Events volunteer volunteer roles in barnet, leicester

SendToGive

We inspire creativity and social change.

We address two challenges:

1. Individual feelings of helplessness and anxiety amidst big, global problems such as poverty and climate change combined with a growing disconnection between individuals, cultures and communities across the world.
2. The lack of access to essential resources for marginalized groups of people. One example is that today, about 3.6 million Filipinos live without access to electricity or light. They get by with kerosine lamps which are not only hazardous to human health but dangerous to the environment. And now, with the global oil crisis in effect, families can literally burn up to 40% of their monthly income for just 2 hours/night of a dim flame.

It is our mission to enable people to apply their creativity for the benefit of society. We want to bring together artists from every discipline, age, and aspiration and enable them to collaborate on a platform that not only gives them visibility but a meaningful purpose behind their work. Ultimately, we want to mobilise communities to solve real-world problems in a fun and creative way. We do this on a per-project basis and mix the elements of creativity, culture, and social impact into everything we do. We have worked with DJs, dancers, graphic artists, directors, as well as early creatives who have helped us with event decoration, social media promotion, support with grant writing. Our collaborators have come from across the world. Among the impacts we have made, it ranges from projects that make an impact for disadvantaged families in the Philippines, to supporting low-income LGBTQ communities with their rental costs.

Illustrator

Volunteer Role Description (remote, unpaid)

Create a key visual and promotion materials for an event called "A Dose of Optimism". We're looking for an original, captivating image that can be used as an event poster, website banner, and social media outputs.

The design should embody our brand, SendToGive - showcasing creativity, community, and social impact as our core values.

Weekly Time Commitment

2-3 hours per week

Duration of Volunteer Role (remote)

One-off project

We are looking for visionary, creative, and detail-oriented individuals to join us as Volunteer Graphic Designers, helping bring our mission to life through compelling visual storytelling. Whether you're a student or recent graduate building your portfolio, or a seasoned professional eager to give back, this is an opportunity to contribute your talents to a vibrant, inclusive, and purpose-driven charity.

Your work will amplify the voices of young people, support our community-based programmes, and help us visually communicate the transformational impact of our initiatives. If you’re passionate about design, social equity, and youth empowerment—we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Design branded materials including flyers, posters, digital assets, presentations, infographics, reports, and social media content
• Assist in developing visual campaigns for events, fundraising drives, and programmes such as Degrees of Opportunity and I’m One of a Million
• Maintain consistency with existing brand guidelines across all visuals
• Work collaboratively with the communications and marketing teams to create engaging visual content
• Update and refine existing design assets as needed
• Support in the creation of print and web-ready formats for campaigns and public communications
• Participate in virtual check-ins and planning meetings as required

Skills and Experience Required

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) or Canva
• Strong understanding of visual communication, layout, and typography
• Ability to take creative direction and work independently

• Keen attention to detail and consistency
• Understanding of branding and audience-centred design

What You Will Gain

• An opportunity to contribute to a growing, values-driven organisation working with diverse communities
• Experience in the third sector and real-life application of design for social impact
• Portfolio development with a variety of campaigns and design challenges
• Mentorship and support from experienced leaders in youth, education, and nonprofit development
• Professional references and LinkedIn endorsements upon successful contribution
• Giving back and supporting our aims

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Creative thinker passionate about making a difference through visual storytelling
• Enthusiastic team player who understands the power of design to inspire and engage
• Culturally aware and respectful of diverse backgrounds and communities

Help us to make a difference tackling loneliness in Oxfordshire.

We are a pioneering charity who have been changing lives for more than 40 years.

If you have experience in fundraising and would like to help us to develop our income generating approach, we would love to hear from you. Your expertise in fundraising will be instrumental in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of our organisation.

Job description available on the Archway Foundation website (details attached).

If you'd like to discuss the role with the CEO, please call our office to arrange a call or email (details attached).

We actively encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups.

It’s an exciting time for the Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse: momentum is growing, with heightened public awareness of domestic abuse following the pandemic, increased government focus, and employers increasingly recognising their crucial role in enabling employees to recognise the signs of, and seek support on, domestic abuse.

