Chair volunteer roles in england
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Trustees - Development or Commercial Expertise
Location: Hampshire (Winchester and Eastleigh) - Board meetings held onsite, Committee meetings held remotely
Role: Voluntary (travel expenses paid)
Reports to: Chair of Board of Trustees
Wonderseekers is currently recruiting two new trustees to join our Board - one with expertise in development and strategic growth, and another with a strong commercial background. These new positions have been created in response to the charity’s growth and the evolving needs of our governance structure, ensuring we have the right skills and perspectives to deliver our ambitious strategy and deepen our impact for children and the planet.
About Wonderseekers
Wonderseekers exists to create a more equitable world where all children can treasure science and are equipped and empowered to improve lives and protect and heal our planet. Our strategy, For People and Planet 2030, sets out a clear vision for the outcomes we aim to influence for children and nature.
We value diversity on our Board of Trustees and the unique contributions each trustee brings through their lived, loved, laboured and learned experiences. We aim to reflect the communities we serve across all levels of the organisation.
The Role of a Trustee
As a trustee, you will help shape our strategic direction, oversee the financial sustainability of our charity, influence future projects, and support good risk management. You will work closely with fellow trustees and the Executive Team to ensure Wonderseekers delivers on its mission, always aligned with Our Promise to Children and our regulatory obligations.
General Responsibilities (All Trustees)
- Engage effectively and constructively in Board and Committee discussions
- Develop strong working relationships with fellow trustees and the executive team
- Understand the voluntary sector and the legal responsibilities of a trustee
- Think creatively and innovatively
- Commit time to meetings, preparation, and informal engagement
- Analyse proposals and assess their impact on our mission
- Be passionate about using science to inspire children to live healthier, more sustainable lives
Role 1: Trustee – Development and Strategic Growth
We are seeking a trustee with experience in strategic development, income generation, and fundraising - ideally within the charity sector.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic oversight of Wonderseekers' forward plans, major initiatives, and campaigns
- Guide the Board on building external relationships with funders, partners, and stakeholders
- Support the Development Team in evolving fundraising strategies (individual giving, grants, trusts, corporate partnerships)
- Shape strategies for income generation, sponsorship, and donor stewardship
- Contribute to public relations, communications, and marketing
- Champion Wonderseekers’ mission and connect new supporters with our vision
- Serve and Chair the Fundraising Committee
Role 2: Trustee - Commercial Strategy
We are also seeking a trustee with a strong commercial background, particularly in the visitor experience sector, with financial acumen and senior experience in either a commercial or charitable setting.
Key Responsibilities:
- Maintain strategic oversight of Wonderseekers' commercial performance, especially at our visitor centre in Winchester
- Advise the Board on commercial matters and support the COO in long-term growth planning
- Lead or support on commercial risk management
- Serve as a director and Chair of our trading subsidiary, Sparking Curiosity Limited
Trustee Requirements (All Roles)
- Commitment to the charity’s purpose, values, and objectives
- Constructive and respectful collaboration
- Responsible and reasonable conduct
- Confidentiality on sensitive matters
- Preparedness and presence at meetings
- Analytical thinking and constructive challenge
- Support for collective decisions
Trustee Arrangements
- Board size: Up to 12 trustees
- Term: Up to three terms of three years each
- Meetings: Quarterly Board meetings (in person), up to four committee meetings per year (online)
- Strategy Day: Annual planning day in September
- Time commitment: Board/committee meetings, preparation, informal engagement, and key events
- Support: Induction, ongoing training, and reasonable expenses covered
Board Diversity
We are committed to building a Board that reflects the diversity of the children and communities we serve. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, particularly those who bring lived experience and perspectives currently underrepresented on our Board.
Vice-Chair Opportunity (Optional)
We are also looking to appoint a Vice-Chair (or two Co-Vice Chairs). If you are interested in this additional role, please indicate this in your application. A full Vice-Chair role profile is available upon request.
How to Apply
For a full role profile for each role, please visit www.wonderseekers.charity/vacancies
To apply, please send your CV and a cover letter to Meika Young, Executive Assistant, (see website for email address). We are operating a rolling deadline - please apply as soon as possible.
To create a more equitable world where all children treasure science and are equipped and empowered to improve lives and protect and heal our planet.

