Chair and trustees volunteer roles

Role Title: External Trustee or Student Trustee 

Reporting to: Student Support and Representation Director 

Place of Work: The University of York Students Union / Online 

Position Type: Volunteer - 9 days per academic year (expenses paid)

Closing date: Friday 6th June 2025 at 12.00pm (midday)

Interviews to be held on the week commencing Monday 23rd June 2025.

We will be holding drop-in sessions for those interested in the role on the 23rd May at 1pm. 

Here at The University of York Students Union, we have some exciting volunteering opportunities to join the Union as a External Trustee or Student Trustee. 

About the role

Shape the Future for York Students: Become a Trustee!

Could you make a real difference at a top UK university? Bring your skills and passion to the University of York Students' Union Trustee Board. We are looking for both external (lay) and student trustees and need individuals who can bring fresh perspectives, challenge our thinking, and inspire growth as we adapt to the ever-evolving needs of a diverse student community.

No prior trustee experience? Don't let that stop you – your experience and unique insights are what we value!

External Trustees

Whether you studied at York, somewhere else in the country, somewhere else in the world or took a different route entirely, we want to hear from you. You don't need Students' Union experience; we have a talented staff team. Bring your whole self, and contribute to a richer, more diverse Board. We are particularly keen to hear from those with expertise in: Finance and accounting, Commercial development, Sustainability and ESG, Charity, Media or Company Law.

Student Trustees

Are you a current University of York student with a passion for representation? As a Student Trustee, your knowledge of the student experience will be key in ensuring student voices are central to our strategy and that we deliver the best possible experience for all University of York students. We welcome applications from all registered students, regardless of year, study mode, or background. Whilst we ask that student trustees are available for a minimum of one academic year, student trustees can serve up to 2 consecutive terms of up to 2 years but must be a registered student throughout.

This is more than just a volunteer role; it's an opportunity to develop your leadership skills, contribute meaningfully to our community, and be part of a vibrant and impactful organisation. If you're ready to make a real difference, we encourage you to apply!

Notes

As our Trustees govern the organisation, and are registered as company directors with Companies House, there are a number of verification steps that we will need to comply with. If you are successful, you will be asked to verify your identity (guidance available here) and will also be required to complete a declaration that you are not disqualified from holding a trustee position (guidance available here). Please ensure that you are comfortable with completing these steps before you apply. The Charity Commission provides more information about the role of a Trustee.

These are unpaid volunteer opportunities; however, reasonable out of pocket expenses will be paid. The broad time commitment is for attendance (virtually or in person) at approximately 8 meetings/events per year.

If you have any further questions about the position, or if you have a requirement for adjustments that would make the application or interview process more accessible, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Key Dates & Application Process

To apply please submit an online application by midday on 6 June 2025.

All applications will be considered, and a shortlist of candidates will be invited for interview and to meet current Trustees. We recognise the potential time pressures involved in attending an interview and we aim to be as flexible as possible. It is envisaged that interviews (available either online or in person) will take place on 23 or 24 June 2025.

Should the above dates not fit with your current commitments, please don’t let that put you off applying. Let us know and we will do our best to provide an alternative.
 

Further Information

We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. Whatever your background, religion, identity, relationship status if you're good at what you do and want to provide the best experience possible for, with and by our students then jump in with your whole self.

The University of York Students Union is committed to equality of opportunity - we are an organisation who works very hard to ensure we appoint based on merit. We would particularly welcome applications from candidates with disabilities and/or from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we are proud to offer an interview to applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the advertised position.

If you are invited to interview with us we will share our interview questions in advance so you can prepare your responses. We’re more interested in hearing about your experiences and ideas than in testing your memory, and so we want you to feel as prepared as possible.

If you have any further questions about the position, or if you have a requirement for adjustments that would make the application or interview process more accessible, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Join us as a Trustee / Director and make a difference!

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in the community? Do you have a strong desire to contribute your skills to a cause that matters? We invite you to become a Trustee / Director and be a driving force for change!

Who we are: A purpose-driven charity, dedicated to making a difference to the lives of young, homeless people. We believe in the power of community, collaboration, and transparency to create lasting change.

Our organisation comprises a registered Charity & Community Interest Company each with its own Board. The Charity provides supported accommodation, advice, support & guidance to vulnerable, homeless young people. The Community Interest Company provides 24 / 7 concierge services to CAYSH young people & externally to vulnerable adults with complex needs.

As we continue to grow, we are seeking dedicated individuals to join our board of Trustees / Directors.

What we're looking for: Passionate individuals from a variety of backgrounds, with a range of expertise to contribute to our board. Whether you have experience in social care, safeguarding, finance, law, marketing, technology, or other fields, your unique skills and perspectives are valuable to us. As a Trustee / Director, you will play a pivotal role in guiding our organisation towards success and helping us develop our business growth strategy. We particularly seek a trustee who can take a safeguarding lead. 

Why you should join us as a trustee / director: Impact: Be part of an organisation making a real difference in the lives of homeless young people. Leadership: Contribute to strategic decision-making and shape the future direction of the organisation. Fulfilment: Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your efforts contribute to positive change.

Commitment to safeguarding young people and vulnerable adults is essential as well as commitment to equal opportunities and eliminating discriminatory practice.

