Education trustee volunteer roles in england

Coempowered is a small but rapidly developing non-profit working to empower indiviuals and help build community capacity among for young people, women, and marginalised communities in the UK and internationally through workshops, classes, semiar, projects and research. 

We currently have two trustees and are seeking a third trustee who can bring valuable expertise in fundraising, chairing, or education to help guide our next phase of development.

About the Opportunity
This is a formative moment for Coempowered. As a small and growing organisation, we are establishing the structures, policies, and long-term strategies necessary for sustainable impact. Our trustees play a crucial role in this process, working closely with the directors to oversee governance, support planning, and position the organisation to apply for grants and build partnerships.

We are looking for a committed individual who is passionate about our mission and willing to contribute actively to shaping Coempowered’s direction. Trustees are expected to bring strategic insight, uphold strong governance, and collaborate constructively with the board.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to governance and strategic oversight as we prepare for charity registration.

• Support planning for organisational growth, including funding pathways and programme development.

• Provide leadership or guidance in one or more key areas:

  • Fundraising: helping to develop a sustainable funding strategy and support early grant applications.

  • Chairing and governance: contributing to board leadership, decision-making, and policy development.

  • Education: advising on programme design, partnerships, quality assurance, or public engagement.

• Participate in quarterly board meetings and occasional working groups.

• Act as an ambassador for Coempowered, upholding our values of inclusion, critical inquiry, and empowerment.

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in fundraising, charity governance, board leadership, or the education sector.

• A strategic and reflective mindset, with confidence in contributing to decision-making.

• Reliability, professionalism, and a genuine interest in developing a growing non-profit.

• Willingness to commit long-term and help build the organisation collaboratively with the existing trustees and directors.

Time Commitment
Approximately 6-8 hours per month, remote, with quarterly board meetings.

If you are inspired by educational and social impact and would like to help shape the future of a developing organisation, we would welcome your application.

Volunteer Trustee Opportunities at BD4 Community Trust – Make a Difference in Bradford

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in your community? BD4 Community Trust is looking for dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As a volunteer trustee, you will play a key role in shaping the future of our community-focused charity, ensuring that we continue to deliver vital services and support for the people of East Bowling and beyond.

About BD4 Community Trust

Supporting and Restoring Community across the Generations. BD4 Community Trust is a local charity committed to improving the lives of individuals and families in the BD4 area. We provide a range of services, including support for vulnerable groups, community events, educational programmes, and initiatives to tackle social isolation and disadvantage. Our mission is to create a thriving, inclusive, and resilient community for all.

Our BD4 Family project works to help families to come together to learn, share and grow, where they can feel safe to enjoy quality time together and access encouragement and support when needed. The groups we run support the needs of our ever-expanding community by really listening to families and encouraging them to be part of our decision making and offering opportunities to volunteer and get involved.  

Gems has been running since 1983 and works with the older members of our community delivering a variety of activities each week with additional activities at times throughout the year. The project provides opportunities for older people to make friends, participate in healthy activities, enjoy a nutritional meal, and enjoy the occasional day trip out.

Role of a Trustee

As a trustee, you will:

- Contribute to the strategic direction of the charity.

- Ensure that BD4 Community Trust remains financially sustainable.

- Provide support and oversight to the charity’s staff and volunteers.

- Help build partnerships with other community organisations, local authorities, and stakeholders.

- Ensure that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

- Bring your skills, experience, and enthusiasm to help us grow and achieve our mission.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking individuals with a variety of skills and experiences, including (but not limited to):

- Leadership and governance experience.

- Knowledge of community development or charitable work.

- Financial or legal expertise.

- Strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

- Passion for improving the lives of those in the BD4 community.

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage diversity in our board. Whether you have experience in the third sector, business, education, or other fields, your unique perspective will be invaluable to our work.

Time Commitment

- Trustees are expected to attend quarterly Board meetings (approximately 2 hours per meeting on an evening).

- Additional time may be required for training and community events.