The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (known as EIDA) is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in our mission to empower employers to act effectively against domestic abuse. 

Our aim is to ensure that all team members, volunteers, trustees, job applicants and the people we come into contact with are given equal opportunity and that our organisation is representative of all sections of society.

We want our board to be representative of our society and membership and particularly welcome applications from people with lived experiences of domestic abuse, people based outside the southeast of England and in the nations of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and from people with experience as a people manager or employer, large or small.

Who we are

We are a free-to-join members' network of employers and a registered charity supporting over 1,500 large and small employers to take effective action on domestic abuse.  Our members collectively employ over 25% of the UK workforce.

Our mission is to equip employers to support their employees affected by domestic abuse and to share best practice with other employers.

We endeavour to bring about constructive change, leading to a society where survivors thrive, and where domestic abuse is not tolerated.

Our Trustees are volunteer board members who play a vital role in making sure that EIDA achieves its mission.  As a group, they:

• Oversee the overall management and administration of the charity.
• Ensure that EIDA has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.
• Provide support and challenge to the executive team, enabling EIDA to grow and thrive.

We are seeking up to two new Trustees to join the existing group of ten  You can see current members of our board on our website. 

EIDA has a UK-wide remit with a membership made up of employers, and we want to reflect that across our Trustees.

Trustee duties

Trustees are the people who lead our charity and decide how it is run.  We envisage the trustee duties broadly as:

• Support and provide advice on EIDA’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee EIDA’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve EIDA’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to EIDA’s CEO.
• Keep abreast of changes in EIDA’s operating environment.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect EIDA’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.
• Participate in periodic appraisals of the performance of the Board of Trustees, collectively and individually.
• Represent EIDA at external functions, meetings and events.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will contribute to the diversity of thinking on our board.

Whether you are an experienced trustee or are looking to take your first step at board level, we would like to hear from you. We ask for:

• Commitment to tackling domestic abuse and EIDA’s mission.
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussions.
• A strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion and EIDA’s core values of Collaboration, Empowerment, Versatility, Openness and Kindness.
• Time to commit to supporting the organisation, including attendance at Board meetings (2 hours, 5 times annually), virtual and in-person events (4-6 annually) and any sub committees.
• Ability to build and maintain a healthy network that promotes the aims of EIDA across the business community, to drive member growth, and to enhance EIDA fundraising activities.
• Experience in leading teams, managing people, or influencing organisational culture.

Terms of appointment

Position: Trustee

Location: This is a hybrid role, with occasional travel required to Board and network meetings held in central London

Terms: A maximum fixed term appointment of one three-year term followed by a further three-year term

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment: EIDA’s Board of Trustees meets 4-5 times a year within the working hours of 10-5pm.  Currently meetings are held in London and remotely (Zoom).

Closing date

9am, Monday 23 June 2025.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if sufficient applications are received, so early applications are appreciated.

Our ambition is to continue to develop outstanding services that meet the needs of our community; if you want to be part of our future, we would love to meet you to discuss this further.

Becoming a trustee for Home-Start Southwark (HSS) is an exciting and fulfilling role. The role of a trustee is to ensure that HSS fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries through contributing to the strategic development, effective governance and financial management of the organisation. The board of trustees are both jointly and individually responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of HSS, its financial health, the integrity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals.

We are particularly interested in receiving applications from people with the following skillsets:

• HR
• Legal
• Finance, accountancy, bookkeeping
• Fundraising
• Media and communications

Location: Remote with occasional in-person meetings 

Commitment: Approximately 8-10 hours/month

About Children With Voices (CWV):

Children With Voices is a community-driven charity committed to supporting young people, families, and communities through initiatives focused on mental health, well-being, food sustainability, and youth empowerment. We aim to create safe, inclusive spaces that promote resilience, opportunity, and growth.

Role Overview:

The Board Secretary plays a crucial role in ensuring strong governance, effective communication, and operational efficiency across CWV’s board activities. This volunteer position supports compliance, board administration, stakeholder engagement, and strategic planning—contributing directly to CWV’s mission and long-term impact.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Board Governance & Compliance

•Maintain accurate and confidential records of board meetings, decisions, and policies.

