Governance volunteer roles

As our prospective new Treasurer, your focus would be on overseeing our financial health, ensuring robust financial practices are in place and aligning our fiscal strategies with our long-term objectives.

About Sussex Pathways

Sussex Pathways is a criminal justice charity based in Lewes, East Sussex. We work within prisons and communities with the aim of reducing offending behaviours and empowering ex-offenders to make positive life choices. Our team is comprised of staff, trustees, and volunteers. We work with offenders and victims of crime primarily within Sussex, but are able to facilitate out of area work when capacity allows.

We received the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in June 2021.

What will you be doing?

Sussex Pathways is recruiting for a new Treasurer to lead on finance as part of the charity’s voluntary Board of Trustees. We have an excellent board of trustees from various walks of life, committed to the governance of Sussex Pathways.

The Treasurer will oversee the financial and assurance matters of the charity in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements. 

What are we looking for?

To enable the Board to deliver in their responsibilities and to support the work of the CEO and her team in ensuring the financial compliance and stability of the Charity, we are seeking a volunteer with a background in finance. 

We are seeking someone who brings energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to the role, and who will contribute fresh perspectives to our Board. Previous governance experience is not required - we will provide a comprehensive induction and ongoing training.

You should be a finance professional with knowledge and experience in bookkeeping standards, financial controls and systems, budgeting, cash flow forecasting, and the preparation of annual accounts.

You’ll be a clear and confident communicator, able to present financial information in
an accessible way to those without a finance background.

You’ll also be willing to take an active role in key financial areas such as budgeting, forecasting, and liaising with auditors.

What difference will you make?

In undertaking this role, the successful candidate will contribute to the work of the charity, supporting ex residents of prison as they work to a better future and where victims of crime have a voice within the criminal justice system.

This position is pivotal, providing strategic direction and ensuring that our financial and governance structures support our ambitious goals.

Time commitment

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend five Board meetings annually. Occasional ad-hoc meetings occur approximately two to three times per year.

The expected time commitment for the role is no more than seven to fourteen hours per month, which would largely be for preparing for and attending board meetings.

Chair of Trustees Role Profile

• Remuneration: This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses for travel may be reimbursed.
• Location: Must be available for board meetings in person in London
• Time commitment: Quarterly board meetings, annual strategy day, plus additional time for Chair duties as required
• Term: 3 years (renewable up to a maximum tenure of 9 years)

The Chair of the Board of Trustees provides leadership to the Board, ensuring it functions effectively to support and guide the charity in achieving its mission. The Chair is responsible for setting the tone for the Board’s work, promoting a strong culture of governance, and facilitating effective, inclusive decision-making. The Chair helps to steward the strategic direction of Dallaglio RugbyWorks, ensuring that the charity remains focused on its purpose, values, and long-term sustainability. The Chair also acts as a key ambassador for the organisation and helps build productive relationships both within the Board and with external stakeholders, including the charity’s founder.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in maintaining a clear and strategic focus on the charity’s mission, values and long-term goals.
• Chair quarterly board meetings, facilitating inclusive, well-informed, and effective decision-making.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance among Trustees.
• Provide a supportive and constructive relationship with the CEO, acting as a sounding board and trusted advisor.
• Ensure that the board fulfils its legal and governance responsibilities, including oversight of financial health, compliance and risk.
• Ensure robust financial oversight, including the long-term financial sustainability of the organisation, and the appropriate use of resources.
• Build and maintain a constructive and appropriate relationship with the charity’s founder, supporting their continued connection to the mission while ensuring clarity of roles and governance.
• Represent the charity externally, where appropriate, to build its profile, credibility and influence.
• Support the executive team by facilitating introductions to key contacts, influencers, and potential supporters or partners.
• Lead board development, including Trustee recruitment, succession planning, and reviews of board performance.
• Champion best practice in governance and uphold the charity’s values and reputation.
• The Chair is a member of the Nomination, Remuneration & HR Committee, with twice yearly online meetings to be attended.

