Finance trustees volunteer roles

The Finance Trustee will engage in all aspects of our governance, with a particular focus on financial strategy and governance.They will use their sound financial skills & experience to support the Board’s understanding & interpretation & to ensure legislative compliance.  

• To support the Board to oversee & to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.
• To ensure appropriate presentation of accounts and records, ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the charity’s policies, good governance, legal & regulatory requirements.
• Liaising, where applicable, with the Chair/ other appropriate members of staff and supporting on financial matters
• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial viability of the charity.
• Creating, in conjunction with relevant trustees and staff, sound financial processes and procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan.
• Reviewing the annual accounts and, where applicable, liaising with the charity’s external auditor to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP.
• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained and ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.

Finance Trustee - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives!

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Finance Trustee to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For: 

We are looking to recruit a Finance Trustee who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve.

As a Finance Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually.

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

We’re seeking a trustee with finance experience to join our board. This is an exciting opportunity to help lead Big LeafFoundation in the next phase of its development and to use your skills and experience to make a lasting difference to the lives of displaced young people in Surrey.

We are seeking an individual with:

o financial management experience;

o commitment to our vision, mission and values;

o excellent teamwork and leadership skills and effective decision-making;

o willingness to commit time and effort to the role;

o good, independent judgement, strategic vision and ability to communicate ideas;

o history of impartiality, fairness and commitment to promoting equality and diversity;

o charity sector experience (preferred)

Duties of a trustee with finance experience

○ Chair the Finance and Fundraising sub-committee of the Board.

○ On behalf of the Board, to oversee the production of Big Leaf Foundation’s annual budget, management accounts and annual financial statements.

○ Provide advice, scrutiny and support to the finance coordinator and Board.

○ Act as the Board lead on scrutiny of financial strategy and risk.

○ Ensure that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.

○ Advise on the financial implications of the organisation’s strategic plans.

The statutory duties of a trustee are to:

○ Ensure the organisation complies with its governing document.

○ Ensure that the organisation pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document.

○ Ensure the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives – the charity must not spend money on activities which are not included in its own objectives, no matter how 'charitable' and 'worthwhile' those activities are.

○ Contribute actively to the Board of Trustees' role in giving strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals and setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.

○ Safeguard the good name and values of the organisation.

○ Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

○ Ensure the financial stability of the organisation.

○ Protect and manage the property of the organisation and to ensure the proper investment of the organisation's funds.

○ If the organisation employs staff, to appoint the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his or her performance.

In addition, with other trustees to hold the charity “in trust” for current and future beneficiaries by:

○ Ensuring that the charity has a clear vision, mission and strategic direction and is focused on achieving these.

○ Being responsible for the performance of the charity and for its “corporate” behaviour; ensuring that the charity complies with all legal and regulatory requirements.

○ Acting as guardians of the charity’s assets, both tangible and intangible, taking all due care over their security, deployment and proper application.

○ Ensuring that the charity’s governance is of the highest possible standard.

We are working in partnership with Edmund Sawyer Almshouse, a charity first established in the 17th Century for six women in need in Kettering. The building is Grade 11 star listed. It is reputed to be the oldest building in Kettering. The charity had fallen into poor condition in 2018, and the board of the Leonard Hackett Memorial Trust stepped in and took over the charity and rescued the buildings carrying out immediate refurbishment.

They are now looking to recruit Trustees to join its Board of Trustees, which sets and approves the charity’s strategy ensuring the charity's continued success and sustainability, overseeing the ongoing care of the historic buildings, and ensuring the residents feel supported, valued, and at home. 

You’ll be part of a small team responsible for protecting and enhancing a vital community asset, balancing tradition with modern needs. 

