Communications volunteer volunteer roles in luton, central bedfordshire

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are we looking for?

EXPERIENCE

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

 SKILLS AND ABILITIES

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

ATTRIBUTES

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

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

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

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

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

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

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

The Corporate Justice Coalition (CJC) is seeking dynamic, motivated and experienced people who want to add their energy and expertise to pursuing our mission to end corporate abuses of human rights and the environment.

Corporate Justice Coalition’s (CJC) mission is to secure greater protection of human rights and the environment with regard to the global operations of UK corporations, including improved access to justice for those harmed by the activities of UK companies. We work with a diverse range of mainly civil society coalition partners from the fields of global poverty, environmental sustainability and human rights to: change government policies and the law; maintain and strengthen civil society advocacy and campaigning on corporate accountability; develop and promote shared policy solutions; promote public support for the rights of people affected by corporate abuses and solutions to this.

We are looking for two new trustees to join our board. We are looking for a treasurer and another trustee with experience of fundraising in the charity sector.

In addition to the time required to fulfil the responsibilities of any trustee, the role of treasurer would require around 1 additional hour a month.

We are seeking to deepen the diversity of our board and will take that ambition into account when appointing trustees. We would especially like to hear from people with lived experience of the impact of corporate wrongdoing - either overseas or in the UK. In addition, trustee members with experience or skills in running a small charity are always welcomed.

About Women’s Aid in Luton
Women’s Aid in Luton supports over 800 of society’s most vulnerable women and children each year, all of whom are fleeing abuse and violence. The charity offers refuge across five safe houses in Luton, a helpline, tailored support for families, and access to legal advice, mental health services, employment, and resettlement guidance. It also prioritises prevention and early intervention through education, working closely with schools to raise awareness of domestic abuse.

The Opportunity: Chair of Trustees
Women’s Aid in Luton is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead its Board and help shape the future of the organisation. This is a pivotal leadership role with significant influence over the strategic direction and governance of the charity. The incoming Chair will guide the Board in supporting the Executive Team to sustain and grow its essential services, ensuring women and children can rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.

The current Chair will conclude her term next year, and the charity is therefore inviting expressions of interest from those who are deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in the violence against women and girls (VAWG) sector.

Candidate Profile

Experience:

• A strong understanding and commitment to the VAWG sector.

• Substantial non-executive experience.

• Knowledge of UK charity governance and experience of working with or serving on a Board of Trustees.

• A background in senior strategic leadership.

• Proven ability to engage with internal and external stakeholders.

• Sensitivity and discretion when dealing with confidential matters involving staff and service users.

• A track record of successfully leading teams or groups in either a voluntary or professional context.

• Chairing experience, ideally at Board or committee level.

• Significant experience in motivating, managing, and developing people.

• Experience in shaping and evaluating strategic plans to maximise impact.

• Sound financial acumen, including an understanding of charity finance.

Skills and Abilities:

• Inspirational leadership with the ability to foster collaboration and, when needed, make difficult decisions.

• Strong communication skills with the ability to articulate the charity’s vision and inspire others.

• Relationship-builder with the ability to form effective alliances and partnerships.

• Sound judgement and the capacity for reflective leadership.

• A supportive presence for both the Board and Executive, fostering their continued development.

• Ability to operate within the realistic capacities and constraints of a charity environment.

Personal Attributes:

• A dynamic and inclusive leadership style that inspires trust and accountability.

• A visible and unwavering commitment to the charity’s mission and strategic aims.

• Tact, diplomacy, and strong listening and engagement skills.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach.

• Well-developed networking skills that can be leveraged to support the charity’s objectives.

• A personal commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).

• Willingness and ability to dedicate sufficient time to the role, including travel and occasional out-of-hours engagement.

Terms of Appointment
The initial term of office is three years, with the possibility of reappointment for one additional term, up to a maximum of six years.

Eligibility
In accordance with the Equality Act 2010 (Schedule 9, Part 1), this role is open to female applicants only due to the nature of the services provided. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.

Encouragement of Diverse Applications
Women’s Aid in Luton warmly welcomes applications from women of all backgrounds. The charity is especially keen to hear from women from Black, Asian and minoritised communities, as well as from those with lived experience of domestic abuse.

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

To Express Interest
Women who feel they can contribute to the ongoing success of Women’s Aid in Luton and are passionate about supporting survivors of domestic abuse are encouraged to get in touch. This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful and lasting difference.

Podcast Hosts (remote but UK based) are invited to join our team to produce thought-provoking episodes that spotlight leaders in sustainability across the UK and beyond. Reach millions in over 120 countries.

You should have experience as a podcaster.

This is an opportunity to boost your portfolio and build a very high profile network for furthering your career, gain visibility and also be associated with the a global sustainability media platform. 

Big-time sustainability is a global media platform of a United Nations CSO.  

