Conferences And Events Volunteer Volunteer Roles

General Secretary of ICOMOS-UK (executive position)

Minimum:  2 days per week

The current Secretary is stepping down after twenty years of service to ICOMOS-UK. We are looking for someone to fill the position starting in July 2024. This is currently a part-time un-paid executive (equivalent to a CEO) role with reasonable expenses for out of the office work.  It is an ideal opportunity for anyone who wishes to work as part of an international organisation and bring international heritage conservation ideas and knowledge and practice to the UK. It could suit someone who has part-time availability or has recently retired and wishes to retain an active involvement in the heritage sector within an international dimension. Experience of working in sectors relating to the historic/built environment and/or culture and heritage would be desirable. Experience in managing the development and delivery of governance, policy and operations for a small or medium sized organisation or as part of a larger organisation would be essential. We envisage that an increase in membership which ICOMOS-UK is working towards may generate funding to make the role paid in the future.

The Secretary reports to the President and manages a member of staff (part-time paid staff member) and volunteers who undertake work intermittently. 

We are expecting to fill this post by the beginning of July 2024 and would be happy to arrange an informal chat with ICOMOS-UK’s President about the role, on request.

Application process: closing date for the application is 17th May 2024. Candidates should send a CV, no longer than 2/3 pages, setting out why they wish to apply for the post and all relevant skills, knowledge and experience that support the application. Interviews are scheduled during first week in June 2024. The successful candidate will be notified soon after the interview date. 

Job Description

The role of the General Secretary 

The role of the General Secretary of ICOMOS-UK (equivalent to a CEO of a small organisation) is to take responsibility for the day-to-day function of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), to manage the secretariat (including the Operations Manager and volunteer staff), to support the work of the President and Executive Committee, and to oversee the national and international activities of ICOMOS-UK. The General Secretary will report to the President. 

The organisation has been through a review and has been implementing its revised vision to increase ICOMOS-UK’s membership, (which currently stands at 470-500), and raise the organisation’s profile. We are a broad church and our members come from a variety of background and includes architects, archaeologists, geographers, engineers, project managers, curators, planners, carpenters, specialists in intangible cultural customs and traditions etc.  Unlike many heritage organisations which were forced to close down during the pandemic, we were fortunate to retain our members throughout the lockdown and since which demonstrates the loyalty and support we already garner from our members. The General Secretary would work with the membership committee in sustaining this trend and identify new ideas to retain existing members and recruit new ones.

Main Duties / Key Responsibilities

1. To support the President and Executive Committee in the delivery of the work of ICOMOS-UK.
2. To develop, co-ordinate and present policy, as agreed with the Executive Committee.
3. To co-ordinate and manage the secretariat function of ICOMOS-UK including the Office Manager. To oversee the governance arrangements for ICOMOS-UK.
4. To work with the Treasurer on the budget, income generation and expenditure for ICOMOS-UK, including support for fund-raising activities and applications.
5. To help drive the recruitment and support of members of ICOMOS-UK.
6. To help coordinate and promote events supporting and disseminating the work of ICOMOS-UK.
7. To coordinate, promote and report on the activities of ICOMOS-UK committees to the membership, stakeholders and potential interest groups; to work with the committees on the implementation of their recommendations.
8. The post holder will be the secretary of the International Monuments Trust (IMT), convene meetings, take minutes and organise the transfer of payments.

Person Specification

You will have or develop:

•       strong drive and initiative
•       strong commitment to diversity and inclusion in all tasks
•       experience in using your own judgement
•       familiarity in reporting to and taking direction from the President and Executive Committee.

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

Required knowledge, skills and experience for the suitable candidate can be found on the attached Job Description.

Competency Framework

The competency Framework for the role can be found on the attached Job Description.

Dimensions

• Understanding of the work of ICOMOS, using knowledge and experience to proactively engage with Executive Committee and stakeholders.
• Supporting and undertaking work and providing reports to President and Executive Committee.
• Acting as a champion for ICOMOS’s work.

Background

What is ICOMOS?

The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) was set up in 1965 and is a non-governmental international organisation dedicated to the conservation of the world’s monuments and sites. With around 11,000 individual members active in over 150 countries and a network of 130 National committees (similar to the one in the UK) spread across the world, ICOMOS is one of the most highly regarded conservation organisations in the world. Its 31 International Scientific Committees made up of heritage conservation specialists from across the globe are responsible for developing charters, principles and guidelines on conservation and management of cultural sites. It is one the three advisers to the UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee on cultural World Heritage properties (the other two being IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature) and ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property)).

