Chair volunteer roles in london

About Reprieve

Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation. Our aim is simple: to consign the death penalty and abuses carried out in the name of “counter-terrorism” or “national security” to history, drawing public and political attention to these past harms with a view to preventing them from occurring again.

In our view, you can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. Founded in 1999, we provide free legal and investigative support to people facing the death penalty and those victimised by states’ abusive counter-terror policies – rendition, torture, arbitrary detention and extrajudicial killing.

We fight our clients’ cases in courts around the world; investigate their mistreatment; and advocate on their behalf, encouraging public and political debate of human rights issues.

Reprieve’s main office is in London, UK. Reprieve also supports full-time Fellows, who work as lawyers, investigators and campaigners in the countries in which we work. We work closely with a number of partner organisations in jurisdictions all over the world, who provide access to clients, expertise, knowledge and guidance on specific issues or regions. We work in cooperation with relevant government officials, individual lawyers and human rights defenders, as well as individual, corporate and foundation funders to further the cause of our shared goals.

Reprieve works in close partnership with its independent sibling organisation Reprieve US.  This collaboration is mutually beneficial to both Reprieve and Reprieve US as it enables each organisation to work more effectively and take advantage of the strategic locations to increase the impact of our work.

About the Role

Our work would not be possible without the highest levels of governance provided by our Board of Trustees and its Chair.

The Board meets four times a year (normally January, May, July and October). Two Board meetings are in person, and we ask that the Chair attends other events when they can to meet staff and other key stakeholders, including donors. 

Day-to-day management of Reprieve is provided by the Senior Management Team. 

About You

Our new Chair will be passionate about our vision and mission and will be able to bring inclusive and knowledgeable insight to the Board and the Executive. They will have a keen sense of strategic purpose and an inclusive leadership style that inspires and supports other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate. They will be comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative Board environment. They will be able and willing to act as a figurehead and ambassador, and champion Reprieve’s work through personal networks, social media (if appropriate), and other channels.

They will be willing to lead according to Reprieve’s values and have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

They will have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

Responsibilities

Your main duties will include:

• Leading the Board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Reprieve
• Chairing and facilitating Board meetings including giving direction to board policy-making and ensuring that decisions taken at meetings are implemented
• With the Executive Director:
  • Planning the annual cycle of Board meetings
  • Setting agendas for Board meetings
  • Developing the Board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
  • Addressing conflict within the Board and within Reprieve, and liaising with the Executive to achieve this
  • Liaising with the Executive Director to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate
• Being an ambassador and figurehead for Reprieve.

Person Specification/ Criteria

• A willingness to speak your mind and challenge both the Executive and the Board
• A keen sense of strategic purpose
• An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate 
• Experience constructively challenging and appraising senior leadership
• A willingness to be available to the Executive and staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis
• A clear commitment to Reprieve’s vision and mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to commit two days a month to the role
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, as they apply to the Chair of the Board
• Experience of fundraising and its importance to a charity 
• Experience of committee work or being on a charity board.

Join The Difference as our next Chair as we tackle the social injustice of lost learning in England’s schools.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Friday 31st October.

The Difference is a charity working to create a more inclusive education system where every young person can thrive. Founded in 2018, our mission is to ensure that rates of lost learning are falling by 2030. We take a three-pronged approach, delivering evidence-based programmes that equip school leaders to embed a whole-school approach to inclusion, conducting research to inform best practice and using our networks and expertise to influence policy and drive system-wide change.

We are seeking a new Chair to guide us through our next phase of growth and impact. This pivotal role will provide strategic leadership, strengthen governance and ensure the Board is well-equipped to support and challenge our executive team. The Chair will work closely with the CEO, championing high performance, inclusivity and constructive debate while helping shape strategy, oversee board development and support key areas such as fundraising and policy influence.

We are looking for an experienced non-executive with strong governance knowledge and proven skills in leading a growing organisation. Prior Chair experience is not essential, but strategic leadership and a collaborative approach are key. Above all, you will be an empathetic and inclusive leader, committed to our mission to ensure every student can access learning and feel a true sense of belonging.

