Community volunteer volunteer roles in burghfield, berkshire

The Salusbury World advice team have been successfully helping clients to navigate welfare benefits, immigration problems, housing support and to find work for 20 years. 70% of our clients require an interpreter. 

We particularly need interpreters to support our Arabic-speaking clients.

Some appointments take place virtually and some are face-to-face appointments, usually in the London borough of Brent. 

Your main tasks will be to: 

*offer clear independent interpreting of the client’s issue and responses from the advice worker to the client. 

*support clients from a variety of Arabic-speaking countries, many with almost no English.

Experience of interpreting is desirable but not essential. You need a warm personality and an ability to build a rapport with people quickly, a high standard of English, and a non-judgemental and supportive approach.

Commitment: this is an irregular commitment, as and when needed. It is likely to be 2 or 3 hours per month but may be less.

We offer induction training, support and reimburse travel costs. 

About Us

My Black Dog is a charity that offers anonymous, peer to peer mental health support through our web-chat service. We are committed to making a positive impact on mental health in the UK as we tackle an epidemic that millions of people face.

We were founded on the motto "talk to someone who gets it". We want to connect people who share lived experiences to provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space where everybody understands how it feels to experience mental health struggles.

Position Overview

Our web-chat service is run by our Volunteer Pack, each of whom have their own lived experience of mental health challenges. In addition, each shift has a 'Leader' and a 'Mentor'. These are Volunteers who carry out specific roles during the shift and, together, ensure its success:

• Leaders - Managers of the shift. There to ensure the shift runs as it should. They support and guide Volunteers through chats and follow safeguarding processes when an alert is raised. They are also the first point of contact for the shift’s Designated Safeguarding Lead.
• Mentors - There to support and guide Volunteers through chats. Will take over from the Leader if there are safeguarding issues that need the Leader's attention and/or if the Leader needs a break.

As My Black Dog looks to expand our opening hours, we are looking to recruit additional Leaders and Mentors who can run shifts and cover additional shifts as necessary.

Leaders and Mentors will be assigned a shift based on your availability and preference. The expectation is that Leaders and Mentors will form a ‘pair’ and, together, will do one shift at the same time each week. This is to provide stability, predictability and to encourage community-building between Volunteers. Shifts are usually 3 hours long. We may ask you to cover another shift when we are short, but you will never do more than 6 hours per week.

Training will be provided and you will be supported on shift by a Designated Safeguarding Lead, who will manage all safeguarding issues.

The work you will do as Leaders and Mentors will ensure we provide the best possible service to our Guests. You will also be helping our Volunteer Pack to do what we do best: helping those in need by speaking to someone who 'gets it'.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for people who have experienced their own journey with mental health and are in a strong position to support others. We ask that our Leaders and Mentors:

• Are strongly committed to helping others
• Have experienced mental health issues in order to relate to those seeking help
• Are collaborative and enjoy working with others
• Are encouraging and supportive
• Are organised and can monitor several things at once
• Can remain calm and focused during busy times and when safeguarding alerts are raised
• Are 18 years and over 
• Can commit the time to a regular weekly shift

We are particularly interested in hearing from people who are available during the following hours:

• Monday to Sunday, 5pm-7pm
• Friday and Saturday, 7pm-10pm

Role Responsibilities

1. Supervise and support Volunteers whilst on shift with general enquiries, positive feedback and signposting.
2. Assist with general volunteering enquiries whilst on shift. Provide time for guidance, instruction and de-briefing for Volunteers if required.
3. Follow Leaders & Mentors processes including unexpected absence reporting, Volunteer check-in and check-out, and completing Shift Handovers.
4. Monitor web-chat conversations and ensure all chats are tagged.
5. Maintain ability to listen, remain calm and provide intervention if necessary.
6. Be able to have difficult and often complex conversations about mental health, including Guests experiencing crisis and first-stage intervention support.
7. If a Leader, work alongside the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) when safeguarding risks are identified and, if a Mentor, take over responsibility for shifts when Leader and DSL have to address a safeguarding crisis.
8. Exercise discretion in handling confidential situations and information, conveying sensitive information in a timely manner to necessary individuals.
9. Provide written follow up of shifts via handover, ensuring all necessary information is handed over at the end of the shift.
10. Adhere to all standards, policies and procedures of My Black Dog.