What is ICOMOS-UK?

ICOMOS-UK is one of the 130 national committees of ICOMOS. It is an independent charity, set up in 1965. We have an active membership of individuals and institutions who come from a wide range of backgrounds in the UK and worldwide. As a national committee based in the UK, ICOMOS-UK promotes appreciation and understanding of our built environment and landscape associated with it and UK’s diverse intangible cultural heritage.  It mirrors the structure of the international body. We have a UK board, a small Secretariat comprising an Operations Manager (OM) and a General Secretary. There are eight scientific committees which report to the Board. Our focus is on providing advice on good practice through the dissemination of ICOMOS’s international Charters, Principles and Guidelines and regular national and international events (conferences, lectures, panel discussions etc). We are also the only independent adviser on the implementation of 1972 World Heritage Convention and its Operational Guidelines to the UK Government and the 33 World Heritage sites situated across the UK. The Board and the eight scientific committees collaborate with the heritage, arts and education sectors in the UK and internationally in developing new thinking and making ICOMOS’s international standards relevant to the national context. 

Amazing, giving, inspiring and awesome are just a few of the words we would use to describe our volunteers.

Our volunteers play an integral part in the services we provide and the people we support. If you are looking for a rewarding role where you will really make a difference whilst gaining experience along the way, then join us here at Rethink Mental Illness.

About the role

Do you have great administration and IT skills and enjoy meeting new people? Want a flexible voluntary role that allows you to make a difference to peoples’ lives? Then read on!

We are looking for a Volunteer On-line Meeting Assistant to support the Head of Area (Central Region) with organising and preparing for monthly and quarterly virtual meetings, and on occasion events or conferences. 

You will be remote based at home, with some occasional travel for face-to-face meetings (expenses reimbursed), and ideally will be able to commit up to 4 hours per week to volunteering, during usual office hours Monday to Friday. 

You will receive training and regular supervision to ensure you feel confident in your role.

What you will be doing as a Volunteer On-line Meeting Assistant

The majority of meetings are held virtually on-line via MS Teams.  You will support the Head of Area (and meeting Chair) by:

• Co-ordinating meeting invitations (via MS Teams), attendee registration and apologies
• Distributing documents in advance of meetings
• Take notes of the meeting and share these with attendees, eg, updating SharePoint
• General meeting support,  share any slides, launch polls and set up break out rooms as required during virtual meetings
• Co-ordinate and collate post event evaluations and feedback
• Develop and maintain information systems, eg, attendee contact details and distribution lists

What will make you a great fit for this role?

• Experience of note taking
• Good listening & orgnisational skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft office packages, Outlook and MS Teams
• Good time management skills and the ability to prioritise work
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Warm, friendly, empathetic and able to connect with people from a range of backgrounds

Who are we?

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

Choice International is a UK based not-for-profit international development organisation that seeks to address inequality issues both overseas and within the UK. We promote equality, diversity and inclusion via researching, developing and implementing development projects for disabled people and other disadvantaged communities in the UK and overseas.

In view of upcoming development projects, we are seeking applications for a Project Development & Marketing Volunteer to work from our office in East London. There is opportunity for working from home after the first month.

This is an exciting position that offers plenty of scope to make a real difference in support of equality and diversity. We are currently delivering disability sports projects and events in India and in London.

The role is to assist the organisation with the development of national and international programmes for disability and equality rights and other related projects through research, administration and writing proposals, emails and reports.

The main responsibilities will be:

• To research potential partnerships and assist in the development of project proposals
• To research funding opportunities and assist in the development of grant proposals
• To assist in the organisation and management of Choice International activities and events
• To represent Choice International at conferences, exhibitions and seminars, as necessary
• To support other administrative tasks, as necessary.

Applicants should have a positive, can-do attitude, be reliable and trustworthy. If you are passionate about equality diversity and international development and keen to gain valuable, hands-on experience, then we would like to hear from you.

Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid position. However, depending on funding available we may be able to contribute to the cost of travel from your home to the office.