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 at 9 a.m. Friday 31st October.

Do you have a legal or financial background with experience in project management?

Are you excited about property and development?

Do you have an innovative approach?

If so, we’d really like to hear from you!

We are working in partnership with ELM Group, a not-for-profit organisation, consisting of RLHA (Retirement Lease Housing Association) and ELM Management (the non-retirement part the business). The group owns over 40 freeholds and manages another 60 estates in the South of England. The head office is in Frimley, Surrey and employs just over 160 staff.

Established in 1971 the Group is very proud of its history and its charitable status and is looking forward to a great future.

They are seeking to recruit a Chair to join the Board for 2 terms of 3 years (6 years) in line with the National Housing Federation Code of Governance 2020.

The successful candidate will have an innovative approach, a passion for property and development, bringing either legal or financial knowledge alongside excellent project management

Meetings are held on the 2nd Monday morning of each month, (except June, August, and December). There are currently 6 members of the Board and 2 Leaseholder Board Members.

If you are someone who can demonstrate these skills and experience alongside the ability to advise and contribute to the Board, then we would like to hear from you.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

£2,781 per annum plus reasonable expenses

Closing date for applications: 2nd November 2025

Lead the transformation of communities and climate action as Chair of one of the North East's most impactful charities standing for social impact and environmental sustainability.

Location: Meetings take place Trust’s Head Office at Parsons Court, Newton Aycliffe; The Greenhouse, Annfield Plain, Stanley, Co Durham 

Closing date: Monday 3rd November

Who we are

For over three decades, Groundwork North East & Cumbria has stood for environmental sustainability and social impact. Our work spans five strategic growth areas: nature-based solutions that restore biodiversity and tackle flooding; youth employment programmes that provide skills and pathways into green careers; green teams and land management that transform neglected spaces; health and wellbeing initiatives that connect people with nature; and energy efficiency programmes that tackle fuel poverty while reducing carbon emissions.

Our mission is simple but profound: create better places, improve people’s prospects, and promote greener lifestyles. We believe that within every community, however disadvantaged, there is deep pride, resilience, and potential. Our role is to harness that pride and unlock that passion, delivering projects and programmes that not only change lives now but also make our communities more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient for the future.

As part of the Groundwork Federation, we are uniquely positioned as an environmental and community-focused charity dedicated to creating thriving places where people and nature flourish together. We work across both urban and rural communities throughout North East England and Cumbria to tackle inequalities, address climate and nature challenges, and empower individuals to improve their lives, neighbourhoods, and local economies.

We deliver outcomes that matter: energy-saving advice to thousands of households, targeted employment and youth programmes, landscape design and environmental restoration, community food growing projects, and nature-based solutions that benefit both people and wildlife. Through our Greenhouse Business Centre and Land of Oak & Iron Heritage Centre, we also operate successful social enterprises that generate income to reinvest in our charitable work.

About the role

We are seeking an exceptional leader to chair our Board of Trustees as we embark on our ambitious five-year strategy with our goal to achieve net-zero by 2030 while transforming lives region-wide. This is a pivotal moment in our journey, and we need someone who can guide us through this transformational phase.

As Chair, you will work closely with our Chief Executive, Steve Roberts and fellow Trustees to ensure the Trust fulfils its charitable objectives, maintains strong stakeholder trust, and delivers on our strategic ambitions. You will lead 4-6 board meetings annually, foster board development, and represent Groundwork externally as our ambassador.

The role involves ensuring robust governance standards, overseeing financial sustainability, and maintaining effective risk management frameworks. You will serve as a trusted advisor to the executive team, offering strategic counsel while ensuring clear boundaries between governance and executive management.

Who we are looking for

We need a Chair who genuinely understands what good governance looks like and can help us maintain the highest standards while supporting our ambitious growth plans. You will have demonstrable experience in senior leadership or governance roles, bringing strategic vision and the natural ability to facilitate constructive board discussions that drive real outcomes.

More than technical expertise, we are looking for someone who can inspire others and build relationships across diverse stakeholders. You will have natural leadership presence and the confidence to represent Groundwork externally with authenticity. Your diplomatic and empathetic communication style will enable meaningful engagement with people from all backgrounds, from local communities to government ministers.