Please note: An Enhanced DBS Certificate is required for this role. If you do not have one, My Black Dog will arrange the DBS Check for you.

About Adventure Ashram 

Adventure Ashram is a small but mighty UK-based charity founded by adventurers in 2007. We support grassroots partners in India to deliver essential projects focused on: 

• Combating human trafficking 

• Supporting education for vulnerable children 

• Providing access to vital healthcare 

Our approach is bold, adventurous, and collaborative. We raise funds through exciting events, creative campaigns, and overseas adventures—like our flagship global initiative, Yoga Stops Traffick.

Role: Trustee – Finance Specialist (Treasurer Role Available) 

We are looking for a new Trustee with strong finance or accounting expertise to join our Board and help steward the charity’s finances. 

This is a key governance role. 

What we’re looking for 

We’re seeking someone who can provide financial oversight and strategic advice to ensure our resources are used effectively and transparently. 

You might have experience in: 

• Charity finance, audit, or financial management 

• Budgeting and forecasting 

• Risk management and financial reporting 

• Strategic financial planning 

• Investment, reserves or funding models for small charities 

• Serving as a Treasurer or Finance Trustee (desirable, not essential) 

A recognised accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) would be valuable, but we welcome applications from those with relevant experience regardless of qualification status. 

Trustee Commitment 

• Board Meetings: 4 per year (weekday evenings, usually online) 

• Committee Involvement: All trustees join a committee (Finance, Fundraising, or Programme Management). The Finance Committee meets every 2 months. 

• Events: Attend 1–2 UK-based Adventure Ashram events per year (where possible) 

• Approximate time commitment: 1–2 hours per week 

Why Join Us? 

By joining Adventure Ashram’s Board, you’ll: 

• Play a vital role in ensuring good governance and financial health 

• Help steer a unique, adventure-fuelled charity into a sustainable future 

• Contribute to life-changing work supporting survivors of trafficking and vulnerable communities in India 

• Gain experience in nonprofit governance and leadership 

“Adventure Ashram is a brilliant small charity; it supports fantastic projects in India and manages to have a lot of fun in the process. Volunteering as a trustee gives me a chance to do something meaningful with good people—and I can’t wait to welcome more members to the team.” 
— Current Trustee 

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.

This is an exciting time in our growth as we look to grow our governance systems, build on our successes and ensure we are a radical, dynamic organisation rooted in our anti-racist and anti-oppressive values.  We are looking for a new Chair for our Trustee board, to join us and help lead and shape the future of the organisation. 

Skin Gourmet

Skin Gourmet makes raw, handmade, edible skincare from wild Ghanaian ingredients—empowering African producers to earn 300% more by cutting out middlemen and keeping the value where it belongs.

The global skincare industry, valued at over $24.5 billion, thrives on raw materials sourced from Africa—particularly ingredients like shea butter, baobab, and black soap. However, African producers, especially rural women, remain trapped in extreme poverty, earning less than $1.10 a day. Despite being the backbone of the industry, they are systemically excluded from accessing high-value markets due to the high cost of certifications such as Fair Trade and Organic, which range from $2,000 to $70,000 annually. For women earning less than $400 per year, these certifications are entirely out of reach.

Skin Gourmet solves these challenges by creating a radically transparent and locally-rooted skincare model that centers African producers as the rightful beneficiaries of their resources. We source wild, raw ingredients directly from rural communities in Ghana and transform them into handmade, edible skincare products—processed locally to retain full market value. By eliminating middlemen, we ensure producers are paid directly and fairly, increasing their earnings by up to 300%. Instead of exporting raw materials at undervalued prices, we keep processing in-country, turning Ghanaian farmers into suppliers of high-value finished goods.

Our refill system will save up to 15,000 units of packaging waste annually by 2026. We partner to distribute 5,000 clean cookstoves over five years—helping reduce indoor air pollution and cutting 7,500 tons of CO₂ emissions. We rely on wild-harvested ingredients, which are naturally regenerative and require no synthetic inputs or industrial farming.

