Finance support volunteer roles

Context 

The Royal Medical Benevolent Fund is the leading UK charity for doctors, medical students and their families.  We provide support and advice to members of the medical profession and their dependents at times of crisis and serious need. We have made significant progress over the last few years growing our reach and increasing our impact.  As the medical profession continues to change, we want to build on our successes, and continue to meet new and emerging needs.

We are very fortunate to have a high profile and dedicated trustee board which includes senior representatives from across the medical profession. We are looking for up to two additional trustees to join our board and help provide strategic direction to the charity. 

We would like to ensure the continued diversity of our Board, and ideally applicants should have direct knowledge of the challenges currently facing the NHS.  In particular, applicants from primary care would be welcomed, as well as those connected to medical schools.  We encourage applicants from across the UK. 

Minimum time commitment

Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at RMBF offices in Wimbledon prior to their first Board meeting, and a Grants and Awards Committee meeting.  The post includes:

· attendance at four trustee meetings alternating between a Central London location, and Zoom

· the provision of additional support (usually by phone or email) around specific areas of expertise

· invitation to the annual general meeting (AGM) of RMBF, which takes place during the day in September

· strategy day held approximately every 2/3 years

· attending ongoing governance and trustee training sessions as required, and to keep skills current.

 Person specification 

Our trustees must have:

· a commitment to the objects and goals of RMBF

· a willingness to meet the minimum time commitment

· integrity

· strategic vision

· a willingness to actively contribute at meetings

· an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· an ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the benefit of RMBF

Duties of our trustees

The duties of an RMBF trustee board trustee are to:

Ensure the RMBF pursues its charitable objectives in ways which are relevant and appropriate for doctors, their families and medical students

Contribute actively to the Board by providing strategic leadership to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, and evaluating performance

Safeguard the RMBF’s reputation, in particular by ensuring it operates legally and ethically, within its constitution; by ensuring the success of its charitable work; and by ensuring that it remains financially viable.

RMBF Governance

For information, other committees supporting the RMBF are:

• The Grants and Awards Committee which meets on the first or second Wednesday of alternating months 
• the Finance Committee which meets in December, March and June immediately preceding the Board 
• the Compliance Committee which meets in June
• the Staffing Committees which meets in March

To apply, please send your CV with a covering statement to Mrs Michelle Zal by close of play on Friday 11th July.  Interview dates TBC, but taking place shortly after the closing date, remotely for first round, and in-person at RMBF offices in Wimbledon for second round. 

If you require more information ahead of applying, please contact Mrs Michelle Zal, Admin Manager/Committee Secretary in the first instance.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups and teams, all of which help our cats in different ways. Our treasurer volunteers maintain the finances of local groups and teams, ensuring they hold the funds needed to continue their vital work. Cats Protection relies solely on donations from generous members of the public, and our treasurer volunteers help make sure these funds are spent in the most effective way. 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

•  Preparing budgets
• Keeping accurate financial records
• Reporting financial records via ‘Cashlog’ (Cats Protection supplied software)
• Paying invoices and volunteer expenses
• Being part of a team which ensures there are sufficient funds to meet expenditure
• Updating and advising others on income received, expenditure and available funds
• Managing and monitoring donations made to the group
• Following financial procedures e.g. Gift Aid returns and VAT claims

Time expectation

Our current volunteer treasurers usually spend between 2 to 4 hours per week in this role. More hours may be required at certain times, such as towards the end of the financial year but support is always available. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Our vision for volunteering

Volunteering is and always will be at the heart of Cats Protection. It is joyful and inclusive. As a charity, working in partnership, together we transform the lives of cats, people and communities.

The difference you will make to cats and people

At Cats Protection we help thousands of cats each year thanks to our dedicated and passionate volunteer groups and teams, all of which help our cats in different ways. Our treasurer volunteers maintain the finances of local groups and teams, ensuring they hold the funds needed to continue their vital work. Cats Protection relies solely on donations from generous members of the public, and our treasurer volunteers help make sure these funds are spent in the most effective way. 

