, public affairs, or government relations ideally in the environmental, sports, or third-sector space.
● Strong knowledge of UK policy-making processes and experience navigating government, regulatory or parliamentary systems.
● Excellent networking, influencing and communication skills.
● Ability to take initiative, work independently and provide strategic advice.
● Personal commitment to climate action and the mission of Protect Our Winters UK.
● Previous charity governance experience is desirable, but not essential - training will be provided.
What You’ll Gain
● Influence the policy agenda for climate action in the outdoor sports sector.
● Gain experience in charity governance and advocacy at a national level.
● Collaborate with a passionate team of trustees, staff and volunteers.
● Access to POW UK campaigns, events and community networks.
Time Commitment
● Trustees are asked to contribute a few hours per week, with occasional peaks for policy consultations, campaign work, or parliamentary activity.
● Attend board meetings (virtual or in-person), portfolio planning sessions, and key advocacy events.
Our mission is to rally the outdoor community to lead meaningful climate action.
With a goal to help transform lives, change attitudes and create a society that works for autistic people, the UK's leading autism charity, the National Autistic Society, is looking for three new Trustees to join the Board and help navigate their future challenges.
Applications close Monday 12th January
Who we are
The National Autistic Society (NAS) is the UK’s leading charity for autistic people and one of the country’s major charities, with a turnover of around £100 million. Since 1962, we’ve been transforming lives, changing attitudes and helping to create a society that works for autistic adults and children.
We are active across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and have a network of volunteer-run branches across the UK. As well as adult services and schools, we run a range of programmes, have dedicated diagnostic services and run specialist helplines. We also work closely with businesses, local authorities and the government to help them provide more autism-friendly spaces, deliver better services and improve laws. And we improve public understanding of autism and the difficulties many autistic people face.
We’re continuing to advocate on longstanding issues such as social care funding and campaign for what autistic people need to see in the forthcoming autism strategy in England and its equivalent in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. We’re also growing our branch network – including national online branches – and we are working on a new mental health programme combining research, digital guidance and policy influencing.
This is a truly transformational and vital time to be part of our Charity. We are in the latter stages of our Vision to Reality Strategy for 2023-2026, which sets out the role of NAS in creating a society that works for autistic people.
We’re proud of what we’ve achieved – but there’s always more to be done. As the economic, social and political landscape changes, our strategy must evolve to reflect changes. We need to ensure we continue to increase our fundraising and commercial activities to deliver the scale of impact required.
We’re looking for three new Trustees to join our Board to help us navigate future challenges.
Who we are looking for
- Our Schools Governance Group
We are also looking for two Trustees to join our School Governance Group, one who will chair the committee and one who will be a member of the committee. Our family of schools includes our four independent specialist schools, supporting children and young people from the age of 4 to 22. We aim to make sure we are continually challenging our schools, keeping everyone safe, monitoring their progress and getting the best possible outcomes for all of our pupils in all of our schools.
Previously, we carried out a review of the local governance arrangements of our schools. Historically, the independent schools in NAS were governed locally by an LGB, which brought excellent opportunities for partnership working; however, as time went on, we required a model that would ensure consistency of challenge, support and monitoring across all our schools. We have amended our LGBs locally; the groups focus on partnership working, whilst the strategic direction, development, challenge and support for the executive, assurance and governance sits firmly with our Schools Governance Group as a sub-committee of the trustee board.
Our new Chair of the Schools Governance Group will have strong knowledge and experience of schools, school governance, the DfE and Ofsted and be a senior leader with experience in education and special educational needs. The new Chair of the committee will work closely with our Director of Education and Children’s Services, Chief Executive, Chair of the Board, Chair of the Independent Safeguarding Committee and our Trustee with safeguarding expertise.
The additional member of this committee will be someone who brings strong experience and insight in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and safeguarding. Your expertise will play a vital role in ensuring that our culture and decision-making processes fully reflect best practice in supporting children and young people with SEND, and in maintaining the highest standards of safety and well-being across our organisation.
- Chair of Quality & Assurance Committee
Our current Chair of the Quality and Assurance Committee will shortly be completing their term and we seek a successor with a strong background in adult social care and safeguarding, as well as a solid understanding of commissioning.
This is an opportunity for someone who can offer both constructive challenge and thoughtful support — a person who brings insight, curiosity and a balanced perspective to complex discussions. The ideal candidate will combine strategic oversight with a collaborative and compassionate approach, helping to ensure that quality, safety and continuous improvement remain at the heart of our work. They will be confident in asking the right questions, guiding reflective debate and fostering a culture of openness and accountability across the Committee and the wider organisation.
We’re looking for people who can provide strategic direction, appropriate oversight, scrutiny, challenge, leadership and passion to support our development.