Time commitment:

Our Trustees and Directors provide a valuable and positive contribution, building on our strengths and ensuring our results are sustained. There are currently 9 Trustees / Directors within the Group who bring a wide range of skills, knowledge and experience to the organisation.

To support the decision making at CAYSH, you will attend an average of 4 Board meetings and up to 4 Committee meetings a year, plus Trustee / Director away-days & other events, such as AGM. Meetings are held outside regular business hours and are mostly online. Events (including strategy days, AGM and service user get-togethers) usually take place at our offices in Croydon.

How to Apply: If you are ready to embark on a rewarding journey and become a Trustee with CAYSH, we would love to hear from you! Apply now and become a catalyst for positive change! Together, let's build a better future.

Asylum Welcome is an extraordinary local charity supporting asylum seekers, refugees and vulnerable migrants who seek refuge in and around Oxford.

With a strong reputation both locally and nationally, our team of approximately 30 staff and 200 volunteers offer a range of services from food and clothes to advice, visits, legal support, education and assistance. Asylum Welcome aims to transform the lives of those it serves.

We are looking for a new Treasurer to join our Trustee Board and support our ambition. This is a challenging and rewarding role, helping to ensure the organisation continues to fulfil its mission, and remains sustainable.

The ideal candidate will have significant experience in strategic financial management and of working for or within a Board. Equally important is a belief in our mission, commitment to our values and a collaborative style, able to draw out the skill and potential within our team.

As an organisation we are committed to reflecting our diverse and vibrant Oxford community, and we particularly welcome people with lived experience of being a refugee or migrant to join our Board to help strengthen our governance and our  approach. Lived experience in this context means that you have come to this country as a refugee or asylum seeker or have lived with or grown up alongside people who did.

Job description

As a Trustee you will:
a) Be an important part of the body that governs the charity and ensures it delivers its mission effectively.
b) Actively participate in meetings, offering guidance and support to ensure that Asylum Welcome delivers the vital work it was set up to do, in the best possible way for clients.
c) Scrutinise Asylum Welcome’s budgets, plans and financial reports, ensuring they meet the organisation’s needs and the relevant regulatory requirements.
d) Ensure Asylum Welcome is complying with its governing documents and relevant laws, as well as updating and reviewing its own policies and procedures.
e) Bring a particular skill, experience or insight that helps develop Asylum Welcome as an organisation.
f) Act with care and skill in Asylum Welcome’s best interests.

As a Trustee you share, with all the Trustees, equal responsibility for the charity. 

Person Specification

Prospective Trustees will:
a) Be committed to the rights and welfare of refugees, asylum seekers and vulnerable migrants and to Asylum Welcome’s vision, mission and values and determined to use your skills and experience to make a difference for others.
b) Have experience of developing good relationships with people and organisations, stakeholders and supporters.
c) Be able to work in a team, recognising and respecting the difference between the Trustees’ role and that of staff or volunteers.
d) Be able to contribute to and ensure Asylum Welcome’s future plans and strategic development and/or financial stability.

The prospective Treasurer will have:
a) A recognised accounting qualification.
b) Significant experience of financial management, budgeting and reporting.
c) An understanding of the financial, strategic and operational risks and their mitigation in a charity context.
d) Be familiar with charity accounting and statutory reporting requirements.

As Chair of the Finance Committee, the Treasurer leads on all financial matters. The Finance Committee is responsible for making budget recommendations and financial reports for the Board and for agreeing and overseeing financial and related policies. They liaise closely with the Finance Manager to provide quarterly financial reports, the annual budget and annual
statutory accounts to the Board. Input is also required during the annual audit process. 

The Board

Asylum Welcome is governed by a Board of between 5 and 13 (currently 11) Trustees, who are elected at the Annual  General Meeting (AGM) in September. Trustees normally serve for at least 3 years. Additional Trustees may be co-opted between AGMs.

Trustees are not paid but travel expenses may be claimed for attending meetings.

The Board meets (via Zoom and in person) 5 - 6 times a year, usually early evening on a Thursday. Regular dates are agreed a year in advance.

Individual Trustees also join or lead the Board’s Committees. There are currently a Finance Committee (which meets 5 times a year, a week or so ahead of Board meetings) and a People and Governance Committee. We also have occasional task groups for short-term items.

YMCA Trinity Group – Trustees

‘Inspiring communities, transforming young lives’

Job Advert Ref: Trustees2025

Registered Address: YMCA Trinity Group, Queen Anne House, Gonville Place, Cambridge CB1 1ND

YMCA Trinity Group is seeking passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees. Our programs span Suffolk and Cambridgeshire, putting people at the core of our mission. We take time to find the right fit, believing that open dialogue builds the strongest Board. We're a dynamic, team-oriented group seeking members who can contribute their unique skills and experience.

We are specifically looking for expertise and skills in the following areas;

· Business Development

· Strategic Planning

· Change Management

· People and Culture

· Finance

· Marketing

· IT

YMCA Trinity Group has served local communities since 1852, and we're committed to a Board that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We also welcome young people seeking Board experience.
 

Trustee roles are both rewarding and demanding. Join us in creating new possibilities for young people and communities. If you're ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you!

Thank you for your interest and we look forward to hearing from you soon!