General Trustee Responsibilities

As Chair, you also carry the core responsibilities of a Trustee, including:

• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and all relevant legislation and regulation. Using your skills, knowledge and experience to support sound decision-making and organisational development.
• Safeguarding the assets and values of the charity, and ensuring resources are used effectively to achieve charitable purposes.
• Acting in the best interests of Dallaglio RugbyWorks at all times, exercising reasonable care and independent judgement.
• Promoting transparency, inclusivity, and integrity across the organisation.

The above list of duties is indicative only and not exhaustive. Trustees will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonable commensurate with the role. The Board of Trustees is jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Trustees, should also be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual Trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

Person Specification

We are seeking a strategic and inclusive leader with a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people.

Experience

• Proven experience chairing a Board or senior committee in a charity, public body or corporate setting.
• Previous experience serving as a charity Trustee, with a strong understanding of governance and collective responsibility is highly desirable.
• A respected professional with credibility and connections in relevant sectors, able to influence and support the charity through relationships and networks.
• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Dallaglio RugbyWorks.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Trustees, senior leaders and stakeholders.
• A track record of strategic thinking, sound judgement and independent decision making.
• Familiarity with governance frameworks and the legal duties of charity trustees.

Skills & Attributes

• A strategic and inclusive leader with strong facilitation, communication and interpersonal skills, able to build consensus and navigate complex discussions.
• Prepared to commit the time required for effective leadership, including attending quarterly Board meetings in person and supporting ad hoc responsibilities between meetings.
• Willing to use personal and professional networks to support the charity’s development, profile, and partnerships.

We are a passionate, mission-driven charity working to protect and restore nature across Tees Valley and beyond. Through our nature reserves, community engagement, and advocacy, we empower people of all ages to connect with wildlife and take action for the environment. We are looking for a new Trustees to support the charity. This is a fantastic opportunity for a you to lend knowledge and expertise to inform strategic leadership to support the Trust’s governance and long-term impact.

Trustees drive our strategic direction, offering guidance, support and constructive challenge to the CEO. As passionate ambassadors for our work, they leverage networks to influence key partners and secure vital funding. Drawing on their expertise, they collaborate to position the charity for success in delivering strategic priorities. With strategic vision, independent judgement and commitment, our Trustees steer the Trust through

Trustees responsibilities

• Shape the Trust’s strategic vision, ensuring alignment with our goals and values
• Provide constructive challenge and support to the CEO and Senior Leadership Team
• Act as an ambassador, building relationships with partners, funders, and community groups
• Offer professional expertise to strengthen governance, policy development, and decision-making
• Commit to upholding charity law and the highest standards of integrity

We don’t think anyone in our community should have to face going hungry. That’s why we provide three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people who are referred to us in crisis. We are part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to combat poverty and hunger across the UK. 

What will you be doing?

Our mission is to prevent and relieve poverty locally by providing emergency food and financial support. Distributing over 40 tonnes of food and £50,000 in vouchers each year, we are looking for a Chair to work with the Trustees and Director to drive our strategy and increase our impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership to the board, ensuring trustees fulfill their governance responsibilities.
• Chair regular board meetings and guide strategic planning.
• Support trustee recruitment, training, and development.
• Act as an ambassador with partners, funders, and the wider community.
• Oversee financial controls, safeguarding, and risk management.

Time Commitment

The expected commitment is around 1-2 days per month. This includes preparation for and attendance at meetings, occasional events, and engagement with staff and volunteers. See further details in the candidate pack.

What are we looking for?

At Letchworth Foodbank, we’re proud of what we’ve achieved so far and excited about the future. We’re looking for a Chair who shares our vision and will help us make the right decisions as we continue to grow and serve our community.

Essential

• Experience in leadership, governance, or board-level roles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and unite people.
• Strategic thinker with sound judgment and an inclusive leadership style.
• Empathy towards tackling and relieving poverty.