We’re keen to ensure our Board is diverse in every way and we’re committed to ensuring our Trustees reflect our society, our Charity and the people we represent and support. We welcome applications from autistic people, their families and carers. To achieve greater diversity, we’re actively encouraging applications from people of all backgrounds and regions. We can work with you to make reasonable adjustments to ensure you contribute fully to being a member of our Board. Our Pioneer project is focused on ensuring our organisation is an exemplary employer of autistic people. This also extends to our Board.
- Time Commitment
The National Autistic Society Board meets four times, with one overnight strategy away day every year. Our meetings are a blend of face-to-face and virtual meetings. Our Trustees with education experience will join our School Governance Group, which meets quarterly, usually online. Our Quality & Assurance Committee also meets quarterly. We expect the overall time commitment to be approximately one day per month, including reading board papers, ad hoc conversations with board members and the executive and the opportunity throughout the year to visit our services and schools, as well as represent NAS at events.
Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.
Applications for this role close Monday 12th January.
We’re an executive search firm working across third sector, education and membership sectors to transform leadership and inspire change.
South Cumbria MAT are seeking committed volunteers from a range of backgrounds to join as Trustees on their Board of Trustees. Trustees are critical to the success of the Trust. Although they are volunteers, they provide challenge and monitoring. They ask questions and probe the information and data they have been provided with. Trustees are often seen as the ‘critical friend’ to ensure leaders are responding to the challenges and key priorities. Being a Trustee is supportive within a group of other volunteers who work together as a collective voice. You do not need experience of being a trustee. South Cumbria MAT will support all new Trustees to develop in their role as well as additional training where needed.
Trustees come from many backgrounds. We are seeking individuals who may be able to offer expertise in the following areas:
• Education outcomes
• Special education needs
• Governance and compliance including experience of chairing boards
• School improvement
• Health and safety and facilities
• Finance, estates, and/or resources
South Cumbria MAT is a multi-academy trust and therefore registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee with charitable status. Due to this company status Trustees are registered with Companies House.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
PDA Society are excited to share that we are looking for 2 new Trustees to join our board.
Trustees play a key role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and support to ensure that the PDA Society continues to grow sustainably and deliver real impact for the community we serve.
Following the retirement of two Trustees we’re keen to broaden the range of skills and experiences represented. Our work is guided by people with lived experience, and our Board of Trustees plays a central role in shaping our strategy and ensuring that our values are embedded across everything we do.
Appointments are made on merit, and we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive Board that truly reflects the communities we serve.
We particularly welcome applications from anyone who has experienced marginalisation due to their race or religion, as these voices are currently underrepresented on our Board.
This is a voluntary position, and Trustees are not remunerated, although reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 3-year term.
Our mission is to improve the lives of PDA children, PDA adults and their families. We are working hard to build awareness and understanding.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking passionate and skilled individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of WHY, setting our direction and strategy, and ensuring we build strong foundations for continued impact.
The Board has identified specific skills that would greatly benefit WHY at this time:
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A trustee with clinical experience in counselling or therapy
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A trustee with accountancy or financial expertise
Trustees are appointed for an initial four-year term, with members typically serving up to three terms for continuity. The Board meets six times per year. In addition, trustees are encouraged to take on responsibilities, actively support staff, and participate in events.
We Hear You (WHY) is a local cancer charity providing free and low-cost professional counselling and therapy to children, young people and adults affected by cancer and other life- threatening conditions in Bath and North East Somerset, Somerset and Wiltshire.
Our mission is to provide therapeutic support for children, families, and individuals affected by cancer and life-threatening conditions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking trustees with the following skills, to help us end poverty for older people across the UK:
fundraising
brand / marketing / engagement
business development / transformation / innovation / technology.
What will you be doing?
You would be joining a strong, experienced Board who are working together with our dedicated charity staff to tackle poverty in later life.
As we head into 2026, the final year of our current strategy period, we will continue to build on the strong foundations we've established, with the expectation that a new strategy will be approved at our September 2026 Board meeting.
As well as being Board members, trustees generally serve on at least one of our Board committees.
What are we looking for?
We are seeking trustees who are concerned about the growing impact of poverty in later life on our society, and can bring us any of the following skills : finance, fundraising, brand / marketing / engagement, business development / transformation / innovation / technology.
We particularly encourage applications from people who have backgrounds, characteristics or perspectives that align with the priority groups we have identified (please see pack).
What difference will you make?
Like all charities, we are run by a Board of Trustees that sets our overall direction. Our trustees also provide detailed oversight of our fundraising, finance, risk, investments, governance, impact services and policy work through Board committees.
Independent Age is the national charity focused on improving the lives of people facing financial hardship in later life.


Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We have an exciting opportunity for a new Treasurer to join our board.
