Finance support volunteer roles

As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, the National Youth Jazz Orchestra (NYJO) is seeking passionate new trustees to join our board and help shape the next chapter of our story. With a new CEO, bold artistic ambitions and a growing national footprint, this is an exciting moment to join an evolving organisation committed to nurturing young talent, expanding opportunities and strengthening our impact across the UK.

About NYJO:

Founded in 1965, NYJO has grown from a single jazz orchestra to a vibrant, varied organisation delivering engaging participation projects and impactful live performances for everyone. We exist to empower young jazz musicians and inspire audiences across the UK through our work.

We are committed to supporting and developing musicians of all styles and standards: whether you want to become the next emerging artist or simply play for fun -- we're here for it.

NYJO is dedicated to making jazz and creative music-making more accessible to early-career musicians, young people, and audiences across the country. Throughout our activity, we seek to create a meeting ground between the established and the experimental -- the past, present, and future -- to build bespoke programmes which cater to lifelong and new jazz fans.

Our work spans three core areas:

Emerging Professionals - We curate exciting performance projects for audiences and emerging professional musicians aged 18-25, underpinned by a programme of Professional Development.

NYJO Learning - We create accessible learning programmes for all, providing young people with impactful tools for personal growth through creative music-making.

Community Outreach - We are passionate about responding to and representing our communities, both locally and nationally, in physical and digital spaces.

We work in close collaboration with likeminded partners to deliver projects that respond to local community needs and create an inclusive learning environment which centres the voices of young people.

In 2021 we became a Resident Artistic Company at Woolwich Works, a creative arts centre in the Royal Borough of Greenwich. We are a registered charity with a turnover of c.£750,000 annually and are proud to be an Arts Council England (ACE) National Portfolio Organisation, working towards delivering ACE's 'Let's Create' strategy to make the arts sector more inclusive and reflective of modern Britain.

Our Board

NYJO's current Board consists of seven Trustees with expertise spanning digital communications, governance, HR, jazz industry knowledge, music education, finance, and fundraising. We are pleased to have diversified our board significantly in recent years, knowing that diverse boards make better decisions. Ensuring that our board is representative of the communities in which we work and the young people that we serve remains a priority.

Board Responsibilities

NYJO Trustees are expected to play a full role as a board director and trustee in accordance with charity and company regulations, and governance best practice. Responsibilities include:

• Providing strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets, and evaluating performance against agreed targets
• Maintaining a collaborative and supportive relationship with senior staff and fellow trustees
• Proactively advocating for our work, championing the transformative power of jazz education and the many benefits that young people derive from creative music-making
• Safeguarding the financial stability, reputation and values of the charity
• Protecting the interest of donors and current and future beneficiaries, acting as guardians of NYJO's assets and taking due care over their security, deployment and proper application
• Ensuring that NYJO complies with its Articles and Objects, charity and company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

What We're Looking For

We are keen to recruit Trustees who:

• Are committed to NYJO's mission and will advocate for our work
• Bring strategic judgement, vision and creative thinking to the charity
• Can provide sound, independent reasoning and constructive challenge to our management team
• Are numerate, with the ability to understand budgets and charity finance
• Are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to be a Trustee, and to undertake relevant training and appraisal
• Demonstrate an understanding of good governance of charities
• Demonstrate the intellectual capacity to grasp issues outside personal experience and communicate opinions effectively

We are keen for our trustees to represent a broad mix of skills, experience and backgrounds, helping us to broaden our thinking and provide constructive challenge. At this time, our priority is to appoint an individual with professional experience as a UK based jazz musician, as this perspective will complement our current board's existing expertise and help ensure our leadership reflects the communities and artists we support.

We are committed to broadening the diversity of perspectives on our Board. We particularly encourage applications from women, younger people, and individuals from groups that are currently underrepresented at board level. All appointments will be made on merit.

You do not need to have prior trustee experience. Where needed, we will provide guidance and support to help first-time trustees thrive in the role.

