Chair of the board of trustees volunteer volunteer roles

Want to make a difference? Could you help us?

New trustees wanted

We are looking for up to three people to be active members of our Board of Trustees.
Together with the other trustees, staff, volunteers, and stakeholders you will help the
Foodbank deliver a non-judgemental and compassionate service, and help us as we
work towards a future where foodbanks are no longer needed. The Trustee may be
asked to take the lead on specific areas of our work, utilising their experience and
skills. We are particularly keen to hear from people who have experience in
fundraising/bid writing, human resources, communications/PR, and property
management.

Our vision

Our vision is a future where our foodbank is no longer needed because people can
afford the essentials and get the support they need when they need it, preventing them
from reaching a point of crisis.

Our mission

Our mission is to provide a compassionate, dignified, and non-judgemental service to
people within our community. We do this by working in partnership with other
organisations to provide holistic support that enables people to find a way out of their
crisis. We work together with partners and the other foodbanks in RCT to identify and
address the root causes of people needing to use our foodbank to alleviate poverty
within our community.
Volunteering is a fantastic way for you to be involved in your local community and
volunteers are at the heart of all that we do as a Foodbank.

We are currently looking to recruit an external trustee to join our Board of Trustees and also act as chair to the Finance and Audit Sub-Committee. We will also require the trustee to support our whistleblowing policy, acting as the nominated trustee contact for whistleblowing concerns.  You’ll champion openness and ensure the organisation has safe, fair, and effective processes for raising and handling concerns.

Your SU is overseen by our Board of Trustees, and our trading subsidiary (CUSU Services Ltd) is overseen by our Commercial Services Board . They are both made up of a collection of our elected Officers, students, university staff and external professionals that ensure the Charity and the Trading Subsidiary remain sustainable in terms of finance, legality and reputational status.

You will be expected to attend Board meetings 4 times per year – these will be a mix of in person and Teams meetings. You will also be expected to support at least one sub-committee of the Trustee Board (3-4 times per year) as well as complete training and induction. You will need some time to allow for prereading of reports and other documentation before meetings. 

Trustee meetings are typically held on a Friday afternoon 1pm-4pm. Most of the meetings are online, although you would be offered travel expenses for any face-to-face meetings (and hybrid meetings are usually offered if you do need to join remotely.) There is also a strategy day once a year as well as the occasional social activity!

For this trustee role, we are looking for an experienced professional ideally with third-sector governance experience. In addition to being a member of the Board of Trustees the trustee will be required to chair the Finance and Audit subcommittee and should possess a strong finance background with analytical skills and the ability to communicate complex financial information.

We are especially keen to encourage applications from people currently under-represented within the organisation, including but not limited to those from the LGBTQ+ community, people with disabilities, and those from a Global Majority background. We hope that by enhancing our diversity we can extend our organisational creativity and problem solving through the different perspectives and life experiences which diversity brings.

Please note that this is an unpaid voluntary role.

For further information there is a full recruitment pack and role profile available to download or visit our website for more information.

CHASE Africa is a UK-based international NGO that supports local partners in East Africa to improve health and wellbeing in marginalised rural communities. We are looking for a Trustee with finance skills, to replace our current Treasurer. You will provide scrutiny and oversight of the work of CHASE Africa, with a particular focus on financial issues.  You will use your financial knowledge and experience to monitor the financial administration of the charity and report to the Board of Trustees on its state of financial health and provide the board with the confidence and knowledge to make good strategic decisions. 

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with extensive financial expertise, who is seeking a voluntary position where they can apply their skills to a meaningful mission.

Since its inception 12 years ago, CHASE Africa has grown from scratch to an income in 2025 of over £830,000 – delivering over 1.5 million healthcare and family planning services to often isolated rural communities. We have a strong and highly motivated staff team and a thriving network of local partners that has expanded from Kenya into Uganda and, later this year, Tanzania.

CHASE Africa’s projects have already brought healthcare and empowerment to tens of thousands of lives, particularly for women and girls, mitigating poverty and helping protect local environments.It has the capacity and opportunity to greatly extend its impact – both geographically and in terms of numbers reached.

We are a small but dedicated team based in Somerset, committed to a collaborative approach to partnership. We're currently going through an exciting period of transition and growth, with a new CEO in 2022, a new charitable structure in 2023, and a new Finance Manager at the start of 2026. Your role will be vital in helping us achieve our future goals.