Desirable

• Understanding of small charities and grassroots organisations.
• Awareness of safeguarding, equality, and community engagement.
• Experience in financial management and charity finance.

Support and training will be provided by the Trussell Trust to help trustees and Chairs build confidence in these areas.

We champion diversity and welcome applicants from all walks of life, valuing diverse perspectives that enrich our work. We are committed to offering equal opportunity for all, regardless of ethnicity, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other dimension of diversity. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

What difference will you make?

As our new Chair, you will be joining the Foodbank at an exciting stage in our journey. With the recent arrival of our first paid Director, Charlie Hayter, we are entering a new phase of growth and professionalisation, reducing sole reliance on trustees and creating space for more strategic leadership. Financially stable and well-supported by our community, we distribute vital food and financial aid every year, meeting urgent need at a time when the cost-of-living crisis makes our work more relevant than ever. Your impact will be to guide the board and Director in shaping and delivering a new threeyear strategy, ensuring we build on strong foundations to expand our reach and deepen our impact. This is a unique opportunity to lead a well-established, volunteer-powered charity that is rooted in its community, and to help set its direction for the future.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available across England.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you

Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.

This is an opportunity to:

• Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation

What you’ll do

As part of a governing board, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
• Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
• Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
• Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• Finance, Audit & Risk
• HR, People & Culture
• Strategy, Transformation & Operations
• Technology, AI & Digital
• Legal, Governance & Compliance
• Marketing, PR & Communications
• Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.

Time commitment

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:

• Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or hybrid)
• Reading papers and preparing questions
• Participating in training and occasional college visits

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.

Where you’ll be needed

We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. We’ll work with you to match your skills and location with a college in need of your expertise.

What’s in it for you?

· Enhance your board-level and governance experience

· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role

· Expand your professional network

· Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact

· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

Job Description – HR Manager

Organisation: Children With Voices

Reports to: the executive ops manager

Location: Hackney, London - Hybrid

Contract: Full-time / Part-time – specify as needed

Job Purpose

The HR Manager plays a vital role in supporting the vision and mission of Children With Voices by ensuring that all HR practices are fair, compliant, and aligned with safeguarding, equity, and community wellbeing. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of human resources, from recruitment and staff development to compliance and wellbeing initiatives. The HR Manager will be instrumental in creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment where staff, volunteers, and young people can thrive.

Key Responsibilities

1. Oversee Daily HR Operations
   • Manage HR functions to ensure efficiency, compliance, and alignment with organisational goals.
   • Champion safeguarding and equality in every aspect of HR practice.
2. Recruitment & Onboarding
   • Lead fair and inclusive recruitment, ensuring diversity, equal opportunity, and alignment with our safeguarding responsibilities.
   • Deliver onboarding that instils Children With Voices’ values, safeguarding culture, and commitment to community impact.
3. HR Policies & Compliance
   • Develop and implement HR policies and procedures in line with UK employment law, charity governance, and safeguarding legislation.
   • Ensure GDPR compliance and maintain secure, confidential records.
4. Training & Development
   • Coordinate training on safeguarding, equality, diversity, inclusion, and wellbeing.
   • Support ongoing professional and personal development for staff and volunteers.
5. Employee Relations & Wellbeing
   • Provide advice and support on employee concerns, encouraging a culture of respect, accountability, and collaboration.
   • Promote mental health and wellbeing initiatives, aligned with our duty of care.
6. Volunteer Engagement
   • Oversee volunteer recruitment, DBS checks, safeguarding induction, and ongoing engagement.
   • Support volunteers to feel valued and integrated into the charity’s mission.
7. Collaboration with Leadership
   • Work closely with the CEO and department leads to ensure HR strategies support the organisation’s mission and goals.
   • Streamline HR processes to improve efficiency and impact.
8. Conflict Resolution
   • Mediate disputes fairly, maintaining trust and confidentiality.
   • Support managers in handling sensitive matters in line with policy and safeguarding standards.
9. Records & Benefits Management
   • Maintain accurate HR records, ensuring data protection compliance.
   • Administer employee benefits and ensure fair, transparent processes.
10. Health, Safety & Safeguarding

• Ensure workplace compliance with health and safety legislation.
• Embed safeguarding responsibilities across all HR practices, ensuring no child or vulnerable adult falls through the gaps.