•Ensure compliance with charity governance frameworks and legal regulations.

•Support the board in implementing best practices in governance and administration.

2. Meeting Coordination & Strategic Support

•Organise and facilitate board meetings: prepare agendas, document minutes, and track action points.

•Maintain up-to-date records of board members, policies, and governance materials.

•Assist in aligning board discussions with CWV’s strategic objectives.

3. Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

•Act as a liaison between board members, stakeholders, and external partners.

•Represent CWV at public engagements, networking events, and charity forums.

•Maintain a professional tone in all correspondence and ensure timely communication.

4. Mental Health & Well-Being Advocacy

•Support the integration of mental health awareness into board planning and discussions.

5. Financial Administration & Fundraising Support

•Assist in tracking financial documentation, grant applications, and reporting requirements.

•Support funding strategies by ensuring appropriate record-keeping and compliance.

•Work closely with fundraising leads to maintain transparency and donor trust.

Key Skills & Experience:

•Experience in board administration, governance, or executive-level support.

•Strong knowledge of UK charity regulations and non-profit governance best practices.

•Excellent written and verbal communication skills; experience in minute-taking and report writing.

•Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, PowerPoint).

•Experience in stakeholder engagement, public speaking, or advocacy work.

•Understanding or experience in mental health, psychotherapy, or community wellness is highly desirable.

•Familiarity with financial processes in a non-profit or charitable context is a plus.

What You’ll Gain:

•Opportunity to play a key role in shaping a growing community organisation.

•Experience in charity governance and strategic planning.

•A chance to contribute to mental health and youth development initiatives.

•Connections with a passionate, diverse, and purpose-driven board team.

Next Steps:

Interested candidates should submit a CV and a short expression of interest outlining relevant experience and motivation for the role.

"We are looking for 3 candidates to join our volunteer enhanced professional development programme and gain real world experience in your chosen field). While we only have 3 vacancies available through this programme, other options are available if your skills match our criteria".

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

Join our dynamic team as a Volunteer HR Recruiter and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our non-profit Organisation. As a key member of our Human Resources team, you will be responsible for managing the end-to-end recruitment process, ensuring the acquisition of talented individuals passionate about our mission. Your expertise will contribute to building a dedicated and skilled workforce, enabling us to impact the community positively. This role offers a unique opportunity to utilise your HR recruitment skills for a meaningful cause while gaining valuable experience in the non-profit sector.

Collaborate with hiring managers to identify hiring needs and implement effective sourcing strategies,
Interview and Selection
Build and maintain a strong talent pipeline.
Conduct initial screening interviews to effectively evaluate the candidates’ skill set and cultural fit while providing an engaging experience.
Foster positive relationships with candidates, keeping them informed about the status of their applications.
Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and regulations.
Maintain accurate and up-to-date candidate records and recruitment metrics.

 REQUIRED SKILLS:

Proven experience as an HR Recruiter or in a similar role
Familiarity with job boards and professional social platforms
Strong understanding of recruitment processes and employment laws
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Office based skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Excellent time management and organisational skills
Strong marketing and negotiation skills
Outstanding teamwork skills and ability to create relationships at all levels, showing respect to different types of people.
Professionalism and Confidentiality

WHAT WE OFFER:

Opportunity for professional growth and development in Recruitment and other HR departments depending on your knowledge and learning aptitude.
A collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity and innovation.
Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

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 to 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 Types: Part-time, Volunteer

Contract length: 16 weeks

Expected hours: No less than 12 per week

Benefits:

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime

Work Location: Remote

Job Summary

Job Title: Digital Marketer
Salary: Voluntary
Working Hours: Monday – Saturday, 10am – 6pm (Flexible shifts)
Reporting to: Project Leader
Location: NIAS Creative Campus, Holborn, London

�� Volunteer Digital Marketer Needed for Cultural Takeover – Rhythms of Kolonga ��
NIAS Creative Campus | A Transnational Campaign for the DRC

Do you believe in the power of digital storytelling to change the narrative? Are you ready to help lead a cultural takeover that redefines how the world sees the Democratic Republic of Congo?