You can expect us to

• Make you feel welcome, included and respected in line with our values and behaviours
• Support you in having a positive and impactful experience at Cats Protection
• Cover agreed out-of-pocket expenses in line with our Expenses Policy
• Provide you with access to learning, development and engagement opportunities

What we need from you

You’ll be:

•  Preparing budgets
• Keeping accurate financial records
• Reporting financial records via ‘Cashlog’ (Cats Protection supplied software)
• Paying invoices and volunteer expenses
• Being part of a team which ensures there are sufficient funds to meet expenditure
• Updating and advising others on income received, expenditure and available funds
• Managing and monitoring donations made to the group
• Following financial procedures e.g. Gift Aid returns and VAT claims

Time expectation

Our current volunteer treasurers usually spend between 2 to 4 hours per week in this role. More hours may be required at certain times, such as towards the end of the financial year but support is always available. 

You may be just the volunteer we’ve been looking for!

We are committed to building a diverse, compassionate and inclusive organisation where everyone can be themselves and do their best. We are courageous and compassionate in our purpose of helping people see the world through cats’ eyes. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we are all for cats. Join the UK’s leading cat welfare charity and help make a better life for cats, because life is better with cats.

Join Us as Co-Chair at Mind in Enfield and Barnet

Be a driving force for mental health transformation in North London

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for mental health and social impact? Do you want to help shape the future of a dynamic, values-led charity making a real difference in people’s lives?

Mind in Enfield and Barnet (MiEB) is seeking a visionary Co-Chair to join our Board of Trustees and help guide our next chapter of growth and innovation.

About Us

MiEB is a leading local mental health charity, proudly affiliated with the national Mind federation but operating independently. Since our merger in 2021, we’ve grown significantly – supporting over 5,000 people annually through therapy, wellbeing, advocacy, and crisis services. We are Led by Lived Experience, with over 75% of our staff having personal experience of mental health challenges.

The Role

As Co-Chair, you will:

• Provide strategic leadership and governance alongside your fellow Co-Chair
• Champion our mission, values, and new 2025-2028 strategy
• Facilitate inclusive, effective board meetings and decision-making
• Support and appraise the CEO
• Represent MiEB externally and help build partnerships
• Ensure we remain accountable, equitable, and impactful

You’ll work closely with a refreshed, skilled board and a passionate executive team to ensure MiEB continues to deliver services that change lives and lead systems change across Enfield and Barnet.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from individuals with:

• Senior-level leadership and governance experience
• Excellent communication, diplomacy, and strategic thinking
• A commitment to equity, inclusion, and lived experience
• A connection to Enfield, Barnet, or the wider North London community

Previous chairing experience is not essential – we’ll support you with induction, training, and mentoring.

We especially encourage applications from underrepresented or minoritised groups, in line with our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Key Details

• Closing Date: Monday 30th June 2025, 5:00 p.m.
• To apply, please send a CV/Profile and a supporting statement answering the questions below (in text or video format) by 5pm on Monday 30th June 2025.

1. Which of your professional skills and/or experience do you feel are most relevant to leading the Mind in Enfield and Barnet board of trustees and why.
2. Can you describe a time when you have chaired a challenging board level meeting or group discussion? What approach did you take? How effective was it?

Join the Charity Tax Group as a Trustee

Be the voice of charities on tax. Shape the future. Make a difference.

Are you passionate about the charity sector and ready to use your expertise to drive real impact? The Charity Tax Group (CTG) is seeking a dynamic and committed individual to join its Board of Trustees at a pivotal time in their journey.

For over 40 years, CTG has been the authoritative voice of charities on tax, saving the sector over £10 billion. Now, as a newly registered charity with ambitious plans including launching a new website and recruiting Its first CEO. They are now looking for trustees who can help them grow and thrive.

We’re looking for:

• A Fundraising Expert to help CTG unlock new income streams through trusts, foundations, and member fundraising. Your strategic insight will shape our future sustainability.

What You’ll Bring:

• At least 5 years’ experience in your area of expertise
• Strategic thinking and a hands-on approach
• A collaborative spirit and commitment to CTG’s mission
• A desire to contribute to a small but mighty team making a big difference

What You’ll Get:

• A warm welcome and full induction
• A trustee buddy to support you through your first year
• Opportunities to shape national charity tax policy
• Flexible, remote meetings (with occasional in-person events)
• Reimbursed travel expenses
• A chance to be part of something meaningful

Time Commitment:

• Around 1 day per month
• Board meetings every 6 weeks (virtual)
• It is expected of Trustees to join at least one committee (e.g., Fundraising, Finance & Risk)

We Welcome All Backgrounds

CTG are committed to building a diverse board and encourage applications from all communities and experiences. If your charity isn’t yet a CTG member, joining is simple and affordable

How to Apply:

In the first instance, please send your CV/Profile to receive the candidate pack with further details and full application instructions.

