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Join Kent Students' Union as an External Trustee 

About Kent Students’ Union 

Kent Students' Union (KSU) is an independent, registered charity dedicated to enhancing the student experience at the University of Kent. As they continue to evolve and strengthen their impact, they are seeking an exceptional individual with strategic vision and governance expertise to join their Board of Trustees and help guide their mission of creating a transformative university experience for all students. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Contribute to the Board's strategic oversight and decision-making processes 

• Support the CEO and elected officers in achieving organisational goals and objectives. 

• Provide strategic guidance and constructive challenge to ensure robust governance structures and financial sustainability. 

• Help build strong relationships across the KSU community and with external stakeholders. 

• Work collaboratively with the Board to prioritise student belonging, wellbeing, and success 

Candidate Profile 

• Ability to demonstrate leadership skills and governance experience at a strategic level.

• Thorough knowledge of effective governance in public or third sector organisations, with understanding of trustee duties and responsibilities. 

• Experience of change management and project management and experience within a commercial environment. 

• Commitment to collective leadership and nurturing strong relationships.

•  A personal commitment to the Seven Principles of Public Life (Nolan Principles) and dedication to equity, inclusion and diversity 

KSU's Commitment to Diversity 

Kent Students' Union is committed to championing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in all aspects of their work. To ensure an inclusive and representative Trustee Board, applications are particularly encouraged from individuals from racially and ethnically marginalised backgrounds, women, non-binary candidates and candidates with disabilities. If you meet at least 80% of our essential criteria and are from a marginalised background, you'll be guaranteed an interview. 

Time Commitment 

• Minimum of 6 days per year 

• 3 formal Board meetings per year (November, June, plus March strategy session) 

• Encouraged to join one Board committee 

How to Apply 

Please click 'apply now' or contact Atkinson HR if you have any queries or would like to arrange an informal discussion. The application includes submission of a CV and short covering letter. 

Key Dates 

• Applications close: noon, 25th November 2025

• Interviews: 9th and 11th December 2025

We are looking for new volunteers all around East Midlands to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

We are currently not recruiting for the following areas: Nottingham City & Nottinghamshire.

For candidates applying in Lincolnshire please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday and applicants must have access to their own transport.

We are particularly interested in hearing from potential volunteers who live in and around Sheffield, Doncaster, Retford and Worksop to enable us to reach more children in those towns.

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You'll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood

We are looking for new volunteers all around West Midlands to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

We are not currently actively recruiting volunteers living in Birmingham City local authority areas. Please sign up for vacancy alerts on the NSPCC website to update you when these positions become available in future.

For candidates applying in Worcestershire and Dudley please note that visits to schools only take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

For candidates applying in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday and applicants must have access to their own transport.

For candidates applying in Staffordshire & Stoke-on-Trent please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday.

For candidates applying in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, please note that visits to school only take place Monday to Thursday and applicants must have access to their own transport.

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You'll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

We are looking for new volunteers from all over Northern Ireland to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You’ll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you’ll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood

Join the Largest Deployments Programme in the World!

Throughout the year, our Reachers travel overseas to gain an in-depth, on-the-ground understanding of what it takes to deliver aid amidst humanitarian crises. You’ll learn transferable skills such as fundraising, communication, and how to be both a team-player and a great leader. You’ll develop grit, resolve, resilience, and compassion, while gaining an insight into how NGOs work. One thing’s for sure, a Reach Deployment can change your life forever.

The minute you sign up to Reach, you become known as a ‘Reacher’ who is part of the Human Appeal family. We’ll support you every step of the way, from helping unlock your fundraising potential to developing your leadership skills. Expect one-to-one fundraising guidance, regular online meetings and coaching, leadership training seminars, and life-changing overseas missions. If you want to serve humanity on a global scale and raise vital funds, your journey starts here

The deployment journey has 3 important steps

After signing up and deciding upon the country you want to visit, the first step of your journey will be fundraising. Each country has its own fundraising target – please see below. Remember, you have as much time as you need to raise funds. Plus, what’s so unique about a Reach Deployment is that we don’t ask for a registration fee.

Briefing

Whether conflict or climate-related, humanitarian crises zones face the same challenges: a deteriorating infrastructure and lack of access to food, safe water, healthcare, sanitation facilities and shelter. Before you travel, you will receive a full briefing on the humanitarian situation. We’ll cover information such as what to pack, itinerary and flight information, and provide mandatory safeguarding training to protect our beneficiaries. We’ll also answer any questions you may have.

