Chair volunteer roles in hackney, greater london

Chair
Unremunerated | Approx. 2 days per month | Hybrid meetings (alternating between remote and in-person)

Our client, a long-established charitable trust, exists to support women’s financial resilience and to tackle gendered poverty in the UK. Since 2016, the organisation has awarded over £26 million in grants, directly benefiting more than 150,000 women through individual funding, community-based partnerships, and long-term systemic change initiatives.

The charity is now seeking a new Chair of the Board to guide it through the next phase of its strategic development. This is a significant opportunity to provide leadership to a highly focused and well-governed organisation addressing one of the UK’s most pressing and persistent inequalities.

The incoming Chair will offer inclusive and effective leadership to the Board of Trustees, uphold strong governance practices, support the Chief Executive, and help shape the organisation’s strategic direction. The role will be central in maintaining momentum, reinforcing accountability, and ensuring the organisation continues to respond effectively to the needs of the communities it serves.

The charity is open to exploring alternative leadership models and welcomes interest from those considering a Chair and Deputy Chair arrangement or a Co-Chair model. The priority is securing a collaborative and inclusive approach to board leadership that aligns with the charity’s values.

The ideal candidate will bring:

• A sound understanding of governance, financial oversight, funding models, and compliance within the charitable sector

• Proven experience in chairing boards or senior-level committees, with the ability to facilitate inclusive, productive discussions and decision-making

• Strong strategic thinking skills, with the ability to anticipate change, manage uncertainty, and influence long-term direction

• A values-led leadership style marked by emotional intelligence, empathy, and integrity

• A deep commitment to gender equity and a nuanced understanding of the structural drivers of gendered poverty

• The time and capacity to fully engage with the responsibilities of the role

To learn more about the role and how to apply, please visit the dedicated microsite by clicking 'redirect to recruiter'

This is an exciting time to join the organisation. The new Chair will work alongside a dedicated executive team and engaged trustees to ensure that the charity’s funding remains impactful, relevant, and sustainable — and that its governance continues to reflect its core values.

Lead the Board of the national charity dedicated to supporting disabled children, young people and their families.

Applications for this role close Monday 8th September.

Who we are

Kids is on a mission to create a world where all kinds of kids have all kinds of opportunities.

Founded in 1970, we have grown into a national organisation supporting over 22,000 children, young people and families each year across England.

We are on an ambitious journey to reach at least 120,000 disabled children, young people and their families each year by 2027. Our vision is bold yet achievable: a society where disabled children, young people and their families enjoy equal rights and opportunities.

When the world places barriers in the path of disabled children and young people, Kids speaks up. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to play, learn, grow and thrive. Our work spans from early years support to young adulthood through services such as:

• inclusive playschemes
• adventure playgrounds
• youth groups
• parent support
• mediation services
• emotional wellbeing programmes

We are currently in the fourth year of our ambitious five-year strategy focused on four bold goals: Support (delivering impactful, sustainable services), Innovate (designing new models to transform lives), Speak Up (empowering young people to be agents of change), and Sustain (building the financial and structural strength to grow). As we look toward creating a new five-year strategic plan, we seek a Chair to guide and join our Board in our ambitious work.

About the role

We are seeking an exceptional leader to join our committed Board of Trustees as we enter a pivotal phase of our strategy. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of an organisation that changes lives every day.

Our Chair will lead our Board to support our growth, impact, innovation and systemic reform ambitions, all in partnership with the disabled children, young people and families that we support. The Chair will collaborate closely with our Chief Executive and develop relationships with incoming and existing Trustees, balancing respectful and constructive dialogue that blends challenge and support.

As Chair, you will provide strategic oversight, ensuring all Trustees and the Chief Executive share a clear sense of purpose and that our strategic objectives align with Kids’ vision and mission. You will lead effective governance, ensuring Board meetings achieve clear

outcomes and focus on key strategic issues. Your leadership will drive continual Board development, facilitate collaboration between our executive leadership team and Trustees, and represent the organisation to stakeholders while developing positive relationships across our community.

Who we are looking for

We seek a Chair with a genuine interest, passion and fluency in our sector. It would be helpful if our Chair could bring lived experience of disability, directly or through association. You will bring significant Board-level experience with an understanding of key governance requirements for Trustees, ideally with experience in supporting organisational change and growth.