The Big-time sustainability podcast series (video and audio) is available across the world on all major platforms as well as on YouTube. 

On the show, global sustainability leaders, trailblazers and rising stars share their stories and experiences to encourage individuals and organisations play a pivotal role in the road to 360-degree sustainability. Guests include public figures ranging from Noble Peace Prize Nominees, to US Ambassadors, members from the House of Lords, to world-leading sustainability leaders, innovators, as well leaders from media, academia, arts, film, policy, and the third sector.

The video podcast series inspires and empowers listeners to start their own enterprise, transform their own organisations, launch or build a career, collaborate or volunteer, whilst addressing the major challenges faced by us and the planet, such as climate change, loss of biodiversity, hunger, poverty, inequality and many more.

The podcast gives the mic to real people doing remarkable work—from eco-educators, local leaders to global thinkers.

The role

• Host 2 monthly episodes (30 minutes) featuring changemakers, innovators, thought leaders, experts, in the field of climate and sustainability - organisations and individuals from civil society, academia, governments and businesses.
• Research potential guests across key sustainability sectors covering climate education, climate action, climate solutions, finance, environment and natural resources, social justice and more.
• Prepare and conduct research-based, engaging interviews.
• Send personalised guest invitations in liaison with the production team. 
• Edit your episodes and storyboard in line with the episodes' narrative.
• Help share and promote episodes through all online platforms. 

What are we looking for?

• Experience in presenting, podcast hosting, interviewing, or broadcasting (essential)
• Have your own space with a presentable background, as all episodes are recorded remotely
• Interest or knowledge in sustainability, climate issues, and green innovation
• Confident speaking voice with a natural flair for storytelling
• Comfortable with remote recording tools 
• Able to edit video recordings to a professional standard
• Strong communication and research skills
• Excellent time management and organisational abilities
• Collaborative mindset, yet confident working independently
• Curious about people and social change
• Committed to authenticity, impact, and inclusive storytelling
• Social media savvy.

What difference will you make?

Be part of the global sustainability media platform reaching millions in over 120 countries.

Over 85% of people in the UK and even more, globally, are unaware of the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) let alone take any steps to create a more sustainable world for themselves and in the process for others in this complexly interconnected world.

This highlights the need for such initiatives to educate the British as well as global societies about the UN SDGs. Your contributions can educate and inspire millions to act on the SDGs and bring positive changes that will impact all of us in this complexly interconnected world.

As a podcaster/podcast host your contributions will play a vital role in sparking thoughtful conversations, spreading meaningful insights, and motivating others to take action for a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

Most importantly your efforts will ensure that both individuals and organisations who see your videos and listen to the podcasts can come together and join forces to work in synergy, thus, benefitting more lives than acting alone.

Do you have senior clinical service experience and a passion to improve the lives of people with a life-limiting illness and their families?

We are looking for applicants with health care experience at a senior management or board level. As a member of the Board of Trustees this position will support the Executive Board to deliver our organisational strategy and ensure that our Charity has in place appropriate and effective controls to deliver outstanding standards of care and services to all stakeholders.

Key skills and experience for this Trustee role

• Extensive health service experience at leadership level in either primary or secondary care

• Clinical experience in community care with shown ability to enable change management

• Quality standards and requirements of the Care Quality Commission

• Ideally, active in clinical practice

• Safeguarding (adults and children), risk management and data management

• Keen interest in professional education, research and development

• Developments within the field of palliative care

The International Council of Museums in the United Kingdom (ICOM UK) is seeking a new trustee with strong financial acumen and a passion for the museums and heritage sector and working internationally to be the Finance Lead on our Board. This is a strategic finance role to support the Strategic Director and advise the Board of Trustees in respect of the conduct of the charity’s financial affairs.  

The role requires experience and skills in financial planning and management, preferably in a charity and/or company, along with the ability to understand and communicate the impact of decisions on the organisation’s finances. 

We welcome applications from professionals with the skills, knowledge and lived experience that will strengthen and diversify our Board. 

 For further details on the roles and ICOM UK, you can view our Finance Lead Trustee Recruitment  Pack. 

We believe this is an exciting opportunity for individuals with a strongly held belief in the benefits that empowering leadership skills can have in shaping the future of the next generation. 

We are looking for individuals that can promote our cause and are willing to share their personal and professional experience and insights as part of the collaborative decision-making of our Board of Trustees.

We are committed to diversity in the workplace through a workforce that reflects the population and communities we work with across the UK.

Our board of Trustees is currently under-represented by individuals with black, asian, and ethnically diverse heritage in addition to people aged under 30 years of age.

As such, we would welcome applicants with these backgrounds to support our aim of a nationally representative organisation workforce.

