Charity trustee volunteer roles in staines, surrey

ABOUT SPRINGBOARD

Springboard Youth Academy supports refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have recently arrived in the UK to help them succeed in the classroom and beyond. By combining participatory learning, life skills and holistic support into action-packed weekend, half-term and summer programming, we work to bridge the gap in support for young people left behind by the mainstream school system.

As educators and youth workers with years of experience working to offset the challenges these young people face, we launched a programme that helps young people develop their English language and self-advocacy skills whilst addressing their social and wellbeing needs, preparing them for mainstream education and helping them rebuild their lives in the UK.

We do this by providing interactive and engaging programming that combines English learning, life skills and practical and emotional strategies for young people on their journey to independence and adulthood. 

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

We are seeking a Chair to work with the Board of Trustees and Director to oversee Springboard's operations and strategic direction. We're looking for someone who thinks strategically and creatively, enjoys working collaboratively and wants to make a significant contribution to Springboard Youth Academy’s future, as well as the wider education and migration landscape.

We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and participatory education, as well as our commitment to supporting and platforming displaced young people. We're keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us continue to refine our delivery and grow. 

We are committed to nurturing a board that is representative, inclusive, anti-racist and commited to actively challenging the hostile environment and violent border regimes across all its work. We are interested in hearing from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We particularly encourage applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and leaving care. 

Responsibilities of the Chair include:

• Providing leadership for the Board of Trustees in their role of setting the strategy and policies for the organisation
• Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and setting the agendas
• Chairing and facilitating board meetings 
• Monitoring that decisions taken at board meetings are implemented
• Representing the organisation at appropriate events, meetings or functions  
• Liaising with the Director on organisational activity and providing support as appropriate 

Qualities:

• Strategic thinking
• Excellent communication skills
• Confidence and a willingness to speak their mind and ask challenging questions
• Teamwork and collaboration skills
• Understanding of safeguarding and confidentiality
• Understanding of the wider political landcape, abolitionist perspectives and commitment to challenging the hostile environment
• Independent judgment
• Commitment to making meetings inclusive and welcoming to Trustees with all levels of experience
• Advocacy and networking skills to help us build new relationships
• Willingness to offer expertise, skills and personal insight to support us
• Passion for championing work that centres newly arrived young people

TIME COMMITMENT

In line with all charities, Trustees are unpaid volunteers. Trustees must be able to commit to attending quarterly Board meetings and making time to read paperwork in advance of Board meetings. As a small charity, our resources are limited and Trustees are also asked to actively contribute their skills in relevant areas. As a guideline, Trustees must be prepared to offer a minimum of two hours per month to the charity. 

As Chair, you will be required to support with annual reporting to the charity commission, plan the agenda for board meetings and provide intermittent support to the Director. We also require new Trustees to spend one day on site during one of our programmes to get a feel for the work, as well as undertake Trustee and Safeguarding training, within the first three months of starting the role. Board meetings are currently held virtually, and, where possible, are arranged at least two months ahead. On occasion, Trustees will be required to respond by email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier. 

Join the Board of The Abbey Centre in the heart of Westminster and help us grow to make a real impact on local lives.

Applications close Tuesday 27th May.

Who we are

Located in the heart of historic Westminster, The Abbey Centre manages a vibrant community hub buzzing with a diverse range of activities and services aimed at addressing local community needs.

When many people think of Westminster, their minds often turn to government and wealth. However, Westminster as a community also faces high levels of deprivation, with neighbourhoods ranked among the top 10% of England’s most deprived areas.

We exist to support local residents and have proudly done so for over 70 years. Since 1991, we have operated a busy and vibrant community centre, providing a range of activities for people of all ages, from after-school clubs to programmes for older people. We also run a successful community food pantry, café, and catering operation.

We are ambitious about doing even more for local people and are embarking on a period of growth after developing a new theory of change and securing investment to enhance several aspects of our building.

About the role

This is your chance to transform a vital community hub in the heart of Westminster while applying your commercial acumen and legal knowledge.

We are looking for a dynamic Trustee to join our Board and help drive our community mission forward. As we expand our services and strengthen our financial foundation, your strategic vision will be instrumental in helping us navigate growth opportunities and ensure our long-term sustainability. Hence, we are looking for a Trustee with a business mindset. We are not looking for pro bono legal advice. We are looking for someone who can utilise their legal mind alongside their enterprise-focused and business-oriented experience. We are also interested in whether our new Trustee has any HR expertise.