Please note due to the number of applications we receive we are unable to respond to all applicants hence only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

Why we need your help

Marie Curie set up the Research Voices Group in 2013 to make sure we’re engaging meaningfully with people in our research activities who have personal experiences of living with terminal illness or who have cared for someone with a terminal. Our aim is to enable members of this group to contribute at all stages of our research and policy work and in a variety of research projects that we fund. 

All you need to join is personal experience of living with terminal illness, caring for someone with a terminal illness or of bereavement. You’ll also be interested in supporting research in these areas. We would welcome volunteers from diverse backgrounds and who have lived experience in the past few years.As part of the group, volunteers will help the Research and Policy teams to better understand the views of people living with a terminal illness, supporting people who have a terminal illness or of bereavement and help inform Marie Curie’s decisions on research funding,dissemination and campaigning activities.

This is a great opportunity to play an important role in helping to improve the future provision and quality of end-of-life care. It is also a chance to learn about the research and policy work in the sector.

What we would like your help with

Your role will include some of, but is not restricted to, the following tasks. You will be able to choose what you get involved with and how.

• providing your opinion on research proposals that we’re planning to fund
• helping to identify key questions for palliative and end of life care research
• advising on research projects, for example as a member of a research steering committee
• talking about research at external events and conferences
• helping our team to plan and facilitate key events and workshops
• sharing your experience at policy-making forums, speaking at conferences or attending Government events
• reviewing posters submitted for the Annual Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Conference
• reviewing grant reports and offering feedback on findings and achievements to grant holders
• being a member of a committee such as the Marie Curie Research Funding Committee

What skills or experience will be useful

• An interest in improving end-of-life care and in research and its evaluation
• Desire to understand and engage with national and local decision makers to drive change
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Ability to read and comment on research summaries
• Confidence in taking part in discussions in a committee situation
• Respect for different opinions
• A willingness to take an active part in meetings
• To use your skills and experience gained through your professional or home life to support the work of the group
• Access to phone or internet would be particularly useful

What we can offer you

• The opportunity to help us improve palliative and end of life care both within and beyond Marie Curie’s services
• Opportunities to enhance your skills and gain useful experience
• Induction, training, support and supervision in your role
• Reward and recognition for your time including out-of-pocket expenses
• Support from the Marie Curie research and policy teams and fellow members of the group
• The opportunity to share your experiences to improve care and support for others

What we ask of you

• To provide two references from non-family members and other relevant documents related to the role
• To keep to all the charity’s policies and guidelines
• To complete an induction and any training relevant to the role
• The group meets bi-monthly, mostly on-line and occasionally in person.  Any other time you choose to give is up to you.(home-based), with occasional visits to MC Head Office, Vauxhall, London

Diversity and inclusion

Marie Curie is committed to being a diverse and inclusive charity. We aim to demonstrate support for all of our staff and volunteers, valuing each individual’s contribution regardless of age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, civil partnership status, disability, nationality, race, religion or belief.  We are committed to providing equal opportunities to our staff and volunteers and to taking steps to ensure our staff and volunteers are protected from discrimination.

ABOUT US

Every day of your life matters – from the first to the last. When you volunteer for Marie Curie, you understand that better than ever. We’re a passionate, committed and diverse team of more than 4,400 staff and  6,500 volunteers, here for people living with any terminal illness, and their families. We offer expert care, guidance and support, to help them get the most from the time they have left. 

Marie Curie is committed to its values, which underpin our work.  We take stringent steps to ensure that the people who join our organisation through employment or volunteering, are suitable for their roles and are committed to safeguarding all our people from harm. This includes our staff, volunteers and all those who use or come into contact with our services. We are dedicated to creating not just a safe place to work but also a supportive and rewarding one.

Marie Curie is committed to a world where everyone can thrive and fulfil their potential. We are devoted to the social justice imperatives and organisational benefits of full diversity, inclusion and equity in the workplace, and are a Stonewall champion. We actively encourage and welcome applications from candidates of diverse cultures, perspectives and lived experiences.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early.

WHO WE ARE
We are a Kingston-based social enterprise using creative thinking to build community cohesion. Encouraging different cultures to unite enables us to share and celebrate essential lessons. Partnering with cultural, social and sports organisation's, we put on programmes of training, workshops and other events that promote unity and tolerance.

We conduct research to challenge preconceptions around race and stereotyping. Our findings are supported by educational opportunities designed to broaden perspectives.

Ready for an adventure? Dive into the heart of Quilombo UK by exploring our website and videos! Discover our mission, values and the impactful work we do to make a difference in our community.