Your experience operating at a senior executive level in the charitable, public, or private sector will be complemented by your commitment to our vision, values, and purpose, ensuring these remain front of mind in decision-making. You will demonstrate an exceptional ability to steward involvement and mutual respect, actively ensuring every voice is heard and valued.

The successful candidate will lead dynamic and constructive conversations with skill and tact, building respectful relationships with Trustees, the Chief Executive, executive leadership team and wider stakeholders. Your diplomatic and empathetic communication style will enable you to engage meaningfully with people from diverse backgrounds, while your networking skills will benefit our advocacy and partnership work.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills with a natural ability to build relationships. We seek a leader committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, ensuring these principles guide all our work.

Most importantly, you will share our genuine passion for supporting disabled children, young people and their families, with a heartfelt commitment to creating a more inclusive society where all children can thrive.

Time Commitment:

The regular commitments include Board meetings, which are held four times a year in London in person, with an annual strategy away day every year. Our sub-committees typically meet online up to four times per year. Additional meetings with the Chief Executive and senior team will be required as needed, along with representing us at external events and meetings.

The overall time investment amounts to the equivalent of two to three days per month. Preparation time for meetings and decision-making is essential, with occasional visits to our services across England and representation at external events as appropriate.

We are committed to making reasonable adjustments to ensure this role is accessible.

If you are inspired to lead positive change for disabled children, young people and their families, we would love to hear from you. This role offers the opportunity to be part of something transformative, working alongside a dedicated team that believes in doing, not just discussing.

We particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of disability, those from underrepresented communities, and individuals who reflect the diversity of the families and children we serve. We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close Monday 8th September.

Who we are 

ECA offers a Social Centre that serves as a place for people to reconnect with old friends and meet new people in a secure and inviting setting. While activities are primarily aimed at elderly and vulnerable adults in the local area, the centre is open to everyone.

Our current programme includes

• Social gatherings at the Elleray Social Centre.
• Arts, crafts, educational talks, and workshops.
• Exercise Classes, Gentle fitness classes tailored for seniors, both indoor and outdoor.
• Counselling and support groups.
• Outings

Services like hairdressing, chiropody, and daily hot lunches

How we operate 

The Social Centre is managed by a Centre Manager, Administrator, Activity and Volunteer Coordinator, and a cook. They are supported by a team of approximately 40 volunteers who assist in the office, gardens, café, and facilitate daily activities. The organization operates as a Charitable Company regulated by the Charities Commission and has eight Trustees on the Board of Trustees. The Trustees meet six times a year, with additional meetings as needed.

To discuss the role further, please contact the current Chair, Joan Barnett.

Chair Role Description 

• Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the Board, ensuring that ECA achieves its mission.
• Work in partnership with the Centre Manager and team to achieve ECA’s mission.
• Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation.
• Optimise the relationship between the board and ECA’s staff and volunteers.
• Plan and chair the board meetings and the AGM, with others as appropriate.
• Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for ECA.

What we are looking for

• Ideally previous experience of being a trustee.  
• A keen sense of strategic purpose.
• Governance and committee experience in a charity or business setting.
• Strong in execution and managing transformation projects, including leading the charity in the new ECA building setting.  
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and ability to constructively negotiate and collaborate with various institutions, entities, and personnel.
• Affinity with and commitment to the local SW London and Teddington area.
• Business experience and awareness across finance, risk, IT, and people management, would be desirable.    
• An inclusive leadership style, able to inspire and support everyone to participate on an equal footing.  
• The ability to listen and engage effectively, comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative board environment.  
• In advocation, be able and willing to champion ECA’s work through personal networks, social media, and other channels.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.  
• Be available, responsive and flexible to advise, support or give consent to, as needed.

Terms of office  

• Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending [6] Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are generally held in person at the ECA building.
• Periodic meetings with the Centre Manager and management team, with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad-hoc issues.
• Other meetings, including on potential strategy and other charity-related issues.  