The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are seeking a proactive, strategic, and mission-aligned Funding Manager to join our growing team. This pivotal role will lead on identifying, applying for, and managing multiple streams of funding to support the delivery and expansion of our work. As a small charity with big impact, funding is vital to everything we do — from running support services to delivering education and campaigning for change. The Funding Manager will be at the heart of ensuring our sustainability and growth by securing the resources we need. You will be line managed by the Chair of Trustees, and work closely with the Treasurer and other trustees as needed to complete applications, manage current funding applications and report on grant outcomes.
What are the key responsibilities of this role?
This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:
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Identify and research suitable funding opportunities from trusts, foundations, statutory bodies, and other grant-makers
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Lead and coordinate the writing and submission of compelling funding bids, applications, and proposals.
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Manage and track existing grants, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements and deadlines.
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Work with trustees (e.g. Treasurer and Chair) to gather financial and impact data for applications and reports.
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Maintain a funding pipeline and reporting calendar, ensuring visibility of all application stages and deadlines.
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Build and maintain relationships with funders, providing updates on Hidayah’s work and impact.
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Monitor trends in the funding landscape and keep the charity informed of relevant changes and opportunities.
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Advise and support the Board in developing a long-term funding strategy.
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To maintain clear records on the organisation’s shared systems (Google Drive).
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Meet regularly e.g. monthly or bi-monthly with your line manager to discuss funding applications and progress
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To check and respond to funding application emails promptly and within deadlines set for funding applications
What do we expect from the Funding Manager?
Please note that you must agree with and fit the criteria below to be eligible to volunteer in this role:
Essential:
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Demonstrable experience of successful fundraising from trusts, foundations, or statutory funders.
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Excellent bid writing and storytelling skills, with the ability to communicate impact clearly.
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Strong organisational skills, able to manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
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Financially literate, comfortable working with budgets and data.
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Self-motivated and able to work independently while collaborating with others.
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A commitment to the values and mission of Hidayah LGBTQI+.
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Knowledge of CRM or funding management tools.
Desirable:
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Experience working with grassroots or LGBTQI+ charities.
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Understanding of issues affecting LGBTQI+ Muslims or minoritised communities.
How much commitment is required?
This is a voluntary role with flexible hours, and can be carried out around your existing commitments. We are results-focused, so while you have autonomy over when you volunteer, we ask that funding bids and key deadlines are met in a timely and reliable manner.
Our mission is to provide support and welfare for LGBTQI+ Muslims
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Chair – Filling Good (Sustainable Retail Community Benefit Society)
Location: Remote/Hybrid – Maidenhead, Berkshire
Commitment: Voluntary (Approx. 4 hrs/week)
Application Deadline: 31/07/2025 - We will interview candidates as we receive applications of interest
Start Date: ASAP
About Filling Good
Filling Good is a community-led sustainable retail community benefit society on a mission to reduce waste, promote ethical consumption, and support local, eco-conscious producers. Based in Maidenhead, we are passionate about empowering our members and customers to live more sustainably. As a co-operative, we are owned and governed by our members and guided by values of fairness, transparency, and social impact.
The Role
We are seeking a new Chair of the Board to provide strategic leadership, ensure good governance, and support the long-term sustainability and growth of Filling Good. This is a rewarding opportunity to lead a purpose-driven organisation making real environmental and social change at the local level.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
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Guide the Board in setting and reviewing strategic goals.
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Lead an annual strategy workshop (e.g. SWOT analysis, SMART goal setting).
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Ensure consistent progress tracking against the co-operative’s strategic plan.
Governance Oversight
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Chair Board meetings with clear agendas and effective timekeeping.
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Ensure compliance with legal, food safety, and risk management requirements.
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Support transparent communication with members and foster a shared understanding of priorities.
Operational Support
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Act as a point of contact and line management for senior staff (e.g.Senior Retail Manager).
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Hold annual informal reviews with key volunteers to set goals and offer support.
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Monitor key performance indicators, financial updates, and operational risks.
Board & Team Development
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Facilitate reviews for individual directors and the Board as a whole.
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Support the ongoing learning and development of Board members.
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Represent Filling Good at events and within the wider co-operative and sustainability sectors.
About You
We’re looking for someone who:
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Brings leadership experience and a collaborative, facilitative approach
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Understands or is keen to learn about co-operative governance
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Is passionate about sustainability, social impact, and ethical retail
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Can commit time and energy to support a growing, purpose-led organisation
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Is diplomatic, organised, and a great communicator
Experience in strategy, governance, HR, or ethical business is desirable but not essential.