The Role

• Liaise with CEO and Trustees to ensure the financial viability of the organisation’s strategy 
• Advise on the financial implications of CA’s strategic plan (3 year) 
• Present CA’s financial position and broader context at Trustees Board meetings 
• Support the finance manager with the production of an annual budget 
• Ensure that the Board is aware of its financial duties and responsibilities and the need to comply with all legislation 
• Take a lead in interpreting financial data for fellow Board members 
• Ensure that all financial policies, procedures and the appointment of external financial advisors are reviewed on a regular basis
• Ensure relevant financial policies are in place as required by the charity commission 
• Be willing to be available to support the charity’s CEO and Senior Finance Manager as needed 
• Review the monthly management accounts report and cashflow with the CEO and finance manager 
• Liaise with senior staff to ensure financial reports are user friendly for non-finance trustees

About You

• Good background in financial management and analysis
• Able to communicate financial information clearly and to people with different levels of financial and data literacy. 
• Knowledge and experience of finance practice relevant to voluntary and community organisations. 
• Have an excellent ability to interpret financial information and the confidence to raise questions and challenge 
• Have a good understanding of, or be willing to learn, the rules and regulation around charity finance 
• Have the ability to think creatively and strategically, exercising good and impartial judgement 
• Knowledge of current accounting processes, tools and procedures 
• High proficiency in Excel, Powerpoint for analysis and presentation 
• Understands and accepts the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of Trustees, and the difference between governance functions and management functions  
• High level of integrity and sound judgement 
• Commitment to CA’s vision, purpose and culture and its way of working 
• Able and willing to devote the necessary time to the role 

Additional Desirable 

• CCAB/CIMA qualified professional or qualified by experience in financial management
• Awareness and understanding of the campaigning world and the health community in developing countries. 
• An interest in international development and the issues we are supporting our partners to tackle in East Africa. 

For full information, please see the attached information pack.

To apply for this post, please submit a CV and covering letter by email by the 27th March 2026. The cover letter should be no longer than two pages long and explain why you are interested in this post and how your skills and experience make you a good fit.

Youth engagement is a core part of our how we function. We have a network of paid Young Associates as well as 2 Young Trustees (under 25 years old). We are now looking to strengthen our Governance with the appointment of another Young Trustee, ideally someone with relevant lived experience and/or has participated in Youth Careers Collective programmes.

Essential criteria

- A commitment to realising Youth Careers Collective’s mission

- Experience of effective, fair and impartial decision-making

- A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the duties of effective Trusteeship

Desirable criteria

- Experience of operating at Board or Committee level, either executive or non-executive

- Experience of strategic development and implementation

- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of the charity sector

- Some experience, knowledge and understanding of state schools and colleges

- Experience of income generation, policy, marketing and communication, or digital

We do not expect applicants to have all the above experience, and welcome first-time Trustees and will provide training and support on the role. We also welcome candidates with links to our priority area of west London, those from ethnic minority and black backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of the communities we serve, and from candidates with disabilities.

For more information please read the full recruitment pack.

Sift is a UK charity providing specialist support, information and advocacy for people affected by self-harm. We work alongside people who have been directly affected by self-harm at every level of our organisation. We are service-user centred, and ensure our service users are at the heart of everything we do. Following an exciting rebrand and the launch of a new website, we are entering a new phase of growth, visibility and influence.

To support this next chapter, we are expanding our Board of Directors and are seeking professional, values-led individuals who share our commitment to compassion, dignity and meaningful change.

All Board roles are voluntary, unpaid positions. Reasonable expenses such as travel will be reimbursed. Please note that we are only accepting applications through the dedicated application form which can be found on the Volunteering page of our website and will not be accepting CVs sent via email. More information can be found in our downloadable recruitment pack - see our website for details. 

The Roles:

Board Secretary

Role Purpose

The Board Secretary helps ensure that Sift is governed with clarity and accountability. This role supports the Board to function well, ensuring that decisions are properly recorded and that governance processes enable the charity’s mission.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare agendas and papers for Board and sub-committee meetings with the Chair and CEO.
• Take clear, accurate minutes that reflect decisions, context and agreed actions.
• With support from the Head of Operations, maintain key governance records, including trustee details, conflicts of interest and policies.
• Support compliance with the charity’s governing document and Charity Commission requirements.
• Assist with timely statutory filings and good governance practice.
• Act as a trusted point of reference for governance-related queries.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Clear, inclusive written communication.
• Respect for confidentiality and sensitive information.
• Commitment to Sift’s mission and lived-experience-informed values.

Desirable:

• Experience in charity governance, company secretarial work or

trustee roles.

• Familiarity with Charity Commission guidance.