We seek someone who can create an inclusive board culture where every voice is heard and valued. You will be skilled at fostering cohesion among trustees while ensuring collective accountability for our performance and impact.

Above all, we need someone who shares our genuine passion for environmental and social justice. You will have a heartfelt commitment to creating a more sustainable and inclusive society where communities can thrive. Whether through direct lived experience or professional background, you understand the challenges facing disadvantaged communities and believe in the transformative power of local action.

• Time commitment

The time commitment includes preparation for and attendance at quarterly board meetings, committee work, and external representation as appropriate. You will also spend time building relationships with fellow trustees and the executive team between formal meetings. Usually, the Chair of Groundwork North East & Cumbria sits on Groundwork UK’s Federation Board, which meets four times a year.

Many previous Chairs describe the experience as deeply rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while developing leadership skills and building relationships with diverse professional and civic leaders.

If you believe in harnessing local pride and practical action to make green, fair and resilient communities a reality, we would love to hear from you.

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 at 9 a.m. Monday 3rd November.

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

About the Science Council Registration Authority

The RA is responsible for maintaining robust and high-quality professional standards and ensuring that all registrants meet these standards.  The Chair provides strategic leadership of the RA, working with Licensed Bodies and other partners in supporting the development and growth of the Science Council’s licensing standards and professional registers.

 The current Chair, Dr Hilary Jeffreys CSci, will step down from the role at the end of May 2026. 

Who should apply

Applicants should:

· A track record of being an effective Chair and strong communicator.

· Already hold, or be eligible for, Science Council registration.

· Inspire trust and confidence in our Licensed Bodies.

· A commitment to the part the professional registers play in raising the profile of science and the status of scientists.

Co-Chair Option

In addition to welcoming applications from individuals seeking to serve as sole Chair, the Science Council Board also welcomes a co-Chair arrangement. This may suit individuals who are interested in the role but do not feel they have the time or capacity to take sole leadership. In this instance, at least one of the co-Chairs will need to hold, or be eligible for, Science Council registration. Please indicate on your application whether you are interested in sharing the role as co-Chair.

Term and Commitment

The post-holder(s) 

• will serve for an initial three-year term.

• are expected to chair quarterly RA meetings (held online)
• will attend and present at quarterly Board meetings (two per year are held in person).
• will liaise with Science Council staff between meetings is required for planning, preparation and follow up.

Co-Chairs will be expected to work collaboratively and share responsibilities equally.

How to apply

Vist our application site and submit a statement (maximum one A4 page) outlining your experience, suitability and motivation for the role and a CV of no more than 4 pages in length.

The closing date is 5pm Monday 27th October.  

Interview and appointment schedule

Shortlisted Candidates will be interviewed on Monday 17th and Tuesday 18th November.  

The successful candidate will be appointed by the Board at its meeting on Tuesday 8th December.

Further information

Interested individuals are encouraged to read the role description to understand the key responsibilities and attributes the Board is seeking. Visit our website to find the Registration Authority’s Terms of Reference.

If you know someone who may be suitable, please share this opportunity with them. Interested parties can apply here.

For more information or an informal discussion, please contact Jennifer Larwood, the Science Council’s Membership Registration and Licensing Manager, before the closing date. This will not be considered in the selection process.

Chair of the Board – Sweaty Betty Foundation

Location: Remote (with some in-person commitments)

Term: 3 years (renewable once)

Time commitment:** Approx. 1-2 days per month (voluntary role)

About the Sweaty Betty Foundation

The Sweaty Betty Foundation is on a mission to empower teenage girls to get active and stay active – for life. We are committed to breaking down the barriers that prevent girls from engaging with physical activity, with a particular focus on girls from lower-income backgrounds, and those who face systemic disadvantage due to race, ethnicity, disability, or other factors.

We believe in a world where all teenage girls have access to the confidence, support, and opportunities they need to move their bodies in ways that work for them – joyfully, freely, and on their own terms.