YMCA Trinity Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Remuneration: None, voluntary position. Expenses for travel may be claimed.

Time Commitment: Four formal three-hour board meetings per-year

Sub-committee and other officer roles require additional time. Additional meetings as and when circumstances require.

Term: Three-year terms for a maximum of three consecutive terms after which a Trustee may be reappointed following a year away from the board.

Location:Oxfordshire

Reporting: To the Board of Trustees

Reference Documents:

Charity Commission Essential Trustee Guide

Charity Governance Code

Charity Commission Guidance

Please read our accompanying recruitment pack for more information about working at

Oxfordshire Youth, including our approach to diversity and inclusion through recruitment.

To apply, please send a copy of your CV accompanied by a covering letter to our recruitment team, alternatively, visit our website or more information.  

Oxfordshire Youth

Oxfordshire Youth is a boundary-breaking youth development charity, passionate about creating a future for and with young people that gives them the best possible opportunity to realise their potential. Oxfordshire Youth supports the youth sector across the county, working with grassroots leaders; it delivers innovative youth leadership programmes; and it provides a transformational supported accommodation service for young people. In everything it does, OY aims to meet the needs and aspirations of young people. All the charity’s work is grounded in best practice safeguarding and youth work principles and practice.

1.Charity Trustees

The Charities Act 1993 defined charity trustees as those responsible under the charity’s governing document for controlling the administration and management of the charity. This is the case regardless of the terminology used to describe the role. The trustee board at Oxfordshire Youth usually comprises up to twelve trustees, although there is no formal limit on the number of trustees, including the following roles: 

● the Chair of the Board of Trustees

● the Deputy Chair and CEO Line-Manager 

● the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance, Audit and Risk Sub-Committee 

● the Safeguarding Lead and Chair of the Safeguarding,Quality and Impact Sub-Committee the People and Development Lead and Staff Liaison Trustee

2.The Role of the Board

At its most fundamental the role of the trustee board is to receive assets from donors, safeguard them and apply them to the charitable purposes of Oxfordshire Youth. The trustee board must always act in the best interests of Oxfordshire Youth, exercising the same standard of duty of care that a prudent person would apply if looking after the affairs of someone for whom they have responsibility. Trustees are ultimately and legally responsible for everything Oxfordshire Youth does. Trustees fulfil this responsibility by deciding the strategy, establishing organisational policies and implementing appropriate monitoring, reporting and control mechanisms to ensure and evidence compliance. Trustees appoint the CEO and, on recommendation by the CEO, appoint the Senior Leadership Team to manage all operational matters and the operational team in line with the approved strategy, policies and control mechanisms.

3.Duties of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth complies with its Articles of Association, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

● Ensure that Oxfordshire Youth pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association 

● Ensure Oxfordshire Youth applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects. For example, it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be 

● Contribute actively to the board of trustees by giving firm strategic direction to Oxfordshire Youth, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets

● Safeguard the good name and values of Oxfordshire Youth

● Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization

● Ensure the financial stability of Oxfordshire Youth 

● Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation’s funds 

● Appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor performance 

In addition to the statutory duties listed above, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the trustee has particular expertise. Trustees must ensure that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

4. Minimum Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Oxfordshire Youth prior to their first board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend the four annual board meetings which last approximately three hours (typically 6.30-9.30pm). Papers, proposals and reports are distributed one week in advance of meetings. Trustees may be asked to join a sub-committee or working group each of which have their own terms of reference and minimum time commitments. There is also an annual strategic planning board away-day or residential held each year.

5.Person Specification

Each trustee must have: 

● A commitment to the mission of Oxfordshire Youth 

● A willingness to meet the minimum time requirement 

● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

● Strategic and forward-looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims 

● Independent judgement, political impartiality, an ability to think creatively and a willingness to speak their mind 

● Good communication and interpersonal skills including a willingness to use tact and diplomacy to challenge and constructively criticise 

● Integrity

The board of trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas: 

● Leadership and human resource management 

● Financial management, income generation and enterprise 

● Safeguarding experience and expertise 

● Public policy and public affairs 

● National and local youth sector

For this position, we are looking for an individual to join the Board of Trustees who is currently practicing within the legal profession, or who has significant skills and experience within this field, and who would be happy to use their position to provide legal advice and guidance to Oxfordshire Youth.

Oxfordshire Youth (OY) recruits outstanding talent to ensure we provide outstanding programmes services to the young people of Oxfordshire and the organisations who serve them. We are committed to creating a team of people that make diversity and inclusion the normal. Oxfordshire Youth are actively seeking to recruit candidates from Global Ethnic Majority backgrounds, and from candidates who may consider themselves to have lived experiences in the areas in which they work. 

Oxfordshire Youth offers Trustees robust training to support them to succeed in their role and to broaden their knowledge on the youth sector, and other relevant issues.

6. Trustee Role Boundaries

Trustees in a decision-making capacity:

● As a board of trustees 

● As a sub-committee

● Chair - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary 

● CEO Line Manager - delegated authority by the board to make decisions between board meetings where necessary

Trustee roles outside of the above decision-making capacity:

1. Advisory role (i.e. offering advice in an area of expertise). In this capacity the Trustee is acting as Trustee but, as noted above, does not have decision-making capacity in their own right.