Person Specification

Essential Skills & Experience:

• Proven experience in an HR management role, ideally within the charity or community sector.
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law, HR compliance, and safeguarding requirements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust at all levels.
• Experience managing recruitment, onboarding, and training processes.
• Ability to mediate and resolve conflicts in a fair, professional, and sensitive manner.
• Strong organisational skills with attention to detail and confidentiality.
• Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and community empowerment.

Desirable Skills & Experience:

• CIPD qualification (Level 5 or above) or equivalent HR certification.
• Experience working with volunteers, young people, or community-focused organisations.
• Knowledge of charity governance and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience in developing wellbeing or mental health initiatives.

Our Values at Children With Voices

• Safeguarding First: Every decision is made with the protection and safety of children and vulnerable people in mind.
• Equity & Inclusion: We champion fairness and diversity, ensuring no child or family is left behind.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of working together with partners, communities, and families.
• Empowerment: We support children, families, staff, and volunteers to thrive and reach their full potential.
• Community Impact: We exist to rebuild stronger, safer communities for future generations.

Salary & Benefits - £1,520 per month

Days 1–2 days in the office, with flexibility to choose from Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. The remaining hours can be worked remotely.

Working pattern: 20 hours per week

The City of Oxford Charity dates back to 1700 and now is embarking on an exciting new phase. Additional funding, grant making, and a major almshouse refurbishment are all part of our commitment to supporting those most in need in the city.

We are proud of our heritage and the Chair will share our passion and enthusiasm for the future. They will deliver strategic leadership, strong governance, and act as an ambassador for the Charity. Working with the CEO and fellow board members, they will uphold our mission and ensure we continue to have a meaningful impact on the City.

Key responsibilities are:

- Lead the Board in setting and delivering strategic direction.
- Ensure effective governance and legal compliance.
- Support and hold the CEO accountable for day-to-day operations.
- Act as an ambassador for the charity, building relationships with stakeholders and the local community.
- Champion the needs and well-being of our almshouse residents.

We Are Looking For
- A deep commitment to our mission and values.
- Experience operating in a senior executive role within the private, public, or charity sectors.
- Strong understanding of governance, finance, and strategy.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of Oxford’s social and economic landscape.
- Availability to meet regularly with the CEO and dedicate time to the charity’s work.

Next steps
We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive board and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Make a difference in Kent by joining our team of trustees!

Kent Community Foundation (KCF) is looking for individuals to join our Board of Trustees who have a real passion for our county and want to make a demonstrable difference to the lives of people in our communities.

KCF is a professional grant-maker and local philanthropy advisor for Kent and Medway. We have been established for 24 years; distributing more than £60 million in grants to voluntary sector organisations across the county; supporting small charities to be sustainable and successful, and helping major donors maximise the impact of their donations.

Trustees are the volunteers who lead charities and decide how they are run; setting strategic plans, monitoring the performance, impact and sustainability of the charity and overseeing its governance. People of any age and background can be a trustee, and we're looking for people with specific experience to help us support communities in Kent. We are particularly interested in applications from people who are typically under-represented on trustee boards.

We have a comprehensive trustee induction programme, so if you have never been a trustee or on a board before, we will ensure you have all the knowledge and support you need.