You’ll join a passionate team dedicated to empowering local residents through education, wellbeing programs, and community spaces, while bringing your professional expertise to the table. Your commercial mindset will help us identify new revenue streams and partnerships that align with our values and mission.

If you’re someone who thrives at the intersection of purpose and strategy, who can balance community needs with sound business decisions, and who wants to contribute to a 75-year legacy of positive community impact, we need your voice at our Board table.

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 Tuesday 27th May. 

We are looking to recruit a trustee with Fundraising expertise to join Social Links, a new charity in the homelessness sector. Social Links delivers safe, structured befriending, where volunteers are carefully matched to deliver one-to-one befriending.

The successful applicant will join a Board currently comprising three trustees. In addition to this role, we will shortly be recruiting a trustee with communications specific responsibilities.

Key Objectives:

· Along with the rest of the Board, take responsibility for governance of the organisation.

· Ensure that all of Social Links’ activities further the interests of our beneficiaries and the future sustainability of the charity.

· Support the founders to achieve the aims and strategy of the organisation.

· Ensure that effective, productive relationships exist between the Board, all partners and all stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

· Attend meetings of the Board and, in conjunction with other members, make decisions on matters relating to strategy, policy, financing, functioning and monitoring of the charity.

· Read thoroughly in advance of meetings all papers sent out for discussion and prepare ideas and contributions accordingly.

· Participate in the work of any specialist panels and working groups of the Board and other identified projects/activities, subject to your own availability and nomination by the Board.

· Take an active interest in and familiarise yourself with Social Links’ day-to-day operations.

· Participate in recruitment for the posts of Trustee and Volunteer, including taking part in interview panels.

· Be prepared to use your range of contacts and acquaintances to promote the work of the charity. On occasion this may, subject to agreement, involve representing the charity at public or media events, or leading on an aspect of fundraising.

· Ongoing support of, and liaison with, the founders.

· Participate in arrangements for assessment and appraisal of the performance of the Board, and that of individual trustees and founders.

· If necessary, conduct hearings in accordance with Social Links’ formal procedures, e.g. disciplinary, grievance and appeal hearings.

· Follow Social Links’ Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Policy and Code of Conduct at all times. Further diversity, equality and inclusion through your activities on behalf of the charity.

· Undertake any development activity identified as necessary to support performance in the carrying out of the above responsibilities (any training to be arranged by the charity staff and paid for by Social Links’).

Fundraising Specific Responsibilities:

· Strategy Development: Lead with the creation and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy, aligned with the charity’s goals.

· Fundraising Campaigns: Oversee and contribute to the planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising campaigns, including events, online appeals, and grant applications.

· Donor Engagement: Identify and cultivate relationships with donors, partners, grant-making bodies and other key stakeholders.

· Governance: Provide oversight on fundraising activities, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including GDPR.

· Financial Oversight: Monitor fundraising performance, including setting and reviewing budgets and targets, and reporting to the board on progress.

· Innovation: Identify and develop new and innovative fundraising initiatives to diversify income streams. Lead with recruiting a fundraising volunteer/s.

· Advocacy: Represent The charity’ at external events and in networks to raise awareness of the charity’s work and attract funding.

Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace. Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity. We are a not-for-profit organisation operational in 12 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Saferworld is currently looking for a new Chair of the Board of Trustees. This role will be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of Saferworld, ensuring the organisation’s aims, objectives, and goals align with its governing document, as well as legal and regulatory guidelines. The ideal candidate should have a broad understanding of the charity sector as well as an understanding of how charities operate in a local context – often operating effectively in extremely challenging environments. An understanding of the UK charity context would be helpful but is not crucial. 

The Board is currently reviewing different governance models, including the possibility of a Chair/Vice Chair structure. While this model is still under consideration, it would involve clearly defined roles and responsibilities, helping to balance the workload and bring diverse perspectives to the Board’s leadership. The incoming Chair should be adaptable and open to these ongoing discussions, and play a key role in shaping and refining the governance structure to ensure it aligns effectively with Saferworld’s needs.

We are interested in hearing from individuals who share our values, possess the capacity for independent and creative thinking, and bring strong leadership, relevant competence and experience to our governing body. Whether you are an experienced Chair or wanting to take your first step at senior Board level, we still want to hear from you. 

Please download the recruitment pack for more information on how to apply to be the Chair of the Board of Trustees.