NIAS Creative Campus is looking for a Volunteer Digital Marketer to help drive our campaign:
Rhythms of Kolonga: The Democratic Republic of Congo Beyond the Headlines — a transnational movement rooted in cultural rhythm, memory, and narrative justice.

This is not just marketing. This is movement work. This is digital activism through music, memory, and storytelling.

What We’re Doing:

Rhythms of Kolonga is a bold campaign reclaiming Congolese stories from the margins. We’re staging an online cultural takeover where sound, art, rhythm, and movement drown out outdated, one-dimensional headlines and amplify authentic, lived Congolese narratives.

Who We’re Looking For:

A visionary digital marketer with the heart of an activist and the skills of a strategist. You understand what an online takeover means and you’re fired up to help make it unforgettable.

Your Mission Will Be:

• Co-create and implement an online cultural takeover strategy across platforms.

• Craft powerful messaging rooted in narrative justice and cultural memory.

• Coordinate digital content, music drops, artist stories, campaign visuals, and live interactions.

• Engage communities, influencers, and allies in a bold online presence that reclaims the narrative.

• Help build a digital ripple effect that sparks conversations and shifts perceptions worldwide.

You Might Be:

• A digital activist, social media maven, or comms creative.

• Deeply connected to or interested in African cultural narratives, especially around the DRC.

• Someone who thrives in creative, collaborative environments and wants to leave a mark.

What You’ll Gain:

• Be part of a historic transnational campaign for cultural truth and justice.

• Grow your experience in high-impact digital advocacy.

• Collaborate with artists, thinkers, and changemakers across the globe.

• Make your voice part of a movement that matters.

What we are offering:

• Travel Expenses
• Reasonable Lunch Expenses (after probation period)
• Industry links
• Opportunity for growth through our training and development programme
• Potential for career mentoring by experienced staff

Ready to help us rewrite the narrative of the DRC?
Apply now with a short note on why this campaign matters to you, plus any links to relevant work or profiles.

Let’s move hearts and headlines—together. ����✊

Are you looking for a volunteering role that supports the impact of the whole third sector? Infrastructure charity DataKind UK is looking for new members to join our Board of Trustees, including a Chair and Treasurer.

DataKind UK is a small charity with a vision for a strong, thriving third sector that embraces data use to become more impactful. We connect third sector organisations with data professionals to improve their decision making, problem solving, and working practices, by applying data science approaches to sector-wide challenges.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and supportive individuals to fuel our mission and direction by providing oversight of our operations, supporting with major decision-making, and advocating for our work and cause.

Being a trustee is a great way to give your time to a cause you care about, broaden your network, and develop your strategy and governance skills and knowledge. We particularly welcome applications from black, Asian, and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates, and candidates with disabilities, as we would like to increase the representation of these groups in our community.

How to apply

To apply, please read our candidate pack for more detail and send a 1-2 page cover letter outlining what you would bring to the role based on the skills outlined in the candidate pack, especially highlighting if you are interested in the Chair or Treasurer role, along with your CV, by Monday 2 June.

Initial screening calls will take place during the week commencing Monday 9 June.

Interviews will take place on the 17, 18, and 19 June 2025, with the aim of new members being recruited and onboarded for the following board meeting in August.

We’ve been shaping social change since 1884.

In our 141st year, we are looking for new Trustees to us achieve our vision of a  fairer future for East London and beyond.

Vacancy: Finance Trustee x 2

About Toynbee Hall

Toynbee Hall works alongside people facing poverty and injustice to build a fairer future.

Based in the East End of London since 1884, we provide vital support to individuals through our advice and support services and work in partnership with local communities to tackle unfairness through research and advocacy. We are a place where people come together to work out solutions to the challenges facing us all and to shape systemic change.

As a charity we are governed by our Trustees - a group of volunteers who have responsibility for setting our strategy and ensuring we meet our charitable objectives.

However, with the pandemic's aftermath and the ongoing cost of living crisis, we face unprecedented challenges. The most vulnerable communities are hit hardest, and our role has never been more critical. We are constantly reviewing our own allocation of finite resources to ensure we are clearly and effectively focusing on where we can make the greatest impact. 