Trustee: Desirable skills

We are looking for applicants to have one or more of the following:

· Lived experience of the communities we work with and the issues which arise in our county

· Experience of grant making; either as a philanthropist, grant maker or grant applicant

· Experience in working with or within social enterprises

· Experience in communications and PR

· A background in socio/economics, or connections with education in that field

· Knowledge of, and experience in promoting diversity, equality and inclusion

· Professional experience or active interest in technology, digital communications and AI

· Long term connections and networks with any of our stakeholder groups in Kent; such as philanthropists, businesses  owners, key voluntary sector influencers

We hope to recruit up to three new trustees with different experience to offer, who can give some of their time and expertise to help KCF continue to grow and develop. We have four in-person Board meetings a year, and trustees also sit on at least one of our sub-committees, which meet two to four times a year (often remotely). There are also occasional events trustees are invited to attend to promote and engage with our work.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available across England.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you

Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.

This is an opportunity to:

• Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation

What you’ll do

As part of a governing board, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
• Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
• Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
• Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• Finance, Audit & Risk
• HR, People & Culture
• Strategy, Transformation & Operations
• Technology, AI & Digital
• Legal, Governance & Compliance
• Marketing, PR & Communications
• Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.

Time commitment

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:

• Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or hybrid)
• Reading papers and preparing questions
• Participating in training and occasional college visits

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.

Where you’ll be needed

We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. We’ll work with you to match your skills and location with a college in need of your expertise.

What’s in it for you?

· Enhance your board-level and governance experience

· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role

· Expand your professional network

·Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact

· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.

As Vice-Chair of Trustees you will provide strategic direction for the charity, ensuring that we are meeting the demand for our services, and making certain that we help and support people in crisis in the local community.

Key tasks

Vice-Chairperson Responsibilities:

• work alongside the Chairperson to ensure the board functions effectively and carries out its duties
• ensure the board sets an overall direction for the food bank with clear objectives
• ensure that the business of meetings is dealt with, and decisions are recorded and implemented
• in consultation with the rest of the board, recruit board members with relevant expertise and experience when required
• as a deputy for the Chairperson, taking on the Chair’s role in their absence.
• to learn from the Chair of Trustees, with a view to ascending to the role of Chairperson at the conclusion of their term in office.

Ensure an effective relationship between staff, volunteers, and stakeholders:

• to plan, with the Chairperson and food bank manager, an annual schedule of any subcommittee/steering group meetings and other key events which board members should attend
• to work alongside the Food Bank Manager to ensure there is appropriate communication between the trustee board and staff, volunteers, and any other stakeholders.
• Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:
• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, ensure the charity does not become over-committed, and ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled appropriately
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, financial statements are reviewed, and progress is evaluated
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of Selby & District Foodbank
• an ability to, when required, lead a trustee team in a supportive and confident manner
• experience of leadership and charity governance as part of a Board of Trustees, including familiarity with chairing meetings
• a broad knowledge and understanding of the third sector
• strong interpersonal and relationship building skills
• excellent meeting and presentation skills

What difference will you make?

By leading the Board of Trustees, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting, or anyone who comes into contact with, Selby & District Foodbank.

Derwentside College is supported by a Board of determined, successful professionals who share a collective belief in the transformative power of education. Bring your professional expertise in the area of inclusion and join them in realising their vision to create positive futures for their learners, community and region.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Friday 21st November

Located in a semi-rural location, high on the edge of the Pennines, Derwentside College is based on a single site in the heart of the town of Consett. We offer a diverse range of provision to young people and adults from across the local, predominantly rural, community. We currently deliver education and training to around 4,000 learners across over 200 courses, supported by around 170 staff.

About the role

Our priorities for the future are:

• Leadership, Governance & People
• Curriculum
• Learners
• Partnerships
• Resources & Investment

Our Board is led by our Chair, David Allsop, who has worked tirelessly with our Principal & CEO, Chris Todd, and other colleagues across our leadership team and board to refocus our direction and culture, and to grow our aspirations as a college.

Given the depth of our ambitions, we are now seeking to recruit further governors to our board.  We are now welcoming applications from individuals with professional expertise in inclusion who can bring a new set of questions to ensure we remain a college serving everyone in our community and wider region.

Who we are looking for

To achieve our organisational aims, our Board must continue to consist of experts and experienced professionals who can provide the appropriate levels of challenge and questioning to enable us to grow, develop and improve.