Closing date: 11 May 2025

Join REMIX as a Volunteer Trustee and Transform the Future of London's Youth!

Do you envision a London where every young person can unlock their full potential?

REMIX is a dynamic, brand new youth charity dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals aged 16 to 26 years old. Our core mission is rooted in four pillars—employability, healthy living, personal development, and essential life skills. We're building something truly transformational, and we need a passionate, innovative Volunteer Trustee to help lay our foundations, navigate charity registration, and launch our vision to empower young lives across London and beyond.

As a Trustee with REMIX, you will be a cornerstone of our start-up. Your strategic leadership and guidance will:

• Shape Our Foundations: Be at the helm in crafting the governance and legal framework that will support REMIX’s ambitious goals.

• Drive Change: Help us register as an official charity and develop robust systems that ensure we can deliver impactful programmes to every young person in our community.

• Inspire Growth: Use your experience and insight to cultivate a culture of positivity, resilience, and creativity that motivates young people to dream and achieve.

• Lead by Example: Offer mentorship and share your expertise in employability, healthy living, and personal development, inspiring our team and the young people we serve.

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for making a tangible difference, REMIX offers you a unique and transformative opportunity to drive social impact from the ground up. Your commitment and innovative ideas will help us empower young Londoners to build brighter futures, turning aspirations into reality.

Join us and be the change that sparks new beginnings! Explore the opportunity to leave a legacy of empowerment and transformation within our vibrant community. We can’t wait to see the extraordinary impact you’ll make.

Step forward. Lead the change. Transform lives at REMIX.

REMIX

INSPIRE. EMPOWER. TRANSFORM.

Our partner is a UK based charity supporting a grassroots project in Moshi, Tanzania, that empowers children and young people with the skills and opportunities to prepare them for a future without poverty.

They are seeking a Treasurer to join their expanding UK Board of Trustees to maintain an overview of the organisation’s financial affairs, ensure that its plans are financially viable, and that proper fiscal records, policies and procedures are maintained.

Key responsibilities include overseeing, approving and presenting budgets, accounts and financial statements; ensuring that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs; and advising on the financial implications of the organisation's strategic plans.

The Board meets quarterly, currently on a Saturday, and the total estimated time commitment required is 4 hours per month.

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For more Trustee & Treasurer roles please visit the AfID website.

Trustee – Board of Trustees

We are looking for one person, who will join the other fourteen Trustees who make up the Board of Trustees for The Passage.

We would be particularly interested in someone with knowledge and experience of the creative industries to add to the wide range of skills and capabilities that the Board possesses.

Location: Westminster, London

Remuneration: This is an unpaid voluntary role, however reasonable expenses may be reimbursed

Time Commitment: Four board meetings per year (with each meeting lasting around two and a half hours). Plus, attendance of occasional events and meetings with key stakeholders

Report To: Chair of Board of Trustees

Closing Date: Rolling advert

Interview Date: TBC, held in London (SW1P).

About the role

Are you passionate about ending homelessness?

Trustees are responsible for giving direction to The Passage and ensuring it meets its objectives effectively.

They are concerned with the policy, strategy and monitoring of the organisation; day-to-day management is delegated to paid professional staff who report to the Board of Trustees.

Trustees are appointed initially for a period of 3 years and can be re-appointed for 2 further periods of 3 years, up to 9 years.

What you will be doing

Principle responsibilities:

The formal duties of the Board of Trustees collectively are to:

• Ensure that The Passage complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that The Passage pursues its charitable objects as defined in its memorandum of
  association.
• Ensure The Passage applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.
• Give clear strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and the values of The Passage.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of The Passage.
• Ensure the financial stability of The Passage.
• Protect and manage the property of The Passage and to ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint the Chief Executive, monitor their performance and determine their remuneration.
• Act at all times in the best interests of The Passage, and declare any conflicts of interest.

In addition to the above statutory duties, all Trustees should use any specific knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This will involve focusing on key issues and providing advice and guidance requested by the Board on issues and initiatives relevant to the area of Passage Housing Services work in which the Trustee has special expertise.

Expectations

In order to fulfill the role of Trustees effectively, all Trustees are expected to:

• Attend Board meetings, currently held quarterly.
• Attend and participate in the Board’s annual strategic planning day held on a weekday (usually off-site).
• Visit The Passage from time to time to build an awareness of the work and develop an understanding of the needs of the different teams.
• Occasionally attend functions on behalf of The Passage, liaise with other Trustees and the Senior Executive Team in between Board meetings.
• Read Board papers in advance of meetings and come prepared to discuss key points arising from those papers.
• Complete the trustee induction process.
• As part of the Board’s ongoing Development Process participate in a one-to-one annual review with the chairman.