- The role is voluntary, and reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

What We Offer

- An opportunity to make a tangible difference in your local community.

- The chance to gain experience in governance and charity leadership.

- A collaborative and supportive environment where your contributions are valued.

- Training and development opportunities to help you thrive in your role.

As we shape the next stage of our programme and prepare to celebrate our centenary in 2029, this is a wonderful moment to become part of our story. We are in a period of thoughtful renewal, refining our strategy and exploring new ways to deepen our impact and enrich the musical lives of people of all ages.

Our Trustees play a vital role in the life of Benslow Music. They steward the governance of the charity, share responsibility for its financial and legal wellbeing, and help set its strategic direction in collaboration with the Chief Executive and staff team. Trustees also champion our work externally – supporting fundraising, building relationships, and helping the organisation thrive.

We are looking to appoint up to three new Trustees and warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and professional perspectives.  

We are intending one appointment will be a trustee with legal expertise.  

Following a recent skills review, we are also keen to hear from candidates with experience in:

• Charity governance
• Finance or accountancy
• Corporate or charity experience in SMEs
• Fundraising.

For further information and to download our trustee recruitment pack, plese visit our website. 

We're seeking up to two new trustees with charity experience and local knowledge of in Barrow-in-Furness and South Cumbria who wish to use their skills to support brilliant causes in our community through making grants.

The Sir John Fisher Foundation invests in organisations that serve needs and grow ambitions in the area around Barrow-in-Furness. Our focus is funding core costs and projects that produce sustained results in the community, arts, music and education.

Being a trustee of The Sir John Fisher Foundation is an outstanding opportunity to deepen knowledge of philanthropy and the charity sector, or to build skills in strategy, governance, impact and charity finance.

As a trustee, your role is to work with other trustees to set our strategic direction, oversee the effective running of the charity and participate in the Foundation’s grant-making decisions. This includes:

• Assessing grant applications for our main and core grants programmes
• Attending two full-day board meetings per year, in person (usually around May and November in or near Barrow-in-Furness)
• Attending two further online board meetings per year, usually for ~2 hours
• Participating in site visits to applicants and grantees
• Contributing to planning and implementing the Foundation’s strategy, working with other trustees and staff, in line with our charitable objectives
• Overseeing the financial sustainability of the charity to fund our grant-making programmes, including our investments, mainly our shareholding in James Fisher & Sons
• Supporting the Foundation’s staff team with the general management of the charity
• Ensuring the charity meets its legal obligations as set out by the Charity Commission, and effectively fulfils its general functions and duties

We are looking for trustees with the following essential skills, knowledge and personal qualities, as well as demonstrating the values of the Foundation: 

• Commitment to the Foundation’s objectives and grant-making priorities
• Knowledge of the issues faced by people living and working in our geographical priority area (Barrow-in-Furness and the surrounding area)
• Previous experience working or volunteering for a charity
• A sound understanding of the responsibilities of charity trustees (or willingness to learn)
• Understanding of charity accounts (or willingness to learn)
• Strong strategic and critical thinking skills; a critical friend who can give challenge respectfully and be open to changing own views if necessary
• Excellent analytical and decision-making skills
• Personal integrity and humility; discretion
• Ability to work collaboratively
• Willingness to devote the time and energy required to trustee duties

Previous board, trustee or grant-making experience is not necessary. We are actively seeking candidates from a wide range of backgrounds, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, age, socioeconomic status, disability, sexual orientation, and professional expertise. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our governance, enrich our decision-making and ensure that our mission is carried out equitably. We encourage applications from individuals who bring lived experiences and insights that have been historically underrepresented in leadership roles.

We encourage applications from first-time trustees whose skills and backgrounds will enhance the board in other ways, as we can provide a thorough induction, trustee buddy, training and support. Through our memberships of the Association of Charitable Foundations and Yorkshire Funders, we can provide access to relevant grant-making training opportunities and networking with grant-makers on a regional and national level.