What You’ll Gain
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Be part of a vibrant, values-driven community
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Lead meaningful change in local sustainability
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Gain board-level experience in an innovative co-operative model
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Collaborate with a passionate, diverse team of volunteers and members
How to Apply
To express interest, please send a short cover letter and CV (or a brief description of your relevant experience) by 31st July 2025
Informal chats about the role are welcome – just get in touch!
Filling Good is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities.
As a not-for-profit Community Benefit Society, our mission is to reduce waste, promote ethical consumption & support local, eco-conscious producers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your community? Do you want to use your skills to help ensure a local charity is financially strong, transparent, and forward-thinking?
Home-Start Barnet, Brent and Harrow is seeking a new Treasurer to join our committed Board of Trustees. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the strategic direction and sustainability of a growing, values-led organisation that supports hundreds of families each year.
You don’t need to be a qualified accountant – just someone with good financial awareness, an eye for detail, and a desire to help shape our future.
What You’ll Do
As Treasurer, you’ll play a key role in the charity’s success by:
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Overseeing our finances – ensuring we are financially healthy and legally compliant
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Working with our CEO and Accountant – to review budgets, financial plans and monthly reports
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Supporting the board – by explaining financial information in an accessible way and guiding strategic decisions
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Chairing our Finance Subcommittee – held once every 12 weeks
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Ensuring good financial governance – making sure systems are in place for managing our income and spending
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Helping plan for sustainability – offering insight into full-cost recovery, funding gaps and long-term planning
Who We’re Looking For
We’re open to candidates from a variety of backgrounds – you may be a retired finance professional, someone in a leadership or strategic role, or looking for a first trustee position with a cause that matters to you.
You’ll ideally bring:
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Financial literacy and confidence with numbers
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Experience managing budgets, interpreting accounts or overseeing finances
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Strategic thinking, sound judgement, and a collaborative style
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An interest in supporting families and giving children the best start in life
Previous experience as a trustee is helpful but not essential.
If you have questions about the role and would like to have an informal conversation, please contact us and we would be happy to arrange a call.
To apply, provide your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than one A4 page) that sets out why you are interested in this role and highlights the experiences and qualities you believe make you suitable.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We’re on the lookout for a volunteer who’s keen to make a real difference in our communities — and pick up some new skills along the way!
This is a unique opportunity to gain a recognised qualification while helping residents at Asquith Court and Charlotte Court enjoy regular chair-based exercise sessions. These schemes don’t currently have any sessions, but they’re really keen to get started — ideally once a month to begin with (and maybe more if it’s a hit!).
We’ll support you every step of the way, including covering the cost of your Amac Certificate in Chair-based Exercise Instructing - which you can complete online at your own pace. Once you’re qualified, we’ll work with you to build a schedule that fits around your availability.
Each session will last up to an hour, and we’ll also cover your travel expenses between the two schemes.
Because you’ll be working with potentially vulnerable residents, you’ll need to be 18 or over to take on this role.
If you’re passionate about helping others stay active, feel good, and have fun — we’d love to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Since its inception in 2020, SBP has grown rapidly, establishing an exciting and evolving portfolio of nature recovery projects across Scotland. Following the recent appointment of our first Chief Executive Officer, we are now seeking to recruit a new Trustee to take on the role of Treasurer. The Treasurer will oversee the financial matters of the charity in accordance with key legal requirements and in line with best practice and good governance. Financial responsibility is shared collectively by all Trustees, but the Treasurer is the finance lead and helps the Board to fulfil its responsibilities. The Treasurer’s key responsibilities are as follows:
● Ensuring compliance with statutory financial and reporting requirements under the Charities and Trustee Investment (Scotland) Act 2005, OSCR regulations and Companies House
● Acting as the primary liaison with the charity’s auditors, ensuring annual accounts are prepared, scrutinised and approved
● Overseeing financial policies and internal controls, including those relating to reserves, restricted/unrestricted funds and investment
● Advising the Board on the reserves policy and financial sustainability, and supporting risk management
● Supporting other Trustees to understand financial information, so that the whole Board can fulfil its financial responsibilities and make informed decisions
The Treasurer will chair the Finance Committee and will work closely with the CEO, the Head of Finance and HR, and the Head of Projects. They will ensure that financial management measures, controls and procedures such as budget-setting and monitoring are effective, and that these are appropriate for the charity.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Who They Are
YMCA Henley, founded in 1857, is a well-established charity and a Registered Provider of Social Housing. The organisation provides affordable housing for young people through 31 self-contained studio apartments and flats. In addition, the “Y-Centre” offers community activities via a purpose-built pavilion, with sporting activities centred mainly on football—at junior level on grass pitches in partnership with local organisations, and at adult level on a floodlit, all-weather playing surface.