2. Volunteer role (i.e. participating in an operational working group). Here the Trustee is subject to the decision-making of the operational team-member who is in a position of authority. As a volunteer the Trustee is at liberty to withdraw.

3. Observer role (i.e. attending an OY workshop for young people or observing OY work). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee but have no role beyond observing or information gathering for the purposes of strengthening their own understanding and / or board-level decision-making.

Champion role (i.e. spreading the message about the work of OY). In this capacity they are acting as a Trustee, helping to build the profile of the work of OY, with no decision making, but with the view of creating a positive image and sign-p

Become a Trustee

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your local community?

Do you want to contribute your skills and expertise to a worthy cause?

If so, this could be the opportunity for you!

What does becoming a Trustee mean?

Becoming a Trustee is a hugely rewarding experience.

You will have the opportunity to shape the direction of our charity and make a real difference to the lives of others.

We welcome people from across Calderdale who are passionate about our community and/or early years education.

We particularly encourage applications from people of colour and under 30’s to ensure our board represents the communities we serve.

We are also encouraging those with leadership skills in marketing and communications, but welcome a diverse range of other skills and backgrounds.

As a member of our board, you will be be responsible for providing strategic guidance and oversight to ensure we are fulfilling our mission and achieving our goals.

You will have the opportunity to work closely with our dedicated staff, service-users and volunteers to make a positive impact in our community.

If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back and make a difference, we encourage you to apply.

Join us today and help create a better future for all generations.

Get in touch.

“I am proud to be a Trustee, helping to ensure we strive to achieve our vision of creating ‘a better future for all generations’. Our Trustees are representatives from all aspects of the community and are helping to shape the future for their communities. Want to help your community?

Then why not become a volunteer Trustee and make a difference?”David Eyers, Chair of the Board

We are looking for Trustees to join us on this journey. Following a recent skills audit, we are particularly looking for individuals with experience in the following areas: accountancy, clinical expertise (medical, nursing or other healthcare backgrounds), marketing and communications, digital technologies, and the charity sector.

I encourage you to review the profiles of our current Board members to understand the breadth of expertise and perspectives we already have. We are proud to have a dynamic and highly engaged Board. Our discussions are strategic, forward-looking, and always centred on how we can best serve our patients, families and communities.

Purpose

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity. They will oversee all aspects of the organisation, working closely with the Group Chief Executive and Executive Leadership Team.

Ensuring the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other subjects in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Legal Context

Trustees are responsible for the legal stewardship of St Giles Hospice. This involves ensuring that the Hospice is compliant with legislation and its own governing documents. They are also responsible for the corporate governance of the organisation and report annually to the Charity Commission and Companies House. We expect all Trustees to be aware of the Charity Governance Code.

Charity Commission guidance states that Trustees must:

Ensure that everything they do helps and supports to meet the charity’s objectives Comply with the charity’s governing documents and law

Act in the charity’s best interests

Manage the charity’s resources responsibly; Act with reasonable care and skill and take advice where necessary

Ensure the charity is compliant with statutory accounting and reporting requirements

The person specification sets out the essential qualifications, experience, skills, knowledge, personal attributes and other requirements, which the post holder requires to perform the role to a satisfactory level. Without these qualities, the applicant cannot be appointed to the post.

Skills and experience

Essential

• An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• Successful track record of consistent achievement at board or executive level
• Robust governance experience
• Knowledge and understanding of equal opportunities
• Excellent oral and written communication skills

Desirable

• Medical / clinical background
• Digital leadership skills
• Fundraising experience
• Marketing experience
• Knowledge of working within the charity and/or healthcare sector

Personal attributes

• Empathetic
• Team player
• Able to work under pressure
• Collaborative
• Ambassador for St Giles Hospice
• Strategic thinker

Key tasks and responsibilities

The role entails but is not limited to:

• Ensuring that St Giles complies with all its governing documents, charity law and other legislation or regulations
•  Attending and contributing to Board meetings/sub-committee meetings
• Representing St Giles at events, conferences and media as and when required
• Bringing impartiality to decision making
• Always acting in St Giles’ best interests and with reasonable care and skill to provide clear strategic direction
• Proving guiding principles and overall plans for St Giles to progress against the strategy objectives
• Ensuring the financial stability, probity and sustainability of the organisation in relation to the financial aspects of the charity to safeguard the charity’s reputation and values
• Adhering to the Trustees code of conduct (known as the Trustee Charter) and comply with it
• Supporting and advising the Executive Leadership Team in your areas of expertise
• Being collectively responsible for the governance of the charity with other Board members
• Overseeing organisational risk registers, ensuring adequate assurance is provided or risk mitigations in place
• Exercising control over the financial affairs and protecting its assets
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Ensuring and maintaining efficient administration of funding, insurance and premises
• Sitting on recruitment/disciplinary panels as and when required by the Head of HR
• Ensuring the Boards agreed position is represented when speaking publicly on behalf of the organisation
• Ensuring information gained during the course of working as a Trustee is kept confidential and in particular the contents of emails and board papers

Become a Trustee at Options for Life
Make a difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands
Commitment: Four Board meetings annually, plus the AGM, strategy day, and quarterly sub-committee meetings
Expenses: Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed

Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive? Options for Life is looking for committed, values-driven individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

We are a vibrant, Sandwell-based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to live fulfilling, independent lives. Our services include community hubs, outreach, drop-ins, and access to a wide range of community-based activities. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to choice, dignity, and empowerment.

