Insights volunteer roles

​Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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

Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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

Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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

Vallis Farm Education Centre CIC is looking for volunteer Non-Executive Directors for our new Education Centre CIC starting early in 2026! 

Company Description 

Vallis Farm Education Centre CIC (based in Frome, Somerset), is intending to provide day courses, DWP work placements, Skills Bootcamps, our own LANTRA-certified courses and apprenticeships, in horticulture and agroecology. We will also run a weekly youth group to improve nature connection amongst young people; encourage a healthy attitude to the outdoors and give them land-based skills that they will not learn at school. There will also be a ‘light touch’ element of ecology and wildlife to address more positively the challenges we now face with climate change. 

Our courses will be open to everyone of all ages; however, our primary focus will be on the provision of post-16 learning opportunities outside of ‘A’ levels and higher education; i.e. further education, work experience and land-based skills development to, ultimately, increase employability. 

Our work is guided by a passion for an education that suits all learners, a commitment to supporting everyone to achieve their potential and a desire to see increased employability for young people living in Frome and the surrounding areas. 

The Education Centre will be run by Vallis Farms Ltd Head of Land & Learning in conjunction with the Education Centre’s Operations Manager. The Head of Land & Learning will run the youth group and deliver teaching alongside other contracted instructors/teaching staff. The CIC will apply for funding to enable children, young people and adults to take educational courses who would normally self-exclude or be excluded due to lack of transport options or for financial reasons (e.g. a lack of funds to pay for a course or necessary equipment e.g. boots). 

Role Description 

We are looking for Non-Executive Directors to join our small and passionate board of three people. 

This is a voluntary role suitable for individuals who, like us, care deeply about an education provision for all, and are also eager to contribute to shaping the future direction of the Education Centre. You don’t need to have previous board experience or formal qualifications - we’re looking for people with experience in either education (ideally secondary level or above), budget/finance management and reporting, monitoring and evaluation or charity governance, and have a desire to share your experience and skills.

As a Non-Executive Director, you will: 

• Participate in board meetings (in-person in Frome) as often as is necessary to effectively carry out board duties and govern the CIC. The frequency can be decided by the board once convened, but will be quarterly at most 

• Help guide Vallis Farm Education Centre’s strategy and priorities 

• Ensure the CIC has effective leadership, strong accountability systems and effective policies and procedures to ensure it always meets its legal obligations and serves its stated community purpose 

• Offer insight, challenge, and support to ensure good governance 

• Act as an ambassador for our mission to improve post-16 provision in our area and help us build connections 

• Contribute your lived experience, professional knowledge/experience, or community perspective to strengthen our education provision 

• Ensure no conflicts of interest occur during the delivery of the CIC’s business 

This role is ideal for individuals who want to leverage their skills and experience, passion, or learned perspective to drive positive change in further education and employability for the young people of Somerset. 

What We’re Looking For 

We welcome applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We ask that you bring: 

• An interest in improving accessibility to high quality further education 

• Experience (professional or personal) in at least one of the following four areas: 

• Education 

• Budget/financial management 

• Monitoring and evaluation (progress and impact) 

• Charity governance 

• Operational and/or company management experience 

• Creative ideas, strategic thinking, or problem-solving skills 

• A willingness to learn, listen, and contribute as part of a supportive team 

Key Details 

• Role type: Voluntary 

• Location: Frome, Somerset 

• Commitment: Up to 4 board meetings per year, plus occasional input between meetings 

• Start date: Flexible, February/March 2026

The Africa Health Organisation (AHO) seeks to engage in bidding and tendering to deliver health and social care services effectively.  Our goal is to ensure sustainability and positively impact the lives of more people.  We want assistance in developing an ambitious strategy.

What will you be doing?

We are excited to announce an incredible opportunity for a talented Bid Manager to join our passionate team at the Africa Health Organisation (AHO)!  Since 1999, we've been dedicated to delivering health and social care to millions across Africa and the Diaspora, and now we're ready to further elevate our impact.

This year, we're embarking on a mission to broaden our funding strategy by incorporating bid and tender opportunities.  Our goal is to engage with governments in Africa and the UK, the public sector, and the public, providing essential, practical, and emotional support to those facing chronic conditions.  We need a visionary like you to help us achieve our goals.

We're seeking a dynamic, experienced Bid Manager to develop and execute a winning strategy to secure the necessary financial backing.  There are numerous exciting possibilities ahead, including central government tenders, local and statutory opportunities.  We're eager to explore them all.

In this pivotal role, you'll plan and execute our bids and tender writing efforts, ensuring that our bid proposals not only shine but also come to life in meaningful ways.  If you're a bid writer who thrives on creativity and collaboration, we want to hear from you!  Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to inspire and mentor volunteers within our bid and tender team, making a positive impact together.  Join us on this exciting journey!