Everything we do is designed to keep wealth, ownership, and environmental responsibility within African communities—proving that sustainable beauty can be clean, ethical, and truly transformative from the ground up.

Video Content Strategist & Brand Videographer

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

The Videographer will serve as both a visual storyteller and a strategic guide, shaping how Skin Gourmet’s radically pure, edible skincare is captured, shared, and experienced across digital platforms. Responsibilities include: Creative Direction: Lead the vision and execution of video content that reflects Skin Gourmet’s bold, raw, and authentic brand voice.

Content Strategy: Develop a cohesive video content strategy that educates, engages, and converts audiences across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and more.

Video Production: Script, shoot, and edit short-form and long-form video content—from product demos and customer stories to behind-the-scenes production and founder-led storytelling.

Trend Integration: Stay updated on viral video trends, audio, and formats, and adapt them to fit Skin Gourmet’s brand and values.

Educational Messaging: Integrate clear, simple product education into every video—demonstrating use, benefits, origin, and purity.

Brand Guidelines: Build a visual video style guide for Skin Gourmet, including tone, color grading, pacing, and use of subtitles/music, to ensure consistency across all content.

Performance Optimization: Analyze content performance to continuously improve engagement, watch time, and conversions.

Collaboration: Work closely with the founder and internal creative team to align content with campaigns, launches, and seasonal priorities.

This is more than just video editing—it’s shaping the visual soul of the brand.

Weekly Time Commitment

4-6 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

3-5 months

Barefoot and Free are looking for a creative volunteers who have fresh ideas with the expertise and passion to make them a reality.

What will you be doing?

A wonderful opportunity for vibrant creative individuals to come up with new fundraising ideas and put them into practice.

We would love to hear from anyone who is passionate about fundraising and loves organising events, from cake sales to fun runs. If you feel you are someone who can motivate others, steer new supporters to sign up and support them, to organise their fundraising events and organise our own fundraising charity events then get in touch..... we need your help.

This fundraiser role is an important role, it will help bring in much needed funds to support what we do.

What are we looking for?

We’d love people who are passionate about supporting the families we serve, someone who is creative and can put a plan in action, someone who has had experience in successful fundraising activities, events or online success or individuals that may not have experience but have the drive to succeed in the role. Commitment and professionalism is a must.

What difference will you make?

We are a small charity fighting hard to support our families, as we grow, we need to bring in more funding, could you be the person to support us? Are you creative with vibrant ideas that could work boost our fundraising?

Your support will help us to grow and support more families, our families are extremely important to us, we support amazing children and young people fighting big issues due to neurodiversity or trauma resulting in mental health issues, we work hard as a team to fund staycations so our families can breathe and take a break so they can recuperate to face the challenges they so unfairly face. You will have the chance to make a huge difference to the lives of the vulnerable families we support at Barefoot and Free.

We can’t wait to see what you can do! Please get in touch.

About Roots Academy

At Roots Academy, we’ve built a learning experience that’s changing the lives of the ummah’s future leaders, change-makers and visionaries.

Our vision is enabling university students to live God-centred lives, so we teach structured, engaging and transformative face-to-face foundational Islamic education to over 1,800 students across the UK.

Role Summary

As a Data Protection Officer (DPO), you will be responsible for ensuring that Roots Academy complies with data protection laws and best practices. You will oversee data security policies, advise on compliance matters, and support teams in handling personal data responsibly. Your role is key in ensuring the organisation meets legal requirements and protects sensitive information.