Essential

• An understanding of and commitment to The Passage’s vision, mission and values, including stakeholder engagement and diversity.
• Empathy with the essential principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• The ability to think strategically and creatively, with an ability to anticipate issues and risks, and to identify opportunities.
• The ability to use good independent judgement and to challenge appropriately as a “critical friend”.
• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team in order to reach timely decisions. This includes being able to speak openly in discussion, whilst listening and respecting the views of others.
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.
• The ability to act as an ambassador for the Passage, to champion its mission and promote its reputation and image, and to establish useful contacts.
• Experience in any range of skills needed to run and govern a housing association, including finance, supported housing, RSH expertise (non-exhaustive list).
• Legal expertise, especially in the areas of commercial property arrangements.
• Excellent networking with other members of relevant sectors, and influencing and communicating skills.
• Demonstrable success in a private, charitable or public sector organisation.

Desired

• Good understanding of charity and/or social housing sector.
• A good knowledge of relevant general legislation and statutory requirements, including charity law, employment law and/or health and safety law.
• Experience of successfully dealing with strategic issues and involvement in longer term planning.
• We believe that achieving long-lasting social impact starts with having our Board and Management Teams reflect the diverse community we serve. Enhancing Board diversity is essential to our core values as an organization. It not only makes us more effective and capable of making better decisions but is also crucial for the successful delivery of our mission.
  • We are therefore, actively encouraging applications from individuals who are Black or from minoritized ethnic backgrounds, disabled, LGBTQ+, and those with varying levels of educational attainment.
  • We particularly welcome applications from younger individuals aged 18 to 30 and are also keen to hear from candidates with a background or advanced knowledge in relevant fields.

Job Title: Volunteer Finance Lead
Reporting to: Operational Director
Hours: 10 to 15 hours per month (we can be flexible and work with your schedule)

Willowbrook Farm Charity

Willowbrook Farm Charity exists to create nurturing educational and cultural spaces in the Oxfordshire countryside that are welcoming, inclusive, and accessible to communities who have been historically underrepresented in rural environments — including people from racialised backgrounds, neurodivergent individuals, and young people with diverse learning needs.

In partnership with Willowbrook Farm (www  willowbrookfarm  co  uk), where we host our activities, we aim to build a nationally recognised centre of excellence that supports personal growth, wellbeing, and connection with nature. Through hands-on learning, community building, and cultural exchange, we empower individuals and groups to explore sustainable living, ethical land stewardship, and the transformative potential of nature-based education.

Our Values

Community
We foster a culture of care, connection, and belonging. We create space for people to come together in joy, learning, and mutual support, building relationships rooted in respect and shared purpose.

Stewardship
We honour the land as a living system and recognise that the wellbeing of people and nature are deeply interconnected. We are committed to nurturing the next generation of ethical and responsible stewards — who care for the earth, each other, and future generations.

Equity & Inclusion
We are dedicated to removing barriers so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and abilities can access and participate fully in experiences of farming, countryside living, and sustainability. We celebrate diversity and work to create welcoming spaces where everyone can thrive.

Connection with Nature
We centre our actions on a deep respect for the natural world. We believe in restoring and nurturing the bond between humans and nature, creating a place where both can flourish in harmony.
 

Job description

We are thrilled to welcome a Finance Lead to support our Operational Director and Fundraising Team at a pivotal time for our charity.

After a challenging period of inactivity due to the impacts of Covid, we are excited to embark on a new chapter, as we are ready to restart our activities in 2025 and to develop our projects and create a positive impact in our community.

This is a unique opportunity for those eager to be part of a project evolving from its early stages to the launching of new initiatives. The volunteer will have ample opportunity to learn about charity structure, develop skills within the third sector and grow with the charity.

We are looking for a passionate and articulate person to fill this role.
 

What this position entails

We are looking for a dedicated volunteer who can provide long-term support to our charity as we prepare to relaunch our activities after a period of inactivity post-Covid.

The Volunteer Finance Lead will assist the Fundraising team and the Operational Director in creating budgets, clarifying budget limitations, preparing cash flow forecasts, and ensuring the charity has a comprehensive understanding of operational and project costs to help us secure necessary funding.

