Governance volunteer roles

Social Anxiety Alliance UK is a young and developing charity ideally looking for an experienced Trustee.

It may be possible for someone with a dedication and passion for helping those with social anxiety to apply for this role providing they are aware of the governance issues relating to the role (please read the charity commission document "The essential trustee")

Social anxiety involves an excessive fear of social situations. Sufferers will often fear being embarrassed or worry about being negatively evaluated by others. Anticipatory anxiety and situational avoidance are common, and individuals may endure social situations with a high level of discomfort. The scope of the anxiety may be focused on specific types of social situations or generalised to almost any social encounter.

We are the first UK charity dedicated to Social Anxiety.

What will you be doing

· Contribute towards the good management of the charity by carrying out key responsibilities as follows:

· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

· To ensure that the charity pursues its charitable objects as defined in its governing document.

· To ensure that the charity uses its resources exclusively to further its objects.

· To contribute towards setting the charity’s strategic direction and to evaluate performance and progress against agreed targets.

· To uphold the reputation and values of the charity.

· To commit to read papers in preparation for meetings and attend regular board meetings.

What we are looking for

· An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of trusteeship.

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee.

· Willingness to act in the best interests of the organisation.

· An ability to work effectively as a member of the team.

· Willingness to prepare for and attend monthly Board meetings.

· Willingness to participate actively in discussions.

· Enthusiasm for the charity’s vision and mission.

· Empathy for the challenges faced by people affected by social anxiety.

· A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.

· Integrity and honesty.

· Good, independent judgement.

Experience or interest in some of the following areas:

· • Charity management, governance, compliance, law, or the dedication to learn about governance and what it takes to be a Trustee

What difference will you make

As part of our board, you will help to support and develop the charity and set its strategic direction. You will have the opportunity to offer your unique skill set, experience and enthusiasm to help us to achieve the charity’s mission and goals:
To foster a society in which social anxiety is widely understood, where there is easy access to appropriate information, support and treatment so that no one has to face social anxiety alone.

Board meetings and projects

We are a friendly board and we hold our meetings monthly online in the evening, typically on a Tuesday at 7pm to 8:30pm.

We would hope that Trustees can contribute to some other charity tasks and projects as the need arises. 

Join us as a Governor and you will be part of a highly respected national charity, investing in services that will enhance the lives and independence of young people with complex disabilities and learning disabilities.

We are seeking several people who share our vision of a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives to become Governors at National Star.

As a Governor you will work with others to oversee and monitor college activities and ensure safeguarding policies for students and employees are maintained. You will ensure students have every opportunity to achieve the best outcomes they can, with access to a personalised, broad and balanced curriculum which prepares them for life after college. 

The Governing body approves the quality strategy of National Star and agrees targets and monitors progress to achieve continuous improvement.

Our ideal Governors will:

* Adhere to our values
* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star
* Prepare and participate actively in meetings
* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others
* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy
* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk
* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector
* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

You will bring: 

We are looking to recruit people with a broad range of experience and are particularly interested in attracting candidates with knowledge / experience of 
* Special Educational Needs sector
* Policy and Legislation with regard to special needs
* A strong interest in and experience of promoting the learner voice

National Star is a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community, including those currently under-represented on our Governing body, which include people with disabilities and members of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

Your commitment to us:

Governors typically devote around 12 hours a month to their roles at National Star. Some months are busier than others, due to the cycle of meetings but generally you will have 3 formal meetings (termly) plus 2 informal development sessions each year.  To help you to plan your time all meetings are set by July for the next academic year. Each Governor has a lead responsibility which will involve them having contact/ meetings with key staff between meetings.

Papers are distributed in advance to allow Governors to prepare for each meeting.

We encourage Governors and Trustees to attend annual leavers’ ceremonies in Ullenwood, Wales and Hereford, as well as the colleague recognition awards and colleague long-service awards.

Benefits of joining our Governing body:

By joining our Governing body, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a part in the future development of one of the leading disability charities in England and Wales as well as having the opportunity to expand your own skills, knowledge and professional development with the support of the whole team.