Edmund Sawyer is particularly keen to hear from people who can bring the following skills and experience:

• Finance with a charity background desirable not essential 
• Health and welfare of elderly people
• Management of social housing/Local Authority background/Regulation of social housing
• Law/Paralegal 
• Charity governance

And with the following personal qualities:

• Commitment to Edmund Sawyer values.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort using your knowledge and skills for the benefit of the charity.
• Good judgment and the ability to think creatively.
• The willingness to speak your mind and to work effectively as a member of a team and to take collective responsibility.
• The role of Trustee can be enormously interesting, rewarding, and enjoyable.

As a trustee of Edmund Sawyer Almshouse, you will be safeguarding the legacy of this charitable institution, ensuring the buildings are properly maintained and cared for and supporting residents and making sure they feel secure and welcome in their homes.  You will also be part of the strategy to guide the future direction of the Almshouse to meet evolving community needs.

For more information, please contact Sandra Smith, Associate Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Applications should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement. 

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.

Time commitment: Trustees are expected to attend a minimum of 5 meetings per year. This is four Trustee Review Meetings and one AGM. Given the size of the charity, it is likely that trustees would also be involved in the odd ad hoc meeting relating to property or resident issues.

Closing date for applications: 14th September 2025 

Interviews: TBC

We are looking for a Finance Trustee to support the Board by providing an oversight of our affairs, ensuring our financial viability and that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. 

We are a small CIO with 3 part time staff.  Our Finance Trustee will participate in all areas of our governance but take a special interest in the financial  strategy and governance. They will use their sound financial skills & experience to support the Board’s understanding & interpretation & to ensure legislative compliance.

Our payroll is outsourced and we have an external investment portfolio manager.

Our current finance trustee has served their term of office & it is now time to look for their successor.

All meetings except our AGM/annual award event are remote. We need you to be available to attend: 

2 (evening) Board meetings

1 summer (evening) business meeting

3 Finance subcommittee (evening) meetings

1 in person day Board/AGM/Award event

Fundraising sub committee meetings - frequency tbc these will be held remotely in the evenings

The Finance Trustee will adhere to the role description of a trustee & in addition has the following key responsibilities:

• To support the Board to oversee & to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.
• To ensure appropriate presentation of accounts and records, ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the charity’s policies, good governance, legal & regulatory requirements.
• Liaising, where applicable, with the Chair/ other appropriate members of staff & supporting on financial matters
• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial viability of the charity.
• Creating in conjunction with relevant trustees & staff sound financial processes & procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan.
• Reviewing the annual accounts &, where applicable, liaising with the charity’s external bookkeeper to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP.
• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained & ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.
• Authorisation of charity expenditure & banking transactions set up on online bank accounts
• Liaison with the fund manager responsible for the charity’s investment portfolio
• Oversight of payroll, HMRC reporting & operation of auto-enrolment pension scheme for staff

Community engagement charity Sobus is looking for talented, passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees.  We are looking for a new Trustee Treasurer to help guide the charity through a time of exciting opportunity and development.

It's an exciting time for Sobus, as we look to refresh our service offer, and maximise the investment opportunity following the disposal of a property in 2024.

Our overarching aim is to “strengthen local communities”, through the provision of infrastructure support to the local voluntary sector in the borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and supporting business communities around our North Kensington hub. 

Our work is focussed on five main areas:

• Voice & Representation
• Information & Intelligence
• Brokerage & Partnerships
• Capacity Building & Business Support
• Affordable Premises (through the provision of our business hubs in Fulham and North Kensington)

Trustee Treasurer: We are seeking a committed individual with a proven, professional track record of financial management and leadership at the highest level, and a sound understanding and experience of the voluntary sector.  We need someone with significant experience of leading long-term strategic development and driving financial sustainability.

You will share our vision and want to take a leading role in our journey to be recognised as an outstanding organisation. It would be a significant advantage if you have an understanding or experience of working in the voluntary and community sector, and even more so if you are a current or former resident of Hammersmith & Fulham or have a tangible, established and current connection with the area.