Deadline: for applications: Monday 11th August at 5pm

Nistad Foundation | Remote | Voluntary | Part-Time

Are you passionate about ethical technology and shaping the future of AI? The Nistad Foundation is looking for a dedicated Non-Executive Director to help guide our mission of promoting Responsible, Ethical, and Safe AI across the globe.

About Us

We’re a forward-thinking charity working across the US, UK, and Africa, empowering communities through digital skills, ethical AI advocacy, and inclusive tech leadership. We focus on supporting youth and women, closing the digital divide, and influencing policy for a safer AI future.

What You’ll Do

As a Trustee, you’ll:

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure good governance practices are upheld, aligning with the foundation’s charitable mission and ethical standards.
• Confirm compliance with the Nistad Foundation's governing document, charity law, company law, and other relevant legislation.
• Monitor and manage risks, ensuring timely remedial action when needed.

Board Participation and Oversight

• Prepare for and actively participate in board meetings, contributing to discussions, working groups, and the development of board papers.
• Contribute to setting the foundation’s strategic direction and evaluating performance against charitable objectives.
• Provide ongoing monitoring and support for the Executive Director’s performance.

Financial and Resource Management

• Maintain oversight of the foundation’s budget and financial health, ensuring sustainability and stability.
• Ensure the effective and responsible use of the foundation’s assets, financial resources, and material and human resources.

Advisory and Strategic Support

• Offer guidance in areas of specific expertise, advising the Executive Director and staff on relevant policies and procedures.
• Lead and contribute to developing policies and procedures that reflect good practice, ensuring their implementation.

Advocacy and Fundraising

• Act as an ambassador for the foundation, advocating for its work and ethical values.
• Assist in diversifying and developing sustainable funding streams by promoting the
• foundation among personal and professional contacts.
• Support fundraising efforts by identifying opportunities, fostering relationships, and
• providing strategic insight.

Strategic Development and Performance

• Collaborate with the board to identify and monitor strategic risks, ensuring the foundation’s mission and reputation remain safeguarded.
• Contribute to the ongoing evaluation and refinement of the foundation’s strategic direction, ensuring alignment with charitable objectives.

What We’re Looking For

We’d love to hear from you if you have:

• Experience in charity governance, especially in tech, policy, or social impact
• A strong interest in ethical AI and digital inclusion
• Skills in finance, fundraising, partnerships, or policy
• A network you’re happy to leverage for a good cause

Why Join Us?

This is your chance to make a global impact in one of the most important conversations of our time. You’ll help shape the future of AI while supporting underrepresented communities to thrive in the digital age.

Ready to make a difference?

 Apply now and be part of a movement for ethical and inclusive technology.

The job entails working closely with project/programme managers in ensuring the smooth running of the organisation's internal operations, external networking, HR, events, communications & fundraising. Successful candidates will be able to gain proven experience in each of the highlighted areas. 

The successful candidate must be a quick learner, trustworthy, intelligent and pro-active self-starter, highly organised and able to multitask effectively.

Key responsibilities include:
Provide receptionist and general admin support to the team, including basic bookkeeping
Provide seamless support to project leads, contractors and freelancers
Help with events and conferences.
Help with writing of funding proposals, publicity & marketing 
Update social media, website, marketing and promotion content

The Ideal Candidate will:
Be Intelligent & Trustworthy - have gained great academic results
Demonstrate excellent writing skills and speaking ability
Pay attention to details and exhibit high degree of precision with work assignments
Be Tech Savvy - Be competent/confident with CRM, CMS, social media and spreadsheets 
Have some interest in Art Galleries, Creativity, Research, International Devevelopment and/or business administration 

Benefits:

• Career Development Plan Support 
• Access to paid training and qualification enhancement
• Work references for future jobs application
• Reimbursement of out of pocket expenses

Objective: 

The Chair provides inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees in its accountability for Eikon’s vision, mission, charitable purposes and upholding its values whilst supporting Trustees individually and collectively in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of the Charity.