Time Commitment:

• 6–8 Board meetings per year, plus preparation time.
• Up to 4 in person meetings in our Bristol based office.

Business Development Lead

Role Purpose

The Business Development Lead supports Sift to grow sustainably, so that more people affected by self-injury can access support. This role brings a strategic lens to income generation, partnerships and opportunity development, grounded in the charity’s values and ethical approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development and oversight of Sift’s income generation strategy.
• Support exploration of new funding, partnership and collaboration opportunities including the expansion and relaunch of our national in-person and online training programme.
• Offer insight and challenge on fundraising, commercial or social enterprise ideas.
• Network with key players in the mental health and wellbeing field.
• Help assess risk, impact and alignment with Sift’s mission.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience in business development, commercial income generation, partnerships or strategy.
• Ability to balance ambition with care and ethical decision-making.
• Strong communication and influencing skills.
• Commitment to SIFT’s mission and lived-experience-informed ethos.

Desirable:

• Experience working with charities or social enterprises.
• Knowledge of trusts, foundations, corporate giving or

commissioning.

Time Commitment:

• 6–8 Board meetings per year, with occasional

input outside meetings.

• Up to 4 in person meetings in our Bristol

based office.

Leadership & Governance Director

Role Purpose

The Leadership & Governance Director helps ensure that Sift’s leadership, culture and governance remain strong, inclusive and fit for purpose. This role supports the Board to be reflective, effective and accountable as the organisation grows.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide oversight and constructive challenge on governance, leadership and culture.
• Support trustee recruitment, induction and ongoing Board development.
• Contribute to succession planning and long-term organisational resilience.
• Ensure governance arrangements evolve appropriately with growth.
• Champion equity, inclusion and lived experience at Board level.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience in senior leadership, governance, HR or organisational development.
• Strong understanding of effective Board dynamics.
• Confidence in offering thoughtful challenge and strategic insight.
• Commitment to Sift’s mission and values.

Desirable:

• Experience as a trustee, Chair or committee lead.
• Knowledge of safeguarding and people governance in charities.

Time Commitment:

• 6–8 Board meetings per year, with some additional

involvement as needed.

• Up to 4 in-person meetings at our Bristol based office.

Treasurer/Trustee – Board of Management and Chair of the Audit and Risk Sub-Committee
Terms: Voluntary. ICNARC’s Trustees will serve a three-year term to be eligible for re-appointment.
Remuneration: The role of Treasurer/Trustee is voluntary. Expenses for travel and subsistence may be claimed.
Location: Trustees can be located anywhere, with travel to London for some meetings. ICNARC is located at Napier House, 24 High Holborn, London, WC1V 6AZ.

About Us

ICNARC is an independent, scientific, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1994.

Our vision is that all critically ill people receive appropriate, timely and optimal care and achieve best outcomes.

Our mission is to improve the quality of critical care through audit, research and data services conducted with, and in the interests of, patients and those who care for them.

About the Role

The Intensive Care National Audit and Research Centre (ICNARC) has an outstanding national and international reputation for clinical audit and clinical and health services research. The organisation is run by a Board of Management comprising the Senior Leadership Team (the SLT, led by the Co-Directors) and Trustees who are a group of volunteers with substantial experience and interest in critical care, clinical research and management.

We are now looking to recruit a Treasurer/Trustee to join our Board. The Treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements, charity commission and company requirements. This post holder will chair the Audit and Risk Sub-Committee (ARSC) and will report regularly to the Board on the financial position of the organisation and ensure that effective measures, controls and procedures are in place.

Responsibilities of all Trustees:

Trustees are responsible for directing the affairs of ICNARC via the Board of Management, ensuring that the strategic direction of the organisation is in line with the Mission, and assuring themselves that the governance of the organisation is sound, and ICNARC is efficient and well-run in accordance with its stated values.

Principal responsibilities of the Treasurer:

• Overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts, financial statements and financial reports to the Board of Management alongside the Chief Operating Officer and Financial Controller
• Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs and are within the charities objects.
• Supporting the Chief Operating Officer in the development and implementation of appropriate financial, reserves and investment policies
• Providing guidance to the Chief Operating Officer to ensure compliance with the requirements of Company Law

Time commitment

The Board of Management meets four times a year and is supplemented by a range of sub-committees which enable the Board to carry out its role of developing the strategy of the organisation, ensuring its sound governance, and holding the SLT to account for delivery of its agreed policies and goals in accordance with its stated values. In addition to the formal governance structure. These sub-committees, including the ARSC, also meet quarterly in advance of the Board meetings.  Trustees are expected to provide advice and support to the SLT in accordance with their professional background as required.