Sobus was formed in 2014 following a merger between the Community & Voluntary Sector Association and Fulham Community Partnership Trust. However, we were first established as the local CVS in Hammersmith & Fulham in 1998. 

Sobus is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people that we support. We therefore warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Selection process:

Candidates are requested to complete an application and a equalities monitoring form., and if shortlisted, an interview with our outgoing Treasurer, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the CEO.  t

For an informal discussion about the position, of for the Job Description and application form, contact the Sobus CEO, Sue Spiller

St Michaels and All Saints Charities

Role: Trustees

Location: Oxford

Salary: Voluntary role; out of pocket expenses may be claimed and investment in trustee development is provided

About us

St Michael’s and All Saints’ Charities are based in Oxford and comprise several historical charities whose purpose is to support the Church of St Michael at the North Gate in Central Oxford and to award grants to charities and other organisations where appropriate in the City of Oxford and Oxfordshire.  The Charities have a long history dating back to the Charter of 1612 under the Great Seal of James I, on display in the Saxon Tower of St Michaels, but are also proud to be able to support both church, city of Oxford and Oxfordshire more broadly in the 21st century and beyond.

The Charities help St Michael’s to continue to be an active church community in the heart of Oxford, with the Vicar acting as City Rector with Oxford City Council and working pastorally with city centre businesses and visitors. The Charities support the upkeep of the church buildings allowing the church to be open every day for personal quiet and for the enjoyment of its historical heritage.

In awarding grants the Trustees (also known as Feoffees) have been able to support local charities over many years which focus on community benefit and relief of hardship, especially those working with the homeless, refugees and young people. These charitable objectives are supported through the income from its permanent endowment which comes substantially, although not exclusively, from property in Oxford.

The Trustees strive to continuously improve the governance of the Charities and are now actively seeking new Trustees to join their dedicated and collaborative board to provide strategic support in their field of expertise and support overall governance and leadership of the organisation.

We are looking for candidates who are willing to develop a sympathetic understanding of the work of the Charities and are experienced in working in an environment governed by a legislative/regulatory framework, be it charitable, non-profit or private sector.

The Charities invites expressions of interest for the following roles:

· Chair Designate of the Board of Trustees; the current Chair plans to retire from the role in 2026

· Trustee who would join the Charities’ Property and Investment Subcommittee.

Our priority is to increase both the legal and financial or investment management expertise on our Trustee board and so applicants should be able to evidence experience in at least one of these two areas. 

The Charity has two subcommittees which have delegated authority to oversee various elements of governance and compliance:

· Property and Investment subcommittee which oversees the financial governance of the charity in relation to financial performance, risk and sustainability and property management and investment and ensuring policies, systems and processes are fit for purpose. 

· Grant subcommittee that scrutinises governance, systems and processes and monitors impacts and outcomes. 

We also ensure that trustees feel supported in their role and offer mentoring to new trustees during their induction period as well as ongoing support and training.

The Charities 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 or other category protected by law.

For full details of this rewarding opportunity and how to apply, please download a recruitment pack.

If you would like to discuss the trustee role before applying, contact Louise Packer, Clerk to the Feoffees.

The Cheltenham Trust is the driving force behind the town’s vibrant arts, culture, heritage, sport, and leisure scene. We proudly manage some of Cheltenham’s most iconic venues — including Pittville Pump Room, Leisure at Cheltenham, the Prince of Wales Stadium, Cheltenham Town Hall, and The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum.

We’re now seeking passionate and visionary trustees to help guide our next chapter.

This is a transformational moment for the Trust. As we launch our bold new five-year strategy, we’re expanding our programmes, deepening community engagement, and forging exciting new partnerships — both locally and beyond.

Together with relevant sector experience, we’re especially keen to hear from individuals with expertise in:

• Digital, IT & Systems Transformation
• Finance & Audit
• Human Resources

Whether you're an experienced trustee or new to the role, if you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in Cheltenham’s cultural life, we’d love to hear from you. The Cheltenham Trust is committed to building a diverse & inclusive Board, so we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences & communities.