The Chair provides line management to the CEO, offering support, advice and appraisal, and with the SLT, when appropriate, to deliver its Strategy and achieve its Annual Plan goals and objectives. He or she will act as a champion, ambassador and the public face of the Charity in partnership with the CEO. 

Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership: Oversee and ensure that duties are fulfilled, strategies are established and that the Board regularly reviews risks and opportunities.

Governance: Confirm the charity’s arrangements, Trustees and systems are effective and comply with the Charity Commission Governance Code.

External Relations: Represent Eikon as an ambassador and spokesperson with external stakeholders, when appropriate.

Efficiency and Effectiveness: Engage Trustees while chairing meetings and documenting decisions and actions arising.

Relationship with CEO and Senior Leadership Team: Establish a strong, open, collaborative, supportive relationship with key team members; agree objectives and goals for the CEO.

Person Specifications

Personal Qualities: Strong and visible passion, commitment and advocacy for Eikon and children and young people’s mental health.

Experience: Track record of operation and achievement at a senior strategic level including both internal and external presentations and representation.

Knowledge and Skills: Strong leadership and motivational skills combined with financial management experience; understanding of charity governance.

Location:               

The Eikon Charity is based in New Haw, Surrey, and operates throughout most of Surrey’s boroughs and beyond.

Remuneration

The role of Chair is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although expenses for travel may be claimed. 

Time Commitment

Chairing, in person, four evening Board meetings per year, a Board and Senior Leadership Team away day and the annual Audit & Finance Committee meeting.  There are regular in person or online meetings and calls with the Chief Executive Officer and liaison with individual Trustees and senior staff on particular issues.  Together with the CEO, represent the Charity at events and meetings with key stakeholders.Standard appointment term is three years.

As a Trustee at Yarm Wellness, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our charity. You'll work alongside our Board of Trustees, Volunteers, and staff to ensure that our services are effective, inclusive, and sustainable. Your insights and expertise will help guide our strategic decisions and ensure we remain true to our mission.​

About Yarm Wellness

Yarm Wellness is a vibrant, community-led charity dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of residents in Yarm and the surrounding areas. We offer a warm, welcoming space where individuals can engage in creative, educational, fitness, and wellness activities.

Our mission: We connect our community to improve wellbeing and alleviate isolation.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Oversight: Contribute to the development and implementation of the charity's strategic plans, ensuring alignment with our mission and values.
• Governance: Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including Charity Commission guidelines.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee financial management, including budgeting, fundraising, and ensuring the charity's financial health.
• Fundraising: Support fundraising efforts to secure the resources needed to sustain and grow our services.
• Community Engagement: Represent Yarm Wellness in the community, building relationships with local organisations and stakeholders.
• Policy Development: Contribute to the development of policies and procedures that promote best practices and safeguard the charity's reputation.​

What We’re Looking For

We welcome Trustees from all backgrounds and experiences. Ideal candidates will:​

• Have a passion for community wellbeing and a commitment to reducing isolation.
• Bring diverse skills and perspectives to the board.
• Possess experience in governance, finance, fundraising, or community development (desirable but not essential).
• Be proactive, collaborative, and eager to make a positive impact.​

Time Commitment

• Trustee Meetings: Quarterly (approximately 2 hours per meeting).
• Preparation: Reviewing materials and contributing to discussions outside of meetings. Submission of financial reports to the Trustee Meetings​.
• Year-End Responsibilities: Additional time will be required at the end of the financial year to support preparation of the next year’s budget, the annual accounts, the Trustees’ Report, and other necessary filings or reviews.
• Additional Involvement: Attendance at events, meetings or sessions as needed.

Why Join Us?

By becoming a Trustee at Yarm Wellness, you'll be part of a dynamic team working to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals in our community. You'll have the opportunity to develop new skills, expand your network, and contribute to a cause that truly matters. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected Yarm.​

Trustee Opportunity – can you enrich our existing board of trustee volunteers in a rewarding role?