Interested?

If you would like to apply and find out more about this position, please click the apply button to be directed to our website.

No agencies please.

Greatwood & Horseclose Communty Centre sits in a well established friendly community, made up of home owners, private rental and six various Housing Associations.

The Friends of Greatwood and Horseclose are looking for a new Volunteer Secretary to play a vital role in making sure that the community centre achieves its core purpose of benefitting the local community of Greatwood and Horseclose.

This role is for someone who is organised and methodical, with an eye for detail. They will plan, organise and take minutes at our meetings as well as playing an important part to develop our strategic goals.

Tasks and activities will include -

· Planning, arranging and producing meeting agendas for our trustee meetings, any sub-committees and our AGM with the Chair, in line with legal, and other regulatory requirements, and in accordance with our governing document

· Assist with any official correspondence

· Supporting our trustees in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities

· Organising trustee induction and ongoing training

· Support the Chair to ensure we comply with the relevant charity regulations, including all our reporting responsibilities

An invitation to join us at Young Devon as our next…

Trustee (Job Ref 25-85)

Are you passionate about supporting young people in Devon?

Young Devon is here to change the odds in favour of the thousands of young people who ask for help each year with their homelessness, mental health and education.  We believe developing good quality relationships can be transformational in young people’s lives.

We are seeking committed and passionate people to support the leadership of a complex organisation.  An understanding of governance in a Charity or non-executive setting isn’t essential but will help.

You will be able to demonstrate good judgement combined with excellent strategic and communication skills.  As a creative thinker and being able to recognise a range of perspectives you will be able to support fellow Trustees to ensure the Charity is well governed and focused on meeting the needs of young people.

You can download the Candidate Information Pack from our website.

This is a voluntary position but one which we hope will be very rewarding.  We aim to appoint to an initial 3-year term with the possibility to extend to a second thereafter.  Reasonable and proper expenses will be reimbursed.  An enhanced DBS check is required for this position.

Closing date for applications: 12 noon on Tuesday 31st March 2026

Young Devon is a youth work charity (1057949) passionate about creating an inclusive workplace and embracing diversity. We are committed to Safeguarding children, young people and vulnerable groups and all applicants who will or could have unsupervised access to these groups will complete the required checks through the Disclosure and Barring Service

External Trustee  

Liverpool Guild of Students 
Location: Liverpool 
Commitment: Voluntary 

Term: Four years (renewable) 
Closing date: Midday on Tuesday 7th April 2026 

Atkinson HR and Marble Mayne are pleased to be supporting Liverpool Guild of Students in their search for an External Trustee to join their Board. 

Liverpool Guild of Students is an independent, student-led charity dedicated to enhancing the student experience at the University of Liverpool. With 32,000 members, they are committed to creating a home for every student, ensuring each one gets the most out of university life and leaves equipped to change the world.

As they continue to strengthen their governance and long-term impact, they are seeking a committed and strategic individual to join their Board of Trustees and help guide their mission of creating an exceptional university experience for every student. 

About the Role 

This is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of students in Liverpool. As an External Trustee, you will play a key role in setting and monitoring the Guild's strategy, providing financial oversight, managing risk, and ensuring the organisation remains fit for purpose. The Board meets four times per year, with trustees also invited to sit on sub-committees covering Resources & Audit, People, Culture & EDI, and Governance & Appointments. 

The Guild is keen to hear from individuals who can think strategically, critically evaluate complex issues, and contribute meaningfully to Board discussions. They are particularly interested in candidates who bring networks within Liverpool, knowledge of the Higher Education sector or Students' Unions, experience of complex multi-service organisations, or expertise in EDI best practice. First-time trustees are warmly welcomed, and the Guild is committed to building an inclusive Board with diverse perspectives and backgrounds. 

How to Apply 

To apply, please submit your CV and complete the application form, where you will be asked to answer three questions: 

• Tell us why you’d like to join the Guild as a Trustee and how do your personal values align with the Guild’s? 

• What knowledge, abilities, and experience can you contribute to our Board’s collective skills? 

• How would you add value to the Board and our work to support students? 

Each answer should be a maximum of 400 words. 