In addition to professional jazz music experience, we would also be interested in candidates with demonstrable experience in music law or marketing, particularly digital marketing and social media. There is no expectation that applicants must meet more than one of these areas of expertise.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to providing an environment where every trustee is able to contribute confidently. We will offer appropriate onboarding and ongoing support to ensure all trustees can engage fully with their responsibilities.

Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend all board meetings (four per year) and an annual strategic planning session. Additionally, you may be invited to join working groups according to your areas of expertise and interest and will always be welcome to attend our performances and education events.

We will always be respectful of your time and provide maximum possible notice of any meetings and events.

Carers UK is the national membership charity for the millions of people in the UK who are unpaid carers. As an organisation we provide expert advice and information for carers, campaign for greater recognition and support for carers, and use our experience and expertise to help other organisations do more for carers. Our Board of Trustees plays a vital leadership role in the work we do while ensuring the charity is equipped and governed effectively, establishing and monitoring strategy and ensuring we are true to our values and keep carers at the heart of everything we do.

We are now seeking to appoint up to four people to join our Board of Trustees, to steer us towards our vision of a world where carers are recognised, valued and supported.

It’s an exciting time to be part of Carers UK, as we launch our new strategic review in 2026. Our Board is instrumental in ensuring we make the future really impactful for carers through our vision and strategy while fulfilling all our obligations as a charity.

We are also seeking to appoint a Nations Trustee for Scotland. In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, the Nations Trustee will be expected to ensure that the Carers UK Board is informed on key issues affecting carers in their Nation. 

To find out more about this opportunity and apply, please download the Trustee recruitment pack from our website

Carers UK is committed to representing the diverse society in which we work and actively encourages applications from people with current or recent experience of caring from all backgrounds and experiences.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

Sunderland Culture is entering a bold new chapter, and we are seeking to appoint two Independent Trustees who can bring expertise, constructive challenge, and important oversight to Board discussions and decisions. This is a rewarding opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, wider Board team and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.

The Role of the Board

 The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;

• Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
• Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
• Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence.
• Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
• Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
• Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures. The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
• Ambition & Quality
• Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
• Inclusivity and Relevance
• Environmental Sustainability

Independent Trustees- Role Description

We are seeking to appoint two independent trustees who will bring expertise, insight, and constructive challenge to Board discussions.

Key Responsibilities:

Ensure compliance with legal and statutory responsibilities.

Contribute to strategic discussions and decisions. Provide oversight of financial, operational, and reputational risk.

Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of governance.

Act as an ambassador for the organisation, including attendance at key events and stakeholder activities.

Serve on sub-committees or working groups as required.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

An ability to think strategically and independently.

Commitment to good governance and accountability.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

A collaborative and supportive approach.

Passion for the mission of Sunderland Culture.

Relevant lived experience and networks that reflect the make-up of the city.

Desirable Criteria

Relevant experience of organisational governance.

We are particularly seeking expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance and audit
• Fundraising and income generation
• Community cohesion

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.

Treasurer (Trustee) – Share Your Heart of Gold with SUNSHINE

Loneliness is one of the fastest-growing epidemics of our time. Across London, thousands of people feel isolated, disconnected, and unseen. At SUNSHINE, we believe no one should feel alone. Our mission is to bring sunshine into people’s lives through grassroots, community-led programmes that spark joy, foster friendships, and transform lives.

We are now seeking a Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees and lead on the set-up, development, and management of all financial aspects at SUNSHINE. This is a pivotal role ensuring our charity is financially sustainable, well-governed, and equipped to grow its impact across London.

Why This Role Matters

Strong financial management is the backbone of any successful charity. As Treasurer, you will safeguard SUNSHINE’s resources, ensure transparency and accountability, and help us build a resilient organisation that can deliver joy and connection for years to come. Your leadership will give confidence to funders, partners, and volunteers that SUNSHINE is a charity they can trust.

What You’ll Do

• Lead financial management: Establish and oversee systems, controls, and reporting for SUNSHINE’s finances.

• Guide the Board: Provide financial insight and advice to fellow Trustees, supporting strategic decision-making.

• Ensure compliance: Oversee budgets, accounts, and statutory obligations, ensuring SUNSHINE meets charity governance standards.