The Role
The Honorary Treasurer applies their financial knowledge and experience to work alongside the Finance Manager in overseeing the organisation’s financial affairs. They ensure that all practices are legal, constitutional, and in line with accepted accounting standards.
The role includes ensuring compliance with the requirements of the Charity Commission and the Regulator of Social Housing. This involves reviewing financial reports, returns, and draft statutory accounts prepared by staff.
The Honorary Treasurer chairs meetings of the Finance and Development Committee, which monitors and reports to the Trustee Board on a quarterly basis. They also liaise, where necessary, with the Independent External Financial Examiner to finalise statutory accounts for presentation and approval by the Trustee Board.
A full role description is available, along with a comprehensive induction programme and potential handover.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
A Finance Assistant helps support the financial operations of the organisation. The core role typically includes assisting with bookkeeping, budgeting, and financial record-keeping, assisting with the preparation of year end, and producing a yearly review for the strategy day, along with attending monthly meetings and assisting in the updating of the board. All tasks under the guidance of a Treasurer. The purpose of the role is so the organisation can maintain accurate financial records, comply with regulations, and make informed decisions. It’s also a valuable learning opportunity for volunteers interested in finance, accounting.
What are the key responsibilities of this role?
This role will have the following duties, but are not limited to:
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Inputting financial data into spreadsheets Sage and Google Sheets
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Filing and organizing invoices, receipts, and bank statements
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Assisting with bank reconciliations
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Helping to prepare monthly and quarterly financial reports
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Supporting the preparation of annual budgets and audits
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Assisting with volunteer expense claims
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Maintaining confidentiality and handling data responsibly
What do we expect from a Finance Assistant?
Essential:
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Basic understanding of finance or accounting principles
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Good IT skills, particularly Google Sheets
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Strong attention to detail and accuracy
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Ability to work independently and as part of a team
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Experience with accounting software (Sage is a plus)
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Commitment to the values and mission of Hidayah
How much commitment is required?
The role is flexible and can work around your current commitments. On average it should take less than two hours per week. A few things to note is that we ask you try to:
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Attend the monthly meetings (held online for an average of 2 hours).
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Attend Hidayah’s Strategy Day (once a year) if the Treasurer is unable to
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Be available to catch up meetings with the treasurer and the chair of the charity.
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Work alongside the treasurer to keep accurate records, and check and respond to emails in a timely fashion.
Our mission is to provide support and welfare for LGBTQI+ Muslims
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
GrantScape is currently seeking applications from enthusiastic and highly motivated people to join the Board of the charity.
There are currently two vacancies to strengthen our Board. We are particularly interested to hear from applicants with marketing, communications or HR backgrounds. Experience of and connections within the renewable energy industry are desirable, but not essential.
This is an opportunity for someone to obtain board level experience in a friendly, established and well governed charity.
GrantScape is a highly respected charity which specialises in Community Benefit Fund (CBF) grant administration and management. We provide grant-making solutions through the delivery of top quality, cost-effective grant programmes. Since 1997, we have firmly established ourselves as a leader in community fund grant administration and management and are one of the UK’s major grant-makers.
We administer CBFs on behalf of large scale renewable energy developers including wind farms and solar farms, other renewable energy plants and landfill operators (through the Landfill Communities Fund).
As an equal opportunity employer, we celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all our employees and volunteers. There are currently 11 dedicated staff, nine of which have worked for the charity for over five years, and some more than 20 years. We pride ourselves on the value we place on our staff and volunteers and our success in retaining them.
As a Trustee you will be responsible to help manage and govern the charity, and to ensure over £6 million of funding each year is awarded to the most worthwhile community, environmental and educational projects throughout England, Wales and Scotland.
The charity has four board meetings a year. Two are usually held virtually, with the other two in Milton Keynes where our head office is located. You therefore must be based in the UK. You will also be expected to participate in other grant-decision meetings by email, normally monthly, between Board meetings.