In addition to the above, the Chair will have the responsibilities and qualities of all trustees:

Responsibilities of all trustees 

• Support and provide advice on ECA’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.  
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation. 
• Oversee ECA’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.  
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation. 
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively. 
• Review and approve ECA’s financial statements. 
• Provide support and challenge to the ECA’s management team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs. 
• Keep abreast of changes in ECA’s operating environment. 
• Contribute to regular reviews of the ECA’s own governance. 
• Convene and attend Board meetings, and be prepared to contribute to discussions and lead on proposed outcomes.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ECA’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests. 
• Contribute to the broader promotion of ECA’s objects, aims, and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

Essential qualities and attributes of all trustees 

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and act in the best interests of the charity. 
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgment, and work effectively as a board member. 
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.  
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion. 
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission. 
• Willingness to lead according to the ECA values.
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

The Elleray Centre

The Centre will be fully accessible, featuring a lift to the first floor. It includes a large hall that can split into two rooms and two additional activity rooms upstairs. A café and lounge will also open onto a garden with outdoor seating.

The funding for the new centre comes from Richmond Council, acknowledging ECA's local contributions over three decades. The future centre is leased from the council.

Deadline 31/10/2025

Application includes CV and brief covering letter 

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

We are seeking a new Chair to provide strategic leadership at a time when demand for our advice services is at an all-time high. Help shape our vision, champion our mission, and make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing challenges.

About Citizens Advice East Berkshire
Citizens Advice East Berkshire offers crucial help and advice when people need it most. No one but Citizens Advice sees so many people with so many different kinds of problems, and that gives us a unique insight into the challenges people are facing today. 

What will you be doing?
We are at an important stage in our development and we are seeking a new Chair to replace our current Chair who will be standing down as her term finishes. We have ambitious plans for our future and we are looking for a Chair who can help drive our mission forward.

Building on our successes to date, we want a new Chair to lead us through the next exciting phase of our journey. You will have a strong background and track record of providing leadership at board and/or senior executive level and will have a passion for supporting people facing tough life challenges. You should have the judgement and vision to operate effectively at strategic level and you should demonstrate the skills and expertise to help drive our mission forward. We are looking for someone with 3 years+ professional experience in one of the fields of Fundraising strategy, Governance, Operations management or Advice / Advocacy. 

We are looking for someone who has:

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Passion for supporting people facing tough life challenges
• Ideally has served as a Chair or Vice Chair and is familiar with leading a Board

What are we looking for?

You’ll need to:

• Understand the type of work undertaken by a local Citizens Advice and the Citizens Advice network
• Understand and accept the responsibilities and liabilities of a trustee
• Be non-judgmental and respect views, values and cultures that are different to your own
• Have a good basis of leadership skills (and preferably you have served within a Board, ideally as Chair or Vice Chair or led a Committee)
• Have the ability to facilitate and lead meetings
• Have good interpersonal skills
• Have good listening, verbal and written communication skills
• Be able to exercise good independent judgment
• Have good numeracy skills to understand accounts with the support of the treasurer
• Be willing to learn about and follow the Citizens Advice aims, principles and policies, including confidentiality and data protection
• Be willing to undertake mandatory training in your role
• Line manage and support the Chief Executive Officer

What difference will you make?
Citizens Advice East Berkshire makes transformational differences to people who need support when facing life crises. As Chair you will play a significant part in ensuring we are able to expand and grown our services to make a significant difference to many more individuals and families. 

The Stuart Hall Foundation is inspired by the life’s work of Professor Stuart Hall in the interlocking worlds of activism, academia and the arts. Hall’s work was characterised by its breadth and its interdisciplinary nature, spanning across cultural studies, media theory, political analysis, and the study of race and identity.

The Foundation was formally launched in 2015 by Hall’s family, friends and colleagues in order to commemorate his legacy by attending to the urgent political, social and cultural questions of our time.

Our mission

The Foundation focuses on achieving a more progressive and just society through public education, artistic and intellectual initiatives. Our mission is to popularise critical thought by reshaping public discourse and by supporting the development of a new generation of artists, academics and activists who are dedicated to challenging issues of inequality.

We work on our mission through three strands of activity:

• With institutional partners we offer scholarships, fellowships, artist residencies and commissions.
• We create free-to-access digital learning resources including recorded lectures and conversations, podcasts, written essays and artistic commissions.
• We provide digital and physical spaces for the public and for our network of scholars, fellows and artists to exchange and generate new ideas together.