• Support sustainability: Help identify funding opportunities and ensure resources are used effectively.

• Champion transparency: Build confidence among stakeholders by ensuring clear, accurate financial reporting.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome applications from people with a Heart of Gold who believe in community, joy, and togetherness. Ideally, you will bring:

• Experience in financial management, accounting, or charity finance.

• Knowledge of charity governance and compliance (desirable but not essential).

• Organisational skills to set up and manage financial systems and processes.

• Leadership qualities to serve as a Trustee and guide SUNSHINE’s strategic direction.

• A commitment to impact and a passion for tackling loneliness.

Join Us

At SUNSHINE, the Treasurer is more than a financial manager — they are the guardian of sustainability, the steward of trust, and the architect of growth. Together, we can turn the tide on loneliness and create a London where everyone feels part of something bigger, brighter, and more joyful.

Step forward. Shine bright. Share your Heart of Gold. Because when you lead our finances, you’re not just balancing books — you’re helping bring sunshine into countless lives.

SUNSHINE

Loneliness Charity in London

PDA Society are excited to share that we are looking for 2 new Trustees to join our board.

Trustees play a key role in providing strategic direction, oversight, and support to ensure that the PDA Society continues to grow sustainably and deliver real impact for the community we serve.

Following the retirement of two Trustees we’re keen to broaden the range of skills and experiences represented. Our work is guided by people with lived experience, and our Board of Trustees plays a central role in shaping our strategy and ensuring that our values are embedded across everything we do.

Appointments are made on merit, and we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive Board that truly reflects the communities we serve. 

We particularly welcome applications from anyone who has experienced marginalisation due to their race or religion, as these voices are currently underrepresented on our Board.

This is a voluntary position, and Trustees are not remunerated, although reasonable expenses are reimbursed. Trustees are appointed for an initial 3-year term.

Who are Governors for Schools?

Governors for Schools operates across England and Wales to improve educational standards and ensure all children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors, we drive positive systematic change that benefits each and every student, regardless of their background.

Governors for Schools recruits and matches volunteers with school governing boards and provides ongoing support.

What’s involved?

There are governor vacancies across England and Wales. Some schools are also looking for remote governors who don't need to live near the school they support.

Governors volunteer at board level to set the strategic vision for their school. This involves constructively challenging current processes, using your unique skills to support senior leaders, and overseeing school finances. You’ll be involved in areas such as monitoring, budget management, and data analysis. As well as putting your expertise to good use, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your professional skills. Ultimately, you’ll work towards facilitating the delivery of a broad and exciting curriculum and oversee wellbeing and inclusion initiatives. Governance represents a fantastic opportunity to develop yourself while making a real impact on the education of children and young people.

Governors work collaboratively with the headteacher and other members of the board, including parents and school staff. In most schools, full board meetings are held termly, as are committee meetings. Many governors will sit on a committee linked to their expertise or interests, such as teaching and learning or finance and resources. In addition to attending meetings, governors will need to read the papers in advance, complete training courses, and occasionally visit their school.

Governors usually support schools for a period of four years and with an estimated time commitment of 7 hours per month. During these hours, you will attend meetings, read papers, attend training sessions, and make occasional visits to school.

Who can be a governor?

The most important part of being a governor is the ability to ask questions, provide support and have the best interests of the school at heart. You don't have to be a parent or have experience in education to become a governor. Schools seek a  wide range of skills to support the board, including finance, HR, and data analysis.

Boards also need governors with a diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences to ensure a range of perspectives are considered during board meetings.

Schools welcome professional experience, as well as community insight and experience of working collaboratively.

You need to be aged 18 or above and there are certain criminal convictions that would exclude you from the role. A Disclosure and Barring Service check will be carried out by the school.

What’s the process?

You can find out more about the school governor role by attending one of our recruitment webinars.

You can complete your online profile on the website, including your motivation to take on the role, your skills and your school preferences. Your regional Partnership Manager will then look at vacancies that match your requirements. Once a school is identified, you will have the opportunity to discuss the role with them in more detail, visit the school, and observe a meeting. If appointed, a DBS check will take place and, in some cases, the school will seek references.