CHIPS is looking for new trustees to support our peacemaking work internationally.

About CHIPS

CHIPS (Christian International Peace Service) aims to bring about peace and reconciliation in areas of conflict or tension. We have over 59 years’ experience helping communities in the UK, Cyprus, India, the Philippines, Northern Ireland and Uganda; with our current projects being in Northern Ghana and Brixton, UK. We help communities build futures free from violent conflict through practical projects that both tackle the root causes of the division and bring the sides together to build trust and healthy relationships.

Our Vision: Our vision is for a world where conflict is met with peacemaking, division gives way to reconciliation, and communities work together to build sustainable peace.

Our Mission: Rooted in Jesus' example of peace and reconciliation, we accompany communities affected by violent conflict, fostering relationships, taking practical action, and building a foundation for lasting peace.

Our Philosophy:

• We go where we are invited
• We live in the heart of the conflict
• We take sides. Both sides.
• We are committed for the long term

About Being a Trustee

CHIPS (Christian International Peace Service) trustees play a crucial role in advancing peace in communities worldwide. Working collaboratively as part of the Board, they provide strategic oversight to the organisation, helping to strengthen its impact and sustainability by bringing their unique expertise and skills to the team. We're particularly looking for a trustee with a strong background in finance, accounting or bookkeeping in order to help support our Director and Board in there oversight of financial matters.

We hope that the experience of being a trustee for CHIPS will be rewarding. As well as making a difference to the communities that we support, we hope you will gain satisfaction from generously giving of your time. We want to have a Board of Trustees who are diverse in their experience and knowledge so that impact can be sustained. Whilst specific roles may vary, the overall duties are:

• Ensuring that CHIPS pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its constitution, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy in coordination with CHIPS staff and project teams
• Ensuring that CHIPS complies with its constitution, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations
• Ensuring that CHIPS applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of the public
• Ensuring that CHIPS defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets
• Safeguarding the good name and values of CHIPS
• Ensuring the effective and efficient governance of CHIPS, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place
• Ensuring the financial stability of CHIPS
• Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds
• Following proper and formal arrangements for the appointment, supervision, support, appraisal and remuneration of the senior leadership of CHIPS
• Communicating on behalf of the organisation, if necessary
• Facilitating any feedback or complaints so that any issues are addressed swiftly

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

Finance Trustee specific role

• Reviewing quarterly management accounts and highlighting any variances or financial risks to the board.
• Supporting the annual budgeting process by advising on assumptions, cost control, and sustainability.
• Overseeing the preparation of annual accounts with CHIPS staff and working with the auditor or independent examiner as needed.
• Helping develop and monitor financial policies such as reserves, investments, and internal controls.
• Providing strategic financial insight to guide decision-making on fundraising, staffing, or new initiatives.

Person specification
CHIPS is particularly looking for new trustees who have strong backgrounds in finance to support the Director and team members. However, CHIPS is also looking to more generally increase the number of trustees so if you feel you have expertise which could benefit CHIPS, please still get in touch.

• A commitment to and passion for CHIPS and its objects and vision
• A commitment to CHIPS’ statement of faith
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort
• Strategic vision
• Good, independent judgement and a willingness to speak their mind
• An ability to think creatively
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
• A committed Christian willing to contribute to the spiritual life and development of CHIPS
• Experience or knowledge specific to the area in which they will oversee

If you're interested to join as a trustee, but want to find out more first - do get in contact with us.

We’re seeking a strategic Chairperson to guide our Board and champion our mission. Candidates should have senior leadership experience, strong communication skills, charity governance knowledge, a passion for wildlife conservation.

Objective​

The Chair will provide supportive and inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees, the Chief Operating Director, staff, and volunteers—helping everyone stay aligned with the charity’s mission and vision. They’ll work to ensure that each trustee feels confident in fulfilling their responsibilities and that the Board operates as a cohesive and effective team.