Apply by 5pm, Sunday 11th January 2026.

Bromley Arts Trust CIO Opportunity to join the Board of Trustees

Ready for a challenge? Good team player? Good at seeing the bigger picture ?

Consider joining our small Board of Trustees. The Board of Bromley Arts Trust is eager to expand the number of trustees and is looking for enthusiastic individuals with special skills and wide-ranging experience to enjoy finding solutions. Whether you are an experienced Trustee or are considering becoming one, we would like to hear from you.

If you have the time (estimated to average 2 to 3 days per month) to undertake this exciting role do complete the application pack and send this with your CV and covering letter to the Business Manager at Bromley Arts Trust.

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. As a member of the board of trustees you will be responsible for setting the strategic aims, objectives, and direction of the charity. You will use your knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure we achieve our charitable objectives and represents the interests of all stakeholders.

Kidney Research UK has been at the forefront of pioneering research for six decades, investing in talented researchers and funding work that could ultimately lead to a cure. Our work has resulted in vital breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of those affected, changing the future for many kidney patients.

We have made remarkable progress but there is still much to do. The number of people living with kidney failure continues to rise and we must go further to drive innovation and increase investment in renal research. Of course, like so many other charities and organisations we are doing this important work during challenging times.

We have adapted well to the changing world, and we are finding exciting new ways to reach our goals. We know we must rise to the challenge for kidney patients everywhere and we remain determined to grow our income so we can deliver more impact.

Our trustees play a vital role in the governance of Kidney Research UK, which enables and accelerates the impact that we have as an organisation for our patient community. Working closely with your fellow Trustees, the chief executive and wider leadership team, you will be part of a team that guides and oversees the delivery of Kidney Research UK's strategic priorities. We have a number of trustees who are due to retire from their roles during the next 12 months, and we are looking for new trustees to join our board and be part of this exciting transformation.

If this sounds like you and you think you could make a difference, we’d encourage you to review the attached role description below and apply to join our dedicated board of trustees.

Hospice care for local people

Rowans Hospice is dedicated to improving the lives of people with a life-limiting illness.  We are a registered Charity, operated as a company limited by guarantee. The Board of Directors of the company are also Trustees of the Charity.

Established since 1994, our purpose is to enable support for those people in Portsmouth and Southeast Hampshire who need palliative and end of life care, irrespective of their diagnosis, ethnicity, religion, or age. Our services are provided free of charge, but each year it costs more than £7 million to continue our vital work.

Would you like to join us?

To help us in our endeavours, we need experienced members of the public to join our Board. We have a strong and committed group of Trustees, comprised of people with varied professional expertise and backgrounds. Working closely with the Hospice Senior Leadership Team, our Trustees have collective responsibility for the governance of the Charity and our strategic direction.

As a member of our Board, you will support and shape our work, as well as help us to achieve our key ambitions.  We want to further increase the diversity of thinking and range of skills and experience amongst our Trustees.  No previous experience as a Trustee is necessary, as we will give you all the support you need.  We are looking for people who have the capacity to contribute at Board level; who can think creatively and strategically; who share our commitment to providing high quality, compassionate care to those who need us; and who are able to devote the necessary time, effort and enthusiasm to the role.  

Currently, we are seeking to appoint up to three new Trustees and are particularly interested to hear from individuals who have senior-level Clinical; Legal; Marketing and Sales; or Finance experience.

The Board of Trustees meets at the Hospice six times a year.  Additionally, Executive and Trustee members of the Board’s sub-committees meet regularly to cover topics spanning Clinical Services; Governance; Human Resources; Income Generation; Retail; Estates and Facilities; and Finance and Audit.

Trustee roles are voluntary and unremunerated, but legitimate costs such as travel expenses can be paid.

BLUE SMILE - CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Founded in 2010, Blue Smile is a Cambridgeshire charity supporting children aged 3-13 to manage big feelings, process difficult emotions, overcome anxieties and build resilience.