Key Duties and Responsibilities

The Role Description:

Bid Management: Lead and manage the entire bid and tender process, ensuring submissions meet deadlines and align with client requirements across the UK & Ireland.

Proposal Development: Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop tailored, high-quality, and persuasive proposals that align with our value proposition.

Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with sales, operations, legal, and clinical teams to gather critical input and ensure accurate, compliant, and compelling submissions.

Market Analysis: Stay informed on market trends, tender opportunities, and competitor activity to identify and secure strategic opportunities.

Compliance: Ensure all submissions adhere to company standards, client specifications, and relevant regulatory requirements.

Process Improvement: Continuously refine bid processes, content libraries, templates, and tools to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

Post-Submission Activities: Manage debrief processes and gather feedback to inform future submissions.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead AHO bids: Manage the whole bid process with a hands-on approach.
• Create strong responses: Tailor solutions that clearly show our value.
• Support growth: Work with Business Development and Marketing to boost propositions.
• Drive best practice: Lead bid qualification, governance, and reviews.
• User-focused: Understand needs and clearly present our solutions.
• Know the landscape: Medical, research industries, and opportunities.
• Know our strengths: Stay sharp on our services and competitors.
• Seal the deal: Coordinate smooth contract closures.
• Stay tidy: Keep the bid library updated and accessible.
• Keep comms clear: Align stakeholders throughout the process.
• Stay compliant: Follow governance and secure approvals.
• Push for quality: Lead reviews to ensure high-standard submissions.
• Maintain the opportunity pipeline: utilising CRM and creating reports for management.
• Taking the lead on other business development activities, such as award submissions, whitepapers, and sales collateral.
• Supporting every stage of the sales funnel: by working closely with marketing, sales, implementation, and operations teams.

What are we looking for?

Person Specification: What You'll Bring:

• At least two years of proven experience in bid and tender management, preferably within the healthcare (NHS & private), medical, or technology sectors.
• End-to-end bid management experience: A minimum of 4 years' experience leading the whole bid process.
• Preferred qualifications include a degree in Business, Communication, Marketing, Creative Writing, English or equivalent.
• APMP Certification is also desirable.
• Sector versatility: Experience with both public- and private-sector bids in the medical, biotech, biomed, health, and social sectors is preferred.
• Industry knowledge: Understanding of contact centres and/or customer experience is essential.
• Commercial acumen: Strong business sense, negotiation skills, and a hands-on approach.
• Resilience under pressure: Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Detail orientation: High attention to detail to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Growth mindset: Self-motivated, proactive, and focused on continuous improvement.
• Strong communicator: Confident and articulate, with the ability to build trusted relationships across stakeholders.
• Time management: Skilled at prioritising tasks and managing competing deadlines.

What difference will you make?

In this exciting role, you will lead the strategic process for winning new business through competitive bids, tenders, and proposals, ultimately elevating AHO's success. Your specialised knowledge will enhance our win rates and maximise revenue by bringing clarity, quality, and coordination to what can be a complex and high-stakes journey. impact

Your primary mission is to boost AHO's tender win rates and strengthen our strategic advantage.  By diligently overseeing each step of the bidding process—from initial evaluation to final submission—you will significantly improve the quality and persuasion of our proposals, directly increasing our chances of securing valuable contracts.

You'll provide key insights to help AHO target the most promising opportunities by implementing a thoughtful "bid/no-bid" process.  This approach will ensure we focus only on lucrative and winnable contracts that closely align with our strategic goals, ultimately saving time and resources and allowing us to prioritise high-potential projects.

In this role, you will orchestrate a well-coordinated process that drives operational efficiency.  As the central point of contact, you will gather input from diverse internal teams—sales, finance, legal, and technical—ensuring everyone collaborates smoothly to meet critical deadlines.

As a leader, you'll elevate the quality of our bid content.  By overseeing the creation of compelling, polished materials, you'll ensure our final submissions are professional, cohesive, and error-free. You will utilise a centralised content library containing valuable resources, such as case studies and CVs, to streamline efforts and enhance our proposals.

You will keep projects on track by developing detailed project plans and timelines, ensuring all tasks are completed on time—especially critical in the fast-paced environment of tender submissions.  Your effective management will ease colleagues' workloads, allowing the entire team to shine.

To foster long-term business growth, you'll create a wealth of knowledge around our tenders and bids. By conducting insightful post-submission debriefs and analysing feedback, you will capture invaluable lessons from both successes and setbacks.  This ongoing improvement process will enhance our bidding capabilities for future opportunities.

You also have the opportunity to enhance AHO's brand reputation by submitting well-organised, accurate, and compliant bids.  By doing so, you'll showcase our professionalism and reliability to clients, building trust and solidifying our credible standing in the market.

Strategic alignment is vital for sustaining consistent, stable business growth.  Together, we can make a remarkable impact on development.