As Treasurer, you will work alongside our Finance Manager, the finance sub-committee and our trustee board to oversee the financial strategy and risk management processes of our organisation, to ensure its financial viability and legal compliance. To apply, you must have some financial qualifications (or relevant experience) and have some knowledge or experience of charity finances, fundraising, financial consequences and pension schemes.
Working with the Finance Manager, finance sub-committee (including the CEO) and trustee board, the Treasurer will oversee the financial strategy and risk management processes of the organisation, to ensure its financial viability and legal compliance.
We want our board to have a diverse range of experiences and backgrounds, so if you think you’re not a typical Trustee, then you might be just what we’re looking for! You'll need commitment and enthusiasm to help us shape the work and strategic direction of our forward-thinking charity.
Becoming a Trustee offers a great opportunity to gain experience in leadership, governance and strategy, and is a wonderful way to give something back to your local community - some employers may even give you time off to volunteer.
Citizens Advice Winchester District provides free advice to over 5,000 local people each year, many of whom are in desperate and extremely challenging situations and have nowhere else to turn.
We look forward to hearing from you!
To help people overcome their problems and uphold their rights through advice, support and campaigning, ultimately creating a fairer society for all.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Could you be one of our new trustees?
We currently have space on our Board for up to eight new Trustees who want to work with us to help improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.
At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact.
You may be thinking that you don't have the experience because you haven't been a trustee before, or because charity governance isn't your field. Think again!
Here's what you DO NEED need:
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Commitment to our vision - a world where no student is held back by their mental health
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Experience in 1 or 2 of the following areas:
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Current higher education students
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Professional higher education sector expertise
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Legal expertise
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Fundraising and income generation expertise
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Equity, diversity, inclusion, belonging, intersectionality and anti racism expertise
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AI and technology expertise
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Campaigning, advocacy, community organising and/or public affairs expertise
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Marketing and brand awareness expertise
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People and culture, HR, organisational development or leadership development expertise
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And what you DON'T need:
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Previous experience of trusteeship
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Experience in charity law or working with a charity
Both experienced and aspiring trustees have much to bring to our table: we are looking for fresh perspectives and seasoned knowledge alike.
Key responsibilities
Student Minds Trustees are expected to commit to the following:
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Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm.
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Preparation and attendance at two board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. Board away days are in person and usually take place in Leeds. Travel expenses can be claimed.
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Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior management team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.
If appointed, you will receive the training and onboarding you need to be a confident, contributing member of the board. We are also able to provide you with a board buddy to support you in your first few months.
So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!
How to apply?
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For more information about the role responsibilities please follow the link
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Download and complete our application form, which is available on the link
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Complete the Equality Monitoring Form.
Application process
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Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date
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Interviews: 29th or 30th January (general Trustees) or 5th February (Student Trustees) with a Trustee and CEO
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Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Hay Festival Foundation Ltd. (HFF) is an internationally recognised charity, founded in Hay-on-Wye in Wales 38 years ago, operating in the UK and abroad. As a charity, we have a commitment to literature, culture, arts, and ideas, expanding, sharing, and contributing to the development of the arts, creativity, talent and skills through our activities (festivals, education, fundraising and trading). We are seeking a dynamic trustee with expertise to join the Board.
Hay Festival editions take place in Wales, UK and internationally, currently in Mexico, Peru, Colombia, USA, Africa, Ukraine and Europe.
We are seeking a trustees with skills in the following areas:
• International experience within cultural or creative sectors
• Digital production and media expertise
• Fund development and high-net-worth access
• Capital project and infrastructure development
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Bromley Arts Trust CIO Opportunity to join the Board of Trustees
Ready for a challenge? Good team player? Good at seeing the bigger picture ?
Consider joining our small Board of Trustees. The Board of Bromley Arts Trust is eager to expand the number of trustees and is looking for enthusiastic individuals with special skills and wide-ranging experience to enjoy finding solutions. Whether you are an experienced Trustee or are considering becoming one, we would like to hear from you.
If you have the time (estimated to average 2 to 3 days per month) to undertake this exciting role do complete the application pack and send this with your CV and covering letter to the Business Manager at Bromley Arts Trust.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
About the Degrees Initiative
The Degrees Initiative is a UK-based NGO that builds the capacity of developing countries to evaluate solar radiation modification (SRM), a controversial proposal for reducing some impacts of climate change by reflecting sunlight away from the Earth. Degrees is neutral on whether SRM should ever be used, but we believe that developing countries should be empowered to conduct their own research and to play a central role in SRM discussions. The initiative has been working in different forms for over a decade, and our work receives worldwide coverage and widespread acclaim.
The charity was founded in 2021, now has around 20 staff members and is growing. We seek a volunteer trustee with significant financial experience including an accounting qualification to join an existing five-person board to help guide a growing initiative that is changing the field of SRM.
