Chair of the board of trustees volunteer roles

We are seeking a Director and Chair of Trustees Designate to help shape the future direction of our organisation. We are looking for an individual with proven senior leadership experience - ideally, though not necessarily, within the third sector - who can bring strong strategic thinking, sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership style.

Barod is a pioneering substance misuse treatment provider in Wales, offering evidence based treatment and holistic support to individuals who access its services. Following a period of growth, we currently have some vacancies on our Board of Trustees.  We are looking for people who can contribute to the strategic direction of the organisation.

We are looking to welcome new individuals, with a range of backgrounds and experiences, to our Board of Trustees. We are interested in meeting individuals with knowledge/experience of any of the following areas:

• Business/Commercial  
• Criminal Justice 
• Accountancy
• Medical 
• Mental Health
• Social Services/Social Care
• Legal
• Housing
• Communications/Public Relations
• Lived Experience (Substance Use)

If you have the passion and the skills which can help us make a difference to people’s lives, then we would love to hear from you. These voluntary roles are unpaid, but travel expenses can be reimbursed.

Community engagement charity Sobus is looking for talented, passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees.  We are looking for a new Trustee Treasurer to help guide the charity through a time of exciting opportunity and development.

It's an exciting time for Sobus, as we look to refresh our service offer, and maximise the investment opportunity following the disposal of a property in 2024.

Our overarching aim is to “strengthen local communities”, through the provision of infrastructure support to the local voluntary sector in the borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and supporting business communities around our North Kensington hub. 

Our work is focussed on five main areas:

• Voice & Representation
• Information & Intelligence
• Brokerage & Partnerships
• Capacity Building & Business Support
• Affordable Premises (through the provision of our business hubs in Fulham and North Kensington)

Trustee Treasurer: We are seeking a committed individual with a proven, professional track record of financial management and leadership at the highest level, and a sound understanding and experience of the voluntary sector.  We need someone with significant experience of leading long-term strategic development and driving financial sustainability.

You will share our vision and want to take a leading role in our journey to be recognised as an outstanding organisation. It would be a significant advantage if you have an understanding or experience of working in the voluntary and community sector, and even more so if you are a current or former resident of Hammersmith & Fulham or have a tangible, established and current connection with the area.

Sobus was formed in 2014 following a merger between the Community & Voluntary Sector Association and Fulham Community Partnership Trust. However, we were first established as the local CVS in Hammersmith & Fulham in 1998. 

Sobus is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people that we support. We therefore warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Selection process:

Candidates are requested to complete an application and a equalities monitoring form., and if shortlisted, an interview with our outgoing Treasurer, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the CEO.  t

For an informal discussion about the position, of for the Job Description and application form, contact the Sobus CEO, Sue Spiller

Location: Shepherd’s Bush, West London

Time Commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month (including quarterly board meetings and annual Away Day)

Type: Voluntary

Start Date: Early 2026

Join a unique West London charity creating lasting change in people’s lives

The Upper Room is seeking a Chair of Trustees (Designate) to join our Board in 2025/26 and, after a year of active trusteeship and shadowing, to step into the role of Chair when our current Chair reaches the end of their tenure in 2027.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate, values-led individual to help shape the next phase of our work, from strategic resilience to community innovation.

About Us

From small beginnings more than 35 years ago The Upper Room has grown into a thriving charity with an annual budget of around £650K.

Food provision has always been at the heart of what we do. UR4Meals serves approximately 40,000 meals a year, operating five days a week.

UR4Driving works with ex-offenders and young people identified as at risk of offending. We help them pass their driving theory test, and then provide free driving lessons. Last year 37 students gained a full driving licence with us. This has a significant impact on their employability and self-esteem, and dramatically reduces re-offending.

UR4Jobs helps people become work-ready, and supports their wellbeing.

We are still based in our original home at St Saviour’s Church near Shepherd’s Bush in west London.