Our values are:

• Girl Centred – we listen to and elevate the voices of girls in all we do
• Bold – we challenge the status quo and take informed risks
• Collaborative – we work together with openness and humility
• Equity-Focused – we prioritise those furthest from opportunity
• Evidence-Led – we base decisions on learning, research and lived experience

Role of the Chair:

The Chair of the Board of Trustees provides strategic leadership to the Foundation, ensuring robust governance, clear vision, and accountability to our mission. The Chair plays a critical role in shaping strategy, championing equity and diversity, and supporting the Director to deliver the Foundation’s goals.

The Chair is a voluntary role and is held for a term of 3 years, renewable once for a maximum of 6 years.

Key Responsibilities:

Governance & Oversight

• Lead the Board in fulfilling its governance responsibilities, ensuring robust governance, clear vision.
• Chair quarterly board meetings effectively, fostering open and inclusive dialogue.
• Ensure all decisions are underpinned by our mission to get teenage girls active, and aligned with our values.
• Help set and monitor long-term goals and impact.

Relationship with the Director

• Act as the key line of accountability and support for the Director.
• Meet weekly (virtually or in-person) to provide mentorship, challenge, and alignment on priorities.

Partnership & Representation

• Build and maintain a strong, transparent relationship with Sweaty Betty, our founding partner.
• Represent the Foundation externally when required and help build relationships across the sector.
• Visit grantee partners and actively engage with the Girls Panel, ensuring their voice informs all decisions.

Board & Committee Engagement

• Foster a collaborative and productive environment for diverse perspectives within the Board.
• Sit on one or both standing committees: Finance & Risk; Partnership & Grant-Making.

Person Specification:

• We are seeking a Chair who is passionate about creating an active future for teenage girls and brings:
• A track record of getting things done – strategic, proactive, and outcome-focused.
• Outstanding relationship-building skills – trusted by partners, funders, staff, and peers alike.
• Collaborative leadership – able to chair with empathy, ensure all voices are heard, and guide the Board to consensus.
• A commitment to equity and diversity – especially in recruitment, funding, and engagement.
• Strong governance knowledge and confidence overseeing charitable operations (experience as a trustee or chair is helpful).
• Understanding of or strong interest in the youth, sport, health or gender equity sectors.

A message from our current Chair Of The Board

“It has been an incredible privilege to serve as Chair of the Sweaty Betty Foundation and to witness the progress we’ve made together in supporting girls to get active and feel confident. I am so proud of the impact the Foundation has had so far, and of the strong foundations we’ve built for the future. After a hugely rewarding term, I have decided to step back into a trustee role to make space for fresh perspectives and new leadership at this exciting stage in the charity’s journey. I do so with complete confidence in the Foundation’s future, and with huge enthusiasm for welcoming a new Chair to guide it through the next chapter of growth and impact.” – Tamara Hill-Norton

The London Prisons Mission is an independent charity that supports and assists multi-faith Prison Chaplaincy teams; enables volunteers to work with those in prison and leaving prison; and to inform congregations about prisoners, their families, prison staff, victims of crime and issues concerning the criminal justice system.

The Mission has gone through a period of transition and we are looking to refresh the charity’s structures and activities to make it a more effective organisation for those we seek to serve.

The Chair of the Mission will direct this work and work with the LPM support group and the trustees to ensure that the Mission can fulfil its objectives. 
 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Volunteer Support and Recruitment:

• Refreshing the leadership structure of the Mission through the recruitment of new trustees to oversee our work
• Identify potential volunteering opportunities for interested members of church congregations (provided proper training and support is in place)

External Networking:

• Meet representatives of national organisations and prison reform groups to discuss volunteer opportunities and information sharing

Staying Informed:

• Keep up to date with developments in the criminal justice system (CJS), including reports from HM Inspectorates

Communication:

• Meet every two months with LPM support group. Share relevant information with management teams, chaplaincy teams (of all faiths), and partner churches

Relationship Building:

• Maintain contact with managing chaplains of partner prisons.
• Initiate contact with prisons which LPM might work with in the future and co-ordinate prison visits for the LPM support group

Church Engagement:

• Communicate regularly with partner churches to promote prison-related awareness and engagement within congregations

Events and Public Engagement:

• Lead on organisation of events like prisoner art shows and activities around Prisons Week
• Encourage faith communities to be more active in CJS issues

 You will work with the London Prisons Mission support group on all of the above, but will be expected to take a lead on all these responsibilities delegating where necessary

Please send a CV and covering letter explaining why you would like to take up this post and outlining your relevant experience.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Do you have the skills to lead an established board of governors? A school in High Wycombe is looking for a skilled volunteer to drive school improvement.

