Charity trustee volunteer roles in winchester, hampshire
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Trustee
The Education and Skills Development Group (ESDEG) was established by local refugee leaders and social care professionals who identified critical gaps in services for people from refugee and marginalised communities. Through extensive community consultations across local estates, community centres, and schools, we have been able to provide responsive and preventative services for children, young people, families, older people, and others from socially excluded communities. We engage in and [lead] various policy networks. We have proven track record in working with schools, children and families at local level. We have been trusted by many funders to deliver projects that benefit local marginalised communities. We provide educational and community projects including supplementary schools, mentoring, ESOL classes, short breaks for children who special educational and disability (SEND), project to help local elders escape isolation and engage into physical and social activities, youth work, information and advice and support for families who have children with Send.
ESDEG is currently seeking individuals who are eager to make a meaningful contribution by volunteering their skills, experience, ideas, and passion to the organisation’s development and future direction.
· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion
· Skills in finance, governance, fundraising, communication and networking is desirable.
· Our current board lacks young members so we would like young trustees to apply and join us.
Our board meets quarterly unless there are specific issues that warrants the board to be called into a meeting, the minimum requirement is 4 meetings a year which usually takes place in the evening. If trustees can offer more time and support particular projects will be appreciated.
Thanks
Mohamed Ahmed
CEO
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Thyroid UK is a small UK charity with a very wide reach and even bigger ambitions. Since 1998 we have become a leading source of support and information for many thousands of people seeking help with their thyroid condition each year.
As an Independent Examiner for Thyroid UK, you will review our accounting records and annual accounts to ensure they are accurate, comply with legal requirements, and provide an independent assurance to trustees and stakeholders that the charity's money is properly accounted for.
Job Description:
Overview:
- The Independent Examiner plays a crucial role in maintaining public trust and confidence in charities by providing an independent scrutiny of their financial records.
- The examiner's responsibilities include reviewing accounting records, comparing them with the annual accounts, and reporting any concerns to the charity trustees.
Key Responsibilities:
- Review Accounting Records:
Examine the charity's accounting records to ensure they are properly maintained and support the annual accounts.
- Compare Accounts with Records:
Verify that the annual accounts accurately reflect the financial position of the charity as shown in the accounting records.
- Consider Unusual Items:
Identify and seek explanations for any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts.
- Assess Compliance:
Determine whether the accounts comply with relevant legal requirements and accounting standards, including the Charities Act 2011.
- Prepare Examiner's Report:
Prepare a report for the charity trustees outlining the findings of the examination, including any matters of concern or material significance.
- Maintain Independence:
Ensure that the examination is conducted independently of the charity's management and administration.
Qualifications and Skills:
- Financial Awareness and Numeracy:
Must be appropriately qualified in matters of accounting and financial administration.
- Understanding of Charity Accounting:
Should have experience of working with small charities, plus knowledge of charity accounting principles and regulations.
- Analytical Skills:
Must be able to analyse financial data and identify potential issues.
- Communication Skills:
Should have the ability to clearly and concisely communicate findings and recommendations to the charity trustees.
- IT Skills:
Must be familiar with Xero or similar cloud based accounting software.
Reporting:
- The Independent Examiner's report will be submitted to the Charity Commission along with the charity's annual accounts.
- The report should clearly state whether the examiner has reasonable cause to believe that:
- Proper accounting records were not kept.
- The accounts do not accord with the accounting records.
- If accruals accounts were prepared, they do not comply with the legal requirements and the applicable SORP.
Location: The examination can be done remotely. Our office is based in Frating, Colchester, Essex.
Closing Date: End of August 2025. Thyroid UK reserves the right to close for applications at any time should the position be filled.
Start Date: ASAP
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Brooke is seeking two new board members with specific background or experience in the following:
- Digital/technology transformation
- Fundraising – individual, institutional, or major philanthropy
- International development
- Legal and / or governance
We are proud to be Brooke. We are resourceful, share new ideas and help each other succeed. Together we make change happen.