We are looking for Trustees with finance experience to join our Board; helping to shape our future plans and strategy.

Over the past five years, Toynbee Hall has undergone a significant renewal, revitalising our historical buildings, creating spaces that not only provide advice and community connections but also generate revenue to support the delivery of our services and research. Like many organisations we face challenges and some difficult decisions over this period but we are energised about the changes we want to see and how we can contribute. We are also keen to collaborate and grow our projects and thus have wider impact.

We have an engaged, diverse and skilled Trustee Board who are working alongside our senior team as we implement our new strategic plan and organisational priorities.

You can find out more about our existing Trustees on our website.

What we are looking for and what we can offer

It is important to us that we attract Trustees from a range of backgrounds. You don’t need to have previous experience of being a trustee, so please don’t let that put you off!

We will offer an induction program and support to take up the position.

We aim to have a trustee board that reflects the local community, so we especially encourage to apply if you live in Tower Hamlets or who have a personal connection with Toynbee Hall, Tower Hamlets or the East End. Our Board is currently diverse in age, gender and ethnicity and we are committed to maintaining that diversity. We particularly want to hear from potential Trustees who are Black or Asian.

The essential responsibilities of a Toynbee Hall Trustee is to ensure that the organisation pursues its charitable objectives and ensure we remain a going concern.

Trustees must be people with independent judgement, with an ability to think strategically and creatively about the challenges and opportunities ahead.

For this role you will have a financial qualification with at least 3 years’ experience in finance / accountancy. Ideally experience in financial decision making. An understanding of charity funding would be an advantage.

Above all you need to have real enthusiasm for our work and for supporting and guiding our Chief Executive and Toynbee Hall’s passionate and committed staff and volunteers so that they remain focused on tackling inequality and poverty in East London and beyond. And in return we are commitment to helping you gain experience in the non-profit sector strategy and decision making.

 The time commitment to be a Trustee

We ask our Board members to attend four evening Board meetings a year, an annual away-day and to be a member of one Committee. Our Committees meet up to three times a year. At the moment our committee meetings tend to be over video, where Board meetings aim to be in person. In person meetings take place at Toynbee Hall’s home in Commercial Street, E1. Board and Committee meetings are held in the evening.

Each Board member serves for a three-year term. This will then be reviewed by the Board with a maximum nine-year term.

Our Board members are also active ambassadors for Toynbee Hall. This means attending and supporting events and taking opportunities to promote and develop the work of Toynbee Hall through networks and contacts.

Next steps and what to expect

We will be accepting applications until midday on 9th June 2025. Interviews will be held with two of our trustees (online) and a second stage with the Chief Operating Officer (in person).

“At Nugent, we believe in a world where every person has the opportunity to thrive – regardless of circumstances. That belief has guided us since 1881, and continues to inspire the work we do today”.

Join Us as a Trustee – Make a Real Difference at Nugent

Role: Trustee
Location: Remote with occasional in-person meetings (location-based)
Time Commitment: Approx. 4 board meetings per year + occasional subcommittee work
Type: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)

About Us

Nugent are a North West based health and social care charity, based predominantly in the Liverpool City region, offering a diverse range of support for adults and children. Our children’s provisions include residential homes, a secure facility, a step-down home and SEMH School. Our adult’s provisions include dispersed homelessness accommodation, floating support provided in the community and supported living provided at home. We also provide adult residential homes including a specialist acquired brain injury, a home for those living with dementia, and a home supporting Mental Health needs. We also offer adoption support services working in partnership with local authorities across the UK.

To reach communities beyond these provisions we have established an initiative called Our Future Now, which actively engages in a range of fundraising and community-based activities. These efforts support wider unmet needs across the Liverpool City Region and beyond.

The Role

As a Trustee, you will help guide the strategic direction of the charity, ensuring good governance and overseeing the effective use of resources. You will work with fellow trustees and senior staff to support our mission, challenge constructively, and bring your insight and experience to the table.