Key tasks

• Compliance & Advisory
  • Ensure compliance with data protection regulations, including GDPR and other relevant laws.
  • Advise the Governance Lead and wider team on data protection policies and best practices.
  • Serve as the main point of contact for data protection queries and external regulators if required.
• Policy & Process Development
  • Develop and maintain data protection policies, privacy notices, and consent forms.
  • Ensure policies align with legal requirements and organisational needs.
  • Regularly review and update policies in response to regulatory changes.
• Training & Awareness
  • Provide training sessions for staff and volunteers on data protection principles and responsibilities.
  • Raise awareness about data security risks and how to mitigate them.
  • Develop guidance materials for teams handling personal data.
• Data Security & Risk Management
  • Support the organisation in identifying and mitigating data protection risks.
  • Conduct regular audits to assess data handling processes and compliance.
  • Assist teams in responding to data breaches, ensuring proper reporting and corrective actions.
• Record-Keeping & Documentation
  • Maintain records of data processing activities and ensure they are up to date.
  • Assist with data subject requests (e.g., access, rectification, and deletion requests).
  • Work with relevant teams to ensure secure data storage and handling.
• Third-Party Management
  • Assess and monitor the data protection practices of suppliers, contractors, and external partners.
  • Review contracts with third-party vendors to ensure appropriate data processing clauses and agreements are in place.
  • Work with legal and procurement teams to ensure compliance with GDPR and organisational policies when engaging external providers.

What we’re looking for

• Knowledge of data protection laws, particularly GDPR.
• Experience in data compliance, governance, or legal advisory roles.
• Strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate complex regulations in an accessible manner.
• Experience with risk management and security best practices (desirable but not essential).

What we have to offer

• Be part of a dedicated team of 90+ volunteers across the UK.
• Contribute to a growing organisation that educates and empowers the Muslim community.
• Access to in-house tarbiyah sessions to develop your deen.
• Receive continuous rewards for facilitating Islamic education through Roots Academy.

Please note: This is an unpaid volunteer position. Volunteers can claim expenses for food, travel, and equipment in line with the Expenses Policy.

As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in the governance and strategic oversight of the charity, ensuring that we operate effectively, achieve our mission, and comply with all legal and regulatory requirements. Trustees are collectively responsible for safeguarding the charity’s assets, ensuring they are used exclusively to further our objectives, and overseeing the charity’s financial health, including budgets, financial controls, and reporting. Acting with integrity and in the charity’s best interests is at the heart of the role.

To strengthen our board and support the growth of our charity, we have identified three key areas where additional expertise is needed:

• Marketing
• Legal
• Fundraising

Each of these areas play a vital role in helping us achieve our mission, enhance our impact, and ensure the charity’s sustainability for years to come. In the attached Recruitment Pack, we have outlined individual role profiles for each of these specialisms.

We welcome candidates from diverse professional backgrounds who share our commitment to supporting those affected by Body Dysmorphic Disorder. If your current or previous skills or experience align with any of these profiles, we encourage you to apply and join us in driving meaningful change.

Lived Experience Sight Loss Trustee - Focus Birmingham – Empowering Lives and Shaping the Future

Focus Birmingham’s (Focus) Trustees are all volunteers, playing an essential role in overseeing the charity’s activities in partnership with the Board of Trustees. The CEO and Senior Leadership Team (SLT) manage the day-to-day running of the charity, but it is the Board of Trustees that holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring the charity continues to grow and delivers on its vision.

The purpose of this trustee role is to bring a ‘lived experience’ perspective to help shape the future of our organisation. You will ensure our services reflect the diverse needs of the people we support and help us advance our mission of improving lives by creating opportunities for people with care and support needs. This role will help them feel empowered to live life to the full and unlock their potential.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Co-production Strategy: Ensure the development and implementation of a co-production strategy in collaboration with the Board and Senior Leadership Team that promotes meaningful involvement of the people we support in decision-making processes.

• Engagement and Participation: Ensure that the Board and Senior Leadership Team champion the active engagement of the people we support in all aspects of the organisation, including programme design, service development, and policy formulation.

• Advisory Groups: Support the Senior Leadership Team in establishing and maintaining advisory groups or panels made up of the people we support, their families, and carers, ensuring their voices are heard, and their perspectives are considered.

• Training and Capacity Building: Provide advice on the development of a learning and development strategy that equips staff and volunteers with the skills to provide person-centred care.

• Feedback Mechanisms: Work with the Board and Senior Leadership Team to implement effective feedback mechanisms, surveys, and evaluation tools to gather input from individuals with care and support needs on the charity’s activities.

• Advocacy: Advocate for the rights and autonomy of the people we support both within Focus Birmingham and in the wider community. Raise awareness of the importance of co-production.