Key Dates 

Closing Date: Midday on Tuesday 7th April 2026 

Interviews: Monday 27th and Tuesday 28th April 2026 

Trustee (Non‑Executive Board Member) – Mitie Foundation

Location: UK (meetings in person at The Shard, London)
Time commitment: Approximately 4 Board meetings per year plus occasional sub‑committee/ambassadorial commitments; preparation required for papers and strategic discussion
Term: Three years, renewable once (subject to Board agreement)
Start date: April 2026

The Mitie Foundation is looking for passionate and purpose‑driven Trustees to join its Board. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals who want to use their professional expertise to make a meaningful social impact and help people across the UK access brighter, more sustainable futures.

As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in guiding the Foundation’ as they enter new strategic phase, supporting inclusive employment programmes, and ensuring the charity delivers real, measurable change. You’ll collaborate with a committed Board, engage with senior leaders across Mitie, and contribute to initiatives that help people build confidence, develop skills and move into meaningful work.

Whether your background is in business, charity leadership, social value, finance, HR, community engagement or lived experience of overcoming employment barriers — your insights could influence national‑level social impact.

This is a rewarding, purpose‑led role where your contribution truly matters — helping to shape programmes, strengthen governance, and open doors for individuals who need it most.

About the Mitie Foundation
The Mitie Foundation is the independent charitable arm associated with Mitie Group which was established in 2013 to create meaningful, sustainable opportunities for individuals facing barriers to employment.
The Foundation delivers programmes that improve employability, inclusion and opportunity for people facing barriers to work, collaborating with partners, communities and colleagues to create measurable social value.

Help shape a charity that unlocks potential, removes employment barriers, and creates life‑changing opportunities.

Purpose of the role
Trustees work collectively to ensure the Mitie Foundation is well governed, financially sound, and achieving its charitable purposes. The Board provides strategic direction, oversight and constructive challenge so the Foundation delivers meaningful social impact while operating with integrity and independence.

We are seeking Trustee’s within the following key areas to support and form the Mitie Foundation Board;

• Finance & Risk Trustee – bringing specialist financial governance expertise, oversight of risk management, and assurance in line with Charity Commission expectations. 

• Trustee with Lived Experience – ensuring the views, needs, and realities of the communities we serve are represented at Trustee Board level. Anticipated to Chair a lived experience working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

• Campaigns & Events Trustee – providing expertise in public engagement, fundraising, and brand-led campaigns to support the Foundation’s growth and visibility. Anticipated to Chair a campaigns and engagement working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

• Inclusive Hiring Trustee – contributing specialist knowledge in fair-chance recruitment and employment pathways, supporting the Foundation’s commitment to inclusive hiring and social mobility. Anticipated to Chair a referral partner working group to provide insights and feedback to inform Foundation activities and support Foundation leadership and Governance. 

Key Responsibilities

• Strategy & governance: Shape and review the Foundation’s vision, mission and strategy; ensure alignment with charitable objects and Charity Commission guidance, uphold high standards of transparency and accountability.
• Oversight & assurance: Monitor performance against strategic priorities, outcomes and impact measures; approve budgets, management accounts and the statutory report and accounts; oversee risk management and ensure compliance with governing document, law and regulation.
• Executive support & challenge: Provide guidance and robust, respectful challenge to the Head of Foundation and team; maintain a clear distinction between governance and operations; participate in leadership appraisal/objective‑setting where appropriate.
• Representation & advocacy: Act as an ambassador for the Foundation within Mitie Group and externally; use professional networks to build partnerships and unlock opportunities for collaboration, funding or volunteering; protect and promote the Foundation’s independence and reputation.
• Conduct & integrity: Promote equality, diversity and inclusion across governance and programmes; uphold the Seven Nolan Principles of Public Life—selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Person specification
The Board seeks a balanced mix of skills and backgrounds; individual trustees will bring some (not all) of the following:

• Strategic or senior leadership experience in business, charity or public sector
• Charity governance and/or financial oversight
• Expertise in one or more of: HR, social value, finance, legal, ESG, communications, or programme delivery
• Ability to analyse complex information and contribute to sound, evidence‑based decisions
• Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to collaborative, inclusive Board culture
• A demonstrable passion for social impact, employability and inclusion aligned to our mission

Eligibility, standards and conflicts

• Candidates must be eligible to serve as a charity trustee under the Charities Act and willing to declare/ manage conflicts of interest, particularly given the Foundation’s corporate linkage.
• Appointment is subject to reference and other checks as appropriate to the role and the Foundation’s policies.
• Trustees are expected to prepare for meetings, attend regularly and contribute actively to collective decision‑making.

Remuneration and expenses
This is a non‑executive, pro‑bono trustee role. Reasonable expenses incurred in the course of duties will be reimbursed in line with policy.

Challenging times need capable and committed individuals.