About the Role

As Chair, you’ll lead a committed and skilled Board of Trustees, working closely with our CEO and senior team to guide strategy, ensure good governance and champion our impact.

You’ll also play a key role externally, acting as an ambassador to funders, partners and supporters.

We’re looking for someone who can

• Provide strategic leadership through a period of growth and innovation
• Foster a culture of inclusion and respect, both on the Board and across the organisation - Support and challenge the CEO, acting as a critical friend and sounding board
• Ensure excellent governance, compliance and risk management
• Represent the charity publicly, building relationships and influence

About You

We welcome candidates with prior Board experience as a Trustee, Chair or Non-Executive Director, and a strong commitment to social justice.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of disadvantage, as well as those from under-represented backgrounds, including individuals from Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

We’re interested in candidates with

• A clear understanding of charity governance and the role of a Chair
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A collaborative, values-driven approach
• The time, energy and commitment to make a lasting difference

Additional experience in fundraising, partnerships, organisational development or public sector engagement would be welcome, though not essential.

Time Commitment

• As a Trustee in 2025/ 26 (approx. 1–2 days per month)
• Transition to Chair in 2027, subject to mutual agreement and Board approval
• Quarterly evening Board meetings (in person in London)
• Annual summer Away Day with staff and trustees
• Optional involvement in sub-committees or events depending on interest and availability
• Representing the charity at local events

Why Now

By inviting a prospective Chair to join our Board as a Trustee in 2025/26, we can ensure a smooth, informed transition, with the support and handover of our current Chair, and plenty of time for deep onboarding and relationship-building.

The new Chair will help consolidate our growth, and lead our Board through the next chapter, ensuring our mission continues to serve those who need us most in the years ahead.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief covering letter explaining your interest and suitability to the Upper Room.

If you would like to have an informal conversation before applying, feel free to reach out via email to arrange a call.

Because we are planning for the long term we are not placing a deadline on this process. However, we aim to appoint in the first quarter of 2026.

Interviews will be held in two stages, including an in-person meeting with key Board and staff members.

Role description

All Abortion Talk trustees are responsible for ensuring that we:

● have effectively evaluated the success of our three-year strategy.
● develop and implement a new, 2027 - 2030 strategy for Abortion Talk, to help us achieve
our vision of a world free of abortion stigma.
● comply with our governing document (i.e. our charitable objects), charity law, company
law and any other relevant legislation or regulation.
● apply our resources only in pursuing our charitable objects and for the benefit of the
public.
● protect the pro-choice, feminist and inclusive values of our charity.
● effectively govern the charity, which includes making sure we have the proper policies
and procedures in place.
● ensure financial stability.

The role of the chair also includes:

● leading the board to develop our new, 2027 - 2030 strategy.
● providing leadership to the organisation and the board and ensuring that everyone
remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes to provide
greater public benefit
● chairing board meetings.
● ensuring that decisions taken at meetings are implemented.
● making sure the Board is able to regularly review major risks and associated
opportunities, and satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of
opportunities, and manage and mitigate the risks.
● ensuring trustees fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the
charity.
● appraising the performance of the trustees and the board on an annual basis.
● regularly reviewing and acting to ensure the board has a balance of skills, knowledge
and experience needed to govern and lead the charity effectively.
● representing the organisation at functions and meetings as an external representative of
the board. Acting as a spokesperson as appropriate.
● supporting the development of board members, individually and collectively.
● bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making.
● working with our lead freelancer, providing them with advice and support as needed.
● role model a commitment to Abortion Talk’s values, and advocate for this across the
organisation.

The above list is indicative, not exhaustive, and the Chair may be required to engage in
additional activities from time to time.

Time commitment: Four two-hour virtual meetings per year, plus one in-person strategy day
(held on a Saturday in London). Additional time to prepare for the meetings and provide ad hoc
advice to Abortion Talk’s lead contractor and volunteers as required, estimated to be around 20
hours per month.