This position is not remunerated but travel and out of pocket expenses will be paid in line with the charity’s Expenses Policy.
Please apply by emailing your CV, together with a covering letter setting out your reasons for applying and what skills and strengths you can bring to the charity.
If you would like to discuss the role further before applying, please contact the charity directly to arrange a call with Libby, GrantScape's chair, or with Matt, the Chief Executive.
The closing date for applications is 31 October 2025.
GamLEARN are Seeking a New Trustee: Bring Your Expertise to Our Board!
About Us
GamLEARN (Lived Experience and Recovery Network) is a UK charity dedicated to empowering people affected by gambling. We provide a platform for lived experience, support peer-led recovery, and influence systems change.
Our vision is to ensure all voices impacted by gambling harm are heard, valued, and lead change.
The Role of Trustee
Reports to: Chair of the Board
Location: Remote or Hybrid (UK)
Time Commitment: Approx. 4–6 board meetings per year
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
As a Trustee, you will support the strategic leadership of GamLEARN, ensuring accountability, transparency, and mission alignment.
Key Responsibilities
- Shape strategic direction and support delivery of mission
- Ensure good governance and regulatory compliance
- Provide oversight of risk and finance
- Champion lived experience and support inclusive leadership
- Promote and advocate for the organisation
Who We’re Looking For
We particularly welcome applicants with: Experience within or alongside the gambling sector,regulation or public policy. Legal knowledge or experience, Communication and PR, experience within the 3rd sector, lived experience of gambling harm within the Criminal Justice System, Strong values and team work, willingness to act in the best interests of beneficaries.
Closing date for applications: 15th of October 2025
Interviews to be held: First 2 weeks in November 2025
Start Date Anticipated: Start of December 2025
GamLEARN is a community of non-judgemental people who support each other and work together to reduce Gambling Harm.



Join us in making a positive impact on young people, meeting employers’ skills needs, and supporting our communities. Help set the strategic direction of our college, drive innovation, and support our commitment to inclusivity and sustainability. We have two immediate vacancies and one or two further opportunities arising in 2026.
Governors are voluntary, non-executive board members who contribute their expertise, working constructively with the executive to set strategic direction, assess performance and ensure financial sustainability. You’ll work with a dedicated team, receive training and support, and gain insights into strategic business leadership. You’ll attend 2-3 board/committee meetings per academic term.
We’re seeking people with the enthusiasm and commitment to share their knowledge and experience to support the mission, leadership, governance of our college in an ever-evolving education environment. We believe in the strength of a diverse governing body and welcome applicants with varied backgrounds who bring fresh perspectives.
We particularly welcome professional expertise in:
- Education – especially post-16 (FE/ HE)
- Financial oversight (commercial or public sector)
- Chairing a board or leading a complex organisation
- Sustainability
- Property and land management
We also value experience in sectors linked to our curriculum offer or knowledge of our local and regional stakeholders.
Read our candidate information pack for more information about the role and time commitment.
To apply for this opportunity or for an informal discussion, please visit our Governance site.
The applications closing day is Wednesday 5 November 2025 (midnight).
Raising Aspirations, Unlocking Potential, Advancing Futures
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Smart Works Bristol is looking for a qualified / part qualified accountant or someone from an accountancy background to join our community and become a Trustee Treasurer. This is an important position, with the successful candidate working closely with the Chair of Smart Works Bristol to ensure the charity is well-run and effective.
The Treasurer has oversight of the financial strategy and management of their local Smart Works centre. They monitor the financial health of the charity and ensure the wider Board are provided with the financial information they need to make well considered decisions.
The successful candidate will ensure financial procedures are followed, complete a monthly review of income and expenditure and feed into the annual fundraising strategy for their Smart Works centre.
For full details on this exciting opportunity, please see the attached job pack.
Please apply by 12 noon on Friday 17th October to be considered.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Military Wives Choirs is looking for a Governance Trustee who is passionate about what we do and who has the relevant skills, energy and acumen to work as part of the Board overseeing the work of the charity, ensuring it is financially stable, well-run and fulfilling its charitable obligations.
We are a small but ambitious charity looking to further our reach and impact across the military community both in the UK and internationally. Formed in 2012, we already connect a diverse group of over 1600 women across 71 choirs in the UK and on British military bases overseas, creating a support network through the power of singing. But there is still more to do in furthering our mission of Sing, Share, Support.