Ideal candidates should be genuinely passionate about our mission and values, work well in a team, and be able to communicate financial information clearly to those who may not have a finance background.

As a Finance Lead, your main responsibilities will include:

• Give general financial advice for projects, events and activities strategy.
• Take leadership in preparing cash flow forecasts.
• Clarifying budget limitations.
• Take leadership on producing projected budgets, outlining expected income and expenses for specific periods of the charity lifecycle, helping our charity plan our finances and allocate resources.
• Taking on leadership for producing all events/activities/projects budgets and keeping accurate reporting of post-projects income/expenses records and producing reports to the board of trustees.
• Monitoring the financial health of all our projects.
• Produce general quarterly financial reporting to management and the board of trustees, highlighting points of concern.
• Contributing to decisions regarding financial strategy for our projects.
• Understanding and reporting costs for specific areas: internal staff, delivery staff, running activities etc.
• Able to recommend improvements and implement changes on financial processes and procedures, supporting the operational team to have clarity on our financial health.

What do you need to become our Finance Lead?

Essential:

• 3+ plus experience with accounts/finance
• Fully qualified Accountant or relevant financial qualification.
• Highly experienced with budgets and cost management of projects.
• Numerate, accurate individual with strong Excel, Word, and presentation skills
• Professional approach.
• Experience of working with small teams and communicating financial information clearly to those who may not have a finance background.
• Able to work on own initiative with a conscientious approach, always looking to continuously improve processes and be dedicated to the improvement of our charity's financial processes and procedures.

As a volunteer-led charity, it’s essential for us to find someone who understands the importance of being part of our team and engaging in the growth of the charity. Therefore, we will prioritise applications from volunteers who are committed to a long-term partnership and want to be an integral member of our team.

By getting involved you will gain:

• A chance to expand your skills in charity strategic operations and fundraising.
• This is an excellent opportunity for professionals eager to utilise their talents to address community needs and contribute to reducing inequality.
• Additionally, this is an excellent starting point for those wanting to work in the third sector but lacking the experience.

Location: Fully Remote. But we welcome those who wish to come and visit the farm at least once to understand more about us.

Commitment:

We estimate that you'll need to commit around 10 to 15 hours each month. However, depending on the specific projects/events running, there may be times when you need to invest more time, while other months might require less support. We're looking for a volunteer who is excited to build a long-term partnership with us and can adapt their schedule as needed.

We can be flexible and work with you to find hours that fit ours and your schedule, working out of office hours or weekends - all help is much appreciated!

As a volunteer-led charity, we prioritise volunteers who want to become part of our team of volunteers rather than those looking for a temporary assignment. Therefore, we won’t accept applications from volunteers who cannot commit to at least 5-6 months with us.

How to apply:

Candidates must have the legal right to work in the UK at the time of application.

Please send your CV and cover letter demonstrating your relevant experience and why you would like to get involved with our charity. 

We will be holding interviews starting on the 15th May.

If we find some great candidates, we may close the vacancy earlier than the application deadline mentioned. So don't delay - apply today!

Job Notes:

The volunteer acknowledges their responsibility to perform their tasks diligently and to promptly inform their line manager of any concerns that may arise during their volunteering period. Given the time commitment required for this position, we regret to inform that we cannot provide references for volunteers who serve less than three months with us.

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of students? The Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU) is seeking two dedicated Lay Trustees to join our esteemed Board of Trustees. This is a unique chance to contribute to the strategic direction of a dynamic, student-led charity based in the picturesque setting of Cornwall.

Why Become a Lay Trustee?

As a Lay Trustee, you will have the rewarding experience of shaping the future of our organisation and enhancing the student experience. This role offers the chance to:

- Make a Lasting Impact: Influence key decisions and policies that directly affect students’ lives.

- Mentorship Opportunities: Guide and support President and Student Trustees, fostering a culture of student leadership.

- Professional Development: Gain valuable experience in governance, strategic planning, and charity operations.

- Networking: Collaborate with a diverse board, including recent graduates and current students, in a vibrant and evolving sector.

Role Overview:

Lay Trustees play a crucial role in supporting the strategic direction of The SU. You will be involved in finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan and the quintennial review of our Constitution. This is a voluntary, unpaid role, but all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

Key Responsibilities:

- Ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose and governing documents.

- Contribute to the development and monitoring of the organisation’s strategy.

- Safeguard the financial stability and assets of The SU.

- Prepare for and actively participate in Board meetings.