Your journey with purpose begins here

Join us in creating positive change!

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Quilombo UK is looking for a volunteer personal assistant to join their national volunteering team working from home. This role offers a great opportunity for the right person looking to gain experience as a personal assistant, developing their office-based and management experience, or simply to ‘give back to their community’. The role provides you flexibility, with specific training provided where necessary to help you develop and grow your skill-set.

Main Responsibilities:

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Managing databases
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team

REQUIRED SKILLS

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills
• Well organised, pro-active and able to deliver tasks efficiently
• Good time management
• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments
• Strong team player
• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed
• Able to volunteer at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)
• Access to own laptop

Desirable:

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate
• Proficiency in Microsoft and excel

Requirements

• Will require references
• Own computer or a secure access to one
• Must be UK based and hold UK right to work

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK runs over a period of 16 weeks, is UNPAID and requires a minimum of 12 hours commitment per week across Monday, Wednesday and/or Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Job Type: Volunteer

Expected hours: 12 per week

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Remote

The digital network includes +550 members across +25 countries in Asia. It is an active and inspirational network of the region’s most promising leaders from diverse cultures, countries, and work environments, including government, civil society, academia, and social enterprises representatives.

The world is fragmented and we need to work in a collaborative way to tackle global issues such as climate change, peace & reconciliation but also the rise of Artificial intelligence. We host in-person and virtual events such as high level online conference, private roundtable discussion with experts, change makers and leaders across topics centered around building tech for a better world while supporting the UN Sustainable Development Goals such as climate action, gender equality, and youth empowerment.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

• We are looking for a volunteer to create digital marketing content brief videos and other digital support, along with creating visually appealing infographics
• Volunteer 2-3 hours per week for 3-5 months

Who are we?

CPRE London is a charity that fights to protect London’s green spaces. By volunteering with us you’ll be helping to find positive solutions for the issues facing the countryside and the environment. You’ll make a real difference and be a central part of a friendly and passionate charity.

What you will be doing

· Diary management and meeting scheduling

· Minute taking

· Circulate actions from minutes as required

· Administrative system development and maintenance

· Organising correspondence

What are we looking for?

· Self starter

· Adept at prioritisation

· Excellent organisational skills, and attention to detail

· Excellent communication, both written and verbal

What's in it for you?

· An in depth understanding of the roles and responsibilities involved in working for the executive team

· Use your skills to help our charity and make a positive difference to London’s green spaces

· Opportunities to work with people across all the functions at CPRE London

· Get involved with social events and workshops on a local and national level, including the annual CPRE conference

· The opportunity to attend a volunteer induction run by CPRE’s national office

· Enhance your CV by developing new skills and gaining valuable experience

· We will support you in your role and provide you with relevant training

· We can give you a reference for your future work or volunteering

· We provide out-of-pocket travel expense

Time requirement

Two hours a day Monday to Friday – but with flexibility to fit in with your availability

As a Business Development Manager you will be the front of the charity by helping to create opportunities when engaging small, medium and large enterprises.  The role will provide effective day-to-day management relating to all aspects of the charity’s set up and operations.

The role will ensure financial sustainability by assisting the CEO, Marketing Lead and fundraisers identify and secure appropriate funding that supports the values of the charity, and to clearly demonstrate and promote the positive impact of the charity. 

What will you be doing?

• To manage all operational activity of the charity according to the strategic direction provided by the CEO and Trustees.
• Where required to undertake aspects of business development including identification of funding opportunities, bid writing and tender submissions.
• To assist the CEO with updating and revising the charity’s business plan and fundraising strategy in accordance with the Trustees’ strategic direction.
• Contacting potential partners to establish rapport and arrange meetings.
• Researching organisations and individuals to find new opportunities.
• Where appropriate attend conferences, meetings, and charity events.
• Develop a growth strategy focused both on financial gain and stakeholders’ satisfaction.
• To undertake any other relevant duties within the overall scope of the role, as requested by the CEO and Trustees of the charity.
• Lobby government and other policy makers on behalf of the charity’s cause or client group.

What are we looking for?

• Bachelor’s degree in business, sales and marketing or related field.
• Highly competent IT skills
• Proven customer service skills
• The ability to prioritise and manager own workload
• Understanding of data protection and confidentiality
• Excellent time management and organisational skills
• Ability to motivate and empower people
• High levels of commitment, reliability and motivation
• Flexible and adaptable approach
• Ability to learn quickly and take on tasks outside of current skill set.