Your fresh perspective could help us to see things in a different light and your professional expertise could be utilised to support our staff team in delivering our vision and values.

You will gain a broad understanding of the challenges faced by young people with complex disabilities and be able to build your professional network.

Governors at National Star are volunteers. Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed. New Governors are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check. 

Discover more about becoming a Governor at National Star by visiting our website.

 Please note this role is voluntary and therefore not eligible for the full range of staff benefits. 

Who we are

The Molly Huggins Foundation is a newly launched charity with a bold mission: to drive long-term, place-based investment in communities that are too often overlooked. We’re a subsidiary of Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH), with a vision to raise £75 million through fundraising, partnerships, and internal contributions by 2035.

Our work centres on homelessness prevention, youth opportunity, employment support, and community capacity building. In 2025, we’ll merge with the established MTVH Migration Foundation, bringing 15 years of grant-making experience supporting migrants and refugees, into one powerful, national platform for change.

Lady Molly Huggins founded Metropolitan in 1957 to create stable homes and strong communities. Today, her name lives on in a foundation committed to profound, lasting impact, fuelled by the lived experiences of residents and delivered in collaboration with the people who know their communities best.

About the role

As our first Chair, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of this charity at a pivotal moment. You’ll lead our Board, guide the integration of two foundations, and provide high-level oversight on finance, governance, and risk. Just as crucially, you’ll act as a visible ambassador, bringing credibility, networks, and a deep belief in our mission.

This is a voluntary role with a time commitment of approximately two days per month and a three-year term (renewable up to six years). You’ll work closely with the MTVH Executive team and stakeholders across housing, social justice, and philanthropy to help unlock the potential of communities across the UK.

Who we’re looking for

We’re seeking a values-driven, strategic leader with significant board experience—ideally as Chair or senior trustee. You’ll have:

• A strong understanding of governance and charity compliance.
• Credibility and confidence to influence at senior levels across sectors.
• A commitment to tackling inequality and advancing social justice.
• Experience in strategy, financial oversight, and partnership development.
• Knowledge of housing, community development, or migration issues is welcome, as is experience in fundraising or philanthropy at scale.

We especially encourage applications from those with lived experience of social housing, migration, or community marginalisation. More than anything, we’re looking for someone with vision, integrity, and a passion for building better futures—with communities, not just for them.

Active Black Country is a charity that is passionate and committed to helping local people become physically active so they can enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits that an active lifestyle provides.

We know that choosing to apply for a Chair role is a significant decision, and we want to ensure you have all the information you need to understand who we are, what matters to us, and the impact you can help us achieve.

The Chair of our Board holds a critical space. They are a listener, thinking partner, steward, and advocate, ensuring the Board is thoughtful, purposeful, and rooted in our mission; whilst also being a leader who can hold the Executive team to account with rigour and support.

This is not a corporate governance role in any traditional sense. It’s a relational leadership role, where curiosity, care, and connectivity to our work matter just as much as oversight.

Active Black Country is seeking an inspirational new Chair to lead our Board into the future.

This is a pivotal moment for our charity. As our long-serving Chair, prepares to step down, we are looking for a successor who shares our passion for creating an active and happier Black Country. 

This is an opportunity to:

✅ Lead an experienced and dynamic Board committed to making real change.

✅ Shape the future of an organisation with bold ambitions and strong foundations.

✅ Use your expertise to make a tangible difference to the people of the Black Country. 

We’re looking for someone with integrity who leads with presence and deeply resonates with our mission and the Black Country. 

We’ve created a dedicated microsite. This resource is designed to give you a clear and transparent view of us and our impact in the Black Country, the role, and the difference you can make, it also includes the application process. 

Deadline: 9pm Friday 26 September 2025

Do you believe that there is an urgent need for places to be resilient to environmental, economic and social challenges?

Are you interested in a role that will help secure homes, places and communities where everyone can thrive?

The Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) is looking to appoint up to two new Trustees and if you answered a resounding ‘yes’ to the questions above then these could be the roles for you!

The built and natural environment have profound impacts on people’s health, wellbeing and life chances and we also face climate, nature, housing and health crises. The work of the TCPA is, therefore, more important than ever.

To support our important work we are looking to broaden the skills and range of perspectives on our Board of Trustees. You do not need to be an expert in town planning or have a background working in the built environment sector. We are particularly interested in candidates who believe in the importance of the work we do and have experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Charity fundraising and new business development
• Charity governance
• Operational elements of running a small charity
• Campaigning and communications

 Inclusion is a core value of our organisation and we are passionate about promoting diversity and representation in our Association. We positively encourage applications regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender identification, marital status, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

To find out more about the TCPA and how to express your interest in these roles please see the recruitment pack or visit our website.

Expressions of interest should be received by midday on Friday 3 October.

Location: Fully flexible / Remote – open to applicants anywhere in the UK

Time Commitment: Approx. 2–4 hours per month (may be more during start-up and registration phase)

About Us

Unseen Expeditions UK is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supporting mission-led charities and expedition projects across the UK and internationally. Our flagship initiative, The Unseen Mile, is a 4.5-year journey covering 25,000 miles across 37 countries. Through this and future projects, we aim to inspire, raise awareness for important causes, and share unique storytelling and learning experiences from the field.

We are currently recruiting our initial trustee board to help launch and register the charity.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Communications Trustee to join our board and lead the charity’s communication strategy. This trustee will ensure the charity’s mission, projects, and stories are shared effectively with audiences, stakeholders, and partners.

Key Responsibilities

· Develop and oversee the charity’s communications strategy

· Ensure consistent messaging across all platforms and materials

· Support engagement with media, partners, and the public

· Advise on digital and social media presence

· Assist with reporting and communication to stakeholders

· Contribute to trustee meetings and governance

· Delegate to volunteers within the Communications & Fundraising committee

· Help guide the charity through its registration and initial set-up

Person Specification & Requirements

· Experience or interest in communications, PR, marketing, or media

· Strong written and verbal communication skills

· Commitment to the mission and values of Unseen Expeditions and its partnered charities

· Ability to work collaboratively with a small, remote trustee team

· Comfortable working remotely and communicating online with a UK-wide board

· UK-based (required for legal trustee responsibilities)

· 2–4 hours per month commitment (more during start-up if possible)

· Basic tools for communication (email, phone, video calls)

What You’ll Gain

· Opportunity to shape and govern a new, high-profile charity from launch

· Hands-on experience in charity leadership and governance

· Contribution to awareness-raising and adventure-led impact projects

· Recognition for your role in mission-driven initiatives, including The Unseen Mile and future projects

· Flexible, fully remote role within a passionate, purpose-driven team

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

As a member of the Board, you will be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation, developing its aims, objectives and goals in accordance with company guidelines, legal and regulatory guidelines, you will help to protect the wealth and assets of the organisation.

Responsibilities:

Ensuring that the organisation complies with internal policy and legislation.

Making sure that the organisation pursues defined goals in line with its stated objectives.

Monitoring the financial position and ensuring that the organisation operates within its means and that there are clear lines of accountability for financial management

Ensuring that the resources of the organisation are used only to pursue legitimate objectives. Contributing to the Board's role of providing strategic direction and supporting the development of policies, goals and targets.

Maintaining the good name of the organisation. Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation. Participating in working groups as necessary.

Attending seminars and networking events when required.

Leading discussions and providing guidance on new initiatives, particularly in areas where the member has specific skills, knowledge or expertise.

Maintaining confidentiality about any sensitive or confidential information Regularly attending and taking a full part in meetings.

Skills and qualifications:

Commitment to the goals and aims of the organisation.

Dedication to the role and a willingness to devote the required time. Understanding the importance of carrying out required legal duties. Proven strategic abilities that can be used to create effective plans.