Deployment

This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to spend time with the people we support and see, first-hand, the real, tangible difference that humanitarian aid delivery can make, and understand the challenges faced by those living in harsh conditions.

This is a non paid role, open to applicants from any location worldwide

Inspiring, supportive, and committed - just a few of the words we’d use to describe our volunteers. 

At Rethink Mental Illness, volunteers are at the heart of what we do. They play a vital role in supporting our services and making a real difference in people’s lives. If you’re looking for a rewarding role where you can have a positive impact while developing your own skills and experience, we’d love you to join us. 

About the role 

Do you enjoy meeting people, working as part of a team, and creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to give at least 4 hours a week to help us run our community café in Leek.

As a Volunteer Café Assistant, you’ll:

• Support café staff, volunteers, and trainees in the smooth day-to-day running of the café
• Prepare, present, and serve food and drinks to a high standard
• Operate the coffee machine (full training provided)
• Handle cash and card transactions using the till
• Maintain excellent hygiene and health & safety standards
• Provide friendly customer service to visitors and guests
• Help out at special events and activities held in the café

Full training and regular supervision will be provided, so you’ll feel confident and supported in your role.

About the service 

John Hall Wellness Garden is a community education garden and café in Leek. It’s a safe and inclusive green space where local people, schools, colleges, and social enterprises can come together to learn, work, and socialise. We especially welcome and support people with mental or physical health needs, children, young people, and adults of all ages.

What will make you a great fit for this role?  

• A cheerful, positive attitude
• Good interpersonal and communication skills
• A willingness to learn new skills
• An interest in providing excellent customer service

It’s not essential, but you may also bring:

• Experience in food handling or preparation
• Basic food safety knowledge or HACCP (training will be provided)
• Previous experience in catering, hospitality, or customer service

How to apply

To apply, simply click the “apply now” button on the advert on our website and complete a short interest form.

If you have any questions about this role, please get in touch

Who are we? 

We’re Rethink Mental Illness, a leading charity provider of mental health services in England. We support thousands of people through our groups, services, policy, campaigns and advice and information. Our work supports us in delivering on our mission: “A better life for everyone severely affected by mental illness.”     

It is an exciting time to join our growing charity. We are on a transformation journey, one that supports the delivery of the organisation strategy – delivering Communities that Care. Supporting employees, managers and leaders through this change is a key priority for the People function. Just like its key that we attract diverse people to come and work for us.     

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion   

Diversity is important to us and we appreciate difference through difference, inclusiveness and belonging. It gives us a deeper understanding of the world, our society and the diverse communities we’re working with. By including everyone, we are able to draw on the unique experiences and expertise of our people to help shape and enrich our workplace and improve our services. One way we are doing is through our valued staff networks which play a critical and highly valued role in keeping us focused on creating a diverse, inclusive and engaged employer.  We recognise and support staff networks for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic and our LGBTQIA+ colleagues. We are also proud to have been awarded Disability Confident Employer status and are a signatory to the Business in the Community Race at Work Charter.   

Becoming a truly anti-racist organisation   

We have an ambition of become a truly anti-racist employer, campaigning organisation and service provider - and in our efforts to influence policy and wider societal factors impacting on mental health set out in our anti-racist statement . We have designed a multi-year anti-racist programme of work contained in our Race Equality Action Plan which demonstrate our intention to hold ourselves accountable and be judged on our progress on becoming a truly anti-racist organisation.   

We therefore actively encourage and welcome applications from everyone, including applicants with lived experience, those who are Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer (or questioning), Intersex and (asexual) (LGBTQIA+), people with a disability, and people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds. 

BLUE SMILE - CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Founded in 2010, Blue Smile is a Cambridgeshire charity supporting children aged 3-13 to manage big feelings, process difficult emotions, overcome anxieties and build resilience.

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies, supporting over 200 children a week in the region’s schools, providing one-to-one therapy and groupwork. We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES ROLE

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure that Blue Smile fulfils its charitable objectives. You will lead the Board in an inclusive way, promoting collaborative working and provide support and challenge to the Charity Director.

This role is vital to ensuring the charity operates in accordance with the law, delivers public benefit, and remains financially and strategically sustainable.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IN OUR NEW CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Our new Chair of Trustees will:

• Have board level experience as Chair, Non-executive or Trustee.

• Show a strong understanding of governance, strategy and the legal duties of a charity trustee.

• Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Have sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to build a collaborative environment.

• Demonstrate a passion for improving children’s mental health and wellbeing which aligns with the charity’s values and commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

TIME COMMITMENT

• Six meetings a year, including one as the AGM and an annual strategy day. Board meetings are currently held online.
• Monthly scheduled meeting with the Charity Director with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue.
• Ad hoc/occasional support through working groups and to the wider Blue Smile team.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

• The Chair is appointed for a 5 year term of office, renewable for 1 further term to a maximum of 10 years in line with Blue Smile’s Articles of Association.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

TO APPLY

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity, please send your CV and a covering letter, outlining your interest and suitability for the role. We will be recruiting on a rolling basis so please do get in touch soon!

Blue Smile is committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

We are committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be asked to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

Who we are:

Manchester is a young and vibrant city, with two in every five residents aged 25 or under. Yet, nearly half of our children (43.8%) are growing up in poverty.

Young Manchester is a youth-led partnership of more than 160 local non-profit organisations and community groups, supporting over 15,000 children and young people across the city every week. We resource, strengthen, and champion Manchester’s youth and play sector, centring young people’s voices, experiences, and leadership, and working to ensure that those most excluded have access to opportunities, support, and joy.

Our vision:

A Manchester where all children and young people can thrive and lead purposeful lives in a joyful, safe and healthy environment.

Young Manchester's Board of Trustees 

Young Manchester has a diverse, active and engaged board. However, we are particularly looking for further support around financial oversight and guidance, to ensure effective management of Young Manchester’s resources in line with its charitable objectives.

Young Manchester is working to expand its strategic engagement with business and diversify its fundraising streams through corporate and enterprise opportunities.

We are keen to hear from individuals with background in finance, or experience in fundraising, grant management, or investment portfolio. They will support the CEOs and Finance & Operations Manager by reviewing budgets, management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and financial statements.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Work with the other trustees to ensure Young Manchester is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.
2. Comply with Young Manchester’s governing document and the law.
3. Act in Young Manchester’s best interests.
4. Manage Young Manchester’s resources responsibly.
5. Act with reasonable care and skill.
6. Ensure Young Manchester is accountable by supporting and challenging its leadership.
7. Work closely with Young Manchester’s leadership to execute our strategy in alignment with our vision, mission and values.

We are looking for new volunteers from all over South West and Channel Islands to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You'll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood.

We are looking for new volunteers from London and South East to be Speak out. Stay Safe Volunteers. You would visit primary schools local to you to help us protect a generation of children from abuse and neglect.

WE ARE NOT RECRUITING IN:

London:  Barnet and Enfield

Berkshire: Bracknell Forest, Reading, Slough, West Berkshire, Windsor & Maidenhead, Wokingham.

Hampshire: Hampshire County Council, Basingstoke and Deane, East Hampshire, Hart, Rushmoor, Test Valley, Winchester, Fareham.

Sussex or Surrey. 

Eastleigh, Gosport, New Forest, Southampton, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth, Havant

In 2022 the NSPCC's Speak out. Stay safe volunteers returned to primary schools. As a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer, you will visit primary schools to deliver Speak out. Stay safe. workshops that teach children about the different types of abuse and how they can speak out and stay safe. Our Speak out. Stay safe. workshops are age-appropriate and memorable and need an energetic and enthusiastic person to deliver them. You'll work alongside other Speak out. Stay safe. volunteers to make sure at the end of each session the children feel empowered and know who they can speak out to if they are worried.

If you are interested in volunteering as a Speak out. Stay safe. volunteer and want to find out more about the role, the next step is to attend a Volunteer Information Meeting, which is a fantastic opportunity to:

• Meet with staff as well as volunteers to ask any questions you may have
• Learn more about the application process and your volunteer journey
 

Our meetings are designed to help you decide whether you want to apply – there's no obligation or expectation that you'll apply if you attend one. At the meeting, you'll also receive information on other ways you can become a supporter of the NSPCC.

For this role, we can only accept people over the age of 16. 

Interested in getting involved? Volunteer today and join our fight for every childhood. 

Role title: 

Volunteer Classroom Assistant (Online) – English, Maths, Science  

Where: 

Online (Zoom) / Nova New Opportunities, 2 Thorpe Close, W10 5XL

When: 

Immediately, minimum commitment of 3 months. 

Support 1-2 classes a week (45 minutes per class), Monday - Thursday between 16:30 and 20:30.