It’s not critical that you have previous experience of being a Trustee, more important is the ability to think strategically and independently, act with integrity at all times, be inclusive and value the perspectives and ideas of others.
You will need to attend four Board meetings a year. Three meetings are virtual, scheduled for Thursdays and run from 4-7.30pm and one in person on a Saturday in London 10.30 am -3.30pm. Trustees are also required to attend a Board Awayday each year. This usually takes place in London in January.
As a small charity there will also a requirement to get involved in other activities. Examples include chairing sub-committees, attending events and performances, supporting fundraising activities including the acquisition and engagement of major donors and providing advice to the operational team.
This is a volunteer role without remuneration, but reasonable expenses will be paid.
For further information, please read the information pack attached.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Wicksteed Park opened in 1921, making it the oldest theme park on UK mainland. Its founder, Charles Wicksteed purchased the land in 1913. His initial goal was to create a model village for the local community, however following World War One and housing reforms, Charles looked to develop a park for people to spend their leisure time. He set up a charitable trust in 1916 and went on to build a number of prefabricated houses – some of which still exist and are within the park grounds.
A century ago, Charles Wicksteed put into practice his deep-held belief that all children, no matter how rich or poor, should have somewhere safe and fun to play outdoors. Public parks in Charles’ own youth had been very formal places where you walked sedately along the paths, keeping off the grass. He was determined to provide something different and here at Wicksteed he did just that, using his engineering skills to provide a new and exciting element to public open spaces.
Swings, slides and roundabouts, parks and playgrounds are the background to many of our freest and most joyful childhood memories. They are something that we all share, generations of us, from all over Britain, but this is where it all started. Wicksteed Park is truly somewhere amazing and very special.
It is good to see this story of Kettering’s contribution to our nation’s health and happiness and to remember that Wicksteed is a place with an incredible heritage and an exciting future. Wicksteed Park is much more than an amusement park and continues to attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year to play and explore in its beautiful grounds.
Still delivering its core heritage but focusing on the connections with Kettering and wider communities, Wicksteed Charitable Trust has an opportunity to grow and transform, ensuring we are contributing to our communities’ wellbeing for the next century. It is thanks to the value, care, generosity, determination of our amazing volunteers that ensures the park has continued to deliver over some challenging years for the park.
We are now looking to expand our Trustee Board and are looking for people from a range of backgrounds who understand our community, the challenges that modern families face and have the drive and determination to deliver strategic objectives to build on our links and our regional presence. We would also like to hear from people who can bring professional expertise especially in areas including Law, Finance, Leisure and Tourism and Land Management.
As a Trustee at Wicksteed Park you will join a small team of existing Trustees. We are looking for individuals who will bring their own experience to complement our collaborative approach. You will be asked to speak out, offer opinion and be a critical friend, enabler and constructive challenge to the team..
About Us
Charles Wicksteed’s dream was to provide free play for all. Today The Wicksteed Trust’s main objective is to provide a safe environment for people of all ages to relax and play and to provide a focus for community activity. Wicksteed Park is a Grade II listed Historic Park with four County Wildlife Sites and a Scheduled Ancient Monument.
We play an important role in Kettering contributing to our communities’ health and happiness. Our aim is to grow and develop our offering to Regional and National communities promoting what Wicksteed Park has to offer.
Role
Trustees are responsible for making sure the charity stays true to its mission and vision. Being a Trustee of an historic, community-based charity, means making decisions that will impact on the communities we serve across in Kettering and the wider county, enriching lives and providing a focus for community activity.
Trustees, led by a Chair, have independent control over, and legal responsibility for, the charity’s management and administration. They act as the ultimate decision makers of the organisation, protecting the interests of the members and the public. They agree the strategy and hold the executives to account for the management of the organisation.
Responsibilities
Governance
· Understand the charity’s purposes as set out in its governing document and ensure compliance to law and other relevant regulations.
· Ensure the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these in partnership with other Trustees.
· Ensure the sustainability of the charity and sound risk management.
· Oversee what the charity does and what it needs to achieve.
· Be responsible for the performance of the charity and for its 'corporate' behaviour.
· Act as a guardian of the charity's assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment, and proper application.
· Ensure the charity's governance is of the highest possible standard.
Leadership
· Contribute to the development of the charity‘s long term strategy.
· Raise public profile and promote the reputation of the organisation.