Our organisation is now at a moment of transition, and we are looking to recruit a new Chair of Trustees. We have been successful in recent grant funding applications, and as a result the Foundation has been able to expand its activities and is financially secure for the next two years. The new Chair of Trustees will continue to build and lead the Foundation with a distinct identity as a public education charity working in service of social justice.

Chair of Trustees

We are looking to appoint a new Chair who has a demonstrable commitment to the Foundation with the ability to lead and manage a unique and growing national charity. 

The Chair has responsibility for providing oversight, shaping strategy and working collaboratively with the Executive Director and the Board of Trustees to further develop the organisation’s vision for the next three to five years. The Chair will also support the Vice Chair in overseeing financial management and external relations. The role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration.

We are proud of the work we have achieved so far, having partnered with higher education and cultural institutions, organised many public events and provided scholarships, fellowships, awards and residencies.

The successful applicant will be a strong public voice for the Foundation and bring creativity and commitment to the role. We want to hear from candidates who share Hall's interests and values, and who want to help us build on his legacy by generating new ideas that change public understanding of the political landscape.

Please send a one-page expression of interest with a CV by 23:59 Monday 22 September 2025.

Please outline your interest in chairing the Stuart Hall Foundation Board of Trustees and the skills you would bring to the role.

Interviews will be held in late October and early November 2025.

For further information, please contact:

This is an exciting opportunity to support the Kew Society, a leading community-based charity in South West London, by becoming our new Chair. The Society is run entirely by volunteers for the benefit of everyone who lives in, works in or visits Kew.

You will lead our great team, set the strategic direction of the charity, chair meetings…and  lay the foundations for the next 125 years! This includes delivering our strategy to "broaden and deepen" the Society's membership so that it becomes more representative in respect to age and ethnicity of the local community.

Completely apolitical, the Kew Society works on behalf of our members to influence decision-makers about issues, such as environmental, that could have a positive or negative impact on our local area. We also run events to help connect our community.

Chair of North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service

Our Charity

North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service (NSDAS) supports anyone affected by domestic abuse and their children living in the boroughs of Elmbridge, Spelthorne and Epsom and Ewell. We provide free, confidential and independent advice, skilled practical help and ongoing emotional support and information, regardless of sex, race, ability, gender, religion or income level.

Historically the service was provided as part of Citizens Advice Elmbridge (West). We have operated as an independent charity since April 2024 (charity number 1203855) and this is an exciting time to help shape the strategy and direction of the organisation.

The board currently comprises of nine Trustees.The current Chair is looking to step down by Christmas 2025 but will remain as a Trustee to provide continuity and support.

The Role

In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, duties of the chair include the following. 

·Providing leadership to the organisation and the board, ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes to provide greater public benefit. 

·Chairing and facilitating board meetings. 

·Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented. 

·Representing the organisation at functions and meetings. Acting as a spokesperson as appropriate. 

·Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. 

With the chief executive

·Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required.

·Setting agendas for board meetings and other general meetings. 

·Developing the board of trustees. This includes induction, training, appraisal and succession planning. 

·Addressing conflict within the board and the organisation.

·Liaising with the chief executive to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and providing support where required. 

·Developing relationships with our partner organisations. 

·Sitting on appointment and disciplinary panels and conducting exit interviews when required. 

Invitation to apply for the position of Society Chair

A. Description of the Society

The Society is the third oldest local conservation charity in England, founded in 1897 by many of the public figures who  campaigned to procure the passing of the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act, which saved Hampstead Heath as a public open space in perpetuity, and who went on to found the National Trust.

The Society is an unincorporated association, constituted by its contractual constitution, and is a registered charity. Its charitable objects are as follows:

3. (a)  to preserve those parts of Hampstead Heath which are subject to section 16 of The Hampstead Heath Act 1871* in their wild and natural state, and also to preserve the natural and characteristic features of the later additions to the Heath, so far as is consistent with their enjoyment by the public;

(b) to promote and maintain the amenities and characteristics of the environs of the Heath, and of the buildings and streets of Hampstead; and

(c) to promote public interest in the study of natural history, conservation, and the history of the areas referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule 3.

*[Section 16 provides: The [Metropolitan] Board [of Works] shall at all times preserve, as far as may be, the natural aspect and state of the Heath, and to that end shall protect the turf, gorse, heather, timber and other trees, shrubs, and brush-wood thereon.]