As a Chair of Governors, you’ll operate at the head of a governing board and utilise strategic leadership skills, making decisions on a wide range of topics making a difference improving education within your local community.
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for a Chair of Governors in High Wycombe to strengthen their governing board and enhance outcomes of pupils within your community. If you feel, you want to make a difference within your community, read on for more details about the role of a chair of governors and how to apply.

Governors make decisions that affect schools and their pupils for years to come; our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. Becoming a governor gives you ample opportunity for personal and professional development, including exposure to finance and budgeting, safeguarding, HR, strategic planning, and more.
As a Chair of governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos as well as meeting children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. Chair of governors act as a ‘critical friend’ to their head teacher ensuring accountability and helping to monitor and evaluate the schools progress, budget and staffing. You’ll also help your governing board to shape and implement future plans and guide the schools aims, ethos and values.

You don’t need to be a parent or have any specific skills to become a chair of governors, you’ll need to be over 18 and happy to have a DBS check to apply! Professional skills such as HR, finance, law or project management are useful but governing boards are often needing softer skills such as leadership, communication and problem solving alongside a fresh perspective and lived experience within their communities to help schools have a bright future. As a chair of governors, you’ll be supported by the Vice Chair and Clerk to help ensure an effective, focused board utilising and building its skills, knowledge and experience.

This vacancy is for a 7-11 junior school looking to find a chair of governor to sit on their board with experience of Leadership and organisation, along with having been a governor or having had board level experience. It would also be beneficial if you had knowledge of safeguarding. The school is excited abouts its future and enthusiastic about building a strong culture and school identity. 

If you’re interested in becoming a chair of governor, fill out the short application form.
We have vacancies available across England and Wales, including the roles listed above in High Wycombe. You can express your preference for location on the form itself.

Please note, this role may close early if we receive a high volume of interest.

We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK. 

What will you be doing?

Our mission is to prevent and relieve poverty locally by providing emergency food and financial support. Distributing over 40 tonnes of food and £50,000 in vouchers each year, we are looking for a Chair to work with the Trustees and Director to drive our strategy and increase our impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the board, ensuring trustees fulfill their governance responsibilities.
• Chair regular board meetings and guide strategic planning.
• Support trustee recruitment, training, and development.
• Act as an ambassador with partners, funders, and the wider community.
• Oversee financial controls, safeguarding, and risk management.

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is around 1-2 days per month. This includes preparation for and attendance at meetings, occasional events, and engagement with staff and volunteers. See further details in the candidate pack.

What are we looking for?

At Letchworth Foodbank, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far and excited about the future. We’re looking for a Chair who shares our vision and will help us make the right decisions as we continue to grow and serve our community.

Essential

• Experience in leadership, governance, or board-level roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and unite people.
• Strategic thinker with sound judgment and an inclusive leadership style.
• Empathy towards tackling and relieving poverty.

Desirable

• Understanding of small charities and grassroots organisations.
• Awareness of safeguarding, equality, and community engagement.
• Experience in financial management and charity finance.

Support and training will be provided by the Trussell Trust to help trustees and Chairs build confidence in these areas.

We champion diversity and welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

What difference will you make?

As our new Chair, you will be joining the Foodbank at an exciting stage in our journey. With the recent arrival of our first paid Director, Charlie Hayter, we are entering a new phase of growth and professionalisation, reducing sole reliance on trustees and creating space for more strategic leadership. Financially stable and well-supported by our community, we distribute vital food and financial aid every year, meeting urgent need at a time when the cost-of-living crisis makes our work more relevant than ever. Your impact will be to guide the board and Director in shaping and delivering a new threeyear strategy, ensuring we build on strong foundations to expand our reach and deepen our impact. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, volunteer-powered charity that is rooted in its community, and to help set its direction for the future.