Person specification

Essential
● Professional leadership experience.
● A full commitment to all of our values (set out above).
● A willingness and ability to dedicate the time and effort required to direct how Abortion
Talk is run and managed.
● Good, independent judgement and a willingness to speak your mind in acting as a
critical friend to Abortion Talk’s leadership (including other trustees)
● An ability to think creatively.
● An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of
trusteeship
● An ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
● A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity,
objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Desirable
● Professional leadership experience at small charities/helpline providers.
● Previous experience as a charity trustee.

Interviews
There are like to be two interview stages:

Stage one: A call with our current chair, lead contractor and an Abortion Talk volunteer or board
member. This is likely to take place between 5pm and 8pm on either Wednesday 14th or
Wednesday 21st January 2026.

Stage two: If successful at stage one, you will be invited back to a call with our current chair
and two other trustees. This is likely to take place between 5pm and 8pm on Wednesday 4th
and Thursday 5th February 2026

The Farm Animal Sanctuary was established nearly 40 years ago. We have, since then, rescued animals from neglect, abuse, or offered a forever home to those who need it. The animals are cared for 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. The animals who live with us are more than just residents—they’re part of our family. They are cared for by a truly dedicated team of staff and volunteers. We are entering a new and exciting phase for the charity, where we are wanting to expand our reach, increase our visibility, and raise much needed funds for the charity to ensure the lives of our animals are supported for many many years to come. From Tiny the goat, Neville the sheep, Twiglet the pig, and Judy the chicken, they are all at the heart of what we do.  Trustees play a vital role in supporting our residents, its rewards are vast, and you'll be making a real difference.
 

Meetings take place 1x per month and are expected to last no more than 2 hrs. 
 

We have a long established board of trustees that are moving on and we have these new and exciting roles to fill. We would welcome CV's from anyone who feels they have skill and experience to share but we are looking for expertise and experience in the following areas:

- Finance

- Business

- Public Relations 

We are recruiting at this time an experienced:

- Chair 

- Co Chair

- Treasurer 

- Secretary

The Sanctuary is based in Middleton Littleton in Evesham, Worcestershire and people are more than welcome to arrange a time to visit via Natalie Pulfer (Trustee)

We are looking for one Trustee & Deputy Chair to join our Charity Trustee Board to support the Union through its next steps. A strong and active Board is crucial for us as we develop and implement our strategy, face challenges, maximise opportunities and endeavour to create an even better Union; one that continues to be flexible and agile enough to react quickly to the changing needs and interests of our student members and achieve our vision.

The Person

The right candidate will thrive in a student led, highly responsive environment and have an enthusiasm for supporting and guiding a student organisation. They will command confidence, have sound judgement and strong communication and leadership skills. We are looking for a trustee with the following skills/experience

Finance Experience: 

• Preferably financial experience from a charity outside of the SU sector
• Understanding of financial oversight
• Ability to interpret financial information to support strategic decision-making
• Awareness of charity finance and regulatory requirements

Chairing Experience: 

• Ability to deputise for the Chair, and chair meetings of the Board
• Ability to build a strong and effective working relationship with the Board of Trustees Chair
• Ability to foster, maintain and ensure that constructive relationships exist with and between the Trustees
• Assist and support the Chair in providing leadership to the Board, through the governance arrangements, and also acting as a ‘sounding board’ and confidante to the Chair in the execution of their role

Due to the current make-up of our Trustee Board, we are not actively searching for candidates with skills, knowledge and experience related to the Student Union and HE sector and we would welcome candidates from other sectors or regions to apply. That said, we would very much like to encourage anyone who feels that they could bring something to our Board to apply, regardless of experience - our purpose and values also lead us to welcome first time Trustees too!

We are strongly dedicated to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within our community and we are passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment which supports everyone from recruitment through to appointment, regardless of your background. We welcome applications from all talented people and as part of this commitment, we are working to improve the diversity of our Trustee Board to ensure that it is as relevant and representative of our student community as possible and are actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.