Following a recent successful governor recruitment process and subsequent consideration of the expertise we need across our Board, we have identified that the area of inclusion is a priority for us. We seek candidates who can bring their professional expertise to scrutinise our practice and offer insights on how we can be more innovative in this area of our delivery.

We will welcome candidates from all manner of professional settings, but would be particularly interested in those who are delivering inclusion strategies in educational and charity settings.

• Expectations and Commitment

Time commitment: 10 hours per month

We ask our Board Members to commit to a four-year term of office. Appointed individuals will need to be able to attend five Corporation Board meetings per year, including our strategic away day in May. Board meetings take place on a Tuesday in person at the College and usually outside of the working day.

We estimate that our Governors dedicate around 10 hours per month to their roles, although with this particular focus, we may ask the appointed candidate to take on a ‘link governor’ role, which at times will lead to a need for greater time commitments.

Whilst previous governance experience is welcomed, it is not essential. All new governors are supported through a comprehensive induction and training process, with ongoing support thereafter.

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

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Friday 21st November.

BLUE SMILE - CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

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

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

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES ROLE

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

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

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IN OUR NEW CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Our new Chair of Trustees will:

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

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

• Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

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

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

TIME COMMITMENT

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

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

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

TO APPLY

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

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

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

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

RNOH Charity is a vital partner in the way the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital delivers care. Since its inception in 1997, the Charity has raised and administered millions of pounds in donations, which have funded numerous essential projects around the hospital.

We are seeking a Trustee with marketing or fundraising experience.

What will you be doing?

This is an exciting opportunity to join as a Trustee of RNOH Charity. Our Trustees play an important role in making sure that the charity is run in the interests of those we support. They strategically oversee the management and administration of the organisation. We are particularly interested in hearing from marketing or fundraising professionals with experience in developing successful fundraising or marketing campaigns.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic guidance on the planning and execution of marketing and fundraising campaigns, with a focus on channel strategy and donor engagement across digital, social and traditional media.
• Advise on market and competitive analysis to inform campaign development and positioning.
• Bring expertise in successful campaign delivery and marketing best practice reflecting appropriate legal and ethical considerations.

Time commitment

• Four virtual Board meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Four virtual Committee meetings a year, held at the end of the working day.
• Two in-person Board Away Days per year held in the Stanmore area.
• Induction and ongoing training.
• The role of Trustee is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although out-of pocket expenses may be claimed.

What are we looking for?

Ideally you will have experience of operating at executive director level or equivalent. If you have a track record of delivering successful marketing or fundraising initiatives, we would like to hear from you. 

We would welcome applications from across both commercial and charity sectors.

• Experience of operating within a Board in a charitable, public sector or commercial organisation is desirable.
• Demonstrable experience of building and sustaining relationships with key stakeholders and colleagues to achieve organisational objectives (Not essential).
• A proven track record of sound judgement, strategic thinking and effective decision making.
• A history of impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.
• A track record of commitment to promoting equality and diversity.

The Charity particularly welcome applications from young people, women, people from black and minority ethnic communities, and disabled people who we know are under-represented in Chair and Trustee roles. Additional induction will be organised for successful candidate without previous Board experience.

What difference will you make?

You would be joining a committed and diverse Board, whose collective expertise underpins our robust governance and shared dedication to our charitable purpose. As a Trustee, your contribution will be invaluable in shaping our strategy and strengthening our fundraising efforts, serving as an advisory resource to the CEO and the Board of Trustees.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering's TrusteeWorks team are supporting RNOH Charity with their Board recruitment. Please submit your CV, LinkedIn profile or similar along with a covering letter stating why you would like to apply to become Trustee of RNOH Charity and how your skills, abilities and experience would add value to the Board.

If you would prefer to have a chat with a current Trustee or the Chief Executive before making a formal application please get in touch to request this.