Strength of character coupled with the ability to voice concerns and opinions. Proven experience working as a member of successful teams.

Integrity and objectivity which can be applied to all aspects of the role.

We are particularly interested in applicants who have professional backgrounds in Policy Skills, HR, Finance, Housing and Governance but welcome applications from anyone with the passion and commitment to our cause.

Meetings are held either in a Central London venue or over Microsoft teams, on weekday evenings once a quarter.

The AGM is held in October and we usually have one strategy day a year in the spring.

To express an interest in the role and to be considered, please submit the following:

• A detailed and up-to-date CV.
• A supporting statement that addresses the criteria in the skills and experience section and also outlines your motivation for applying.

Organisation: Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau
Location: Glasgow (hybrid with some in-person commitments)
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Time commitment: Approx. 1–2 days per month

Charity Recruit is proud to be partnering with Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau (GNWCAB) to appoint a new Chair to lead its experienced and committed Board.

GNWCAB is an independent charity providing free, impartial and confidential advice to people across the North West of Glasgow. The Bureau supports thousands of people each year on matters ranging from debt and welfare rights to housing, employment and immigration. Their impact is local, but their reach connects directly with the wider Citizens Advice Scotland network and its national campaigns.

Following a period of growth and strategic development, GNWCAB is now preparing for a major premises change and the next chapter of its delivery. The incoming Chair will provide thoughtful and engaged leadership during this transition, ensuring robust governance and helping to shape the future of this essential frontline service.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about social justice and empowering communities. You’ll bring a strong track record of organisational leadership, an understanding of charity governance and a collaborative, inclusive approach to working with fellow Trustees and the senior leadership team.

Experience chairing Boards or Committees is welcome, but not essential. What matters most is your ability to listen, lead with clarity, and provide strategic oversight through a period of change.

GNWCAB is proud of the diversity of its community and welcomes applications from individuals from all backgrounds. Local insight or lived experience of the issues GNWCAB tackles would be especially valued.

To support a smooth transition, a full induction period is planned where the incoming Chair will serve as a Trustee and shadow the current Chair until autumn 2025.

To apply
Please click the Apply button to be redirected to Charity Recruit where you’ll find details of how to express your interest. If you’d prefer an informal conversation first, we’d love to hear from you.

About Charity Recruit
We specialise in leadership recruitment for the charity and not-for-profit sector. Whether you’re looking for your next meaningful role or hiring a values-driven leader, we understand the challenges and opportunities unique to this space. Our approach is thoughtful, tailored and rooted in a genuine commitment to the sector’s impact. 

Join Us as Treasurer at Mind in Enfield and Barnet

Help shape the financial future of a growing mental health charity
Are you a finance professional with a passion for social impact? Do you want to use your skills to support a thriving, values-led organisation making a real difference in people's lives?

Mind in Enfield and Barnet (MiEB) is seeking a Treasurer to join its Board of Trustees and provide strategic financial oversight as they continue to grow and innovate in mental health support.

About MiEB
MiEB is a dynamic local mental health charity, proudly affiliated with the national Mind federation but operating independently. Since its merger in 2021, they have expanded significantly - supporting over 5,000 people annually and growing income to £2.19 million in 2023/24.

MiEB is Led by Lived Experience, with over 75% of staff having personal experience of mental health challenges. Its services span therapy, wellbeing, advocacy, and crisis support, and they remain committed to equity, empowerment, and real change.

The Role: Treasurer
As Treasurer, you will play a vital role in ensuring MiEB's financial health, sustainability, and transparency. You will:
* Guide and advise the Board on financial strategy, budgeting, and risk management
* Chair the Finance & HR Sub-Committee, ensuring robust oversight of financial and operational matters
* Support the Head of Finance and CEO, offering expert insight and challenge on financial planning and reporting
* Ensure compliance with charity and company law, and that financial statements meet statutory and funder requirements
* Champion good governance, transparency, and accountability across the organisation

Who We're Looking For
We're seeking someone with:
* A professional finance qualification or equivalent senior-level financial management experience
* A strong understanding of charity finance and governance
* Experience managing complex budgets and financial reporting
* The ability to communicate financial information clearly to non-financial audiences
* Experience of chairing meetings and working collaboratively with senior teams

Previous experience as a Treasurer is welcome but not essential - you will be supported with induction, training, and mentoring.