Further Information

Application is via a comprehensive CV plus a supporting statement (of no more than two sides of A4) detailing why you are applying for the position and what requirements you meet to carry out the role

Do you value supporting adults of all abilities with opportunities to grow in confidence, skills, and connection?

Millennium Farm Trust use the care farm environment to nurture both people and land. If you also have experience in strategic thinking – you could make a great addition to our Board as a Trustee!

Who are the Millennium Farm Trust?

Millennium Farm Trust is the charity behind Depden Care Farm. It is a well-established, mission-led charity providing learning, training, and wellbeing opportunities through farming. For over a decade, we’ve supported people of all abilities to grow in confidence, skills, and connection — using the care farm environment to nurture both people and land. Based at Depden Care Farm in rural Suffolk, our programmes combine purposeful agricultural and horticultural work with personalised support.

At the heart of what we do

MFT’s vision: Everyone, whatever their ability, has access to meaningful work that builds self-esteem, self-confidence and self-care and has a place where their contribution to their community is valued and respected.

Our values: that by growing together we will foster a community at Depden Care Farm that promotes transformation, accountability, and integrity. A community which is built on: Respect, Wellbeing, Teamwork, Learning & Compassion.

So what does the Trustee role at Millennium Farm Trust look like?

This really is an exciting time to join us and contribute to our charity’s Board and use your professional skills to make an impact on our collaborative discussions!

As a trustee at MFT, you’ll support us in tasks such as; reviewing and advising on organisational policies, business plans, along with helping to promote our work and impact within the community. As well as attending quarterly board meetings, you’ll also participate in one or more subcommittees, providing oversight and input on specific areas such as finance, HR, safeguarding, or education.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

Everyone in our organisation shares responsibility for maintaining the highest standards of care, professionalism, and accountability. We are equally committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome and celebrate difference, recognising that varied perspectives and experiences strengthen our community and enrich the lives of those we support.

Who we’re looking for

You’ll need to be able to challenge constructively, engage collaboratively, and have demonstrable strategic thinking and business acumen, with experience in governance or management. We also need someone who encourages our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and representing the interests of the community served, along with an interest in; the voluntary sector, social care, education, or related fields being desirable.

Please read the candidate information pack for further information before you apply. Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining the Millenium Farm Trust!

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

Eastside People is supporting Millennium Farm Trust in the recruitment of these roles. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter, both in Word doc format.
Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following:

• Why are you interested in the Trustee role at Millenium Farm Trust?
• Having read the information pack, what relevant experience and skills do you feel you would bring to this role? This might come from paid work, study, community or voluntary work or other experience.

The closing date for applications is Mon 15th December. Shortlisting interviews with our recruitment partner Eastside People will take place shortly after, and shortlisted candidates will an interview with MFT during the first two weeks of January 2026.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Respect in their search for three new Trustees and their next Chair. For further information about the Chair role please visit our opportunities page. 

Respect is the umbrella organisation for the perpetrator sector, working with their members, partners and allies to stop the harms done by those who perpetrate domestic abuse. They provide leadership and guidance to their members, and use their voice, in collaboration with others, to call for a response to domestic abuse that matches the scale of the problem.

Passionate about good practice, Respect works closely with a number of partners across the domestic abuse sector to develop strategic, multi-agency responses to domestic abuse including Women’s Aid Federation England, SafeLives and Social Finance and Safe & Together Institute.

About the Trustee roles:

As a Trustee, you’ll play an essential role in shaping Respect’s direction and impact. Working collectively with fellow trustees and the staff team, you’ll help ensure the organisation remains true to its mission of ending domestic violence, achieves its strategic objectives and maintains financial health and sustainability.

Trustees are responsible for setting the overall direction of the charity and working in partnership with the CEO and ELT, who oversee the organisation’s day-to-day operations and develop Respect’s strategic plans and budget for the Board’s consideration and approval.