As an experienced and committed individual, you will provide support to your peers and leadership to the executive team. You will promote a commercially astute culture across the organisation as we continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of the people we support

This role is ideal for you as a conscientious and driven individual who is prepared to support, advise and actively engage in the achievement of the vision

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are particularly interested in individuals with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Health and social care policy or practice
• Finance, law, or governance
• Lived experience of using health or social care services
• Charity leadership or fundraising
• Equality, diversity, and inclusion

We are committed to having a diverse and representative board. If you are passionate about improving lives and can contribute to strategic thinking and oversight, we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Please apply online and attach your current CV. Alternatively send your CV and a short covering statement explaining why you’re interested and what you can bring to the role to the HR team by 6th June 2025

For more information or an informal conversation about the role, contact the HR team

Become a STEM Workshop Leader with Bright Futures UK

Are you passionate about inspiring the next generation and showcasing new and innovative STEM learning? Bright Futures UK is looking for enthusiastic and skilled individuals to lead engaging workshops for young people who have taken time out of education due to illness.

About the Role:

As a STEM Workshop Leader, you will work with us to design a fun and meaningful workshop tailored to your expertise, which you’ll deliver on a Wednesday afternoon. Whether your speciality is coding, digital tools, engineering, Computer Aided Design or another skill within the world of STEM, we’d love to hear from you! You’ll have the full support of our team to ensure your workshop runs smoothly and makes a real impact.

What You’ll Need:

1. A skill or practical activity that can be shared with young people.

2. Enthusiasm for teaching and inspiring curiosity.

3. A willingness to collaborate with us in planning the session.

What You’ll Gain:

1. The chance to make a difference in the lives of young people facing significant challenges.

2. DBS and training provided at no cost.

3. Opportunities to develop your teaching and facilitation skills.

4. The rewarding experience of sharing your passion with others.

Why You’ll Love Volunteering with Us:

At Bright Futures UK, we believe in supporting young people as they rebuild their confidence and reengage with education. Through your workshop, you’ll help create a positive, nurturing environment where curiousity thrives and connections are made.

Application Instructions

Please submit your CV and, if you would like to, a cover letter outlining what your workshop may involve. Following this, we will be in touch to inform you of any next steps.

Dear Prospective Trustee

Thank you for your interest in Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth (CAML). This pack sets out more information about the charity, the board, the role of a trustee, and how to apply.

We are excited about the future and are looking for energetic, talented and committed individuals to help support the charity as trustees to continue its incredible work for the people of Merton and Lambeth.

What we do

CAML is one of the busiest advice charities in London.  We support individuals and families who live, work or study primarily in the London Boroughs of Merton and Lambeth and also elsewhere (dependent on service).  We also work to raise awareness and understanding of the challenging issues affecting individuals and our communities.

We were one of the first Citizens Advice services to open our doors over 85 years ago. We have had an extremely busy few years, with individuals and families increasingly seeking our support with the cost of living crisis.  Our support and services are as important today as they were when our work began.

We are part of the national Citizens Advice network of over 240 local charities that deliver advice across the country.

In FY 23/24, we supported over 25,000 individuals.  Our information, support and advice services are provided via telephone, online, video conferencing and face-to-face.  We provide face-to-face support from two CAML offices and multiple outreach venues in local communities.  Our aim is to empower people to better help themselves, but we are always here with further support if needed. 

CAML in 2025

CAML is at an important point in its history. Demand for our services continues to accelerate as high levels of hardship become an established reality for many people living in our boroughs.  The two boroughs we serve contain pockets of wealth and affluence, but also feature areas of significant poverty and deprivation where our services are most depended upon.

At the same time, similar to many charities, we face funding challenges – not least given the majority of our funds come from our local authorities. Our current turnover is over £1.2m a year. Like others, CAML faces funding challenges often related to changes in central government policies and local government financial challenges, with a need to look at new ways of diversifying income streams.

The organisation has a strong foundation from which to deliver in this difficult environment – particularly with a team that is committed to our clients and expert in giving quality advice. We also have positive working relationships with our funders, councils and partners, and a strong local reputation.

Our leadership

The operational leadership and management of CAML is carried out by our CEO, Simon Shimmens, with three senior managers and a team of around 40 staff and 20 volunteers. Short biographies of our existing trustees are available on our website.