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies, supporting over 200 children a week in the region’s schools, providing one-to-one therapy and groupwork. We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES ROLE

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure that Blue Smile fulfils its charitable objectives. You will lead the Board in an inclusive way, promoting collaborative working and provide support and challenge to the Charity Director.

This role is vital to ensuring the charity operates in accordance with the law, delivers public benefit, and remains financially and strategically sustainable.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IN OUR NEW CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Our new Chair of Trustees will:

• Have board level experience as Chair, Non-executive or Trustee.

• Show a strong understanding of governance, strategy and the legal duties of a charity trustee.

• Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Have sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to build a collaborative environment.

• Demonstrate a passion for improving children’s mental health and wellbeing which aligns with the charity’s values and commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

TIME COMMITMENT

• Six meetings a year, including one as the AGM and an annual strategy day. Board meetings are currently held online.
• Monthly scheduled meeting with the Charity Director with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue.
• Ad hoc/occasional support through working groups and to the wider Blue Smile team.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

• The Chair is appointed for a 5 year term of office, renewable for 1 further term to a maximum of 10 years in line with Blue Smile’s Articles of Association.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

TO APPLY

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity, please send your CV and a covering letter, outlining your interest and suitability for the role. We will be recruiting on a rolling basis so please do get in touch soon!

Blue Smile is committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

We are committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be asked to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

New Trustee – Thames Rivers Trust

Thames Rivers Trust (TRT) is seeking a new Trustee to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment, along with a scientific background to put forward new perspectives, increase our Trustee Board’s diversity and skillsets, strengthening TRT for a resilient future. This voluntary role is open to all qualifying individuals, including those with no previous Board or Trustee experience.

We are looking for potential not perfection, we are happy to consider someone at the beginning of their career as well as seasoned professionals.  If you will add value, we want your expertise to help achieve our vision!

Our Mission

To bring together organisations across the Thames River Basin, and foster collaborative working to benefit the environment, wildlife and communities.

Our Vision

Our vision is for a vibrant and healthy Thames River Basin.

Our Values

Independence  Evidence-based  Sustainability  Trustworthy.

Who are we?

TRT is a registered charity founded in 1986 and is part of The Rivers Trust movement. We are a Hub Trust for the Thames catchment, with our Key Partners we are dedicated to improving the Thames and its tributaries for the benefit of wildlife, communities and the environment.

Rivers are vital, we all need cold, clean and plentiful water to thrive; for communities, for business, for farming and for a wealth of wildlife species; yet our rivers are facing a multitude of serious threats and challenges. Together we and our partners are striving at many levels to preserve and improve rivers now and for the future in the Thames catchment.

TRT is committed to developing a collaborative, partnership approach that maximises the benefits of public, private and third sector organisations working together with communities to deliver integrated outcomes.  Our most recent flagship project was the successful Thames Catchment Community Eels Project, led by TRT this pilot project worked closely with 3 fellow rivers trusts, Zoological Society of London and Thames Estuary Partnership to strategically identify priority barriers for works to make migration upstream possible for the critically endangered European eel, trial a new citizen science ObstacEELS, monitor elver migration and run extensive hands on community and school eel education outreach. The project has led on to an exciting upscaled National Lottery Heritage Fund funded phase 2 project Development Phase, that is about to start!

TRT is the convening body for the Thames Catchment Forum. This interactive regional forum brings together 27 catchment partnership hosts within the Thames for shared learning and development, themed panel discussions, expert guest speakers and Water Frame Directive updates from Thames Water and the Environment Agency, looking at issues and proposing solutions.

TRT works in partnership, leading our Key Partners group of 11 organisations that through the group are more informed to do more and better from mutual trust and openness, sharing their specialist knowledge and expertise. This leads to development of strong, evidence-based projects at scale to improve Thames rivers and educate and involve local communities. Together we achieve more, increasing our positive impact sooner.

What is a Trustee?