James Hirons is a registered dynamic charity focusing on providing exceptional care to our residents and their families to 'Make everyday a day worth living".  We are currently rated “good” following assessment by the Care Quality Commission.

We are looking for at least two trustees; ideally one with a legal background and one with a marketing background.  Other interested parties with different skills and knowledge are most welcome. 

James Hirons is a small but well-funded independent care home based in a pleasant area of Leamington Spa. We have been providing quality care since 1953. The Trustee team provide essential support to the Management and staff of the Home and this opportunity offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience.

All applications must meet the requirements of trustees in line with the Charity Commission requirements, and a full and detailed induction and training will be provided.

Key responsibilities 

• To play a key role in the strategic vision and direction of our charity.
• To understand legal and financial responsibilities of board members.
• To act as an enthusiastic and positive ambassador for the Home, advocating on our behalf and representing us within the local community.
• To proactively support our commitment to equality.
• To attend board meetings (normally 6 per year, held on a weekday morning) and take part in sub-committees as appropriate.
• To support, and in some cases lead, relationships with key stakeholders and partners and build network on behalf on the charity.

Person specification

• Be an effective communicator and able to work constructively in a small team.
• Have a commitment to caring, quality of care and services. 
• A knowledge and/or an understanding of what it means to be a trustee (training will be given to those who have not been on a board of trustees before)
• Experience on, or working closely with, boards or committees, is useful but not essential.

If you would like to be considered; please send your CV to:-

The Chair of the Trustees, James Hirons, 53 Lillington Road, Leamington Spa, CV32 6LD

Closing Date end June 2025

Join the Charity Tax Group as a Monitoring and Evaluation Trustee

Be the voice of charities on tax. Shape the future. Make a difference.

Are you passionate about the charity sector and ready to use your expertise to drive real impact? The Charity Tax Group (CTG) is seeking a dynamic and committed individual to join its Board of Trustees at a pivotal time in their journey.

For over 40 years, CTG has been the authoritative voice of charities on tax, saving the sector over £10 billion. Now, as a newly registered charity with ambitious plans including launching a new website and recruiting Its first CEO. They are now looking for trustees who can help them grow and thrive.

We’re looking for:

• A Monitoring & Evaluation Specialist to guide CTG in building robust systems to measure and evidence its impact, ensuring they remain accountable and effective.

What You’ll Bring:

• At least 5 years’ experience in your area of expertise
• Strategic thinking and a hands-on approach
• A collaborative spirit and commitment to CTG’s mission
• A desire to contribute to a small but mighty team making a big difference

What You’ll Get:

• A warm welcome and full induction
• A trustee buddy to support you through your first year
• Opportunities to shape national charity tax policy
• Flexible, remote meetings (with occasional in-person events)
• Reimbursed travel expenses
• A chance to be part of something meaningful

Time Commitment:

• Around 1 day per month
• Board meetings every 6 weeks (virtual)
• It is expected of Trustees to join at least one committee (e.g., Fundraising, Finance & Risk)

We Welcome All Backgrounds

CTG are committed to building a diverse board and encourage applications from all communities and experiences. If your charity isn’t yet a CTG member, joining is simple and affordable

How to Apply:

In the first instance, please send your CV/Profile to receive the candidate pack with further details and full application instructions.

Deadline: for applications: Monday 11th August at 5pm

Naomi House & Jacksplace provide essential care and support to children and young people with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions across the south of England. For over 25 years, we’ve been there for families on the good days, difficult days, and last days— helping to make the most of every precious moment together.

As we embark on an exciting period of growth and investment—refurbishing our hospices, expanding our services, and strengthening our position as a regional centre of excellence—we are seeking a new Trustee with senior-level experience in digital and IT leadership.

It’s a chance to use your knowledge to give back, to play a meaningful part in the next chapter of our much-loved charity, and to help us deliver outstanding care by shaping our digital transformation. You’ll work alongside fellow Trustees and a passionate leadership team to support the continued improvement of our systems—covering areas such as data governance, CRM, patient records, finance, and information systems.