Brooke’s work across Africa, Asia and Latin America transforms the lives of animals and people in the communities we serve. With our ambitious plans for growth throughout 2025-26, these are key roles to support Brooke as we soon develop an ambitious new global strategy from 2027.
We are currently seeking new members to join our highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated board, bringing invaluable experience and expertise to drive our mission forward. You will be joining a highly skilled, knowledgeable, and dedicated team, together pursuing the goal of global compassion and healthcare for working horses, donkeys and mules and the communities that depend on them.
Working closely with the Chief Executive and senior leadership team you will ensure Brooke effectively delivers its inspiring mission and is governed to the highest of standards. Your responsibilities will include shaping and reviewing our strategic objectives, guaranteeing alignment with our charitable goals, and maximising public benefit.
We are seeking individuals with wide-ranging experience and a proven track record of strategic leadership. Your ability to challenge constructively, coupled with excellent communication and interpersonal skills, will be instrumental in fostering a supportive yet empowered environment. As a member of our diverse board of Trustees, you will contribute to shaping policies and priorities that ensure Brooke's financial stability and long-term impact.
If you are passionate about the welfare of working animals and the communities they serve, and are ready to make a tangible difference, we invite you to join us in shaping the future of Brooke. Be part of something truly meaningful by becoming a board member today.
Closing date: Sunday 25th May.
Interviews to be held w/c 2 June.
Are you passionate about the natural world and inspiring others to engage with it?
Join us as a Trustee at the Field Studies Council and help shape the future of environmental education.
- You can be based anywhere in the UK
- You’ll need to commit approx. 10 days a year
- It’s a voluntary position but reasonable expenses are reimbursed
About Us
Field Studies Council is an environmental education charity. For over 80 years, we've been inspiring people to understand and care for the natural world. Through our network of centres across the UK, we provide fieldwork and outdoor learning experiences for all ages — from school groups and university students to families and lifelong learners.
We are a leader in biodiversity training, the publisher of best-selling wildlife ID guides, and a champion for accessible outdoor education, particularly for disadvantaged young people. Our mission is simple but vital: to create outstanding opportunities that inspire everyone to engage with and care for the environment.
Your Opportunity to Make a Difference
We’re currently looking to appoint four new Trustees to bring fresh perspectives and help us grow in diversity, representation and expertise. As a Trustee, you'll help guide and shape our charity’s future.
While the day-to-day running of our charity is handled by our staff and volunteers, the Board of Trustees plays a key role in making sure everything stays on track.
That includes overseeing our work, making big-picture decisions, and ensuring we meet our legal and regulatory responsibilities. It’s an important role, but you won’t be doing it alone. You will:
- Provide strategic oversight and guidance to support our mission and values
- Use your insight and experience to influence decisions that impact tens of thousands of learners annually
- Act as an ambassador for environmental education and social inclusion
- Contribute to Board and committee meetings, and participate in key annual activities including visiting one of our field centres each year to see our work in action
- Use your knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm to help us innovate, grow, and reach more people
Who We’re Looking For
You don’t need to be an academic, ecologist or environmentalist to join us or have charity trustee, company director or equivalent experience — we welcome applicants from all walks of life. We are especially interested in candidates with skills in:
- Charity governance
- Finance (qualified professionals – potential Honorary Treasurer role)
- Fundraising & stakeholder engagement
- Marketing & communications
Above all, we want individuals who are:
- Passionate about equal access to outdoor learning
- Ready to speak up and bring a new perspective
- Willing to give their time and energy to support the Field Studies Council
We’re committed to building a Trustee board that is inclusive, representative, and reflective of the diverse communities we serve.
We warmly encourage applications from individuals who are underrepresented in charity governance — including people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds, disabled people, LGBTQIA+ communities, young people, and those with lived experience of social or economic disadvantage.
If you're excited by our mission and ready to help others experience the power of nature, we’d love to hear from you.