The role of the Board

Each trustee has a responsibility to contribute to discharging the Board’s responsibilities. We do this by:

● Regularly preparing for, attending and participating in meetings

● Understanding the business of CAML

● Contributing to setting policy and strategic direction, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance

● Monitoring our services, ensuring compliance with our governing documents and policies and monitoring maintenance of Citizens Advice standards

● Monitoring the charity’s financial position and ensuring it operates within its means and delivers on its objectives with clear lines of accountability for day-to-day financial management

● Supporting the charity’s development through participation in agreed projects

● Actively seeking to further CAML’s strategic objectives and acting in its best interest at all times

Above all we are looking for people with strategic vision and independent judgement who together can support the charity and its executive team. As trustees we are visible to our staff and volunteers, engaging and recognising the excellent work they do. Each trustee is expected to spend time with service delivery staff and volunteers, ideally at least once a year. 

You will be a genuine team player, able to support colleagues, input constructively and positively to discussions and to support and uphold collective decisions. 

As a trustee you will support the charity’s values and objectives and will act as a positive and genuine advocate promoting the work of the charity within your personal networks and to the wider world. 

The commitment we need

Each trustee attends quarterly Board meetings and is a member of one of the delegated authority sub-committees – Finance and People – which also meet once a quarter.

While the precise nature will differ month-to-month, this is likely to average at eight to ten hours a month. This allows for board and committee meetings, reading papers in advance of these, ad-hoc actions and discussions, and visiting CAML’s services.

Board meetings are currently held in person in our Mitcham Office, with sub-committee meetings held remotely. Across the Board, we attend key events such as Volunteers’ Week and charity events/activities.

Particular skills/experiences we’re seeking

We are looking to recruit two new trustees to join our strong and dynamic Board.

We would particularly welcome applications from those with skills and experiences to help complement the current Board. Our priority recruitment areas are:

●HR: We are committed to ensuring the highest standards of governance in policies and practice related to employee relations, recruitment, retention, reward and recognition as well as staff and trustee training and development. We are seeking a trustee with senior HR experience to support the strategic oversight of our People approach.

●Accountancy: Financial oversight is an integral part of a well-functioning trustee Board. We are looking to further bolster this expertise within the Board to provide support for our Treasurer if required.

●Pensions: CAML has a legacy Defined Benefit pension scheme (closed to new entrants) and a Defined Contribution scheme. We are looking for an individual with actuarial or pension trustee skills to advise the Board with regard to our pension schemes, and whether we should be looking to make any changes.

●Legal: We are looking to further expand our legal expertise on the Board. We particularly welcome interest from individuals with experience in charity law however all applicants with legal experience are welcomed.

In addition to these skills, we would welcome applications from candidates with previous trustee experience and/or applicants who may be open to taking on the role of Vice-Chair (further information can be provided on this if requested).

The benefits of being a trustee with CAML

Although the role of a trustee is unpaid (reasonable out of pocket expenses are reimbursed), there are many reasons to join us, including:

● Being a trustee is one of the most powerful ways in which you can contribute to your local community and to a cause you care about.

● Corporations of all sizes take voluntary and community enriching activities seriously with trusteeship considered an effective method of professional development and community engagement.

● Being a trustee is a fantastic way of developing your strategic experience and oversight, giving you the opportunity to develop your critical thinking, problem solving and analytical skills.

● Being a trustee can open up your professional network.

How to apply

Follow the link to our website and complete the relevant documents at the bottom of the advert.

We are recruiting on a rolling basis and are considering applications as and when we receive them. This recruitment remains live until 30th June 2025.

All applications are considered by a trustee panel, with shortlisted candidates then invited to an interview, to take place within a month of receiving their application. 

We are registered with the Information Commissioner's Office and will process your personal data in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation and Data Protection Act 2018. Please refer to our online Privacy Policy for more information on how your personal data will be processed and stored.