Charity Trustees are the people who share ultimate responsibility for governing a charity and directing how it is managed and run. This involves the Board of Trustees making decisions together, acting in the interests of the charity.

 Some charity trustees see their role as turning up to 4 meetings a year, but engaged trustees do a lot more than that. A Trustee might support a specific project’s development, attend events to network and represent TRT, have oversight of an area of TRT work that aligns with a trustee’s particular specialism and interest.

Our Trustees use their skills, knowledge and experience to support TRT, helping the charity achieve its aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the Board.

What are we looking for?

An applicant with a scientific background, ideally in Freshwater Ecology, Environmental Biology, Environmental Science, Aquatic Conservation or Zoology.

 A strong interest in the environment is essential and an interest in or knowledge of the Thames Catchment would be beneficial; in addition, do you possess any of the following skills or qualities?  

• Fundraising
• Legal
• A willingness to participate in discussions and decision making

If yes and you have time to commit to a growing and ambitious charity that is looking to develop and deliver more, we want to hear from you!

Our board of Trustees meets up quarterly in person, during the day in London and Reading. In between these meetings Trustees are in touch regularly with our small, but dedicated team. Time commitment is flexible, in addition to meetings, an average of 2 hours per month to read papers and participate in TRT business.

Our Key Partners – Action for the River Kennet, Thames21, South East Rivers Trust, River Thame Conservation Trust, Cotswolds Rivers Trust, Crane Valley Community Interest Company, Zoological Society of London, Thames Estuary Partnership, Freshwater Habitats Trust, Thames Landscape Strategy and UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

TRT values its Trustees and their contributions and will offer support and guidance to all new Trustees. The role of a Trustee is a voluntary one, however the Trust provides indemnity insurance for Trustees and reasonable expenses incurred on authorised Trust business will be reimbursed.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Join the Oasis Charitable Trust’s Board and apply your professional expertise to scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders to build communities that transform.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

Location: National

For over four decades, Oasis has been at the forefront of sustainable and holistic community development, addressing inequality across economic, social, physical and spiritual dimensions. Our approach spans education, housing, justice, health, youth and family support.

At the core of the Oasis vision is a belief in the transformative power of community. We envision a place where every individual is not just included, but actively contributes to and realises their God-given potential. This vision is grounded in the understanding that inequality permeates all aspects of life, especially within communities facing adversity.

Every Oasis community is distinctive, yet they share a common goal: the creation of a space where everyone is included and where everyone can flourish. The foundation of our work often lies in integrated “Hubs”. Our model is born out of our experience in communities grappling with disadvantage and poverty. We collaborate with other charities, faith groups and local authorities to provide holistic care and opportunities for all.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking Trustees to join the Oasis Charitable Trust Board and Trustees for our subsidiary boards – Oasis Community Learning, Oasis Community Housing, Oasis Community Partnerships, and Oasis Restore. While we remain open to professional expertise, we hope to appoint effective non-executives who can scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders as Oasis enters its next strategic phase.

Oasis Trustees play an important role in the effective management and governance of the charity, holding ultimate responsibility for its actions and decisions. Key responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g. with the Charity Commission and the Department for Education), safeguarding assets and using our networks and resources responsibly.

Beyond your fiduciary duties as a Trustee, you will be a custodian of our ethos, ensuring that our leaders embody our purpose for the public benefit. You should exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence, seeking professional advice when necessary, especially where your specialist knowledge is required.

Trustees collaborate to make well-informed decisions that serve our long-term success. The responsible management of the charity’s resources involves making judicious decisions aligned with the organisation’s objectives and implementing policies to safeguard its assets.

Time commitment: varies depending on the Board.

Peridot Partners and Oasis are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

Mavar is currently seeking a seasoned networker to join the Mavar Trustee Board as a Trustee with special responsibilities for strengthening our fundraising practice and broadening the charity’s donor base. Working with our Board and CEO, you’ll bring experience, insight and strategic guidance to help develop our fundraising capacity in support of the strategic development of the charity.