The Society’s geographical remit is limited to Hampstead Heath, the fringes of the Heath, and the old borough of Hampstead (now legally subsumed into the London Borough of Camden).

It is governed by a ‘general committee’ of some 15 trustees which is supported by (i) three subcommittees (each of approximately a dozen members) responsible for the distinct areas of Hampstead Town, Hampstead Heath, and local planning applications, and (ii) a Plaque Selection Panel which is responsible for the erection of plaques on buildings in Hampstead Town commemorating famous residents.

The Chair, along with principal Society officers, is elected annually at the annual general meeting.

The Society has approximately 2,000 members and is in sound financial and reputational shape. Further details of the Society may be found on the Society's website. 

B. General role of the Chair

The general role of the Society Chair includes the duties outlined in the English Charity Commission document entitled “The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do”, namely:

· help plan and run general committee meetings and in members’ meetings

· take the lead on ensuring that meetings are properly run and recorded

· take the lead on ensuring that trustees comply with their duties and the charity is well governed

· act as a spokesperson for the charity

· act as a link between trustees and committee members.

Reference should also be made to “A Chair’s Compass - A guide for chairs of charities and non-profit organisations”. 

Given the local remit of the Society, it is desirable that the prospective Society Chair should be resident in Hampstead (including West Hampstead), Belsized, Highgate or Hampstead Garden Suburb. The prospective Society Chair will be invited to join the general committee and ‘shadow’ the current Chair for the appropriate period before taking over.

C. Core and specific tasks of the Society Chair

Convene, set the agenda for, and chair bi-monthly meetings of the general committee, and approve the draft minutes of those meetings

Convene and set the agenda for the Society’s annual general meeting in June of each year, deliver a verbal annual report at that meeting, and approve the draft minutes of that meeting

Write the annual trustees’ report for inclusion in the annual return to the Charity Commission

Settle and approve the Society's annual financial statements as prepared by the Treasurer and the Society's auditors/examiners

Write a column of approximately 2,000 words for the Society's newsletter published in January, May and October

From time to time, as an observer, attend meetings of the Society's three subcommittees (Town, Heath and Planning) and the Society’s Plaque Selection Panel

Support the Society’s vice-chairs in their chairing of the Society’s three subcommittees (see above)

Oversee recruitment to the general committee and, as required, the Society's three subcommittees

As required, be the public or official face of the Society in dealings with the media, and the City of London Corporation (the freehold owner of Hampstead Heath and the sole trustee of the Hampstead Heath registered charity), Camden Council (including Hampstead Ward local councillors) and other local or governmental bodies

As required, lead (even if only in  a titular or nominal sense) campaigns run by the Society

Attend and, as required, host Society events, including the New Members Party, the Xmas Party and Society lectures (usually two to three a year)

Maintain relations with other non-governmental bodies with which the Society has regular dealings in matters of common interest, including the Vale of Health Society, the Highgate Society, the Hampstead Garden Suburb Residents Association, the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum,  Heath Hands, the Kenwood Estate, Keats House, Camden History Society, the London Forum and Civic Voice

Identify, and suggest to its editor, items for inclusion in the Society's newsletter

Helping young people to reach their personal best

“SportsAid believed in me when I was just a young, inexperienced racer. As a self-funded teenager travelling the world with my Mum, financial challenges were a constant hurdle. Funding my passion was daunting until SportsAid alleviated that burden, enabling me to pursue what I loved and take my passion to the next level. Without SportsAid, I would never have gone from the little girl you invested in, to the Paralympic and World medallist I became.”

Millie Knight, Paralympic medallist & World Champion

 COULD YOU HELP SPORTSAID AS THE CHAIR OF TRUSTEES?

SportsAid’s Mission is to encourage, enable and empower the next generation of athletes to achieve their ambitions in sport and life. Since 1976, we have been side-by-side with Britain’s greatest emerging sporting talent – from Mo Farah to Jessica Ennis-Hill, from Ade Adepitan to Ellie Simmonds – and so many others. SportsAid provides vital support to young sports people at a pivotal moment in their development.  HRH The Princess of Wales is the charity’s Patron.