Ongoing support

Governors for Schools isn’t just a matching service. We want to help you thrive in your role through bespoke and ongoing support. We provide eLearning and monthly webinars covering a variety of topics to increase your knowledge of the education sector and governance. You’ll also have access to The Key for School Governors, an information hub designed to show new governors the ropes and offer a useful point of reference for existing governors.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Burnley and the surrounding area are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up

We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the charity as we enter a bold new chapter for Sunderland Culture. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, Board of Trustees, and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.

The Role of The Board

The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;

• Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities. • Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”

• Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence. • Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.

• Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.

• Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures.

The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:

• Ambition & Quality

• Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)

• Inclusivity and Relevance

• Environmental Sustainability

The Role of The Chair

The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties effectively.

Time Commitment

• Approximately 2 days per month on average (variable through the year).

• 4–6 Board meetings annually, plus sub‑committee commitments and occasional extraordinary sessions.

• Attendance at key organisational moments (performances, openings, stakeholder meetings).

• Term: Three years, renewable by mutual agreement.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Surrey are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Schools across Wokingham are looking for skilled volunteers to support education by becoming school governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

• Ensuring accountability
• Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team
• Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress
• Budgetary allocation and control
• Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation
• Setting the school’s aims and values
• Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

The governing body is usually split in to a small number of committees, each responsible for one area such as finance or pupil achievement. These committees will meet separately from the main governing body to discuss relevant issues in more detail. Discussion is then fed back at a full governing body meeting.

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, the local authority and the local community.

What are we looking for?

You don’t need any specific skills or experience to be a school governor. You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have experience working in education. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs.

Professional experience in areas such as HR, finance, law, or project management are all useful to a school. But soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend. 

As a governor, you can visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a school governor is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

• help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community
• work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network
• gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up.

Make a real difference for young people in Greater Manchester!
Join the board of Change The Youth NW, a youth-focused charity empowering 5–18-year-olds through mentoring, life skills programs, and exciting activities. Shape the future of our charity, help young people thrive, and gain valuable governance experience.

About Us

Change The Youth NW is a non-profit providing meaningful opportunities, activities, and support for young people aged 5–18. We remove barriers like cost, travel, and accessibility, helping young people develop skills, confidence, and leadership to succeed in education, employment, and life.

Our projects include:​

• Youth development projects

• Sports & physical activities

• Residentials and day trips (e.g., Blackpool, Lake District, planned international trips)

• 1–2–1 mentoring and support

• Seasonal events and workshops

Our culture: Relaxed, supportive, flexible, with opportunities to shape new programs, attend social events, and gain hands-on experience in charity work.

Role Overview

We are seeking enthusiastic trustees to guide our charity’s strategy and governance. This is a chance to make a real impact, gain trustee experience, and contribute to a growing, energetic organisation.

Core Responsibilities

• Ensure the charity delivers its mission and operates legally and effectively

• Set long-term strategy and monitor progress

• Oversee finances, policies, and safeguarding

• Promote the charity’s values and reputation

• Offer advice, specialist knowledge, and support for new initiatives

Person Specification

Essential:

• Commitment to our mission and values

• Willingness to devote time and effort

• Confidence to share ideas and work collaboratively

• Understanding (or willingness to learn) trusteeship responsibilities

• Respect for safeguarding, confidentiality, and professionalism

• Commitment to the Nolan Principles of public life (selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, leadership)

Desirable:

• Experience with young people

• Skills in finance, safeguarding, youth work, administration, project planning, marketing, fundraising, or community engagement

Time Commitment

• Quarterly meetings (online or in person)

• Occasional involvement in policies, decisions, or events

• Optional involvement in programs or fundraising

Benefits

• Make a lasting impact on young people’s lives

• Gain trustee and governance experience

• Flexible hours and online participation

• Learn about charity management, safeguarding, and youth work

• Shape innovative programs and initiatives

How to Apply

Submit a short CV and covering statement explaining your interest and relevant skills or experience.