Time commitment and expenses:

• 1-3 hours per week, either in or out of office hours.
• We request a minimum commitment of 3 months volunteering.

What difference will you make?

• Share your knowledge and experience.
• Learn new skills.
• Shape how the charity presents itself to service users, stakeholders, funders and the general public.
• Network with a friendly team of people.
• Make a difference to the charity and the lives of others.

ob Overview: 

As the Volunteer Personal Assistant, you'll play a pivotal role in supporting our inspirational CEO, Michelle Dornelly. This is an incredible opportunity to work closely with a visionary leader who is bringing about transformative changes in our community. 

Responsibilities: 

- Manage the CEO's calendar, scheduling meetings, appointments, and travel arrangements. 

- Prioritise conflicting appointments, ensuring the CEO's schedule is optimised. 

- Act as the primary point of contact between the CEO and internal/external stakeholders. 

- Screen and respond to emails, phone calls, and other communications on behalf of the CEO. 

- Prepare and edit correspondence, reports, presentations, and other documents. 

- Maintain accurate records and files, both electronic and physical. 

- Organise and coordinate meetings, conferences, and special events, handling logistics, agendas, and materials. 

- Attend meetings, take minutes, and follow up on action items. 

- Arrange travel itineraries, accommodations, and transportation for the CEO and key personnel. 

- Process travel expenses and reimbursements in a timely manner. 

- Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing special projects and initiatives as assigned by the CEO. 

- Track project deadlines, deliverables, and milestones. 

- Handle sensitive and confidential information with utmost discretion and professionalism. 

- Maintain confidentiality in all communications and interactions. 

Task Prioritisation and Time Management: 

- Proactively identify priorities and manage competing demands to optimise the CEO's time. 

- Anticipate needs and take initiative to address them effectively. 

Qualifications: 

- Bachelor's degree preferred. 

- Proven experience as an executive assistant, personal assistant, or similar role supporting C-level executives. 

- Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to multitask and prioritise effectively. 

- Strong verbal and written communication skills, with exceptional attention to detail. 

- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications. 

- Discretion and trustworthiness in handling confidential information. 

- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and collaborate effectively as part of a team. 

- Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and deadlines. 

Join our team and be part of the positive change Children with Voices is bringing to the community! Michelle Dornelly's leadership is truly inspiring, and your contribution as a Volunteer Personal Assistant will make a significant impact. We cover transport costs and provide nourishing meals for our dedicated volunteers. Apply now and be part of our dynamic team! 

Together, let's create a better future!

QMC School, partnered with Quilombo UK is looking for a volunteer personal assistant to join their national volunteering team working from home. This role offers a great opportunity for the right person looking to gain experience as a personal assistant, developing their office-based and management experience, or simply to ‘give back to their community’. The role provides you flexibility, with specific training provided where necessary to help you develop and grow your skill-set.

16 weeks contract.

What will I be doing?

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Managing databases, Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team

Practical Considerations

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills

• Well organised, pro-active and able to deliver tasks efficiently

• Good time management

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed

• Able to volunteer at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)

Desirable:

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate

• Proficiency in Microsoft and excel

Requirements

• Will require references

• Own computer or a secure access to one

• Must be UK based and hold UK right to work

The volunteering program with QMC requires a minimum of 21 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

QMC School, partnered with Quilombo UK is looking for a volunteer personal assistant to join their national volunteering team working from home. This role offers a great opportunity for the right person looking to gain experience as a personal assistant, developing their office-based and management experience, or simply to ‘give back to their community’. The role provides you flexibility, with specific training provided where necessary to help you develop and grow your skill-set.

16 weeks contract.

What will I be doing?

• Managing organisation of meetings and appointment
• Organising events and conferences
• Implementing and maintaining procedures and administrative systems
• Managing databases, Liaising with staff
• Miscellaneous tasks to support the team

Practical Considerations

Essential:

• You will need to have good written skills

• Well organised, pro-active and able to deliver tasks efficiently

• Good time management

• To show professionalism at all levels and in all environments

• Strong team player

• Ability to work independently and ask for clarification when needed

• Able to volunteer at least 12 hours a week (2 days, 6 hours each day)

Desirable:

• Committed to working with the community with a passion for helping others less fortunate

• Proficiency in Microsoft and excel

Requirements

• Will require references

• Own computer or a secure access to one

• Must be UK based and hold UK right to work

The volunteering program with QMC requires a minimum of 21 weeks of commitment. We are looking for someone who can offer 12 hours a week, Monday - Friday.