What’s Involved
- Approx. 10 days per year commitment for an initial 3-year term (this includes board and committee meetings, and a centre visit)
- Most meetings are held virtually, with one in-person event annually
- All reasonable expenses are covered
- Appropriate training and support will be provided
Please download the Trustee Candidate Information Pack to learn more and take the next step in helping us connect people with the natural world
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Secretary to join our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibility is to act as the central point of contact for Board administration, ensuring compliance with governance requirements.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has strong attention to detail, excellent organisational and administrative skills, proficiency in document management and record-keeping and excellent communication, both written and verbally. It's preferable that you will have experience with charity governance processes and compliance.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibility is oversight of the financial management of the Charity, ensuring responsible budgeting, accurate record-keeping, and financial sustainability.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has a background in finance, accounting or book-keeping, with experience in non-profit finace a plus. They should have strong analytical and reporting skills, understanding of charity finance regulations and reporting requirements.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Aspens are looking for trustees to join us on the next exciting part of our journey. We'd love to hear from you if you have accountancy, social care, business development or fundraising experience.
What will you be doing?
Are you passionate about making a real difference in the lives of people with learning disabilities and autism? Do you have the skills, experience, and dedication to help guide a forward-thinking charity? If so, we’d love to hear from you!
About Aspens CharitiesAt Aspens we provide high quality care and support to people on the autism spectrum and with learning disabilities; and their families; meeting their needs and aspirations and empowering them to learn and grow through an integrated network of services across the South-East.
Why Become a Trustee?As a Trustee, you will play a vital role in overseeing the governance and strategic direction of Aspens Charities. You will work alongside a committed Board to ensure our services remain impactful, sustainable, and aligned with our core values.
Your Responsibilities:
- Provide strategic leadership, ensuring Aspens meets its charitable objectives.
- Oversee financial management, risk assessment, and compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
- Support and challenge the Executive Team to drive excellence in service delivery.
- Act as an ambassador for Aspens, promoting our work and values.
- Attend Board meetings and contribute to key strategic decisions.
What We’re Looking For:We welcome applications from individuals with diverse professional backgrounds. Key attributes include:
- A strong commitment to the aims and values of Aspens Charities.
- Strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
- Willingness to dedicate time to Board meetings and governance activities.
- Integrity, good judgment, and the ability to work collaboratively.
We are particularly interested in candidates with expertise in:
- Accountancy
- Health & Social Care sector knowledge
- Fundraising and business development
Time Commitment & LocationThis is a voluntary, unpaid role with reasonable expenses covered. The Board meets approximately three times a year, with 3 committee meetings and occasional additional meetings or events. Meetings are held in person and virtually.
What are we looking for?
- Commitment to the goals and aims of the charity.
- Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time.
- The ability to make good independent judgements.
- Being able to think creatively.
- Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties.
- Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans.
- Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions.
- Proven experience working as a member of successful teams.
- Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.
Experience of either accountancy or fundraising / income generation.
What difference will you make?
As a Trustee, your leadership will directly shape the future of Aspens Charities and the lives of the people we support. You will help:
- Improve Quality of Care – Ensuring individuals with learning disabilities and autism receive the best possible support.
- Drive Strategic Growth – Expanding and developing services to reach more people in need.
- Ensure Financial Sustainability – Overseeing resources to secure long-term impact.
- Strengthen Governance – Upholding transparency, compliance, and ethical leadership.
Your expertise will make a lasting difference, creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive.
Lay Trustee
Remote based
Approximately 4 to 6 board meetings per year in London
Voluntary, with expenses
We’re looking for a leader with vision and a passion for the work of the College. We expect that our Trustees play a very important role at the Royal College of Emergency Medicine (RCEM).
Decisions made by the Board of Trustees will help set the direction of our charity, play essential role in decision-making and have a major influence on the success of our work. Becoming a trustee is a fantastic way to make a difference for our organisation and our vital work in local communities.
Trustees are responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction for RCEM and for developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with governing documents as well as financial, legal and regulatory guidelines. You can find out more about the roles and responsibilities of Trustees on the gov uk website guide called: The Essential Trustee. You can also see more information on our website.
Applications will be by CV and covering letter, via the application button.
Closing date: Midnight on 12 May 2025.
Interview dates: Expected to be held in first week of July 2025.