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

Recruitment timeline:
Closing Date: Monday 29th September 2025, 5:00 p.m.

To apply, please send a CV/Profile to Senior Appointments at Charity People in the first instance to request the full candidate pack.

For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please email Fabrice Yala or Senior Appointments at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Location: Fully flexible / Remote – open to applicants anywhere in the UK

Time Commitment: Approx. 2–4 hours per month (may be more during start-up and registration phase)

About Us

Unseen Expeditions UK is a newly forming Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) supporting mission-led charities and expedition projects across the UK and internationally. Our flagship initiative, The Unseen Mile, is a 4.5-year journey covering 25,000 miles across 37 countries. Through this and future projects, we aim to inspire, raise awareness for important causes, and share unique storytelling and learning experiences from the field.

We are currently recruiting our initial trustee board to help launch and register the charity.

Role Overview

We are seeking a Media Trustee to join our board and lead the charity’s media strategy and content creation. This trustee will help share the charity’s projects, expeditions, and mission with a wide audience, while having the freedom to retain their work for personal portfolio use.

Key Responsibilities

· Develop and oversee the charity’s media strategy:

· Create or advise on multimedia content (photo, video, audio, digital)

· Support engagement with media outlets and online audiences

· Advise on storytelling, branding, and public-facing communications

· Assist with reporting and media-related updates to stakeholders

· Contribute to trustee meetings and governance

· Delegate to editing volunteers within the Media Committee

· Help guide the charity through its registration and initial set-up

Person Specification & Requirements:

· Experience or interest in media production, content creation, or storytelling

· Strong communication and creative skills

· Commitment to the mission and values of Unseen Expeditions and its partnered charities

· Ability to work collaboratively with a small, remote trustee team

· Comfortable working remotely and communicating online with a UK-wide board

· UK-based (required for legal trustee responsibilities)

· 2–4 hours per month commitment (more during start-up if possible)

· Basic tools for communication (email, phone, video calls)

What You’ll Gain:

· Opportunity to shape and govern a new, high-profile charity from launch

· Hands-on experience in charity leadership and governance

· Contribution to awareness-raising and adventure-led impact projects

· Recognition for your role in mission-driven initiatives, including The Unseen Mile and future projects

· Flexible, fully remote role within a passionate, purpose-driven team

· Permission to retain media content created for personal portfolio or professional use

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

Recovery Partners are a small user-led mental health charity working across East Sussex. All of our staff have lived experience of mental health challenges. Our Peer Support Specialists are trained, employed and supported to inspire others in wellbeing and recovery. We offer services to individuals and groups.

We are at an exciting and pivotal stage in our journey. As we grow and strengthen our peer support approach within our communities, we are looking to broaden the skills and perspectives of our trustees.

What will you be doing?

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.

Trustees also ensure the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the charity to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time commitment estimated 8 hours per month.

What are we looking for?

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

We are particularly interested in hearing from people with the following experience:

· HR

· Fundraising

· Digital

· Legal

· Voluntary sector

Whether you have previous trustee experience or this would be your first governance role, your passion for mental health, commitment to equality, inclusion, and willingness to contribute your time and expertise are what matter most. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds — and especially encourage people with lived experience of mental health issues and recovery or other disability to apply. 

What difference will you make?

Recovery Partners is more than a service — it is part of a movement for change in mental health and recovery services, led by people who’ve been there. 