We are looking for a trustee to join our board as Chair of Trustees. With our five-year fundraising strategy underway, this is an exciting time to join as we develop new, impactful partnerships to deliver our mission for young sports people towards and beyond SportsAid’s 50th anniversary in 2026. 

As the Chair of Trustees you will lead and support an effective, diverse and committed Board.  The Chair will provide inclusive leadership to deliver the charity’s vision and mission, ensuring that each trustee enjoys fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the charity. The Chair will also support the Chief Executive to ensure that the Board functions to best effect in supporting the executive team to achieve its objectives. He or she will act as an ambassador and be a public face of the charity in partnership with the Chief Executive.

You will have significant Board experience, ideally at Chair or other senior level, in the public, private or voluntary sector; or substantial Board experience as a member of a National Governing Body of Sport or Charitable Trust.  You will be familiar with partnership working and engaging with a complex stakeholder mix.  You will have strong financial and commercial acumen and a genuine passion and personal connection to the core purpose and mission of SportsAid.

This is a vital role offering the opportunity to join a committed and driven charity at an exciting time.  You do not need to be a sports expert, but you will have a desire to help young people and a willingness to get stuck in.  You can make a difference.

You will join a board of eight trustees in working with an effective executive team to support the charity’s work. 

The minimum commitment as a board member will be to attend four board meetings per year (typically held in London but with the facility to join remotely if necessary) plus two half-day induction sessions and at least one half-day strategy planning session.  There will likely be an additional time commitment to attend events representing SportsAid. Board positions are unremunerated but reasonable travel expenses will be reimbursed.

SportsAid recognises that certain sections of the community have been affected by structural inequities and may be denied the opportunity to participate equally and fully in sport at all levels. SportsAid as an organisation believes our role is to remove the barriers that our most under-served, at risk and minoritised groups of young people experience when trying to access sport and physical activities.

SportsAid therefore positively welcomes, and seeks to achieve, diversity in our workforce and that all job applicants, volunteers and employees receive equal and fair treatment.  We positively encourage applications from all candidates regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, disability, marriage and civil partnership status, gender identity, background, religion, faith, sexual orientation, maternity status, pregnancy, belief or nationality.

A role description is available on request.

Please apply by emailing your CV with an outline of how your skills and experience meet the specification of this Chair of Trustees role and why you are interested in joining SportsAid by 5pm Friday 5 September 2025.  

On receipt of your application you will be sent a confidential equal opportunities form which all applicants will be asked to complete. 

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.Campaigning is vital to a healthy society. We help campaigners to thrive. In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.

The Chair will hold the Board and staff team to account for SMK’s mission and vision, provide inclusive leadership to the Board and ensure that Board members fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of SMK. The Chair will line manage and support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the Chief Executive and staff team to achieve agreed objectives. They may also be asked to act as an ambassador and a public face of SMK in partnership with the Chief Executive and the Board.

For further information, see our website and the recruitment pack. 

We’re seeking a strategic Chairperson to guide our Board and champion our mission. Candidates should have senior leadership experience, strong communication skills, charity governance knowledge, a passion for wildlife conservation.

Objective​

The Chair will provide supportive and inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Operating Director, staff, and volunteers—helping everyone stay aligned with the charity’s mission and vision. They’ll work to ensure that each trustee feels confident in fulfilling their responsibilities and that the Board operates as a cohesive and effective team.

The Chair will also collaborate closely with the Chief Operating Director, supporting them in their role and fostering strong relationships across the organisation. Together, they’ll help the charity achieve its goals, with the Chair also serving as an ambassador and public representative of the charity.

Key Skills

• ​Proven senior leadership and governance experience
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Understanding of charity governance and trustee duties
• Passion for wildlife conservation

Principle Responsibilities: Chair Role

The Chair provides strategic leadership to ensure the charity delivers maximum impact in conserving birds of prey. They guide the Board in fulfilling governance duties, setting clear direction, managing risks and opportunities, and ensuring financial accountability.