Upon successful application, our HR team will contact you to arrange an interview. Following a successful interview, we'll initiate the onboarding process by sending you the necessary documents. Once your onboarding and identification documents are received and verified, you'll be invited to a 6-hour HR and System Induction. Subsequently, you'll meet with your Head of Department or Assistant Manager for your First Day.

Bardet Biedl Syndrome UK: Chair of Trustees 

Location: Remote, UK-based 

Salary: Voluntary 

Empower change: Join us as Chairperson and make a lasting impact 

BBS UK are looking for a new Chairperson, to lead our Board of Trustees and contribute to the development and success of our charity. 

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare, complex condition that causes blindness, learning disabilities, and obesity, along with other symptoms.  BBS UK is the only UK charity dedicated to helping individuals with BBS and their loved ones. Our aim is to offer wraparound support to those impacted by BBS, to empower them to live the lives they choose, as valued members of society. 

BBS UK provides advocacy services, NHS clinic support, up-to-date publications, and events that connect our community members and help them to navigate living with Bardet-Biedl syndrome. Through these projects, we aim to ensure that those who seek our help are supported, connected, and empowered to achieve the best possible outcome. 

We have a team of eight dedicated part-time staff members who facilitate the delivery of these services, and volunteers who assist with our events. We support approximately 550 individuals with BBS each year.

It’s an exciting time to join our work! We aim to expand our team, improve our communication channels, and increase our overarching community benefit, all within the next few years. 

The role: 

We are looking for an experienced, professional and compassionate Chairperson to lead our Board of Trustees, many of whom have lived experience of BBS.

You will support and lead on our strategic planning, deliver on all governance requirements, and be a highly visible member of our BBS UK community. 

We’re looking for someone with: 

• Strong leadership skills 

• Excellent communication skills who can liaise with board members, staff, service users, medical professionals and other stakeholders 

• Experience in charity governance, as a Chair or Vice-Chair

• Passion for making a difference, with a particular interest in empowering persons with disabilities 

• A proven track record in developing strategic initiatives and steering an organisation forward, ensuring continued growth and success 

• Integrity, dedicated to abiding by our charity’s ethos and ethical principles 

For more details, please read our full Chairperson Role description. 

As a BBS UK Trustee, you will have: 

• Induction, training, and reimbursable expenses 

• Opportunities to make strategic decisions and develop new skills 

• Occasions to network with likeminded organisations and professionals

• Influence to shape innovative projects 

• Capability to make a real difference for the wellbeing of our BBS community 

Time commitment: 

The expected time commitment for our Chairperson is a minimum of four Trustee meetings per year via Zoom (lasting approximately three hours for each meeting); in-person attendance at our annual conference and strategy day; occasional overnight stay at a central location may be required.  Regular meetings with our Operations Manager and routine monitoring and response of emails is also required. 

Seeking Passionate Trustees to Drive Financial Equity

Are you ready to make a tangible impact in your community? Talking Money invites passionate individuals to join as Trustees, driving forward their mission to empower those facing financial hardship. As a Trustee, you’ll wield independent control and legal responsibility, shaping the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring alignment with their core purpose.

About Talking Money:

Talking Money is a Bristol-based charity dedicated to empowering individuals facing financial hardship. With a focus on inclusivity and equity, they provide essential support and guidance to those in need, regardless of background or circumstance. Their mission is to alleviate financial stress and promote long-term stability by offering tailored advice, practical assistance, and advocacy services.

Driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to financial education and support, Talking Money delivers a range of programmes and initiatives designed to address diverse needs within the community.

The role:
We are looking for people who care about supporting local people in financial hardship and reducing inequality, who are willing to bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and perspective on the board. Whether you bring expertise in housing, disability, mental health, or fundraising, your unique perspective would be invaluable to the Talking Money board.

We particularly welcome applications from people with direct or indirect (for example though a family member or friend) lived experience of the kinds of issues our clients face (e.g., poverty, financial hardship, over-indebtedness, homelessness).