The Chair will also collaborate closely with the Chief Operating Director, supporting them in their role and fostering strong relationships across the organisation. Together, they’ll help the charity achieve its goals, with the Chair also serving as an ambassador and public representative of the charity.

Key Skills

• ​Proven senior leadership and governance experience
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Understanding of charity governance and trustee duties
• Passion for wildlife conservation

Principle Responsibilities: Chair Role

The Chair provides strategic leadership to ensure the charity delivers maximum impact in conserving birds of prey. They guide the Board in fulfilling governance duties, setting clear direction, managing risks and opportunities, and ensuring financial accountability.

The Chair also oversees effective governance practices, supports Board development, encourages positive change, manages conflict, leads annual performance appraisals, and ensures the Board has the right balance of skills and experience to lead the charity effectively, all while operating within agreed policies

​Location

• Sculthorpe, Fakenham, Norfolk (UK Administrative Centre
• Flexible and remote-friendly – most meetings held virtually
• Some in-person attendance required in London, Sculthorpe, or Shapwick (Somerset)

Remuneration

• ​Voluntary position
• All reasonable travel and out-of-pocket expenses reimbursed

Term

​The charity’s Chair (and board members) will serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment for one additional term. ​

Closing date: 09:00 Tuesday 12th August 2025

Help shape our future and join Calibre Audio as a Trustee and make a meaningful impact on the lives of over 12,000 people with print disabilities.

Calibre Audio is a national charity providing accessible audiobooks to anyone unable to read standard print. We’re looking for two new Trustees to help guide our strategic growth and ensure our services remain innovative, inclusive, and far-reaching. You don’t need to be an experienced trustee – we welcome applications from first-timers with passion, insight, and relevant skills.

We’re especially interested in individuals with experience in finance, strategy, or a lived or professional understanding of disability or neurodiversity. As a Trustee, you’ll contribute to a board that’s energetic, values-led, and committed to removing barriers to reading for all.

Join us and be part of a mission to bring the joy of stories, knowledge, and connection to everyone who needs us – on every platform, in every format, and at every stage of life.

New Trustees wanted

The current Board of Trustees seeks new Trustees to drive the changes needed to ensure Calvert Devon’s future success. For this phase of the journey, we are seeking individuals with finance, treasurer, or legal specialist skills.

Interested? All the information can be found in the recruitment pack which can ber download from either the Careers or Trustee sections of our website.

We’re looking for volunteers with a keen interest in dementia to join our team of Trustees, contributing their experience and skills to help support, shape and develop the charity.

Who we are

Arts for Dementia uses the power of the arts to inspire people living with dementia to get creative, connect, learn new skills and most importantly, have fun.Our free workshops aim to challenge and boost confidence and wellbeing through a variety of art forms from visual arts to drama, sculpture, dance and more.

For people living with dementia and those who support them day to day, these are opportunities to make friends in a safe and friendly setting, to be part of the local community, to stay active and to enjoy the fulfilment that comes from creative activities. Our current priority locations are the London boroughs of Southwark and Camden.Our in-person workshops are all in London, while online activities are open to people across the UK.

Our regular one-day training courses provide creative facilitators across the UK with the knowledge and skills they need to support dementia-friendly activities.

The role of a trustee

Our team of trustees plays a key role in setting the strategy – the overall direction – of the charity. There are four formal board meetings each year where, together with the Chief Executive, our trustees oversee the delivery of the strategy and financial management, consider operational plans and explore what support they can provide to enable the staff team in their work.

Often this support is connected to a trustee’s expertise in a particular field, for example marketing, fundraising, I.T. or legal, or the networks they have access to such as local community groups, potential donors or arts organisations. 

Specific areas of activity such as finance and fundraising are also supported by small sub-committees that bring appropriate staff and trustees together so that work can be progressed between the quarterly meetings. These are arranged at times to suit those involved. 