About Nova:  

Based in North Kensington since 1983 and serving its poorest wards & those of surrounding London boroughs, Nova works with individuals from marginalised and disadvantaged communities who are looking to develop their potential and achieve a better future for themselves. Nova brings about real and lasting change in people’s lives by addressing every person as an individual and seeking out ways to best support that person to reach their goals. We endeavour to help every person that comes to us who is motivated and committed to improving his or her life.   

Reaching 2,500+ people each year, we believe in improving people’s lives one person at a time, helping committed and motivated individuals to achieve their potential by:  

• Developing knowledge, education and confidence 

• Connecting diverse groups

• Providing opportunities 

Our work, operates on 2 levels:

• Grassroots Community Support – including responsive actions (e.g. Grenfell, COVID-19), education, IAG, family programme and volunteering  

• Wider Reaching Dialogue Events and Influencing – focussing on challenging stigma, prejudice and inequality – working with individuals, organisations, networks and decision makers to move through conversation to action 

Purpose of role: 

Support the Nova Family Programme tutors in facilitating online home school sessions.

Role Description: 

This role will be to act as a teaching assistant to tutors delivering online English, maths and science classes (for young people at Key Stage 2 and 3). With the disruption of Covid-19, many families have been thrown into the unknown world of home schooling – made even more challenging when your own education isn’t up to scratch or English is your second language. We are delivering a free programme of online home school support to those who have been most negatively impacted by being out of school. Now that Schools have reopened, we will be continuing these sessions to ensure that learners do not fall behind as Schools focus on catching up on lost learning. The aim is to support children who may be falling behind with their studies and mitigating as far as possible the widening attainment gap. 

You will: 

• Enjoy working in a team 

• Provide tutorial support 

• Position yourself as a resource for learners 

• Work one-on-one or with breakout groups of learners who need additional help 

• Facilitate the zoom classroom as required 

You need to be: 

• DBS Checked 

• Confident in the use of IT 

• Some experience of supporting learners with Maths/ English 

• Experience of working with young people 

• Committed

• Competent 

• Reliable

• Honest 

• Punctual 

• Patient 

• Fair 

• Open minded 

• Learners may come from various cultural backgrounds and face different learning challenges. You will need to be at ease whether supervising an entire class or working one-on-one with students.

• Comfortable following Nova staff directions and working independently 

Further information: 

• Induction and appropriate training will be provided.

• Teaching or coaching experience would be desirable but not essential. 

Main point of contact/supervisor: 

Matthew Barnett 

IMPORTANT: An enhanced DBS check is required for this role, and so we are unfortunately only able to accept applications from UK-based applicants or British nationals living abroad.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that ESS Education and Support Services achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that ESS Education and Support Services has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable ESS Education and Support Services to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

· Support and provide advice on ESS Education and Support Service’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee ESS Education and Support Service’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 ESS Education and Support Services’ financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to ESS Education and Support Services’ CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in ESS Education and Support Services’ operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of ESS Education and Support services’ own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ESS Education and Support Service’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of ESS Education and Support Services objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge, and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board.

ESS Education and Support Service are looking for Trustees from the following backgrounds: Legal, Financial.

Personal skills and qualities

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement 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 our values.

· Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

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 are reimbursed.

Time commitment

· Attending 6 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held virtually.

· Attending charity events and other such commitments.

Join our Board - Trustee Opportunities at Planning Aid for London

Do you believe everyone should have a say in how their neighbourhood changes? Planning Aid for London helps communities across the city influence decisions that shape their lives.

Planning Aid for London (PAL) is looking for two new trustees to help us deliver our ambitious five-year strategic plan.

We are entering an exciting new phase of growth as we work to become financially sustainable and expand our reach. We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in communications, fundraising, charity finance, and volunteer-led service delivery.

The role is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about helping residents to have a voice in planning the future of their neighbourhoods and who enjoys working collaboratively with other trustees to make that happen.

As a trustee, your role will involve

• Overseeing and contributing to the implementation of our five-year strategic plan
• Offering an external perspective and constructive challenge
• Provide insight, challenge, and constructive support to the staff and volunteer team
• Champion PAL’s mission and help us grow our impact

You don’t need previous board experience, we’ll provide induction and support to help you succeed.