Knowledge, skills and experience

While we are interested in the person, we are looking for individuals with specific skills and experience in one, some, or all of the following areas:

o Working with primary and/or secondary schools, colleges, and/or youth-development organisations.

o Working in or with Awarding Organisations.

An understanding or experience of financial oversight is considered desirable but not essential.

Trustee commitment and responsibilities

All Trustee positions are voluntary with reasonable expenses remunerated.

To be an effective Trustee, you will need to commit approximately 1-2 days per quarter to attend and prepare for board meetings which are generally held virtually.

Members of our Audit, Risk and Compliance committee additionally meet two weeks before each board meeting for finance and regulation focused discussions with the Executive team.

Effective Trustees support our work by:

· Ensuring we are working towards our vision, mission and values in everything we do.

· Supporting strategic decision-making by actively contributing advice, guidance, and opinion in the pursuit of the organisation’s objectives.

· Constructively guide the Executive in the delivery of the organisation’s strategy.

· Actively represent and champion the work of the Leadership Skills Foundation.

· Maintaining proper financial and regulatory oversight promoting best practice as a Charity to ensure our sustainability and longevity.

Our values

Created in collaboration with the Leadership Skills Foundation team, our cultural values are our ways of working that we expect in all aspects of our interaction with each other and with our delivery centres, tutors, partners, and learners.

• We are better together

Together, we do great things. Collaboration, belonging and individuality aren’t just buzzwords to us; they’re deeply held commitments in the way we work. As we solve problems together, we make sure everyone feels listened to and valued.

• We are guided by goals

Every initiative we developed is guided by clear aims. From giving young people the confidence to achieve, to bringing major change to communities, all our goals are significant and focused on improvement.

• We evolve and innovate

As the world changes, so do the opportunities and challenges of the people we support. As different times call for different skills, we are brave enough to be different and to innovate to be fit for the future. 

• We have pride in our programmes

We never forget how valuable everyone’s future is. That’s why we go above and beyond to deliver high-quality trustworthy and regulated programmes.

Know someone great for this?

Join Design in Mental Health Network as a Trustee and help shape the future of mental health environments. Provide strategic guidance, support innovation, champion co-production, and ensure our work delivers real-world impact through inclusive, evidence-based design.

About DiMHN:

The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a UK-based charity dedicated to transforming mental health environments through inclusive, evidence-based design. Our network brings together professionals from healthcare, design, policy, and lived experience to improve mental health outcomes and create spaces that promote dignity, safety, and healing.

Role Overview:

As a Trustee, you will help guide the strategic direction of DiMHN, ensure effective governance, and champion our values. Trustees are expected to provide strategic oversight and contribute expertise to subgroups or advisory functions.

Why Join Us

Joining the Board of DiMHN presents an opportunity to shape the future of mental health environments across the UK and beyond.

You’ll be part of a passionate, forward-thinking community working at the intersection of design, care, and lived experience. 

As a Trustee, you’ll:

• Shape strategic direction to drive meaningful change in mental health environments across the UK and beyond.

• Collaborate with a diverse network of leaders, experts, and lived experience advocates, influencing the future of mental health design.

• Provide governance and oversight that ensures the charity’s growth, sustainability, and impact.

• Champion inclusivity by elevating voices often excluded from design and decision-making processes

• Influence policy, standards, and innovation at national and international levels to embed evidence-based design in mental health care.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for people who believe in the power of design to change lives. Whether you come from healthcare, design, research, lived experience, or another walk of life, if you’re motivated by the idea of creating more inclusive, compassionate mental health environments, we want to hear from you.

We have two Trustee vacancies and warmly welcome applications from both first-time trustees and those with previous board experience. 

We value fresh perspectives and offer support to help you thrive in the role. We are especially interested in individuals who can bring insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Mental Health Services & Policy: Clinical, community, lived experience, commissioning, or estates, facilities and planning.

• Digital Health & Technology: Expertise in AI, immersive tech, digital platforms, or digital strategy in care settings.

• Finance & Commercial Strategy: Income generation, business development, or financial planning in health, social impact, or design sectors.

• Research & Evaluation: Academic or applied research, impact measurement, or policy analysis.

We’re also looking for Trustees who embody our values:

At DiMHN, our work is grounded in our core values. We’re looking for Trustees who reflect these values through both mindset and action:

Be Courageous – You’re willing to ask challenging questions, confront assumptions, and help push boundaries to make mental health spaces more inclusive and compassionate.

Empathy in Design – You understand that good design starts with empathy. Whether through lived experience or professional perspective, you value collaboration and co-production with those who access mental health care and support.

Evidence-Led, Impact-Driven – You’re curious, reflective, and motivated by real-world change. You use evidence to guide decisions and are focused on outcomes that make a difference.

Improve Together – You believe in learning together. You’re generous with your skills and committed to helping the DiMHN and the wider sector grow stronger through collective action.