- Provide mentorship to President and Student Trustees.

Skills and Experience:

We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:

- Finance

- Higher Education

- Human Resources

- Charity or Employment Law

Essential Attributes:

- Commitment to The SU’s mission and values.

- Strategic vision and independent judgement.

- Ability to think creatively and work collaboratively.

- Understanding of the legal duties of trusteeship.

Commitment:

- Four Board meetings per year (online).

- Additional sub-committee meetings (online).

- One or two in-person events in Cornwall annually (expenses paid).

How to Apply:

Submit your CV, a covering letter, and the completed Person Details form and Skills Audit spreadsheet: by 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will be conducted online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, with an additional slot on Thursday 22 May if needed.

Join us in creating a world-class student experience. Apply today and help shape the future of The SU!

South West London Law Centres (SWLLC) is an independent registered charity providing specialised legal advice and assistance covering Wandsworth, Merton, Croydon, Kingston-upon-Thames, Richmond-upon-Thames and Sutton in South West London.

Our vision is a future where people who cannot afford a lawyer:

• Have equal access to assert and enforce their rights;
• Are empowered to benefit from everything a healthy society has to offer;
• Are treated equally with dignity and respect.

You will play a critical role in helping SWLLC to grow and prosper. If you have a passion for access to justice and believe that you can improve the impact the SWLLC can make, then we look forward to hearing from you. 

What will you be doing?

Our previous chair stood down after an extended term of 6 years. They helped oversee the law centre during the pandemic and its aftermath during which we have seen the law centre continue to flourish in a very challenging environment. We are looking for a new chair who believes in what we do and is prepared to lead and act as an ambassador for the charitable trust so that we can continue to do this work. We currently have a strong trustee board of varying skills and tenures and the day to day management of the law centre is delegated to a small team. This team is small for what the law centre is trying to achieve. We need you to bring your expertise, energy and networks to the law centre. The role isn't glamorous, it's unpaid, and it's sometimes unacknowledged, but it is rewarding. You will play a critical role in helping SWLLC to support over 6,000 people a year, who would not otherwise have access to legal advice. We are very proud of the impact that we have had over the last 50 years, and continue to have. SWLLC continues to operate in a challenging environment, the work of the law centre is regulated and audited by a number of external bodies, our finances continued to be challenged by static legal aid, grants and donations, despite this we have continued to flourish, but the need for our services is greater than we can provide. The main areas that our trustees board can support alongside the role of governance of the law centre are:

• Finance
• Fundraising
• Human Resources
• Communications and Marketing
• IT and facilities
• Community Engagement and Community Activism

Time commitment:

6 Board meetings per year. Take place through a mixture of in person and online meetings in the evenings (usually midweek between 6pm – 7:30pm). The Chair will also need to have regular meetings with the Chief Executive, and Senior Management Team outside of these regular board meetings. Such meetings will typically be brief, online and arranged at a mutually convenient time. The Chair will also need to represent the Charity at various events and meetings with key stakeholders. Our head office is based in Croydon with other offices in Clapham Junction and Morden. We expect the role to take around 1 -2 days per month.

What are we looking for?

Principal responsibilities:

Strategic leadership

• Act as representative of the whole board and not its defacto head
• Provide leadership to the charity and its Board, ensuring that the Charity has maximum impact for its beneficiaries

Governance

• Ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for the Charity

External Relations

• Act as an ambassador for the cause and the charity in partnership with the CEO

Efficiency and effectiveness

• Chair meetings of the Board of Trustees effectively and efficiently, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision-making process
• Ensure that Trustees are fully engaged and that decisions are taken in the best, long-term interests of the Charity and that the Board takes collective ownership

Relationship with the Chief Executive and the Senior Management Team

• Establish and build a strong, effective, supporting and a constructive working relationship with the Chief Executive, ensuring s/he is held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives 

Personal Qualities:

• Personal gravitas to lead a significant organisation demonstrating a strong and visible passion and commitment to the law centre, its strategic objectives and cause  
• Exhibit strong inter-personal and relationship building abilities and be comfortable in an ambassadorial role
• Demonstrate tact and diplomacy, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• Strong networking capabilities that can be utilised for the benefit of the law centre
• Ability to foster and promote a collaborative team environment
• Ability to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours

Experience:

• Experience of operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation
• Successful track record of achievement through their career
• Experience of external representation, delivering presentations and managing stakeholders
• Significant experience of chairing meetings and events Knowledge and skills
• Broad knowledge and understanding of the legal sector and current issues affecting it
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate staff and volunteers and bring people together
• Good understanding of charity governance and finance issues Terms The charity’s Chair (and board members) will serve a four-year term to be eligible for re-appointment for one additional term.