The Chair also oversees effective governance practices, supports Board development, encourages positive change, manages conflict, leads annual performance appraisals, and ensures the Board has the right balance of skills and experience to lead the charity effectively, all while operating within agreed policies

​Location

• Sculthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk (UK Administrative Centre
• Flexible and remote-friendly – most meetings held virtually
• Some in-person attendance required in London, Sculthorpe, or Shapwick (Somerset)

Remuneration

• ​Voluntary position
• All reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

Term

​The charity’s Chair (and board members) will serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment for one additional term. ​

Closing date: 09:00 Tuesday 12th August 2025

Founded in 2011 by Sophie Hayes, a British woman trafficked into sexual exploitation, Sophie Hayes Foundation’s work has always been centred around sustainable freedom. This means freedom from exploitation, slavery, and trafficking, and also the freedom to look to the future with renewed confidence, rebuilt skills, and a sense of purpose for survivors. Our mission of sustainable freedom has continued over the last 13 years, however, the forms of exploitation, as well as the landscape of support to survivors, have changed beyond recognition. To respond to this, we launched a new strategy in 2024, which set out how we will ‘meet survivors where they are and take them to where they want to be’

Sophie Hayes Foundation aims to work in a proactive and collaborative manner. The Chair plays an important part in setting the tone and bringing all stakeholders together.

Governance and Culture: As Chair, you provide appropriate leadership, oversight and support to the Board and management team on strategy, governance and risk, ensuring that we meet our obligations and responsibilities. The Trustee Board is made up of a diverse group of people, each bringing their own ideas, skills and networks to support the executive team. A new CEO joined the charity about 18 months ago. She has worked to build a strong team and achieved a great sense of community amongst staff, volunteers and programme participants. She worked closely with the Board in the development of a new strategy, is building strong relationships with donors and supporters, and continues to oversee the management of the day to day - with an eye on both long-term needs and immediate challenges.

Development: We rely on support from foundations, key donors and the public, and as Chair, you will be an important representative of the organisation, working with the CEO and other Trustees to build and maintain strong relationships.

Advocacy: Sophie Hayes Foundation is working to improve understanding of the Modern Slavery sector, enhance understanding of the issues, build recognition of the impact of our programmes and influence key decision makers. As Chair, along with other Trustees, you may be called on to assist the CEO with advocacy and to build our brand.

Commitment: We have a bold vision to increase our impact through a combination of direct programming with survivors and through advocacy to build awareness and support. You will need to have the time to contribute to our growth strategy by chairing Board meetings, supporting Committee Chairs, Board officers, and our small but mighty management team, and represent Sophie Hayes Foundation to key stakeholders.

Women's Aid Luton is seeking a visionary and dedicated Chair of the Board to lead and support the transformation and growth of our small yet impactful charity.

Women’s Aid Luton supports over 800 of society's most vulnerable women and children each year, helping them escape horrific abuse and violence. We provide a safe haven across our five refuges in Luton, operate a helpline, and offer bespoke assistance for families. Our services include access to legal advice, mental health support, employment assistance, and resettlement aid.

One of our refuges is dedicated to women from South Asian communities, with staff who speak Punjabi, Bengali, and Urdu. We also have a refuge for single women with complex support needs, such as mental health issues and drug and alcohol dependencies, often stemming from the trauma of domestic violence and abuse.

In addition to our direct support services, we focus on prevention and intervention by working with schools to raise awareness of domestic abuse. We are committed to disrupting exploitative and abusive relationships to prevent loss of life and reduce the long-term economic and social costs to society. Our services contribute to creating a safer, more compassionate community, supporting women and children from diverse socio-economic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, including those with complex needs.

With the current challenges facing our sector, we are focused on creating financial sustainability and resilience within the organisation, focusing on a robust funding strategy and a dynamic response to risk.

Our current Chair will come to the end of their term next year, and therefore we’re seeking a new Chair to support the charity in delivering our vital work.

The Chair of Trustees is a pivotal role within our organisation. Your leadership and dedication will be instrumental in ensuring we not only maintain but also expand our vital support and services for those in need. By guiding our strategic vision and fostering a culture of compassion and excellence, you will directly impact the lives of countless vulnerable women and children, helping them rebuild their lives and find hope for the future. Your commitment will drive our mission forward, creating lasting change and a safer, more supportive community for all.

What are we looking for?