As a Treasurer, you will help us: 

· Champion the voice of lived/living experience 

· Strengthen our governance and strategic planning 

· Ensure the long-term sustainability and impact of our work 

· Uphold our values of compassion, inclusion, and empowerment

MenWalkTalk has been developing at a pace and is now looking for new Trustees to help strengthen the Board to continue the growth.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that MenWalkTalk achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity ensuring that MenWalkTalk has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable MenWalkTalk to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that Trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

• Support and provide advice on MenWalkTalk’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.
• Oversee MenWalkTalk’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.
• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
• Review and approve MenWalkTalk’s financial statements.
• Provide support and challenge to MenWalkTalk’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
• Contribute to regular reviews of MenWalkTalk’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect MenWalkTalk’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
• Contribute to the broader promotion of MenWalkTalk’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when the Trustees will need to be actively involved beyond Board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

What we are looking for

We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. The ideal candidates will have 3 or more years previous governance experience in the UK charity sector.

Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

• Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

• Attending 6-9 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held remotely each month.
• Attending 2 annual strategy / training days

Committee membership

Membership of at least one of the Trustee committees attending relevant meetings and reporting back to the Board.

The Charity Evaluation Working Group is a community of 300+ charity sector evaluators. Our mission to empower charities, (and other purpose-driven organisations), to create positive change through effective evaluation.

We are looking for passionate individuals to join our board as trustees and chair / co-chairs. This is a unique opportunity to lead our next chapter and strengthen our community.

We’re specifically looking to recruit people who are not only passionate about the use of data and evidence, but bring a wider range of skills to the board, including;

• research and evaluation
• income generation
• comms and marketing
• advocacy and influence

Our trustees are based across the UK, so all of our meetings are online. We’re a small charity, which means that we’re looking for people who are happy to be hands-on.

We would like to maintain the diversity of our board and therefore would particularly like to hear from people from the global majority, lower socioeconomic backgrounds, disabled people and those from other marginalised groups. We’re open to new perspectives and ways of thinking, so you don’t necessarily need to have worked in the third sector, understand evaluation, or have experience of being a trustee before.

For more information and to apply for these roles, please visit our website.

We are accepting applications until 5pm, Monday 22nd September 2025.

TREASURER (TRUSTEE)

Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:

• Can this be stopped?

• How do I (or my child) live this life?

Our charity exists to address both questions. We are the only significant national funder with the efficiency, capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.

We are now seeking a new Treasurer. This is an exciting point for us, and our new Treasurer will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.

We have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes this such an important and exciting role for the right person.

As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.

If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”

Dr Heather Giles, Chair

ABOUT US

Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.

It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’

Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.

Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

We have funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.

OUR FINANCES

The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will also chair our Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources (FARR) committee.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Planning

- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.

- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.

Governance

- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.

Engagement

- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.

Evaluation and Accountability

- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.

- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.

Key Responsibilities of the Treasurer

- Chair the Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee, ensuring effective scrutiny and oversight.

- Provide strategic financial leadership and ensure that appropriate financial controls and risk management frameworks are in place.

- Ensure compliance with statutory reporting and regulatory requirements in partnership with the executive.

- Act as a trusted advisor to the Chief Financial Officer and offer guidance to fellow trustees on financial matters.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Specialist experience

We are particularly interested in candidates who have:

- A recognised financial qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

- Experience of senior financial leadership – ideally as a CFO, COO, FD, or equivalent

- A sound understanding of finance, audit, and investment management

General attributes

Knowledge & experience

- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.

Skills & abilities

- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.

- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.

- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.

Styles & behaviours

- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.

- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.

- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Remuneration 

This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.

Time commitment

While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:

- A minimum of four Board meetings per year

- A minimum of four subcommittee meetings per year

- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.

- Annual strategy day with full Board and executive team.

- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.

- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.

Location

At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.

HOW TO APPLY

If you have questions about the role and would find it helpful to have an informal conversation, please contact us at our trustee recruitment inbox and we will be happy to arrange a call.

To make an application, please send your CV and a supporting statement (max two pages) to our trustee recruitment inbox outlining your motivation for applying and how you meet the attributes outlined in the personal specification.

We hope you will consider making an application. Together, we can achieve extraordinary things.