Financial Management
· Ensure the charity’s assets are only used to support or carry out its purposes.
· Evaluate risks to the assets or reputation.
· Monitor and assess the organisation’s results in relation to the agreed strategy, budget and implementation plan.
In addition to the above duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve leading sub committees, leading discussions, identifying key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, and evaluating or offering advice on other areas in which the Trustee has particular expertise.
Person Specification
The Board of Trustees collectively needs skills and experience in the following areas:
· Law
· Finance
· Land Management
· Leisure and Tourism
Essential
· Ability to commit to essential Board and Sub Committee meetings and participate on any further critical meetings or email discussions as appropriate.
· Good communication skills across all levels.
· Excellent planning and organisational ability with long term focus.
· Genuine passion and interest in the charity’s work.
· Integrity and openness.
· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship.
Desirable
· Understanding of charity governance, legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities.
· Understanding of the voluntary sector.
Length of appointment
Our Trustees are appointed for an initial three-year term, and can be re-appointed for up to two more three-year terms (there is a maximum of nine years’ continuous service).
Time commitment
The estimated Trustee time commitment is a minimum of 6 half day full trust meetings each year (held every other month), plus reading and preparation time. Board meetings will be held at Wicksteed Park in Kettering. Additional commitment to any sub-committee or ad-hoc duties may be reasonably required. Sub-Committee meetings may be held online and it is expected these will be held quarterly.
Remuneration
The Trustee appointment is voluntary but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed in line with the expenses policy.
Location
Wicksteed Park, Kettering, NN15 6NJ.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Wicksteed Charitable Trust follows the principles of equality, diversity and inclusion and seeks a diverse Trust Board to meet the needs of the organisation.
At Finance Innovation Lab we believe in a financial system that serves people and planet. Our financial system has become disconnected from the real needs of people, the environment, the wider economy and society. It doesn’t have to be this way. Could you help us change it?
About the roles
We’re looking for up to three new trustees to join our board from January 2026. Fully remote participation is possible.
You'll use your expertise to help the Lab be more effective and impactful, while gaining insights into our work and experience of charity governance and leadership. During 2026, there may also be an opportunity to take on the role of Chair, co-Chair, or Vice Chair.
All roles are voluntary, with reasonable expenses reimbursed, including childcare or other caring costs if this is needed to attend meetings.
Who are we looking for?
We’re looking in particular for people with experience in:
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Financial sector policy: at the Lab, we work to change the policies and rules which shape and govern the financial system, so it can deliver more socially, economically and environmentally just outcomes. Do you have experience developing, influencing or driving government policy, legislation or regulation for the financial sector? This could be either from within or outside the mechanisms of power. Could you help us to achieve our goals?
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Communications: effective communications are key to our work, and an area where we're looking to grow and improve. If you've got experience in media or digital comms, and would be willing to support and mentor the team as we develop our skills and capacity, we'd love to hear from you.
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Fundraising: the majority of our funding currently comes from trusts and foundation grants, plus we’re working on building our earned income streams. In future we’d also like to explore individual giving. Do you have relevant experience in these areas you’d enjoy sharing?
We’re also keen to hear from candidates with the relevant expertise to join our Finance and Operational Risk Committee, and/or our Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion working group. You can read more about these in the attached Trustee Recruitment Pack.
We recognise that people's backgrounds and the identities they hold have a significant effect on the ways that they experience and are impacted by the financial system. We know that our own work will be stronger if it is directly informed by a diversity of perspectives, including from those most negatively impacted by the current financial system. We therefore particularly welcome applications from people with backgrounds or identities that are currently under-represented on our board and team, including those from Global Majority backgrounds, neurodivergent people, disabled and/or chronically ill people, those with lived experience of financial exclusion, and women and non-binary genders. For info, you can find the results of our 2024 diversity survey results on our website.
You must feel confident in supporting the team and the board by providing advice and input on your areas of expertise, based on your experience. However, previous experience of serving on a board of trustees is not required, and we provide training and mentoring on fulfilling the obligations required of a trustee.
Our Commitment to Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
We believe that justice, equity, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to what we are trying to achieve.
We are committed to providing equality and fairness for all and not to discriminate on any grounds, including gender, marital status, race, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, mental health, religion or age.
You can read more about this, including the concrete steps we commit to during this process, in the Trustee Recruitment Pack.
We believe in a financial system that serves people and planet.