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. 

Radcliffe Housing Society is a small, registered provider based in Sevenoaks, Kent, with properties across the Southeast. We are more than just a financially strong Housing provider, we are making an impact on the housing crisis, supporting sustainable communities, and providing life-long homes for our customers.

Our Chair is due to stand down in July 2026 and we are therefore seeking a new Chair of the Board to help us shape the future. This is an opportunity to lead an organisation with a clear social purpose, working alongside a committed Board and Executive to make sure the voice of our tenant’s guides everything we do.

In a new Chair, we are seeking someone who understands the current expectations placed upon the sector.   A Chair who can help us deliver on our ambitions and strengthen our role as a trusted partner across South London, Kent and Sussex.

Given the nature of the role, we are keen to attract candidates who have a proven track record in a Non-Executive (NED) role and can drive the delivery of our strategic objectives whilst working collaboratively to ensure our business runs effectively and that our residents continue to receive good quality services.

We welcome applicants from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences. Diversity strengthens our Board, and we are keen to hear from those who can bring fresh perspectives to help us reflect the communities we serve.

The position is voluntary (reasonable expenses paid) and there are 4 Board meetings per year (held remotely), plus the AGM and Board Away Day that take place in person.

Closing Date: Friday, 31st October 2025

Interview Date: TBC

Please call us or visit our website for an application pack.

Are you passionate about families of disabled children having a voice? Do you have 10 hours a month to lead our charity?

Reading Families’ Forum is a small local charity with an experienced Trustee Board and our current Chair is retiring.

The Forum's role is to ensure that families of children with disabilities and/or additional needs can participate fully in the development of services within the Reading Local Authority. Help us make sure that services reflect families' needs.

The post holder will lead the Trustee Board and manage our 2 part-time staff.

We are the local parent carer forum and are part of the National Network of Parent Carer Forums, who provide training and support to the individual forums.

A full job description and application form is available on request. We are happy to arrange an informal chat with the current Chair and/or some of our Trustees. 

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Do you have the skills to lead an established board of governors? A school in Hemel Hempstead is looking for a skilled volunteer to drive school improvement.

As a Chair of Governors, you’ll operate at the head of a governing board and utilise strategic leadership skills, making decisions on a wide range of topics making a difference improving education within your local community.
We’re currently recruiting volunteers for a Chair of Governors in Hemel Hempstead to strengthen their governing board and enhance outcomes of pupils within your community. If you feel, you want to make a difference within your community, read on for more details about the role of a chair of governors and how to apply.

Governors make decisions that affect schools and their pupils for years to come; our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. Becoming a governor gives you ample opportunity for personal and professional development, including exposure to finance and budgeting, safeguarding, HR, strategic planning, and more.
As a Chair of governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos as well as meeting children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand. Chair of governors act as a ‘critical friend’ to their head teacher ensuring accountability and helping to monitor and evaluate the schools progress, budget and staffing. You’ll also help your governing board to shape and implement future plans and guide the schools aims, ethos and values.

You don’t need to be a parent or have any specific skills to become a chair of governors, you’ll need to be over 18 and happy to have a DBS check to apply! Professional skills such as HR, finance, law or project management are useful but governing boards are often needing softer skills such as leadership, communication and problem solving alongside a fresh perspective and lived experience within their communities to help schools have a bright future. As a chair of governors, you’ll be supported by the Vice Chair and Clerk to help ensure an effective, focused board utilising and building its skills, knowledge and experience.

This vacancy is for a 3-19 school looking to find a chair of governor to sit on their board with interest or experience in disability. They would ideally like their chair of governors to have had previous experience within HR and Leadership along with having been a governor or having had board level experience. The school is proud of the privilege they have of enabling the most disabled people in the country to reach their potential. 

If you’re interested in becoming a chair of governor, fill out the short application form.
We have vacancies available across England and Wales, including the roles listed above in Hemel Hempstead. You can express your preference for location on the form itself.

Please note, this role may close early if we receive a high volume of interest.