The Role

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the strategic leadership and governance of the charity. Working closely with the Chair, CEO, and fellow trustees, you will help shape the future of our services, ensure we stay true to our mission, and uphold our responsibilities as a charitable organisation.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• Experience in leadership, change management, HR, fundraising, safeguarding, health and social care, or community engagement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to discussions and decisions

Previous trustee experience is not essential—we welcome first-time trustees and provide full induction and support.

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to use your skills and experience for social impact
• Involvement in meaningful work that changes lives
• Personal and professional development through trustee training and networking
• A chance to work alongside passionate people and make a lasting contribution to your local community

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and particularly encourage applications from people with lived experience of disability, people from underrepresented backgrounds, and younger people seeking their first board experience.

Ready to get involved?
To express interest or learn more, contact our Chief Executive, Nicola Thomson.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

We provide life choices for people with learning disabilities.

You can choose to help us improve them.

Options for Life is a dynamic not-for-profit charity based in Sandwell.  We are dedicated to empowering adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to boost their confidence, develop valuable skills, and live independently, enjoying the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

We are committed to supporting our participants in making choices about their own lives. 

We provide our services in an area of significant deprivation; the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (2019) ranked Sandwell as the 12th most deprived local authority in England.  We own two purpose-built centres and employ 65 staff.

We want to support more people with profound or multiple learning disabilities and to develop new services to provide supported employment opportunities.  But to do this we need professionals who can guide and develop the charity’s strategy as Trustees.  Many of our current Trustees will complete their terms this year.  We particularly value financial and public administration skills and people with lived experience of disability. We believe in the strength of a varied board and welcome applicants from all walks of life, regardless of their previous Trustee experience.

Our Trustees are central to our success, and we need Trustees who share our desire to overcome years of prejudice. The financial situation is challenging, but the rewards are enormous.

Please make a choice to learn more about us.

Become a Trustee at Options for Life
Make a difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and/or autism.

Location: Sandwell, West Midlands
Commitment: Four Board meetings annually, plus the AGM, strategy day, and quarterly sub-committee meetings
Expenses: Reasonable travel expenses reimbursed

Are you passionate about creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive? Options for Life is looking for committed, values-driven individuals to join our Board of Trustees.

We are a vibrant, Sandwell-based charity that supports adults with learning disabilities and/or autism to live fulfilling, independent lives. Our services include community hubs, outreach, drop-ins, and access to a wide range of community-based activities. At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to choice, dignity, and empowerment.

The Role

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in the strategic leadership and governance of the charity. Working closely with the Chair, CEO, and fellow trustees, you will help shape the future of our services, ensure we stay true to our mission, and uphold our responsibilities as a charitable organisation.

We are particularly interested in individuals who can bring:

• Strong strategic thinking and decision-making skills
• Experience in leadership, change management, HR, fundraising, safeguarding, health and social care, or community engagement
• A collaborative approach and willingness to contribute to discussions and decisions

Previous trustee experience is not essential—we welcome first-time trustees and provide full induction and support.

What You’ll Gain

• The opportunity to use your skills and experience for social impact
• Involvement in meaningful work that changes lives
• Personal and professional development through trustee training and networking
• A chance to work alongside passionate people and make a lasting contribution to your local community

We are committed to diversity and inclusion and particularly encourage applications from people with lived experience of disability, people from underrepresented backgrounds, and younger people seeking their first board experience.

Could you lead the local SSAFA services in your area? You don’t need a military background for this role, but you should be empathic to the needs of the armed forces community, have some experience of managing people and possess good I.T. skills. If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you.

What is a Branch Chair?

There are SSAFA branches throughout the UK and overseas. Many are further divided into local areas called divisions. Each branch has a Chair to oversee all aspects of the branch. Ultimately accountable to the Chair of the Board of Trustees, through the National Chairman your role is to ensure that the branch is running in line with SSAFA’s Royal Charter Rules, Regulations, and policies. Also, to ensure that clients and volunteers are safe, all services provided are appropriate and effective and that the branch is financially sound. You will be the public face of SSAFA in your branch area.

Why do we need you?

We’ve been supporting the Armed Forces community since 1885. Our clients come from all backgrounds and age groups and may have served in WW2 or in a more recent conflict like the Falklands or Afghanistan. More people than ever are contacting SSAFA for financial, practical and emotional support. To do this we need local branches and volunteers who can coordinate people, ensure the local population know about SSAFA and keep things running smoothly behind the scenes.

Our branches support local volunteers to deliver services to veterans, serving personnel and their families. Some branches are divided into smaller divisions to ensure the best local service delivery. Each branch has a team of volunteer caseworkers, support volunteers, executive roles, and fundraisers.

When would you be needed and where would you be based?

This role is about leadership, coordination, and administration. As part of your local branch, you might have access to an office, but many volunteers are based at home. The role requires an ongoing time commitment, usually about 2-3 days per month. In addition, you would need to organise and attend regular meetings throughout the year.

What would you be doing?