We are seeking three trustees who can bring one of the following areas of specialism to the Board:

• Domestic Abuse / VAWG Practice and Sector Insight
• Charity Fundraising and Income Generation
• Digital, Technology and Artificial Intelligence

Prospect Hospice seeks a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board, shape strategy, and champion exceptional end-of-life care across Swindon and north Wiltshire. A rewarding voluntary role for an inspiring, values-driven leader.

What will you be doing?

Prospect Hospice is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead our Board through an exciting and pivotal time. For over 40 years we’ve delivered compassionate, high-quality end-of-life care to people across Swindon, Marlborough and north Wiltshire — at home, in the community and in our inpatient unit. We are proud of our strong reputation and deep community roots, and we are now looking ahead to the future with ambition and purpose.

Our Board of Trustees brings together professionals from a range of backgrounds, including healthcare, finance, business, and the voluntary sector. Together, they provide oversight, guidance and challenge to ensure the charity remains sustainable, compliant, and true to its mission. The Board meets quarterly, supported by four subcommittees covering finance and performance, clinical governance, people and culture, and income generation.

As Chair, you’ll lead the Board in providing clear strategic direction, strong governance and visible leadership. You’ll work closely with our Chief Executive, acting as a trusted partner and sounding board, ensuring decisions are well-informed, balanced and grounded in our values of dignity, respect and excellence. You’ll also oversee Trustee recruitment and development, ensuring our Board continues to reflect the diversity, skills and experience we need for the future.

Beyond governance, this is a role about inspiration and influence. You’ll act as an ambassador for Prospect Hospice — representing us externally, nurturing partnerships, and championing hospice care within the wider health and voluntary sectors. You’ll also play a role in engaging with our community, staff and volunteers, helping to build understanding and support for our work.

This is a particularly important moment for Prospect Hospice. Like many hospices, we face increasing demand and financial pressures — but also huge opportunities to innovate and collaborate to reach more people. Your leadership will help us navigate this landscape with confidence, compassion and vision.

Becoming our Chair offers the chance to make a lasting impact — supporting an organisation that touches thousands of lives each year and ensuring that outstanding hospice care remains at the heart of our community for generations to come.

What are we looking for?

Our Board of Trustees plays a vital role in guiding Prospect Hospice’s strategy and performance. We’re seeking individuals with the time, energy, and commitment to help shape our future. You’ll be a strategic thinker, a collaborative team player, and a passionate advocate for our mission bringing leadership, insight, and integrity to the Board.

We’re looking for someone with:

• Proven leadership at Board level
• Strong knowledge of governance and charity compliance
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement
• A deep commitment to our mission and values
• The ability to inspire, challenge, and support others

What difference will you make?

Your impact will be felt in multiple ways. Through effective governance, you’ll ensure our charity remains financially resilient, well-run and compliant, enabling us to invest in the services and staff that make such a difference every day. By fostering a culture of openness, collaboration and accountability, you’ll empower our leadership team and trustees to work confidently together in pursuit of shared goals.

Externally, you’ll be a visible advocate for Prospect Hospice — helping to strengthen our voice in local and regional partnerships, influence policy, and build relationships that open up new opportunities for collaboration and funding. Your ability to connect with people and champion our work will help raise awareness of the vital role hospices play in supporting people at the most challenging times in their lives.

Internally, you’ll help nurture a sense of unity and purpose across the organisation — engaging with staff, volunteers and fellow trustees to ensure everyone feels valued and connected to our mission. Your support for the Chief Executive will help them lead effectively and confidently, ensuring our strategy translates into real, measurable impact for patients and families.

Ultimately, your leadership as Chair will help Prospect Hospice to thrive — ensuring we continue to be there for everyone who needs us, now and in the future. You’ll be helping to safeguard a much-loved local charity, strengthen its foundations, and shape the future of hospice care in our region.