We are particularly keen to hear from candidates who:

• Have held a senior digital, data or technology leadership role in a large, complex organisation (commercial, public sector or charity)
• Can offer strategic insight into digital change or transformation
• Are excited by the opportunity to bring their experience to a heartfelt cause
• Are new or experienced in Trustee or NED roles—this could be your first

You don’t need to be a digital health expert or know the hospice world inside out—what matters most is your compassion, integrity, and willingness to support our work with care and professionalism. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back and make a lasting impact, we’d love to hear from you.

Why join us now?
We were recently rated Outstanding by the CQC and are investing significantly across our buildings, services, brand, and digital infrastructure ahead of our 30th anniversary in 2027. With a clear strategy, a committed team, and a powerful mission, this is a unique time to contribute.

Practical details:
Trustees attend 6 Board meetings per year (in person, in Sutton Scotney) and 4 Committee meetings remotely. Additional time may be required to contribute to working groups or strategic initiatives. The role is unremunerated but reasonable expenses will be paid.

How to Apply
If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit an initial application/expression of interest. Shortlisted candidates will be provided with a full Candidate Information Pack and invited to submit a cover letter outlining their interest in the role and a brief summary of how they meet the key criteria

Are you looking to volunteer your time and knowledge to support Age UK Oxfordshire who are seeking Trustees with specific skills to work closely as part of their Board.

Age UK Oxfordshire are an independent local charity supporting older people to maintain their independence and live life to the full, focusing most resource on reaching those older people who face a struggle, whether through low income, poor health or loneliness.  They are striving for a world where every older person and unpaid carer is seen, heard, included, and valued.

Trustees play a vital role as Board members, ensuring the organisation has solid plans in place to achieve their aims and that funding is being used positively to do this.  They are looking for enthusiastic individuals who will work in partnership with fellow Trustees, CEO and the Leadership team to ensure that Age UK Oxfordshire delivers on their vision, mission, and values.

Specific areas of focus for the board:

Given the needs of the charity and the skills of the current board members, they are looking for experience in HR, Governance, Adult Social Care and Lived experience is always welcomed.

They value and are actively seeking to increase diversity on their board in order to bring broader perspectives, achieve stronger community representation, inform sound decision-making, and help them serve more effectively and inclusively.

Could this be the ideal role for me?

To be considered for this role, you will require the following skills and competencies:

• Commitment to the organisation. 
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An understanding and knowledge of good governance.
• Able to work effectively as a member of a team.

What's in it for you

• Volunteering experience
• Interaction with leadership teams and board activity
• Working with different sets of people
• Annual strategic away day with Trustees and Leadership Team

Currently trustee meetings are held quarterly and alternate holding meetings virtually and in person in Abingdon. The meetings last about 2.5 hours. In addition, there are up to two away days a year and an AGM. Papers typically require about two hours reading per meeting.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law. 

These unremunerated roles are open to all.  To apply for these exceptional opportunities, please submit your CV and supporting statement via the Charisma website.

If you would like to have an initial discussion with Sandra Smith, Associate Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment, prior to submitting your application, please get in touch via the Charisma website.

Closing date for applications: 10th August 2025

Interview date: TBC 

Background

First Step is a Charity based in the London Borough of Havering, working with families of children with special needs and/or disabilities. For more than 35 years, we have supported in excess of 1,500 families and their children.

Families are referred or self-refer to us at a moment of crisis or uncertainty, normally pre-diagnosis, where they have concerns about their child.  We provide a range of family-centric services tailored to each family’s and child’s needs.

During our history we’ve had highs and lows, including overcoming a challenging time following the withdrawal of funding from the Local Authority in 2017 as part of their own austerity cuts.  Despite this, we’ve managed to sustain the charity through increased fundraising.

Our current Board has more than 80 years of experience, and over the next couple of years we’re looking to add some new and dynamic Trustees to strengthen the team and bring refreshed critical and creative thinking to our Charity.

The Chair of Trustees Role

Our Chair is looking to stand down after 10 fulfilling years, and we are looking for a new Chair to work with our Board and CEO to further strengthen our organisation long into the future.  

The new Chair should be ambitious for our Charity and have the vision and energy to help it extend its reach and impact, along with being an experienced leader who has empathy for our families, and lives our values.

They will need to have the ability to lead from the front in a collaborative style that builds consensus amongst the board, so we can meet the challenges ahead.

First Step are passionate about creating a diverse workforce and positively encourage applications from under-represented communities.