The Gambling Harms space is undergoing a generational transformation as the commissioning structure transitions across to a new Statutory Levy based funding model. This change presents many imminent challenges and creates a space where the major stakeholders have little to no in-house subject expertise (around gambling harms) and where the previous formal pathway to Lived Experience involvement in system design and commissioning has been lost.

At this crucial time the Gambling Lived Experience Network is undergoing its own transformation to be able to step up and create meaningful engagement with an increasingly complex and layered stakeholder framework.

We are therefore looking for individuals with confidence, shared purpose, and proven abilities to join our board of trustees and help steward a growing charity during a crucial time in both GLEN's own development and also to help us shape the evolution of the wider gambling harms space.

There has quite simply never been a more important time to join our board, or to get personally involved in helping shape a massively under recognised but socially significant area of human adverse experience which currently impacts upwards of 10 million UK adults at any one time.

As a charity trustee you will be acting in an unpaid capacity but will be contributing so much to supporting the wellbeing and protection of literally millions of vulnerable individuals and families. It is a big ask, and a big challenge, but one which we believe is ultimately worth taking on.

We are ready for the challenge... are you?

Are you the new Chair-designate for Reading Community Learning Centre?

Do you have enthusiasm, skills and time to cooperatively govern and lead our charity that supports women learners?

You could be the Chair-designate of Reading Community Learning Centre, a charity serving the needs of local refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant women. We stand proudly for equality and women’s rights, and are looking for a woman Chair-designate to take on the role of leading our Board, supported by our outgoing Chair for a handover period of up to 6 months.

About us:

Set up in 2007, we are a Charitable Company that helps often-marginalised women to achieve their individual potential, through helping them improve their English, building confidence, making friends, volunteering locally, gaining qualifications or securing a job.

In 2025 we supported over 595 women from 41 different countries of origin, through our charitable spending of £244k.

About the role:

We’re looking for a woman to volunteer to lead our Board of Trustees, to work with other trustees and our CEO to shape our future supporting and empowering women. Women from global-majority/minority-ethnic communities are especially encouraged to apply.

If you can think and lead strategically, help us plan long-term, you have the primary skills needed by our Chair. Support from our employees is always available, as they will be dealing with the day-to-day running of the organisation.

Experience of committee or similar work, an understanding of cooperative leadership and a strong focus to shape the forward-looking Board, are what we are looking for. You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as induction will be provided, plus specialist guidance as a new trustee, including access to external training.

This is a high-profile appointment, with strong commitment to the future of Reading Community Learning Centre an essential quality, and having a good understanding of the value for the women we help. Trustees make the top-level decisions for our charity: our Board includes women with understanding, skills and experience of our support, and we require new trustees to have empathy with our cause. 

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We encourage women from all backgrounds to apply, particularly Black, Asian and global-majority women, and those who have previous experience of engaging and working collaboratively with our beneficiaries.

The Board meets online every six weeks, and we ask you for up to sixteen hours per month; this includes all meetings, correspondence, communication, etc. Our Chair does need to be able to visit the Centre regularly, so should have access to Reading.

How to apply:

This high-profile appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer an informal no-obligation discussion by video. A detailed Role Description and Skills Specification can be made available to you by request before that discussion.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references to satisfactory completion of an Enhanced DBS check.

Your CV and supporting statement will be read by our current Chair and trustees; an informal discussion followed by a more-formal interview can be offered as soon as mutually convenient.

I need to know more:

Contact Mike Allen via Apply Now, below, for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams or Zoom), explanation about this important role and any assistance or advice you may need to apply.

The Sutton Trust is at a pivotal moment in its development. For nearly three decades, we have been the UK’s leading voice on social mobility, working tirelessly to break the link between socio-economic background and life chances. Today, that mission is as urgent as it has ever been. Despite pockets of progress, social mobility in the UK remains low by international standards, with deep inequalities in education, access to professions, and regional opportunity continuing to limit life chances and economic potential.