NACE is the UK’s leading charity that supports and champions the education of more able learners. With over 40 years of experience, NACE works with a diverse network of member schools, leaders in education and practitioners to increase challenge for all learners. We believe that that all young people, including the more able, are entitled to have the opportunity to develop their abilities without limits – no matter what barriers to learning they may face and no matter what school they attend.
To support us in developing our strategic objectives and advancing our plans for the future, we are seeking new Trustees to join NACE’s Board with a passion for public service and sufficient time at their disposal to help us positively impact the lives of young people. Whilst an interest in or knowledge of education is desirable, it is not a pre-requisite. The role includes holding the executive leaders of NACE to account, plus agreeing and overseeing the strategic direction of the organisation whilst ensuring that resources are deployed to achieve maximum effectiveness.
The general responsibilities of trustees:
• Ensure that the Association complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that the Association pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure the Association applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects.
• Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving firm strategic direction to the Association, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of the Association.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the Association.
• Seek to ensure the financial stability of the Association.
In addition to these statutory duties, each Trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board of Trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve:
Scrutinising board papers; Leading discussions; Focusing on key issues; Providing guidance on new initiatives; Other issues in which the Trustee has specialist expertise.
Terms of appointment
The initial term is for a period of three years.
The maximum term of office for a Trustee should be nine years, with two cycles of three years and then the option of a further one, two or three years.
The Trustees meet four times each year as a Board. Three of these meetings are now held online, in September, November and March. The final meeting of the academic year is held in-person in June.
If you are interested in applying to join the NACE board, please send us your CV and an expression of interest by Friday 9th May. Interviews will take place on Thursday 15th and Friday 16th May.
The interview process will involve current Board members so you will have the opportunity to meet some of the people with whom you could be working in the future.
Trusteeship is a voluntary, unpaid role, but if you possess the energy and skills to make a real contribution to enhancing the educational achievement of young people, you will find the work extremely rewarding.
If you want to make a difference and you share the ambitions and aspirations of the current NACE Board, please apply to become a Trustee. You will be warmly welcomed.
We believe all young people should have the opportunity to develop their abilities without limits – no matter what barriers to learning they may face
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
The New Normal are seeking a Chair of our Board of Trustees! The primary responsibilities are providing leadership, strategic direction and governance oversight for the charity. They ensure that the board functions effectively, that the organization remains true to its mission, and that it meets its legal and ethical obligations.
We are looking for a driven and diligent person to support TNN in it's mission to provide free-to-access peer support for a diverse range of grief experiences, communities and identities.
Applicants should have the capacity to provide around 4 hours per month on a flexible basis, with some months quieter/busier than others.
We are seeking someone who has strong leadership, facilitation and decision-making skills, excellent communication and public-speaking, understanding of financial management, fundraising and stakeholder engagement, and a passion for the Charity's mission and long-term success. You should have experience in governance, strategic planning, or non-profit leadership.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and pathways. This is a voluntary role and responsibilities are listed in below Job Description.
[Due to the nature of the role and the work we do, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a DBS check. Persons will be shortlisted and appointed based solely on character, skills, qualifications and experience.]
TNN are committed to diversity and inclusion and so we use the Anonymous Recruitment feature to reduce the potential for unconscious bias.
Please ensure all relevant experience is listed clearly on your CV. In your covering letter, please tell us more about yourself, why you are interested in the role and what you think you can bring to the Charity. We are keen to hear about you as a person and your story, as well as your skills and experience.
Thanks your interest in this role - we look forward to receiving your application!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for a passionate individual with skills and expertise in Finance/Treasury.
We will welcome applications from anyone who is keen to transform lives and join us on this exciting journey with us. You don’t need prior experience of sitting on a Board, a dance background or specific qualifications to become a Trustee. What matters most is your passion for supporting people with learning disabilities, your commitment to building a more equitable society and your willingness to contribute to our work, our vision and our future success.