• Policy and Governance: Review, provide advice, and contribute to the development of policies and governance structures that ensure the people we support have a genuine and influential role in the organisation.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Collaborate with fellow Trustees, staff, and volunteers to embed co-production principles across the organisation. Provide guidance and mentorship to staff involved in co-production activities.

What Difference You Will Make and What You Will Achieve

This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact by ensuring that individuals with care and support needs are at the forefront of decision-making:

• Networking: Build connections with disability advocates, self-advocacy groups, and stakeholders.

• Professional Development: Gain valuable experience in not-for-profit governance and co-production practices.

• Personal Satisfaction: Contribute to a cause that empowers individuals with care and support needs, helping them exercise their agency and unlock their potential.

How to Apply

If you are committed to empowering individuals with care and support needs and promoting their active participation in shaping Focus Birmingham’s future, we invite you to apply for this trustee role. Your lived experience and expertise in co-production will be instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of improving lives by creating opportunities for people with care and support needs, so they can live life to the full and reach their full potential.

To apply, please submit a completed application form via CharityJob.

Additional details about the role can be found in the attached recruitment pack. If you require any reasonable adjustment to support your application for this role, please contact Focus Birmingham via the details in the recruitment pack.

Closing Date for Applications: 11/05/25

We are seeking an experienced Charity Chair to lead our dynamic, fast growing charity supporting children with SEND in the early years to get the very best start in life. This is an incredible opportunity to drive national change and improvements alongside our CEO, influencing at the highest levels and continuing to expand our work and impact.

We are extremely proud of the growth and impact of Dingley’s Promise over the last three years of Russ Fowler’s tenure as Chair. We’re supported by a dynamic and multi skilled Trustee Board, and have repositioned the charity from a small local provider of specialist early years nurseries, to a national charity that is now the largest provider in the country. We have delivered our specialist inclusion training to over 20,000 early years educators in mainstream settings across England, and are heavily involved in influencing the imminent reforms across the education sector in relation to early years and SEND.

This is a pivotal point for the charity, and we are seeking an experienced, strategic and business minded individual who is ambitious about the impact that Dingley’s Promise can have. We are regularly being offered new opportunities to grow our influence and impact, and are very aware that we have to manage this growth in a responsible and realistic way. We are looking for a new Chair who knows what it takes to drive a national organisation forward, and who is excited about the potential for the organisation to continue to grow and ensure more children and families than ever before have the support they need in the early years.

I look forward to meeting someone who will work in partnership with me as CEO and lead our Board of Trustees to shape the charity’s future growth. I value those who challenge me to think outside of the box, who drive continual reflection and improvement, and who hold me to account as the CEO of an influential national charity representing the voice of children and families. You will play an important part in taking the charity to the next level, helping to increase our impact and influence through your knowledge and connections, and ensuring that we stay on track and accountable to our aims at all times. It’s an incredible opportunity for the right person, who will get an incredible amount of fulfilment from working alongside me to help this dynamic charity to reach its potential. If this sounds like something you could be passionate about, please do get in touch. 

About the National Tremor Foundation: 

The National Tremor Foundation (NTF) is a leading charity dedicated to providing support and advocacy for individuals living with neurological tremor-related conditions, including Essential Tremor (ET) and other movement disorders. Our mission is to improve the lives of those affected by tremor through research, education, and the provision of vital services.

Position Overview: 

The National Tremor Foundation is seeking a passionate and dedicated individual to join our Board of Trustees

Trustees provide strategic leadership and governance, ensuring that the Foundation fulfils its mission and objectives while adhering to legal and regulatory requirements. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of people living with all kinds of neurological tremors.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Strategic Leadership: Work closely with the Chairperson and other trustees to provide strategic direction and oversee the implementation of the Foundation’s mission, vision, and values. 

• Governance and Oversight: Ensure that the Foundation complies with all legal and regulatory requirements and uphold the highest standards of governance. This includes financial oversight and reviewing organisational performance. 

• Fundraising and Advocacy: Support fundraising efforts by leveraging personal networks, helping raise the Foundation’s profile, and engaging with key stakeholders. Advocate for the needs of people living with all kinds of neurological tremor. 