Personal skills and qualities:

• Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Creative thinking and strategic acumen to drive organisational growth.
• Effective communication skills and a collaborative spirit.
• A strong alignment with our vision and mission.

Responsibilities:

As a trustee, you’ll play a pivotal role in:

• Overseeing organisational strategy and financial plans.
• Providing support and challenge to our executive team.
• Ensuring compliance with governing documents and legal obligations.
• Promoting and protecting the interests of Talking Money.

Time commitment and expenses:

• This is a voluntary position with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
• Minimum commitment of 17 hours per year, including board meetings and team events.
• Opportunities for professional development and training sessions

Terms of appointment:

• Initial 5-year term, with the possibility of renewal. Potential for progression to Chair of the Board.

About New College Durham

New College Durham is a high performing Further and Higher Education college both educationally and financially with strong building blocks in place for future development. Following the appointment of a new Executive Leadership Team and Chair of Governors in July 2020, the College entered an exciting period of change which has presented many opportunities. During this new period, it has been crucial to take advantage of the changing environment and the new possibilities offered. New College Durham has achieved and is consistent in its high standards in both its academic results, student recruitment and progression and its financial performance.

 Our Vision

New College Durham will be recognised as a leading provider of Further and Higher Education in the North-East region, nationally and internationally.

What will you be doing?

New College Durham is looking for volunteers to join its Board of Governors and use their personal and professional knowledge and experience to shape the strategic direction of the College. 

The Board is responsible for the success of the College.  Its role is to establish a vision, mission and strategy, provide financial oversight, hold the College’s senior leaders to account for the quality of education and ensure risks are managed appropriately.  As a Governor you will support and challenge our executive management team and help the Board make decisions that will impact on student achievement, their longer-term outcomes and the future direction and growth of the College. We want people who bring new ideas, strategic thinking, are willing to ask questions and speak their mind - we are ambitious, dynamic and forward focused and we hope you are too.

This voluntary role offers great opportunities for personal and professional development. We will work with you to align your expertise and interests with the Board’s needs. You will receive ongoing training, have access to a mentor and be reimbursed for expenses. You would be expected to attend six corporation meetings throughout the year, one or two committee meetings per term and the Annual Strategic Planning Day. We would also encourage you to get involved with College life by attending College events to meet students, staff and stakeholders such as award ceremonies, staff and student conferences, performances, exhibitions and stakeholder events.

You will be part of a thriving organisation with an excellent reputation and you will gain experience working alongside our Senior Leadership Team and Board members from a wide variety of backgrounds.

What are we looking for?

We welcome applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds - people who can contribute their professional and specialist skills to the Board as well as their lived experience. We are keen to recruit a diverse Board with a mix of skills and perspectives to ensure effective governance, supportive challenge, sound decision-making and membership that reflects our wider community.

We are currently seeking applications in particular from those with experience in health and life sciences, digital, STEM disciplines, HR/people management, sustainability and green skills manufacturing but we operate in a fast-moving environment and would encourage applications from all individuals with a passion for education whatever their skill set.

What difference will you make?

Our Board members (Governors) are vital to guaranteeing our students’ success. They help ensure that the College offers the best qualifications and has the most up to date resources, so our students develop the skills and knowledge that employers want.

As a Board member you will use your skills and experience to help our senior leaders shape the College’s strategy and meet our vision of becoming a leading provider of Further and Higher Education in the North East region, nationally and internationally. You will contribute to the College’s wider strategic plan including finance, estates, IT, HR, curriculum and student experience and help us make the big decisions that will drive the future direction of the College.

It's an exciting time to join the Board with a number of major initiatives in development as we continue to grow our high quality professional technical and general education provision and invest in our fantastic facilities.

Commitment:

Estimated time needed is up to five hours per month.

Six corporation meetings per year plus Annual Strategic Planning Day / one to two committee meetings per term. Meetings are usually 4.00pm to 6.00pm. Meetings are usually in person, with the option of online attendance where required.

How to apply:

Reach Volunteering’s TrusteeWorks team are supporting New College Durham recruit for this role. Please apply via the URL provided. Please provide a cover letter detailing why you are applying for this role and summarising the skills and experience you could offer the Board of Governors of New College Durham.  Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with members of the Search and Governance Committee and a tour of the College.  They will also be asked to complete our additional skills audit form as part of this process.

If you have any questions about this opportunity please contact us via Reach.

Please note this role is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.