The Chair of the Middlesex FA should bring genuine enthusiasm for grassroots football and a willingness to drive forward our four-year strategy, with ambitious targets to continue to raise standards across the game, improve local facilities and drive growth in participation, helping to ensure everyone has access to a safe, fun and inclusive place to play. The ideal candidate will be an experienced Chair, proficient in good governance and able to bring together and bring the best out of a committed Board.  An accomplished relationship builder, they will support the County to deliver the best possible service to the game at the local level, working in partnership with a diverse array of stakeholders across the community. They will have the energy and ability to support and guide the Executive in shaping a modern and effective organisation that is fit for purpose through this strategic cycle and beyond, ensuring a positive long-term future for the game.

It is expected that the Chair will:

• Be an experienced non-executive with Chair experience.
• Be an accomplished and inclusive leader, able to bring the best out of board colleagues Have a good grasp of good governance
• Be an effective decision maker, able to achieve consensus around outcomes
• Have the energy and desire to act as an ambassador on behalf of Middlesex FA Act as wise counsel and critical friend to the Chief Executive

What will you do?

• Ensure the Board provides effective governance of the organisation and supports the development and execution of the new strategy within the scope of its Terms of Reference.
• Support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board’s work supports the objectives of Middlesex FA.
• Help the Board’s development and ensure a diverse and complementary skillset across its membership.
• Contribute to the promotion and positioning of the organisation with a wide range of external stakeholders.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

• Ensure the Board sets Middlesex FA’s vision, mission, values, and standards and that its obligations to its stakeholders and others, including any funders, are understood and met.
• Promote good governance and ensure that Middlesex FA remains compliant with the highest tier of sports governance, as set by Sport England and UK Sport through the Code for Sport Governance and the FA through the Code of Governance for County FAs.
• Contribute to the effective governance of Middlesex FA through membership of committees or sub-groups. Ensure that the business of the Board is conducted efficiently and foster an inclusive environment where all Board members are given the opportunity to express their views.
• Lead the Board in the approval of the long-term financial plan and annual budget. Monitor the delivery of the strategic plan and objectives of the Association.
• Lead the annual review process of Board members, and take an active role in Board renewal, recruitment, and succession planning.
• Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring that Directors receive accurate, timely and clear information and that adequate time is available for discussion and time is used productively.
• Oversee the production of Board paperwork including the development of the agenda and papers with the Chief Executive Officer.
• Ensure that the Board receives professional advice when it is needed from external sources. Is a visible and known presence to members of the Middlesex FA Council and can champion change initiatives with them.
• Conduct an annual appraisal of the Chief Executive Officer and their remuneration, and should the occasion arise ensure a new Chief Executive is recruited in line with Middlesex FA’s employment policies.
• Act as an ambassador for the Middlesex FA and help build its brand and public image. Appoint Chairs to the various committees in consultation with members of the Board.
• Represents Middlesex FA with key stakeholders, such as the Football Association, other Football Associations and other influential decision-makers. Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Board.

PERSON SPECIFICATION - Essential (Required to fulfil the role)

• Excellent meeting chairing skills including the ability to generate a productive group discussion ensuring that all voices and points of view are heard and given due consideration.
• Strategic leadership and management skills.
• The ability to facilitate a positive Board culture, and in particular the relationship between the Board and the executive workforce.
• Decision-making skills.
• The appropriate use of knowledge and experience to make informed decisions to the benefit of the organisation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including rapport-building, active-listening and incisive questioning.
• Recruitment and selection skills.
• The ability to form productive relationships both internally and externally and strategic partnerships for the benefit of the Association.
• Knowledge and understanding of the responsibilities of a Board Director.
• Knowledge and understanding of the Companies Act (2006).
• Thorough knowledge and understanding of the Safeguarding Requirements for the Association.
• Thorough knowledge of the Articles of Association and their application.
• Up to date and thorough knowledge of Grassroots Football and the role of the Association in its governance. Knowledge of the County FA Governance Code.
• Understanding of how to apply Principles of inclusive practice. Knowledge and understanding of financial accounts, management accounts and budgeting.
• An understanding of The FA National Game Strategy and how this affects the work of the County Football Associations.
• A sound understanding of the volunteer/ professional relationship and how this can best work to support the work of the Association.
• An understanding of and commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Effective use of digital communication including email and the internet.