We are seeking a Trustee with policy expertise who shares our commitment to fairness, evidence, and long-term change. We value diversity of thought and experience, and we are keen to hear from those who can help us navigate an evolving political landscape and leverage our research to challenge systemic barriers, ensuring our voice remains the most influential in the national drive to transform social mobility.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Trustee

Policy Responsibilities

• Providing oversight for the charity’s research and advocacy, ensuring the Trust’s work is mission-aligned, evidence-based, and intellectually rigorous
• Supporting the Board in discharging their collective duties around planning, risk and compliance, particularly in areas such as horizon scanning for upcoming legislative changes, political shifts and shifts in social trends affecting the Trust as well as specific regulations around political neutrality
• Leveraging their professional networks and expertise, enhancing the charity’s credibility and influence, ensuring our research translates into meaningful systemic change

General Responsibilities

• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s vision, mission and values and providing advice on the Trust’s wider purpose, goals and activities
• Inputting into and agreeing the Trust’s aims and long-term strategy in furtherance of its charitable purpose
• Ensuring key risks are identified, monitored and controlled effectively as well as keeping abreast of changes in the Trust’s operating environment
• Monitoring the Trust’s performance against its strategic aims, operational plans and budgets
• Safeguarding and promoting the Trust’s reputation, and acting in the best interest of the Trust at all times
• Ensuring the financial stability and sustainability of the Trust
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• Ensuring proper arrangements are in place for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and renumeration of the CEO and they are held to account
• Contributing to regular reviews of the Trust’s own governance
• Ensuring the Trust complies with its governing documents, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations

In addition to the above statutory duties, each Trustee should use their specific skills, knowledge and experience to contribute to the Board’s decision-making, and dedicate sufficient time to carry out their responsibilities effectively. This may involve sitting on Board Committees, scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Trustees aim to support a specific member of the SLT based on their skills and experience or may participate in appropriate subgroups, e.g., Alumni Leadership Board, Education Advisory Group, (Development) Board meetings, etc.

Person Specification

Mission and Values

• Sympathetic to the aims of the Trust and its mission to address educational disadvantage
• High level of personal and professional ethics, integrity, and accountability
• Willingness to safeguard and promote the Trust’s reputation within the wider sector

Strategy and Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to think strategically in order to provide appropriate oversight and scrutiny for the Trust’s overall activity and direction
• Ability to confidently and fairly make evidence-based decisions and constructively challenge the decisions of others if required
• Ability to collaborate and work as part of a team to provide advice, make decisions, and/or solve problems
• A commitment to personal development and a willingness to participate in regular reviews of the Board’s own performance and governance

Governance, Risk and Finance

• Understanding of the legal duties of a Trustee (or willingness to learn), including compliance with Charity Commission and Companies House regulations and commitment to the roles and responsibilities of a Trustee
• Awareness of (or willingness to learn about) financial health indicators and organisational risk management

Specialist Expertise and Experience

• A background in public affairs, civil service, think tanks, education sector organisations or senior policy or research roles in (education) charities
• Strong understanding of how UK government (at local, regional or national level) and/ or the UK education sector works
• Strong influencing and communications skills with the ability to lead discussions, provide expert advice, and influence stakeholders in a professional manner
• Good understanding of how to translate policy jargon into clear, strategic advice for the wider Trustee Board

Interviews

Applications should reach us by 10am, Monday 30th March. First round interviews will take place on Wednesday 15th and Thursday 16th April, and second round interviews will take place w/c 27th April or w/c 4th May. All interviews will be held at our London offices in Millbank Tower.

Treasurer Roles & Responsibilities 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas is seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and provide strategic oversight of the organisation’s financial health. The Treasurer plays a key governance role, strengthening financial literacy at Board level and supporting sustainable growth. The Board is responsible for governance and strategy and does not manage day-to-day operations.

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) is a growing charity registered with the Charity Commission (Charity No. 1189561). For the financial year ending 31 March 2025, RBB reported a total income of £423,041 and total expenditure of £373,007. As a charity with income above £250,000, we prepare annual accounts in accordance with the Charities SORP and undergo independent examination.

As our current treasurer prepares to step down, we are expanding our Board of Trustees to support the growth and future plans of our ambitious small charity. Board meetings take place every 12 weeks via video call, with opportunities for in-person gatherings throughout the year. Additional meetings may occasionally be required, either more frequently, in smaller groups, or one-to-one, depending on specific needs or exceptional circumstances. 

• Responsible to: Chair, Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Purpose: To oversee the management and reporting of charity finances.

• Hours: Approximately six to eight hours a month.

Remuneration: This is a voluntary, unpaid Trustee role. Reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed in line with our volunteer policy.

Role Summary 

The Treasurer will work closely with our team members including volunteers, other Trustees and with the CEO, advising on all financial matters including regulatory compliance. The Treasurer will be expected to attend Board meetings which last approximately an hour and a half every twelve weeks. The Treasurer will: 

• Actively participate as a key member of the Board of Trustees. 

• Act as an ambassador for Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

• Oversee and analyse the development of the annual budget and cash flow forecasts, ensuring alignment with organisational strategy and sustainability.