• Providing leadership to the Branch and ensuring that all activities comply with SSAFA regulations both directly, and through the Branch Secretary, other Branch Officers, and Divisional Officers.
• Providing support and guidance to volunteers in office holder roles, and support with recruitment of volunteers into these positions to ensure the sustainability of the branch.
• Ensuring the financial integrity of the Branch, including the appointment of Treasurers and a local fundraising programme to meet branch running costs.
• Ensuring that all data is processed and held in accordance with SSAFA’s data management policies.
• Monitoring volunteer numbers against the demand for support and working with other volunteers, regional and central office staff to attract and recruit new volunteers as required.
• Ensuring that all volunteers are recruited, inducted, supported, and managed in line with SSAFA policies, such as the Volunteering Policy, Volunteer Code of Conduct, Data Protection Policy, and Safeguarding Policy.
• Building relationships with regional and central office staff, local voluntary organisations and, if applicable, SSAFA Service committees, local military establishments, prisons etc.
• Overseeing an appropriate programme of awareness raising so that potential clients, volunteers, and supporters know how to contact the branch.
• Providing timely reports and information to SSAFA’s Central Office
• Overseeing a programme of meetings including an AGM, branch meetings, committee meetings, training etc.
• Supporting any salaried branch staff and ensuring that their line management arrangements are working appropriately.
• Resolve any complaints that are suitable for local resolution in accordance with SSAFA’s Complaints Policy and procedures, referring upwards any that are not suitable for local resolution.

The remit of this role may change over the next 12-18 months depending on the outcome of a trial currently being undertaken.

What could you gain from this volunteering role?

• Gain experience of holding a key local role with oversight of all SSAFA activity in the local area
• Use your skills, knowledge, and life experience to benefit others.
• Support from your local SSAFA branch and the wider SSAFA community
• Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!

What training and support would you receive?

• Role specific training to prepare you for your voluntary role – caseworker training, caseworker IT system training, volunteer management – attracting, recruiting, and inducting volunteers. 
• Mandatory on-line training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep clients, their families safe and personal information safe.
• Local orientation as well as meet and greet sessions with key Central Office and regional teams.
• Access to a range additional e-learning courses as well as local opportunities for your personal and professional development.
• Support from Regional and central staff and peer support from fellow Chairs in neighbouring branches.
• Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
• Volunteers will be covered by SSAFAs Public Liability Insurance whilst carrying out the role.

What are we looking for?

• Friendly and approachable people of any age (18+) with some experience of coordinating people and admin
• Willingness and ability to lead and manage a team of volunteers.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach with beneficiaries, their family, other agencies and SSAFA colleagues
• Willingness and ability to learn basic digital skills. Ability to send and receive emails – you will receive your own SSAFA email address which you will be required to use when exercising your role.
• Willingness to use our on-line case management system (this is covered in the training course)
• Ability to understand and keep within the boundaries of the role for which training will be given.
• Reliability
• Practice confidentiality and data protection in line with SSAFA policies.
• Willingness and means to travel to meetings or events as required.
• Good written and spoken English.

We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

Minimum Age: 18

Safer Recruitment: SSAFA undertakes a systematic approach and utmost care at every step of the process of volunteer recruitment, selection, and retention to ensure that those recruited are suitable and appropriate. Measures taken at points along this journey work together to make volunteering at SSAFA a positive and safe experience.

References Required: Yes. We will ask for two character references, this can be a former employer or someone that know you well (other than a relative)

Is a criminal record check required? No

RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.

We are looking for an experienced marketing or fundraising professional to help raise our charity’s profile and enhance the impact and innovation of our fundraising campaigns. Ideally operating at executive director level or equivalent. If you have a track record of delivering successful marketing or fundraising initiatives, we would like to hear from you.

You will play a key role in supporting our team to diversify and grow our funding streams; particularly unrestricted income. We would welcome applications from across both commercial and charity sectors.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic guidance on the planning and execution of marketing and fundraising campaigns, with a focus on channel strategy and donor engagement across digital, social and traditional media.
• Advise on market and competitive analysis to inform campaign development and positioning.
• Bring expertise in successful campaign delivery and marketing best practice reflecting appropriate legal and ethical considerations.

Your insight will help strengthen our financial sustainability, ensuring we can continue supporting high-impact services for patients.

Trustees must have a strong empathy with the Charity’s vision, mission and values.

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will support the Board to fulfill its responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity. You will contribute to the Charity by actively participating in strategic decision-making, jointly with the rest of the Board of Trustees, whilst working in partnership with the Chief Executive and other senior members of staff to achieve the aims of the Charity.

What’s in it for the volunteer?

You will be part of a cutting edge and pioneering organisation, which aims to continue making a significant difference in the lives of the 150,000 people who come to the hospital every year. The RNOH has been at the cutting edge of orthopaedic care for over 100 years. This is an exciting time to join our Charity and help steer its strategic direction to continue providing its invaluable work for more years to come.

Time commitment

• Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
• Trustee appointment is for 3 years, with the possibility of being re-appointed for a maximum of 3 terms. Induction and ongoing training.
• The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of-pocket expenses may be claimed.

How to apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting the RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of the RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board. If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.

RNOH Charity values and promotes diversity and are committed to equality of opportunity for all and appointments made on merit. The Charity believes that the best Boards are those that reflect the communities they serve. The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.