What difference will you make?

The impact the Chair will have is to ensure the continuation of the law centres' successful mission 

Law Centres are community-led, not-for-profit organisations that help local people to understand and enforce their legal rights. Their services are free, and they attempt to target the people who most need them – people who are at risk of discrimination and ill-treatment and those who are least able to protect themselves, for example because they lack the money to hire someone with legal expertise to help them.  We are currently celebrating our 50th year. SWLLC s is one of the larger Law Centre in Great Britain covering six London boroughs – Croydon, Kingston, Merton, Richmond, Sutton and Wandsworth. Our catchment area covers 1.7 million people. We now operate from 3 branch offices. We help over 6,000 people each year with a face to face service covering 3 broad services. 

• Expert casework and representation in the social welfare law covering community care, debt, employment, housing, immigration/asylum, public law, welfare rights and cost of living support 
• Emergency representation as part of the Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme 
• Pro Bono Clinics 

Amongst the results we achieve that make us proud of what we do are:

• the prevention of homelessness 
• the prevention and reduction of poverty 
• the protection of family life by reuniting people living in the UK with those living abroad
• the prevention of torture and death beyond our borders by the provision of advice and representation to people fleeing persecution 
• the prevention of ill-health by successfully challenging unfit living conditions 
• the prevention of mental ill-health by assisting people to deal with their personal debts

Before you apply

If you would like an initial discussion before putting in your application please message through the Reach Volunteering Platform and Senior Management Team will be on contact to further discuss the role and the opportunity. A panel of trustees and senior management team will review your application. If we consider that your skills and experience are a good fit with the Law Centre, you will be invited for an informal discussion with the panel about our work and the trustee role. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and we encourage early submissions.

We are seeking to recruit a Vice Chair and four Trustees to join us to help us achieve our ambitious goals for a fairer and more effective criminal justice system.

The Criminal Justice Alliance (CJA) is a network of 200+ organisations and academics working towards a fair and effective criminal justice system. Working with our members, the CJA brings together a broad and diverse range of expertise across the sector, championing and elevating the voices of those directly impacted by the criminal justice system. 

We are in an exciting time of growth and development as we continue our ambitious and much-needed work, focusing on systemic change, constructive criminal justice journalism, race equity and lived experience leadership. 

The CJA is committed to achieving greater diversity in its trustees and staff, particularly as there are issues affecting individuals from non-majority backgrounds across the criminal justice system. We actively encourage applications from minority ethnic communities and people with protected characteristics. We also welcome applications from younger people and from first-time trustees.

This is a voluntary role without remuneration. However, travel expenses as well as other reasonable and necessary costs incurred (including childcare), as part of official Trustee business, will be reimbursed. We will also provide suitable training and mentorship for first-time Trustees.

For more information about the role, please see CJA Trustee Appointment Brief.  

The Finance Trustee will participate in all areas of our governance but take a special interest in the financial  strategy and governance. They will use their sound financial skills and experience to support the Board’s understanding and interpretation and to ensure legislative compliance.  Knowledge of UK wide midwifery provision would also be an advantage but not essential.

The Finance Trustee will support the Board to oversee the financial matters of the charity in line with good practice, the Articles of Association and legal requirements, The Finance Trustee will ensure that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are put in place and are appropriate for the charity.

The Finance Trustee should adhere to the role description of a trustee and in addition has the following key responsibilities:

• To support the Board to oversee and to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.

• To ensure appropriate presentation of accounts and records, ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the charity’s policies, good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.

• Liaising, where applicable, with the Chair or other appropriate members of staff and supporting on financial matters

• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial viability of the charity.

• Creating in conjunction with relevant trustees and staff sound financial processes and procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.

• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan.

• Reviewing the annual accounts are, where applicable, liaising with the charity’s external bookkeeper to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP.

• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained and ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.