EXPERIENCE

• An understanding and passion for the violence against women and girls sector
• Significant experience as a non-executive
• An understanding of UK charity governance and working with or as part of a Board of Trustees
• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level
• An ability to network with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Sensitivity and discretion in dealing with staff and service user issues.
• Significant experience and success in leading groups of people in either a professional or voluntary capacity to achieve results.
• Experience of chairing meetings.
• Significant experience of managing, motivating, and developing people.
• Strong experience of developing, deploying, and evaluating strategic plans with a view to maximising impact and benefit.
• Experience of financial management and a broad understanding of charity finance issues

 SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Exceptional leadership skills; able to cultivate effective collaboration but also comfortable in taking responsibility for difficult choices.
•  Effective strategic communicator: able to articulate Women’s Aid Luton’s vision and engage and inspire others both within the organisation and externally.
• Highly effective relationship and alliance building abilities.
• Sound judgement with high capacity for self-reflection.
• Capacity to support both Board and Executive development.
• An ability to work within the realistic expectations and limitations for the Charity

ATTRIBUTES

• Dynamic leadership style that guides and inspires the Board and Executive to fulfil their respective responsibilities.
• A strong personal commitment to improving Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
• Collaborative approach with excellent interpersonal skills.
• A strong personal commitment to Women’s aid Luton’s vision and mission replace with: Demonstrate a strong and visible passion and commitment to the charity, its strategic objectives and cause
• Demonstrate tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the charity
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

The initial appointment is for a three-year term but can be extended for one further term for a maximum of six years. 

 “Joining Women’s Aid in Luton as a Board member has enabled me to use my professional expertise in a way that gives back to the community. I know that all the energy and time I give is helping to strengthen the organisation and ultimately the women and children it seeks to support. Joining the Board has been immensely rewarding and I highly recommend it as a valuable way to volunteer your time for a good cause.” – current Board Trustee at Women’s Aid in Luton.

Due to the sensitive nature of this role, we will be considering female volunteers only for this post in accordance with the provisions of the Occupational Requirement (Equality Act 2010, pursuant to schedule 9 part 1). Applicants will be required to have a satisfactory enhanced disclosure through the Disclosure and Barring Service.

We actively encourage applications from women from a variety of backgrounds, and with a range of skills and experiences. We are particularly interested to hear from women from Black, Asian and minoritised communities and women who have personal experience of domestic abuse.

If you have some time, energy and interest in the domestic abuse sector and believe you can make a difference to Women’s Aid Luton, we would love to hear from you.

Role Overview:

The Chair will ensure that the board functions effectively, maintains high standards of governance, and that the charity's mission and goals are achieved.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Board Leadership:

   • Lead the board in setting and implementing the charity’s culture, direction, and strategy.

   • Ensure the board operates inclusively and effectively.

   • Chair board meetings, ensuring decisions are made and actions are followed up.

2. Strategic Direction:

   • Guide the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan.

   • Ensure the charity’s activities align with its mission and goals.

3. Oversight and Accountability:

   • Monitor the charity’s activities and ensure high standards of governance.

   • Hold staff members accountable and support their professional development.

   • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (this includes Charity Commission and companies House requirements).

4. Close Supervision:

   • Ensure that all members of staff have adequate line management and supervision (not necessarily by the Chair as this may be allocated to another trustee).

   • Act as the primary point of communication between the board and the staff.

5. Direct Involvement:

   • Take a hands-on approach to day-to-day operations, as necessary.

   • Assist in tasks typically handled by additional staff due to the charity’s limited resources.

6. Enhanced Communication:

   • Ensure clear and consistent messaging between the board and the staff member.

7. Financial Oversight:

   • Oversee the charity’s finances, possibly taking on some treasurer responsibilities (currently the board has an appointed treasurer and an honorary accountant).

   • Ensure the charity operates within its financial means.

8. Volunteer Coordination:

   • Recruit and manage volunteers to support the charity’s activities as and when appropriate..

9. Policy Development:

   • Ensure the development, implementation and review of policies to ensure effective and legal operation of the charity.

10. Annual Review:

    • Lead the board in reviewing its structure, effectiveness, delegations, and key policies annually.

Person Specification:

• Leadership Skills: Proven experience in leadership roles, preferably within the charity sector.

• Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and guide the charity’s direction.

• Financial Acumen: Understanding of financial management and oversight.

• Commitment: Dedication to the charity’s mission and values.

• IT competency: Able to use cloud-based systems (currently Google Drive)