The deadline for applications is Tuesday 10 June.

Role: Leeds Hospitals Charity Trustee (voluntary)

Application Deadline: Monday 30th June 2025

Meet the Executive Team and Board of Trustees: May 22nd 2025 3.30pm – 6.00pm

Interviews to take place: Wednesday 23rd July 2025

Location: Hybrid  

About Leeds Hospitals Charity

Leeds Hospitals Charity is the charity partner of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. We champion, support and gives thanks to our NHS, bringing together thousands of donors so we can make a real difference to the people and patients of Yorkshire. We do this by funding life-saving equipment, treatments, research into rare diseases and home comforts – whatever will make the biggest impact to the people who need it most.

We are passionate about healthcare and about making our hospitals amazing – our vision is to make Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust to be the best hospital, in the healthiest city in the UK.

Each year we award grants of around £4 million to support the innovative work of our hospitals. Our most recent fundraising appeal, for the Rob Burrow Centre for MND, will see a brand new, purpose-built care centre be opened at Seacroft Hospital in late 2025, transforming care for patients with motor neurone disease and their families.

People are central to everything we do here and we pride ourselves on Leeds Hospitals Charity being an organisation that is a friendly, diverse and welcoming place to work. Our core values of ‘together, transparent and transform’ underpin all of our work and ensures that we are impact driven, working hard to benefit patients, families and NHS staff.

Our Trustees

Leeds Hospitals Charity (Registered charity no. 1170369). has a fully independent Board of Trustees, who are also appointed as Directors of Leeds Hospitals Charity (Company Number 10492128), which is incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 as a private company. We also have a separate trading subsidiary, LHC Enterprise Limited (Company Number 13438357), with its own Directors.

The Board of Trustees currently comprises 12 Trustees; the Chair is Dr Yvette Oade OBE, who is in her second three-year term as a Trustee and her second year as Chair of the Charity.

The Role

Leeds Hospitals Charity is looking to appoint up to four new Trustees to enhance the Board’s skills and expertise to help shape and grow the Charity to provide the best support to our NHS.

The successful candidates may have interest and insight into the issues facing health-related charities and they may also have experience as a Trustee, or in a similar role in another context, but neither of these are essential.

Trustees use their knowledge and experience to make a strategic and principled contribution to the work of the Charity, encouraging innovation and bringing to bear their analytical skills. A willingness to be challenging but constructive, and an ability to engage with detail, are essential for this role.

We are seeking candidates with a wide range of relevant skills and experience but are particularly interested in those candidates with experience in the following sectors:

· Accountancy or audit

· Legal

· Academic or health

· Community or charity

Leeds Hospitals Charity strongly believes that greater diversity improves performance and we aim to attract talented people to reflect the communities with which we work. We strongly encourage applications from groups which are under-represented on our existing Board, including, in particular, candidates with protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

Although they are volunteers, our Trustees have independent control over, and legal responsibility for the charity’s management and administration. Trusteeship can be rewarding for many reasons, from a sense of making a difference to the charitable cause, to new experiences and relationships.

Commitment

This is a voluntary role, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed. Trustees are expected to be able to commit around 12 days a year, for committee meetings, Board meetings and development days.

We welcome candidates from a range of backgrounds and flexibility is offered to those candidates who may have caring responsibilities.

We are looking for someone who will:

· Support and provide advice on the Charity’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee our financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Provide support and challenge to the Charity’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority

· Keep abreast of changes in the Charity’s operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of the Charity’s own governance.

· Attend meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of the Charity’s objects, aims and reputation by utilising your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

The successful person will:

· Bring relevant experience from their own professional sector, with some additional knowledge of the third sector.

· Be constructively challenging and attentive to detail.

· Be able to use their independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to protect the Charity’s best interests.

· Have an interest in health-related charity issues or prior Trustee experience (although these are not essential)

How to apply:

Applications should consist of a full Curriculum Vitae detailing experience and relevant qualifications, accompanied by a covering letter describing briefly how candidates meet the recruitment criteria, why the appointment is of interest and what they believe they can bring to the role. If candidates wish, these may be reflected in a video (no more than three minutes long) rather than in writing.

Applications should be emailed to Helen McDougall by the closing date. Email details can be found in the Trustee Information Pack on our website. Interested candidates are also welcome to visit the Charity’s offices, at Leeds General Infirmary, on 22nd May 2025, to find out more about the role and meet the Executive Team in advance of the closing date. To arrange a time to drop in, please email Helen McDougall.

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by an interview panel of Trustees and the Chief Executive of the Charity.

For more information about the position and the charity, please visit Leeds Hospitals Charity's website and click on Join the Team.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we commit to offering all applicants who consider themselves to have a disability an interview if they demonstrate they possess the essential skills and experience required for the role. Please advise on your covering letter if you consider yourself to have a disability.

Thank you for taking the time to apply for our position. We appreciate your interest in Leeds Hospitals Charity. If your application is selected to continue in the interview process, a member of the Team will be in contact with you.

Submit a CV and a cover letter to express your interest.

Those who submit their CV will be considered and will be invited to an informal insight event towards Janunary 2025 before interviews occur.

What does a Trustee do! 