• Authorisation of charity expenditure and banking transactions set up on online bank accounts

• Liaison with the fund manager responsible for the charity’s investment portfolio - we are currently working towards an ethical investment portfolio and the Finance Trustee is leading on this

• Oversight of payroll, HMRC reporting and operation of auto-enrolment pension scheme for all members of staff

• The Finance Trustee will need to attend the following meetings (all meetings with the exception of the October AGM/Board meeting are held online)

  2 Board meetings (March and October - which is the AGM/Board meeting)

  1 business meeting held in the summer 

  3 Finance sub committee meetings held approximately 10 days before the Board/Business meetings

  The Finance Trustee also sits on the newly established Fundraising Sub Committee (meeting schedule to be agreed).

• Desirable skills (trustee)

• Make your own views known and make decisions in a group environment, in line with strategic objectives 

• Listen intently, carefully and objectively 

Finance Trustee additional criteria

Essential

• You must have a Bachelor’s degree and be either ACA or ACCA qualified or equivalent with 10 years PQE UK experience.

• Expertise in Finance and relevant UK regulations

• Personal Integrity

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Convey ideas, information and opinions clearly and concisely 

• Work as a team with the chair, fellow board members and members of staff 

• Challenge the views of others appropriately

•  Commitment and ability to work and effectively as a member of a team.

Desirable

• Experience working at board level with small non-profit organisations.

Following a change to our Articles concerning the composition of our Board, the successful candid could be the first Trustee in the 60-year history of the British Wheel of Yoga to be drawn from outside the membership, as part of our commitment to increasing the skills base and diversity of our Board.

We have a high-performing staff finance team so this is not a “nuts and bolts” Treasurer role where you are required to do the book keeping. Instead you will be the key link between the finance team and the Board as you lead your fellow Trustees in the performance of their fiduciary duties and engagement with the charity’s finances.

Key requirements include:

• ​Good knowledge, understanding and experience of charity and company finance, accounting requirements and procedures
• ​Good knowledge and understanding of the regulators’ (Charity Commission, Registrar of Companies) requirements regarding charity and company finance and reporting
• The ability to be an effective member of the Board team and its finance sub-committee (which you will chair), thinking strategically and working cooperatively.
• The ability and willingness to commit sufficient time to fulfil the role effectively.

Meeting schedule:

• Quarterly Board meetings in March, June, September and December
• Financial Planning Workshop in May
• The above meetings are all held via Zoom
• In person Board Retreat (January). A 24-hour residential event which gives an opportunity for Trustees to get to know each other and do some strategic thinking and planning.

With the exception of the Board Retreat, this is a fully remote role that would suit candidates from anywhere in the UK.

Social Anxiety Alliance UK is a young and developing charity looking for an experienced Trustee.

It may be possible for someone with a dedication and passion for helping those with social anxiety to apply for this role providing they are aware of the governance issues relating to the role (please read the charity commission document "The essential trustee")

Social anxiety involves an excessive fear of social situations. Sufferers will often fear being embarrassed or worry about being negatively evaluated by others. Anticipatory anxiety and situational avoidance are common, and individuals may endure social situations with a high level of discomfort. The scope of the anxiety may be focused on specific types of social situations or generalised to almost any social encounter.

We are the first UK charity dedicated to Social Anxiety.

What will you be doing

· Contribute towards the good management of the charity by carrying out key responsibilities as follows:

· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

· To ensure that the charity pursues its charitable objects as defined in its governing document.

· To ensure that the charity uses its resources exclusively to further its objects.

· To contribute towards setting the charity’s strategic direction and to evaluate performance and progress against agreed targets.

· To uphold the reputation and values of the charity.

· To commit to read papers in preparation for meetings and attend regular board meetings.

What we are looking for

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.

· Willingness to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· An ability to work effectively as a member of the team.

· Willingness to prepare for and attend monthly Board meetings.

· Willingness to participate actively in discussions.

· Enthusiasm for the charity’s vision and mission.

· Empathy for the challenges faced by people affected by social anxiety.

· A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

· Integrity and honesty.

· Good, independent judgement.

Experience or interest in some of the following areas:

· • Charity management, governance, compliance, law, or the dedication to learn about governance and what it takes to be a Trustee

What difference will you make

As part of our board, you will help to support and develop the charity and set its strategic direction. You will have the opportunity to offer your unique skill set, experience and enthusiasm to help us to achieve the charity’s mission and goals:
To foster a society in which social anxiety is widely understood, where there is easy access to appropriate information, support and treatment so that no one has to face social anxiety alone.

Board meetings and projects

We are a friendly board and we hold our meetings monthly online in the evening, typically on a Tuesday at 7pm to 8:30pm.

We would hope that Trustees can contribute to some other charity tasks and projects as the need arises.