Currently quarterly meetings of all Trustees are held in person and online alternately. Online meetings are early evening, and in-person meetings are in central London during the day. They each last for two hours. If it helps new trustees to be fully involved, we are happy to explore different timings for future meetings. 

What difference could you make?

If you are reading this, it is likely you care about the lives of people living with and affected by dementia, and you may well have some personal experience. You can make a real difference to those and others affected by bringing your additional experience into the charity.  This might be from involvement in your community or your understanding of dementia within a minoritized ethnic group. It might be from your work, leisure activities or your profession.

The important thing is that your experience should broaden our knowledge, help us reach a wide range of people and ensure our charity is far-sighted and well run. 

What you could gain from being a Trustee

We know that dementia and its effects have no barriers, so our approach to recruiting new trustees aims to have no barriers and to be supportive and open to ideas.  You may have never considered yourself as a potential trustee but feel that you do have something you could offer to a charity like ours. If so, do please contact us. 

As a Trustee, you would be working with a friendly and approachable board that brings together a range of experience, which is enhanced by the skills of the staff team. The role also comes with responsibilities that incorporate legislation and good governance practice and this Charity Commission document explains these. 

All new Trustees will benefit from an induction programme that allows them to get to know the staff and other trustees, meet some of the beneficiaries, learn how the charity works and understand the formal responsibilities.  We would also enable you to develop your skills and confidence through access to training and information on Trustee responsibilities and skills.

There are many opportunities to broaden your own experience and develop your confidence in new skills within a supportive environment. 

We also ensure no Trustee is out of pocket due to their responsibilities, so all reasonable expenses (e.g. travel to board meetings) are reimbursed. 

Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact in the rare disease community?

Are you interested in supporting the growth of a thriving charity that is expanding its reach and ambition?

If so, Beacon for Rare Diseases is looking for at least two new Trustees to help shape our future and strengthen our support for individuals and families affected by rare conditions.
 

About Beacon for Rare Diseases

Beacon for Rare Diseases is a small but growing charity dedicated to transforming outcomes for those living with rare diseases by building a united rare disease community with patient groups at its heart.

Patient groups are a lifeline for rare disease patients and their families. When a rare diagnosis is made, many people are simply handed a one-page Google printout of the condition and told to go home and live their lives as best as they can. No one knows anything about the condition. There is no treatment. There is nothing anyone can do. The alarming lack of knowledge, support and understanding from the healthcare sector propels these individuals and families into isolation with more questions than answers.

Patient groups break this isolation by connecting people with shared conditions, helping them share experiences, answering questions, and driving change in neglected rare diseases. At Beacon, we help these patient groups form, grow, and professionalise – helping them be the best they can be to support the whole rare disease community.  

Since founding in 2012, we have expanded our programmes and outreach, aiming to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support services across the UK and beyond. In this time, we have supported over 400 rare disease patient groups. As such, our patient group Empowerment Programme continues to drive our organisation’s core mission: we have over 600 users on our e-learning platform, The Resources Hub, and had 296 live training event attendees in the last year.  

This core patient group training is now supplemented by a leading role in the European REMEDi4ALL consortium for drug repurposing, and a role in the Hub for LifeArc’s new Translational Centres for Rare Disease. Our growing project diversity and impact is driven by our enthusiastic and committed team, which has grown from three people in 2018 to a peak of 12 staff in 2024-25. This charity also benefits from a stable leadership group, with our CEO and COO spending 10 and 9 years respectively at Beacon.

“Beacon helps make what seems impossible, possible.”

The trustee role

As we enter an exciting new phase of development under a new Chair of Trustees, we are looking for Trustees who can bring fresh expertise to our board.

We are particularly interested in recruiting:

• A Trustee with lived experience of a rare disease or of patient group leadership, to help ensure our work remains grounded in the real needs of our community and to guide patient-centred decision-making.
• A Trustee with financial expertise, to review and advise on our financial reporting, oversight, and strategic financial planning.
• A Trustee with fundraising and investment experience, especially someone able to help Beacon broaden its network and build long-term relationships with funders keen to support the charity on a sustainable basis.