This is an opportunity to make a lasting difference — leading a trusted organisation that sits at the heart of its community, providing care, compassion and comfort when it matters most.

Looking for an exciting opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of Londoners affected by homelessness, while contributing your professional insights to a forward-thinking and compassionate organisation? Why not join us as our Audit Committee Chair or as a Trustee!

About Evolve Housing + Support

At Evolve, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live a safe, fulfilled and independent life. We provide support in London, offering tailored programmes to meet people’s individual needs; including housing, employment and skills training, mentoring and counselling.

We do this through our work with young parents and children at risk of exclusion to build the skills and resilience that can help prevent homelessness, campaigning to end street homelessness, and building affordable homes to help people move on to an independent life.

Our company culture: the heart of what we do

We’re proud of our inclusive culture – one where everyone’s voice matters, and where diversity of background, thought and experience helps us make better decisions for the communities we serve. Our mission - to help children, young people and adults who are homeless or at risk of homelessness reach their potential, and move on to live happy, fulfilled lives. We ensure our values - Honest, Inclusive, Optimistic, Determined, Passionate & Creative inform everything we do.

The opportunities to join us

At Evolve Housing + Support, we are championing opportunity, dignity and independence for people affected by homelessness – a cause that may resonate with you and encourage you to lend your strategic oversight and financial skills to our Board.

We are looking for a new Audit Committee Chair and two Trustees to join our Board and play a key role in shaping our governance and strategic direction.

As our Audit Committee Chair, you’ll ensure we maintain the highest standards of financial stewardship, carry out all our affairs effectively under all regulatory bodies, while keeping our mission and values at the heart of decision-making through your leadership.

The Trustee roles present the opportunity to play a crucial part in the successful running of our organisation, in partnership with the leadership team, upholding excellent governance using your professional skills. 

Who are we looking for?

We are particularly interested in speaking with people who are able to lead and inspire, who also have the strategic and analytical thinking skills to lead through periods of change, and who can communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders and audiences.

You’ll need to have the ability to proactively support the values of Evolve Housing + Support, have a strong understanding of good governance practice along with a financial or HR background at a professional level, and a strong track record in a relevant sector, with empathy for our core customer group.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining Evolve!

Sounding good? Here’s how you can apply today!

Please read the Candidate Information Pack for more information before you apply. 

How to Apply:

Eastside People is supporting Evolve Housing + Support in the recruitment of these roles. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter, both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• Why are you interested in the Chair/Trustee role at Evolve Housing + Support? 
• Having read the information pack, what relevant experience and skills do you feel you would bring to this role? 

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

The closing date for applications is Mon 22 Dec 2025. Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with Evolve during the week beginning 12 January 2026.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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.

Ready to make a difference to the lives of young people in Croydon?

For over 180 years, Reedham Children’s Trust has provided support to the most vulnerable children and young people in Croydon. We believe every child deserves a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life, and we know that when the right support is offered, family problems and disadvantage need not continue through generations.

Reedham Children’s Trust funds local projects and innovative programmes to tackle the barriers and challenges that too many children and young people in Croydon face daily - which is why we are exploring a merger with Croydon Voluntary Action to create a dynamic new entity that will ensure Reedham’s legacy can continue through new strands and activity.

Our Trustees already play an important role in helping our charity fulfil its ambitions and aspirations by supporting the strategy, providing robust governance and being ambassadors for our work. But as we enter the delivery phase of redefining the charity’s future, we are particularly keen to strengthen our board with fresh Trustees who are aspirational and strategic leaders, from a range of professional and personal backgrounds.

What are we looking for in a new Trustee?

1) We want our Trustees to reflect and understand the communities we serve. Lived experience of the challenges our beneficiaries face is welcomed, as are Trustees who live/work in and around Croydon.

2) We value enthusiasm and commitment as much as experience and professional knowledge. This includes - but is not limited to - individuals early in their careers. If you are a confident communicator with a strong understanding of the importance of strategy, and are ready to commit your time and energy, we will give you the tools to be an excellent Trustee.