Mavar’s Mission

Founded on the belief that everyone has the right to choose their own path in life, Mavar’s central mission is to empower individuals who choose to explore opportunities beyond the strictly orthodox community to fulfil personal goals. Mavar supports our members’ efforts to achieve independence, live authentically and cope with the obstacles they may encounter as they explore options to live, work or study in the secular world – whether or not they choose to leave the Charedi community.

Trustee Role Details

The day-to-day operations of Mavar are conducted by staff and volunteers under the leadership of our CEO and with the overall oversight of the Trustee Board.

Main Duties of the Fundraising Trustee:

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is planned and executed in alignment with Mavar’s budget framework and objectives.
• Act as a fundraising champion on Mavar’s board, working with the CEO and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If you have personal networks with fundraising potential, utilise them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, as well as Mavar’s policies and procedures. You are expected to give at least one day per month to your role. Board meetings take place four times a year in London, with a mixture of online and in-person meetings and are complemented by occasional online or in-person feedback meetings with the CEO and the Treasurer.

Person Specification

Essential

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns)
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice
• Strong communication and networking skills

Desirable

• Experience of charity fundraising
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing
• Familiarity with Jewish cultural context

Next Steps and Timeline

If you are interested in this role, please contact the Chair of the Trustee Board to arrange an informal chat.

If you would like to make a formal application, please send a CV and cover letter outlining your qualifications, relevant expertise and interest in Mavar’s mission to the above. Please put your name and the role you are applying for in the subject line.

Context: Mavar’s Service Users

Some men and women who have grown up in the closed world of the Charedi community hold personal and religious values that are not in line with the rest of the community. Attempts to follow their own path often bring them into direct confrontation with family, friends and neighbours who regard expressions of individualism or self-determination as heresy. These individuals fear that the community will ostracise them, leaving them feeling trapped, isolated and helpless.

Some may simply wish to explore options for obtaining a general education or improving their access to employment opportunities whilst wishing to remain within the ultra-orthodox community; others may look to divest themselves of the strictures of ultra-orthodoxy and to lead a more mainstream lifestyle. They all typically lack the everyday life skills to cope with the challenges of the secular world, which appears to them as a confusing, frightening and alien planet. Any effort to integrate with the outside, secular world is hampered by limited English language skills, cultural disorientation, lack of basic education or qualifications and negligible skills for employment.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Could you be our new Chair?  

Our fantastic Chair’s tenure will be coming to an end in 2026, so we are looking to appoint her successor to help Student Minds improve university communities so that every student gets the mental health support they need to reach their goals.

At Student Minds, we’re working to improve university communities so that no student is held back by their mental health. So it should come as no surprise that we are keen to reflect the communities we serve, maintain a diverse board and ensure student voices are represented. This is key to our mission and our continued impact. 

We are open-minded about the professional background of this individual and are mostly looking for someone with experience of leading effective, inclusive teams, of chairing complex organisations or meetings, and in building influential cross-sector partnerships.

Key responsibilities

Student Minds Chair is expected to commit to the following: 

• Preparation and attendance at four board meetings a year. Board meetings are held online and take place on weekdays from 5 - 7.30 pm. 

• Preparation and attendance at two in-person board away days each year, usually from 12.30 - 5 pm. These usually take place in Leeds and include a lunchtime or evening social.

• Monthly supervision calls with the Chief Executive

• Annual in-person appraisal of the Chief Executive 

• Support with board appraisals and recruitment 

• Ad-hoc meetings and conversations with the senior leadership team as required. This usually constitutes approximately a further five working days a year.

• Attendance at relevant task-group meetings and/or committees.

So, if you want to help shape the future of student mental health, download our recruitment pack to find out more!

How to apply?