Time Commitments

• The Board meets every 6 weeks (usually online, from 6.00-7.30pm)
• There may be occasional ad-hoc meetings, agreed in advance with the Board separately
• Trustees are also invited to attend the AGM and occasional outreach events. We aim to keep meetings accessible and flexible.
• Additional hours may be required as part of fulfilling the role

​What We Offer

As a trustee, you will play a key role in shaping Planning Aid for London’s work and strengthen our organisation. You will connect with other professionals from across the built environment who share a commitment to helping communities in London to participate meaningfully in the planning process.

Person Specification

Essential Skills

• Commitment to Planning Aid for London’s mission and values
• Ability to work collaboratively and think creatively
• Willingness to attend meetings and follow up on agreed actions

Desirable Skills

Finance & Fundraising Trustee

We are looking for someone who can help strengthen our financial sustainability and guide sound governance as PAL grows. You’ll bring:

• Experience in finance, accounting, or business management
• An understanding of financial reporting and charity governance (or the willingness to learn)
• Insight into charity fundraising, income diversification, or donor engagement 
• A collaborative mindset, with the confidence to ask the right questions and support decision-making

Communications & Engagement Trustee

We’re seeking someone who can help raise PAL’s profile and share the impact of our work across London’s communities. You’ll bring:

• Experience in communications, PR, marketing, or public engagement
• Understanding of digital and social media strategy, including storytelling and audience growth
• Experience working with community groups, campaigns, or advocacy initiatives
• Creativity and strategic thinking to help shape PAL’s message and visibility

Additional desirable experience for both roles

• experience in the built or natural environment (planning, architecture, urban design, housing, environmental or community engagement)
   

How to Apply

Please send a short CV and cover letter (max 2 pages) explaining your interest and how your skills align with the role. If you’d like an informal chat before applying, please contact us through the form or via the contact page on the PAL website.

Deadline EXTENDED: Sunday 16th November 2025, (11:59pm)
Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a short online discussion around w/c 17th and w/c 24th November.

Diversity & Accessibility Statement

Planning Aid for London’s main aim is to help support greater diversity and inclusion in the planning system. We work to empower people to have real influence over decisions about their environment and communities and welcome opportunities from anyone who would like to help us to achieve that.

We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board. We especially welcome applications from people underrepresented in the planning and charity sectors including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, women, and those from lower-income backgrounds. Please let us know if you need any adjustments to take part in this process.

What are Serving Community Teams?

Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. SSAFA has developed Serving Community Teams for volunteers to support serving personnel their families in the UK and overseas.

A Serving Community Team is run by a small team of volunteers on or near a British Armed Forces base, to provide emotional, practical and financial support to the serving community. Our volunteer Administration Coordinators are an integral part of the team supporting the volunteers to host meetings, events and support beneficiaries in their local community.

Why we want you

There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA has Serving Community Teams which offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team consists of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible. That’s where your skills come in. Could you spare some time to provide excellent administration support to the team of volunteers on a regular basis? The Administration Coordinator keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes. This is a key role involving organising and recording team meetings, supporting with general planning, and helping with events administration.

What you will be doing

• Providing administrative support for Serving Community Team meetings - at least four per year, held either in person or online. This includes sending invites and recording minutes.
• Working with the Chair and wider volunteer team to create an annual plan of activity based on local need.
• Supporting members of the team with general administration tasks. For example, helping with fundraising events, local engagement and publicity events.
• Responding to general enquiries to the SCT where needed.

The skills you need

• Friendly and approachable with good written and communication skills.
• Empathy regarding the needs and challenges of the serving community.
• Good IT and administration skills.
• Respectful and non-judgemental approach.
• Understanding the importance of confidentiality and boundaries.
• A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.
• We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA is committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.

What's in it for you

• Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
• Give back to the Armed Forces community.
• Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across the serving community and local area.
• Gain experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
• Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression! 

Requirements

Volunteers need to be a minimum of 18 years old.

Time commitment

Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a couple of hours a week.  There will be times when attendance is required for a team meeting which may be in person or virtually.

Support

Full training is provided for this role, with some e-learning modules online and a live Teams webinar. You will also be supported by your SCT chair and Serving Community Support Team. 

SSAFA Values

For SSAFA, our values of; commitment, compassion, integrity and understanding underpin everything we do, and we ask that all volunteers are equally committed to them.

After making an application

Once you’ve applied, you’ll receive updates to the email address you provided in your application. Sometimes the emails we send go into junk folders, so do keep an eye out in the days following your application.

Disclaimer

SSAFA is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all those involved in our work and expects volunteers to share this commitment.