A Trustee’s role is to act in the best interests of the organization. They are accountable for the organization’s finances, legal affairs, overall performance, and serious arising issues. Trustees must ensure that executives align with the organization’s purpose and mission, acting in ways that advance these goals and uphold the organization’s values. Statutory duties include ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, safeguarding assets, and maintaining accurate financial records.

Commitment

Each Trustee will attend Trustee meetings on a regular basis, a Trustee may also be appointed as a Co Chair and into other roles such as Treasurer and Secretary, and also may join a committee.

A Little About Us!

Youth Advantage UK is a research-led, un incorporated un registered charitable organisation with the aim to become a CIO soon. We use a research-led approach promote and further the rights and interests of young people through positive action such as projects, policy work and research. We promote and empower change.

What we are looking for!

We are looking to appoint experienced Trustees with a background in one or more of the following areas: finance, law, academia, research, leadership, youth sector, policy, education, social action, human rights, issues facing young people and fundraising.

Why we need you!

Youth Advantage UK are in our early stages but are growing and looking for Trustees to help achieve our aims to become a registered charitable organisation. Your skills and expertise are what we need to continue to grow. 

​What we offer!

Anybody who wishes to help and contribute to a good cause are welcome to join us. By being a Trustee with us you have the chance to learn something new and contribute to a successful organisation who is looking to help young people in the UK.

Join our board and together make it possible for people with myeloma to live longer and better lives.

Location: London and Edinburgh

Time commitment: Up to a day a month

Closing date: Monday 23rd June

Together, we are making it possible to live longer and better lives with myeloma. Through research and treatments, we find new ways to a cure. As the only UK charity focused exclusively on myeloma and related conditions, we have transformed treatment and care over the past 27 years, helping to quadruple life expectancy for many patients. But we need to go further, faster – because people with myeloma can’t wait. We are uniquely placed as an organisation to improve the lives of people affected by myeloma by investing in innovative, life-changing research, advocating for patients to get access to new treatments on the NHS, and providing free information and support services to patients and their families.

We are at a pivotal moment in our journey. Our new strategy, developed in collaboration with myeloma experts alongside clinical, research, and policy leaders, focuses on three core areas: preventing myeloma, treating myeloma, and living well with myeloma.

In the first two years of the strategy we have already made significant impacts.  We have convened global leaders in early stage myeloma to investigate prevention and help develop our forthcoming precursor condition roadmap; secured the provision of four new myeloma treatments, including overturning initial restrictions on who could access two next generation therapies; and awarded two new research grants looking at improving quality of life… There is more work and achievements to come.

We’re enhancing our ability to address emerging and unmet needs while implementing comprehensive plans to reach more people, improve engagement, and grow our income, as right now, the vast majority of our income is from donations. Through our innovative research programs, advocacy work, and comprehensive support services, we unite researchers, healthcare professionals, and patients in our mission to find a cure while ensuring no one faces myeloma alone.

About the roles

We’re seeking three new Trustees to join our Board in 2025 as others come to the end of their terms. You’ll play a crucial role in leading Myeloma UK into the next stage of our development, providing strategic leadership during an exciting period of growth and change.

Working closely with our Chair, Board, and executive team, you’ll take an active role in our governance structure, and you’ll build an effective relationship with our CEO and other members of our senior leadership team, providing both challenge and support as we pursue our ambitious goals.

Who we are looking for

Ideally we are looking for one Trustee who will bring experience as either a Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) or a Healthcare Professional. We are looking for two Trustees who bring personal experience of myeloma either directly or through a loved one. You will bring personal lived experience to our board, alongside your professional skills and experience.

We’re looking for clear and independent thinkers with sound judgment and an appropriate approach to risk. Your excellent influencing and negotiation skills will be complemented by your solution-focused mindset and ability to see the big picture while remaining pragmatic. As an intellectually curious individual, you’ll be comfortable navigating complexity while building strong relationships through your high emotional and cultural intelligence.

Most importantly, you’ll be collaborative and highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing different perspectives. You’ll know when to challenge constructively, when to hold back, and when to support, while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Time commitment

The role offers a balanced mix of virtual and in-person engagement designed to maximise effectiveness while being mindful of trustees’ time. The Board meets quarterly, with two of those meetings online (approximately 3 hours each) and two significant in-person gatherings that form the cornerstones of our governance calendar. Our November board meeting is in London and includes a full-day session where we engage in board development and conduct strategy sessions. The second in-person meeting takes place in Edinburgh each May — a rich, one-and-a-half to two-day residential event combining formal board meetings with strategic planning, board development work, and our annual staff awards celebration.

Trustees usually join at least one of our sub-committees. Sub-Committee meetings usually take place online for circa 2 hours. Overall including reading board papers and ad hoc conversations, we expect the time commitment to be the equivalent ofup to a day a month.

We provide comprehensive onboarding support, which can include listening to our Information Line calls to understand our frontline services, briefing sessions with Executive Leadership Team members, and deep dives into our research and services – all designed to bring our mission to life and ignite your passion for our cause.

This is an unremunerated voluntary position, though reasonable expenses, including overnight accommodation for the London and Edinburgh meetings, will be reimbursed for Trustees who need to travel there. We want to ensure our board is geographically representative and so Trustees can be based anywhere in the UK.

Join us in our mission to transform the lives of people affected by myeloma. Together, we are the cure.