This position offers a fantastic opportunity for the right candidate to apply their financial expertise in a high-profile governance role, shaping strategy and supporting a mission that empowers Global South researchers to lead in one of the world’s most important climate debates.
Role
The volunteer trustee will complement and further strengthen an existing five-person volunteer trustee board including the Chair & Treasurer. The role will entail strategic leadership, governance, and fiduciary responsibilities. Alongside the Treasurer they will predominantly be advising the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and the rest of the senior management team (the Chief Executive Officer and Chief of Staff) to ensure the robust financial health of the charity. This will include:
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Maintaining an overview of the charity’s financial affairs by overseeing the annual financial planning and budgets proposed by the senior management team
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Monitoring and evaluating financial progress against budgets and forecasts from staff reporting at quarterly board meetings, acting a voice of financial expertise during board discussions
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Approving the audited annual accounts and financial statements presented by the senior management team alongside the rest of the board
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Strategic input by reviewing risk assessments alongside financial implications and advising on the organisation of financial resources and reserves to support the long-term goals of the charity
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Confirming transparency and accountability in financial operations, and that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place in addition to compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
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Advising on how the charity can most effectively conduct its international work, especially providing grants to organisations in the Global South
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Confirming that the charity has an appropriate investment policy, and that there is no conflict between any investment held and the aims and objects of the charity
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Sitting on any board sub-committees as required
A dynamic charity working on climate change and global development



We're seeking up to two new trustees with charity experience and local knowledge of in Barrow-in-Furness and South Cumbria who wish to use their skills to support brilliant causes in our community through making grants.
The Sir John Fisher Foundation invests in organisations that serve needs and grow ambitions in the area around Barrow-in-Furness. Our focus is funding core costs and projects that produce sustained results in the community, arts, music and education.
Being a trustee of The Sir John Fisher Foundation is an outstanding opportunity to deepen knowledge of philanthropy and the charity sector, or to build skills in strategy, governance, impact and charity finance.
As a trustee, your role is to work with other trustees to set our strategic direction, oversee the effective running of the charity and participate in the Foundation’s grant-making decisions. This includes:
- Assessing grant applications for our main and core grants programmes
- Attending two full-day board meetings per year, in person (usually around May and November in or near Barrow-in-Furness)
- Attending two further online board meetings per year, usually for ~2 hours
- Participating in site visits to applicants and grantees
- Contributing to planning and implementing the Foundation’s strategy, working with other trustees and staff, in line with our charitable objectives
- Overseeing the financial sustainability of the charity to fund our grant-making programmes, including our investments, mainly our shareholding in James Fisher & Sons
- Supporting the Foundation’s staff team with the general management of the charity
- Ensuring the charity meets its legal obligations as set out by the Charity Commission, and effectively fulfils its general functions and duties
We are looking for trustees with the following essential skills, knowledge and personal qualities, as well as demonstrating the values of the Foundation:
- Commitment to the Foundation’s objectives and grant-making priorities
- Knowledge of the issues faced by people living and working in our geographical priority area (Barrow-in-Furness and the surrounding area)
- Previous experience working or volunteering for a charity
- A sound understanding of the responsibilities of charity trustees (or willingness to learn)
- Understanding of charity accounts (or willingness to learn)
- Strong strategic and critical thinking skills; a critical friend who can give challenge respectfully and be open to changing own views if necessary
- Excellent analytical and decision-making skills
- Personal integrity and humility; discretion
- Ability to work collaboratively
- Willingness to devote the time and energy required to trustee duties
Previous board, trustee or grant-making experience is not necessary. We are actively seeking candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, and professional expertise. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our governance, enrich our decision-making and ensure that our mission is carried out equitably. We encourage applications from individuals who bring lived experiences and insights that have been historically underrepresented in leadership roles.
We encourage applications from first-time trustees whose skills and backgrounds will enhance the board in other ways, as we can provide a thorough induction, trustee buddy, training and support. Through our memberships of the Association of Charitable Foundations and Yorkshire Funders, we can provide access to relevant grant-making training opportunities and networking with grant-makers on a regional and national level.
Apply by 5pm, Sunday 11th January 2026.
We will be longlisting based on the following criteria, so please ensure these are covered in your application:
Why you are interested in being a trustee with the Sir John Fisher Foundation
How you meet the essential skills, knowledge and personal qualities
We will invite longlisted applicants to an online interview with trustees during the week of 26th January 2026. Shortlisted applicants will then be invited to an in-person interview in Barrow-in-Furness the week of 9th February 2026. Please let us know if you will require any adjustments or special provisions for any part of this process.
The Sir John Fisher Foundation invests in organisations that serve needs and grow ambitions in the area around Barrow-in-Furness in Cumbria.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.