3) We are interested in candidates  who are open to learning as well as to contributing from their place of expertise. In particular, candidates with experience of change management, fundraising, marketing/branding and the delivery of projects and services in a local community like Croydon would help during this exciting chapter.

What being a Reedham Trustee can offer you:

• Professional development in governance, safeguarding, finance, advocacy and fundraising.
• The opportunity to support young people in Croydon and improve their life chances.
• Friendly and supportive meetings and engagement with staff and other Trustees as well as visits to projects and partner locations.

Commitment Requirements

• Attend four regular Board meetings a year in and around Croydon (including reading/preparing for meetings) as well as quarterly online briefings.
• Regular engagement with the charity’s work through visits to projects and active participation in meetings and events.
• Engage with information by remote and through digital channels.
• Act as a critical friend in meetings and whenever a new project or activity begins.
• Be an advocate for the charity in your daily life.

For an informal chat with the CEO or Chair of Trustees, please get in touch via email. 

PLEASE NOTE: PREVIOUS APPLICANTS NEED NOT APPLY AND WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

This is a non-remunerated position and all Trustees are asked to give approximately 12 days per annum for meetings, preparation and events.

This role in the current Board structure will run until 31 March 2026, with scope to become a Trustee in the new entity.

Become a Trustee at Bristol Folk House
Help shape the future of one of Bristol’s most creative and welcoming community spaces.

Who we are
Bristol Folk House is a long-standing and much-loved adult education and community arts centre in the heart of the city. Our mission is to connect people through creativity, learning and wellbeing – whether that’s a first-time painting class, a salsa night, a flea market, or a quiet coffee in our garden.
We’re at a pivotal moment in our journey, with big ambitions for inclusion, access, creativity and impact. To help us get there, we’re looking for new trustees to join our board and guide the next phase of our development.
 

Why join us now?
It’s an exciting time to come on board. We’ve launched a refreshed strategy, completed the first stage of a major accessibility and estates project, and are deepening our relationships with Bristol’s communities.
 

As a trustee, you’ll help us to:
- Create a more accessible, welcoming and inspiring space
- Connect with more people across Bristol
- Strengthen our financial resilience and income generation
- Grow our reputation and visibility
- Build an inclusive, future-focused organisation

Skills and experience we’d love to add to the board
We welcome interest from people of all backgrounds, but are particularly keen to hear from those with skills or experience in:
- Property, Estates or Accessibility Projects – helping us complete and plan the future of our building
- Fundraising & Income Generation – particularly from trusts, grants or partnerships
- Community Engagement / EDI – building stronger inclusion and relationships with underrepresented groups
- Strategic Communications / Branding / Digital – growing awareness of what we do
- Finance & Governance – supporting oversight, audit and sustainability
- Creative Sector Leadership – especially if you’ve worked in arts, wellbeing, education or co-creation
 

You don’t need prior board experience – we’ll support new trustees to grow in confidence and understand governance.
 

What we’re looking for
- A genuine interest in creativity, learning and community
- Willingness to contribute actively to board meetings (every two months, 1.5 hours) and occasional working groups
- Commitment to our values of inclusion, collaboration and equity
- Fresh perspectives and lived experience – warmly welcomed
We’re especially keen to hear from people who reflect Bristol’s diversity – in background, ethnicity, age, gender identity, lived experience or professional journey.
 

How to get involved
If you’d like an informal chat or more information, please contact our Chair of Trustees.
 

To express interest, please send a short email telling us:
- Who you are
- Why you’d like to join the Bristol Folk House board
- What skills, experience or perspectives you bring
 

There’s no formal closing date – we’ll be reviewing expressions of interest on a rolling basis.
 

Thank you
 

We believe in the power of creativity to bring people together and transform lives. If you share that belief, we’d love to hear from you.