• Policy and Program Development: Contribute to the development and review of policies and programs that meet the needs of those living with neurological tremors and their families and care giver. 

• Risk Management: Ensure that the Foundation is effectively managing risks and developing strategies to mitigate them. 

• Collaboration and Support: Engage with staff, volunteers, and the community to support the delivery of services and activities. 

Skills and Experience: 

• Experience in Governance: Previous experience in a trustee or non-profit governance role is highly desirable, although not essential. 

• Commitment to the Mission: A passion for improving the lives of individuals living with neurological tremors and a commitment to the mission of the National Tremor Foundation. 

• Skills in Leadership: Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills. The ability to build relationships and work effectively with diverse stakeholders. 

• Financial Acumen: Experience with financial oversight and the ability to understand budgets and financial statements. 

• Fundraising or Advocacy Experience: Experience in fundraising, marketing, or advocacy would be beneficial but is not essential. 

• Personal Qualities: A collaborative and solution-oriented approach, with a strong commitment to inclusion, diversity, and empathy for those affected by tremor conditions. 

• Medical Knowledge: Having a medical background would be advantageous for this role, especially someone that is aware of the current care pathways and treatment options for neurological tremors.

Time Commitment: 

Trustees are expected to attend at least four Board meetings per year (approximately 2 hours each), plus additional time for fundraising activities and events. Trustees will also be required to attend our annual conference and other ad-hoc meetings as necessary. Trustees are also expected to take on a portfolio lead and provide support to the General Manager to deliver on this. 

Term: 

Trustees are appointed for a three-year term, with the possibility of reappointment for a further term. 

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.

Springboard Youth Academy is seeking a qualified accountant to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer. 

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 whose needs can't be met in mainstream schools. 

Refugee and asylum-seeking young people who have made the difficult journey to the UK – especially those who come alone – are saddled with many challenges common to starting a life somewhere new. Though they are required to enroll in school, more often than not, they aren’t provided with the language and psychological support necessary to succeed in their new circumstances. They are simply not set up to thrive. Coupled with budget cuts to tailored learning provision in schools, these young people often miss their chance to progress at a natural pace and to reach their fullest potential.

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

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

Role Title: Treasurer

Direct Report:Works closely with the Chair, Director and the Board of Trustees. 

Background: Finance, Strategy and Governance, Fundraising, Legal, Risk.

Role Summary

The Treasurer will be required to:

• Monitor the financial standing of the charity and report to the Board and Director regarding cash-flow forecasting, income streams, out-going expenses and the overarching strategic management of the organisation’s financial resources. 

• Oversee the charity’s financial risk-management process and report financial health to the Board of Trustees at regular intervals.

• Act as a counter signatory on cheques and applications to funders and ensure that annual accounts are submitted to all relevant regulators in a timely fashion.

• Liaise with external auditors as required on financial issues and ensure that the organisation's finances are responsibly managed/invested for the betterment of the organisation’s work and for the beneficiaries it serves.

See attached for the full role description and person specification. 

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 four hours per month to the charity, for example to be involved in fundraising, interviews and business plans, etc. We will 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 on email or phone in relation to issues that arise outside of Board meetings. Travel costs will be covered if they are a barrier.

Values

We’re looking for people who share our love of high quality and inclusive education, as well as our commitment to working with, for and alongside refugee communities. We are keen to meet people who can bring skills, knowledge and both professional and lived experience that will help us scale up. We’re looking for people who can think strategically and creatively, work collaboratively and want to make a significant contribution to Springboard Youth Academy’s future, as well as the wider education sector.

We are committed to nurturing a Board that is representative, diverse and inclusive. We are interested to hear from individuals with experience in governance, as well as those new to Trustee positions. We are particularly encouraging applications from those with personal experience of forced migration and Leaving Care.

Application Process

Please send your CV and a brief, half-page cover letter outlining why you would be a brilliant Treasurer for Springboard Youth Academy and what excites you about our work by midnight on 26th April. 

Please get in touch with us for alternative application formats if you have any accessibility requirements.