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Finance Trustee

Remuneration: Like most Trustee roles, these roles are unremunerated

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Start date: As soon as possible

Benefits: In addition to making a real difference in the lives of and deepening your understanding of youth organising, you will receive:

• Safeguarding Training and support in developing expertise here
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred in your role

At The Advocacy Academy, we envision a world where young people with lived experience of injustice (LEofI) harness their collective power to shape a more fair, just, and equal society. Our mission is to organise and support these young people to drive systemic change on the most pressing issues of our time.

We do this by offering deep coaching, delivering transformative leadership programmes, and creating clear pathways for sustained action. Through shared learning and community-building, we help young leaders build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to launch and lead proactive campaigns. We also recognise that real change starts from within - so we’re committed to a governance structure that is values-driven, participatory, and beyond reproach, ensuring TAA is as accountable to young people as it is to the communities we serve and its wider responsibilities.

We’re now looking to a Finance Trustee to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in the following area: Finance & Fundraising.

Trustees of The Advocacy Academy play a unique role in delivery of our mission. They are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation, represent it to the community, and accept ultimate compliance authority for the charity and its activities. As a Trustee with experience in the UK’s youth sector, you will support the Board and the Executives in ensuring that TAA continues to deliver an exceptional quality of youth work, and the role that safeguarding plays in achieving this. As a trustee:

• Work with the Chair, Trustees and Senior Leadership team to ensure there is a clear, long-term and strategic vision The Advocacy Academy.
• Work with the Board to ensure we function within the legal and financial requirements of a UK registered charity and company, our constitution and that we strive for best practice
• Take responsibility with the other trustees so that the organisation has effective practice to safeguard the people it works with
• Act as an ambassador, spokesperson and champion our work supporting our income activities, and fostering networks that can help generate income.

About Our Board of Trustees

• Our Board currently consists of four members, recruited, selected, and approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Each trustee serves a three-year term, and we are made up of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• The Board meets quarterly (four times per year) to provide strategic oversight and governance. Operations/day to day are managed by the Executives.
• Given the size of the board, we expect all trustees to join at least one subcommittees meeting per year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. .The subcommittee meets are typically held prior to full Board meetings.
• Board meetings are held at our Liberation Centre in Brixton and subcommittee meets are held virtually
• The role of trustee is voluntary, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• Trustees are expected to prepare in advance by reading reports and meeting papers, and are also warmly invited to attend our events throughout the year.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

The Finance Trustee - Will provide charity financial governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Finance Director and the Finance & Risk Committee will:

• Provide support on financial oversight and ensure compliance with relevant charity and regulatory requirements.
• Review and co-present financial reports and key insights to the Board of Trustees.
• Actively participate in the Finance and Risk Committee, ensuring effective financial scrutiny.
• Strategic contribution to long-term financial and fundraising planning and support the organisation’s risk management framework.
• Attend Finance and Risk subcommittee meetings quarterly.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Proven expertise in charity fundraising and financial management.
• Experience of charity finance and fundraising is essential.
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

EXPECTATIONS & ENTITLEMENT

• Attend at least one training programme that we run, so that you understand the work we deliver
• Attend trustee meetings, which are held four times a year in London or virtually, and last between 3 expected to attend at least three each year.
• Participate in one of our sub-committees as may be required by the trustee role.
• Demonstrate commitment to The Advocacy Academy by supporting fundraising efforts.
• Serve for a term of three years and be able to stand for re-election for a further term and possibly two.
• Work with the Chair to review your performance
• Claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses to attend meetings -4 hours - trustees are expected to attend at least three each year.
• This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Trustee roles, it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of The Advocacy Academy’s board. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holders.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply to be our Trustee by sending your CV together with a supporting statement to us. Your supporting statement should explain why you would like to be our Finance Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the role and requirements above.

DATES

• Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 30th November 2025 by 5pm.

Please note that there will be two rounds of interviews, and we will be conducting interviews on a rolling basis as applications are received. The application deadline may be brought forward if suitable candidates are identified early.

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US

We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.

As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims, and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your application if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not “protected” (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order