1. For more information about the role responsibilities please download our recruitment pack that is linked

2. Download and complete our application form which is available via the link

3. Complete the Equality Monitoring Form. 

Application process

• Application closing deadline: Monday the 5th January at 11.59 pm - make sure you send your completed application form by this date

• Interviews: 27th January, with our Chair, Trustee and CEO

• Appointment: subject to approval by the Student Minds Board

We are looking to appoint a trustee with experience in Finance to oversee our finance functions, providing advice, scrutiny and support to the charity and to be the Chair of our Governance, Audit & Risk Committee (GAR) 

1851 TRUST – SPORT INSPIRED LEARNING  

We use the power of sport to inspire and empower the next generation. At the 1851 Trust, we believe every young person, has the potential to shape the future. Founded by Sir Ben Ainslie, our mission is to transform how young people connect with the world around them, helping them see themselves in it and thrive. 
 

Through our free to access education programme, STEM Crew, we bring science, sustainability, and innovation to life using the real-world context of high-performance sport. These sport-inspired resources are used in over 40% of UK secondary schools, helping teachers unlock potential, build confidence, and spark ambition in STEM, green skills, and maritime careers. 
 

Our work is driven by belief in young people’s potential, we focus on removing barriers to education and opportunity, as we aim to level the playing field and help all young people, particularly those from underserved communities to see that they belong in the world of STEM. 

Do you want to use your skills to make a real difference for local babies, children, young people and their families? ��

We’re on the lookout for passionate people to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice. You’ll be part of an inspiring team helping to shape our strategy and ensure every family we support gets the best possible care. ��

We’d especially love to hear from people with experience in:
✨ Finance
✨ Investments
✨ Clinical care – especially children’s or palliative care
✨ Income generation – an understanding of charity fundraising is a bonus!
✨ Marketing - we can't wait for your insight, whatever your marketing background!

About us:

Our vision at Bluebell Wood is for every baby, child and young person with a life limiting condition to access specialist palliative care, where and when they need it. You will join our fantastic team where we all play our part in achieving our vision and creating an incredible culture for everyone. 

Our services:

Our uncompromisable support services are wide-ranging and bespoke to each family. We provide symptom management, end-of-life care, post-death care, short breaks, counselling, sibling support groups, music therapy, home visits and more.

We support families across a large geographical area, including South Yorkshire, North Nottinghamshire, North Derbyshire and parts of North Lincolnshire. The hospice is easily accessible from Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster, Sheffield and North Notts. We have free secure on-site parking for families, staff and volunteers to use. 

Every year we need to raise £6.7m to keep our doors open and only around 17% of our income comes from government sources, the rest must be raised through fundraising activity.

The role:

As a trustee, you'll play a vital role in helping us deliver our mission. You'll be part of a dedicated board that:

• Sets our strategic direction and ensures we stay true to our values and purpose.
• Overseas our finances and governance, making sure we use our resources wisely and legally.
• Supports and constructively challenges our leadership team to help us grow and improve.
• Acts as an ambassador for Bluebell Wood, championing our work in the community and beyond. 

What were looking for:

You don't need to have been a trustee before. We welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.

What matters most is:

• A genuine commitment to our Vision Mission and Values, and the families we support.
• Integrity, good judgement and a collaborative spirit.
• Willingness to learn and contribute your time, skills and ideas.
• Commitment to preparing for and engaging meaningfully in meetings.

.What you'll gain:

• A meaningful way to share your skills and experience.
• The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of babies, children, young people and families.
• Opportunities to develop professionally and personally.

If you would like to know more please contact us to arrange a tour of the hospice, or have an informal chat with our CEO, Heidi Hawkins

To apply, please send your CV and a short covering statement to our CEO, Heidi Hawkins

Closing date:      Sunday 30th November 2025

Interview date:    Wednesday 17th December 2025

We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive work place that reflects the communities we support, and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, sex, ethnicity, race, religion, education, socioeconomic background, disability, or sexual orientation. 

We will do everything we can to accommodate any needs throughout our recruitment process. 

What else we will need or you need to know:   

Any successful applicant will require:

• An Enhanced DBS Check 

• Two references