About the Role

As a Trustee, you will help set the strategic direction of Beacon for Rare Diseases, oversee the organisation’s activities, and support its ongoing growth. Your responsibilities will include ensuring compliance with charity regulations, financial stewardship, and working with the team on fundraising and partnership development. There will also be opportunities for advocacy and raising awareness about rare diseases at a national level, both through Beacon’s own events and projects, and representing Beacon in the wider rare disease community.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence the future of a charity that is expanding its reach and capabilities nationally and internationally, helping us to better serve our community and increase our impact.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Attend quarterly board meetings.
• Provide strategic advice and guidance to the CEO and staff.
• To provide oversight on the charity’s finances and governance – including the review of management accounts and contribution to the annual accounting process.
• To attend an annual day-long strategy meeting with the board and employees, and at least one Beacon event each year (reasonable travel expenses where in-person attendance is required will be covered).
• To provide support, advice or training for Beacon’s patient engagement events on an ad hoc basis and based on your experience.
• To advocate for Beacon and rare disease patient groups through your work and network, offering connections that support the organisation’s goals, and represent Beacon, our mission and interests at external events with the support or guidance of the CEO, board and Beacon team.
• To help ensure the sustainability of Beacon as an organisation and the fulfilment of our mission, to ensure no one walks their rare disease journey alone.

About You

We are looking for individuals who are committed to improving outcomes for people with rare diseases and who can bring fresh perspectives and expertise to our Board. Specifically:

• For the lived experience role: personal experience of a rare disease or patient group leadership and a passion for advocacy and patient support.
• For the financial role: experience in financial management, reporting, auditing, or strategic financial planning.
• For the fundraising and networking role: experience in large fundraising campaigns – whether charitable or corporate investment – a diverse network, and success engaging with high-net-worth individuals.

You should be an enthusiastic team player, comfortable with governance and strategic discussion, and eager to help Beacon navigate its next chapter of growth.

Benefits of Joining

This is a voluntary role, but with potential to guide the continued growth and development of an ambitious charity, well positioned in the field of rare diseases – an issue likely to grow in importance and relevance with the rapid advances in genetic science, and the increased focus on health equality and equity in the UK and beyond.

You will get the opportunity to:

• Contribute to a pioneering, expanding charity with a vital mission.
• Gain governance experience and develop leadership skills.
• Be part of a passionate community making a real difference to lives affected by rare diseases.
• Play a key part in shaping the future direction of Beacon for Rare Diseases.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to the email in the full job description. We welcome applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to equality and inclusion.

The deadline for applications is 4th August 2025. Shortlisted candidates will first be invited for a phone conversation, followed by a formal interview process including the opportunity to meet the team and observe a Trustee meeting.
 

FAQs

What is the time commitment?
Trustees typically meet quarterly, with additional time required for committee involvement and specific projects. We estimate around 4–6 hours per month, adaptable to your availability.

How long is the term for a Trustee?
Beacon does not currently have a fixed term of trusteeship, though trustees are required to resign and seek re-election by the board every two to three years. We may explore more fixed term appointments in the future and would look for at least a two-year commitment from any new trustees.

Where are meetings held?
The majority of meetings are held online using zoom. In person strategy days are generally held in Cambridge, close to the train station, though locations in central London may also be explored for face-to-face meetings in the future.

Do I need to be a UK citizen, or based in the UK?
No. Beacon is open to appointing trustees from outside the UK, but, as a UK registered charity we need to retain a majority of our board and our focus within the UK. If you are seeking to apply for this position from beyond the UK, we recommend you contact Beacon to discuss your application in advance.

I have no prior experience as a trustee – can I still apply?
Absolutely. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and will provide support and resources to help you succeed in the role.