• Support with fundraising and financial strategic planning 

• Advise on all financial matters, including regulatory compliance. 

• Oversee the development and observation of financial policies 

• Advise the board on fund management and ensure an appropriate reserves policy

• Advise fellow Trustees on a regular basis of the financial status of the charity and where necessary recommend action. 

• Oversee and administer financial processes including Gift Aid claims and payroll, ensuring appropriate financial controls, transparency and board oversight are maintained. (There is currently only one person on payroll.)

• Work collaboratively with the CEO and Chair to ensure appropriate financial segregation of duties within the constraints of a small charity.

• Support the Board in monitoring financial risk, reserves policy and international financial compliance.

• Ensure appropriate internal financial controls are in place and regularly reviewed.

• Work with professional advisors including any contracted accountants 

• Review financial transactions on a monthly basis via digital accounting software, Xero

• Arrange the compilation and agreement of Refugee Biryani & Bananas’ annual report

• Lead Trustee liaison with the independent examiner and oversee the preparation and Board approval of the annual accounts and report.

The Treasurer will play a key role in strengthening financial sustainability as RBB continues to grow its international programmes and funding base.

Person Specification 

The ideal candidate will have innovative ideas and sound financial knowledge. All Trustees are expected to assist Refugee Biryani & Bananas to secure a sustainable and diverse funding base for the organisation. 

Essential 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

• Support for the values and mission of Refugee Biriyani & Bananas

• Familiarity with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP), or willingness to develop this knowledge.

• Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information 

Desirable 

• A qualified accountant (formal qualification preferred) with financial and commercial awareness, experienced in managing finances, payroll, and the needs of smaller organisations. 

• An understanding of the voluntary sector and previous experience as a Trustee or Treasurer. 

• Good communication and competent IT skills 

• Extensive experience in senior strategic management and leadership, combined with strong analytical and evaluation skills. 

About Refugee Biryani & Bananas 

Refugee Biriyani & Bananas (RBB) began as a grassroots movement in 2015, in response to the Syrian refugee crisis. What started as a group of friends distributing 2,500 portions of biriyani and bananas in the unofficial camp for displaced people in Dunkirk, Northern France, has grown into a community-driven humanitarian organisation. Initially working under the umbrella of another organisation, RBB became independent to better address gaps in aid and advocacy for displaced people worldwide. 

What We Do 

RBB supports people facing displacement, war, and inequality, tailoring actions to the needs of each situation. From food distributions to medical support and human rights advocacy, our work is versatile and responsive. We have provided aid in refugee and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, squats, and other unstable settlements along migratory pathways, including: 

• France: Calais, Dunkirk & Paris 

• Greece: Idomeni, Thessaloniki, Athens, Lavrio, Samos & Chios (our main base) 

• Northern Iraq: Duhok 

• Serbia: Belgrade Barracks 

• Bosnia & Herzegovina - Croatia Border: Vucjak Camp 

• Turkey: Istanbul 

• Poland, Belarus & Lithuania Border

• Ukraine Border (Poland and Ukraine sides) 

• Palestine: Gaza

• Egypt: Cairo

Our Approach 

RBB is a mobile grassroots organisation, designed to respond rapidly and flexibly to emerging crises. Our main base of operations is on Chios Island, Greece, where we provide ongoing support to people who are displaced.

Since October 2023, we have also established community-led initiatives to support people affected by the war in Gaza, Palestine, as well as Sudanese and other displaced communities in Cairo, Egypt.

Beyond emergency relief, we remain committed to ongoing support through volunteers, translation services, medical care, aid, and advocacy until either local capacity builds or the situation changes. In addition, our Community Humanitarian Leaders Programme (CHLP) plays a vital role in this approach by strengthening the leadership of people who are displaced by building on their existing skills, networks and lived experience in humanitarian efforts. 

Our field team comprises 90% individuals from refugee and asylum-seeking communities, representing Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Gambia, Ethiopia, Palestine, and Yemen. This diverse team is led by our founder and CEO, Ruhi Akhtar, alongside field coordinators / project managers. 

We prioritise dignity and equity, involving displaced individuals in decision-making and collaboration. RBB's direct aid includes food, water, shelter, medical supplies, clothing, hygiene packs, and season-specific items like sunscreen or firewood. Needs assessments and communication with affected communities guide our actions, ensuring targeted, person-centered care. 

Advocacy & Awareness 

RBB amplifies the voices of displaced people by sharing their stories and raising awareness about often-overlooked realities. Through storytelling and advocacy, we aim to challenge injustice and inspire action.