Trustees play a crucial role in shaping what we do, helping us stay clear on our purpose and offering ideas that guide our organisation as we grow. We’re looking for Trustees who can bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights from their lived and professional experiences. We want our Board to reflect the diversity of our work, our participants, and our supporters.
We are based in Lancashire, with national and international reach, and we welcome applications for remote Trustees. We currently have Trustees based in Portugal and the Netherlands.
The role of Trustee is a volunteer role and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses for travel may be claimed.
The role requires attendance & contribution at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and four Board meetings per year (plus any required preparation and pre-reading). Quarterly Board Meetings take place mostly online and periodically in person at a North West location.
There will also be potential additional engagement in strategy work and sub working groups throughout the year and occasional representation of the charity at various events with key stakeholders.
To be a sustainable community role model that provides high quality inclusive dance leadership, participation, performance and training opportunities.





The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
The Student Publication Association (SPA) is recruiting charity trustees to assist its work in advancing the education of student journalists across the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland.
As a small, student-led charity, we support more than 330 member publications around the UK and Republic of Ireland, offering advice, training, and recognition at both our regional and national awards.
Our trustee board plays a vital role in our governance, ensuring that we remain within the boundaries of charity law, protecting the charity’s long-term stability, and supporting our student executives.
For this round of applications, we are particularly keen to hear from applicants with expertise relevant to the journalism industry.
No previous experience in journalism or as a charity trustee is required — but we do ask that you share our commitment to the advancement of student journalism.
We strongly encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply. This includes, but isn’t limited to BAME, LGBTQI+, disabled, and care-experienced communities.
About The Role
As a small volunteer-run charity, we anticipate the role would take up an average of 1-2 hours a week, although this may increase during busier periods for the SPA, such as around our annual national conference (SPANC).
As a trustee, you will be a collaborative and supportive team player who will:
- Attend monthly oversight meetings with the executive committee and other trustees;
- Attend other meetings and 1-2-1s as needed on an ad hoc basis;
- Offer guidance and support to the executive committee throughout the year to help them achieve their goals, particularly in your area of expertise;
- Ensure that the charity is carrying out its core purpose, that resources are managed responsibly, and that activities comply with our governing documents;
- Support the delivery of our national conference, including attendance at the weekend itself during the Easter university holidays;
- Where possible, attend our induction day, for new executive members each year.
This is a volunteer role, but all reasonable expenses will be covered. The term for these appointments will be three years.
You will be part of a trustee board of ten people; four elected trustees, four appointed trustees, and two ex-officio trustees from our student-led executive committee.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project
Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?
We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.
As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community.
If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
The Pirate Castle is a buzzing charity based in the heart of Camden. From our iconic castle base we offer boating, kayaking and canoeing as well as community space to hire. We are looking for a Company Secretary for our engaged trustee board to minute our meetings and to lead on governance and compliance matters. We look forward to hearing from candidates with governance experience who are keen to contribute to the future of a well-loved community charity as it approaches its 60th year.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Introduction
Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.
The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.
You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution. If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.
We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.
About Us
We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.
As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.
We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.
We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.
Our Board
Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.
We have three sets of Trustees:
• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.
• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.
• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.
The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.
Why Should You Become a Trustee?
Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.
You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.
Job Description
We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.
Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.
Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:
• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.
• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.
• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).
Term of office: three years, up to three terms.
Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.
Role Purpose
The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.
• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.
• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.
• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.
• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.
• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient
• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.
• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.
• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.
CRITERIA
All Trustees must display the following characteristics
Commitment to and passion for The SU.
Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.
Strategic vision.
Good, independent judgment.
Ability to think creatively.
An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.
Willingness to speak their mind.
Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.
A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.
We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors
Finance
Higher Education
Human Resources
Charity or Employment Law
How To Apply
Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.
You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.
Eligibility
There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:
• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register
• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:
o deception or dishonesty
o terrorist offences
o money laundering
o bribery
o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice
o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)
o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences
• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation
• You have been convicted of contempt of court
• You have been removed from:
o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement
o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct
• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction
• You have an undischarged bankruptcy
• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register
As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.
Data Protection
We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.
Equal Opportunities
We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.