We need new dynamic trustee at add value to our Charity Community Transport Waltham Forest is a vital local charity dedicated to combating transport poverty and social isolation, we are a mobile community, fostering connection and enabling independence. 

What will you be doing?

For many in Waltham Forest, a simple bus ride isn't simple at all. For our service users—older adults, people with disabilities, and those isolated by lack of mobility—our community transport is a lifeline. It’s a journey to a doctor's appointment, a trip to the shops for fresh food, and a vital connection to community and family. It is the difference between isolation and inclusion.

As a trustee, you will be the strategic force that secures and strengthens this lifeline. Your guidance will directly impact our ability to grow and serve. You will help us navigate the complex landscape of health and social care integration, ensuring our services are not just a transport option, but a recognised and funded part of the local care ecosystem. Your strategic insight will shape our long-term plans, helping us identify new opportunities, manage risks, and ensure our financial sustainability for years to come.

Most importantly, you will bring the crucial lens of "lived experience." Whether from a personal or professional background, your understanding of the real-world challenges faced by those who rely on health and social care services will ensure our decisions are grounded, empathetic, and truly meet the needs of our community. You will be the voice that reminds the board why we do what we do, ensuring every strategic move we make translates into a safer, more reliable, and more dignified journey for our passengers. By joining us, you won't just sit in meetings; you will help steer the vehicle that drives our community forward.

What are we looking for?

We are particularly seeking applicants with professional OR lived experience in one or more of the following areas:

Strategic Planning: Proven experience in developing and implementing long-term strategies, whether in a commercial, public, or voluntary sector context. You are a big-picture thinker who can help navigate complexity.

Health Sector: A background in the NHS, public health, or health commissioning, with an understanding of community-based care models, patient pathways, and funding streams.

Social Care: Experience in adult social care, either as a professional, service user, or carer, with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable adults and the social care landscape in Waltham Forest.

Essential

· A commitment to the mission and values of Community Transport Waltham Forest.

· The ability to think strategically and exercise independent judgement.

· Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

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

· Lived experience of, or a deep empathy for, the mobility and access challenges faced by our service users.

What You Will Gain:

This is a rewarding opportunity to use your skills to make a tangible difference in your local community. You will gain valuable board-level experience, develop new skills, and work alongside a passionate team of trustees and staff dedicated to a common cause.

Before You Apply

We will be evaluating all applicants against:

Motivation

Understanding of role of trustee

Relevant Skills and Expertise

Applications will be processed through completed forms and CV's submitted  Discussion meetings with Chair and Treasurer to be arranged to provide background to the Charity All applicants will be invited to attend a management committee meeting to meet other members and discuss their role in supporting the work of the Charity

Clearly state your reasons for applying and show genuine enthusiasm for Community Transport Waltham Forest  mission. 

Demonstrate transferable skills from your professional or personal life to show what you can contribute, even if you don't have direct trustee experience. 

Demonstrate an understanding of a trustee's legal duties and the principle of public benefit.

Show that you are a good cultural fit and are willing to be an active participant in discussions.

Express a willingness to learn and be open to new information

​Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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

Are you a dog lover with room in your home to look after a dog during evenings and weekends? This could be the perfect role for you!

As a Training Dog Fosterer, you’ll provide a loving temporary home to a dog in training, typically for a period of 12 to 20 weeks, as they begin their journey to become a guide dog. You’ll get to see the progress your furry companion is making in their training and be a vital part of their journey, without the commitment of looking after a dog full time.

What you’ll be doing:

In this rewarding role, your support for a guide dog in training will include:

• Doing the school run for your dog in training! This will typically involve dropping them off and picking them up at an agreed time Monday to Friday at one of our regional centres or community teams, however, some sites may vary. There are some locations where we will be able to collect and return the training dog from your home. 
• Caring for your dog in your home such as feeding, grooming, free running and playing, following the advice of our expert staff.
• Helping your dog keep up with their training by reinforcing the techniques at home from our first-class training programme.
• Making sure your dog is not left alone for more than four hours in a 24-hour period. If you’re planning on going on holiday, let us know at your initial phone call so we can plan alternative cover for your future life changer.

Can I foster a dog?

If you’re hoping to foster a guide dog in training, here’s what we ideally look for:

• Being close to one of our regional centres or community teams so that your dog can get to their training. 
• The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in your home if you rent your home.
• A safe and secure area outside for the dog to go to the toilet.

However, we try to be flexible – for example, you’ll still be able to foster a dog if you live in London, even if you don’t have access to outside space. 

What you’ll get:

• The opportunity to have a lovable canine companion!
• The satisfaction in knowing you’re supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well.
• The rewarding feeling of seeing your dog learn new training techniques to help them develop into a guide dog.
• An insight into our bespoke world-class training programme so that your dog’s training stays consistent at home, which can also help you train your own dogs or advance in a future career in dog handling.
• The opportunity to be part of the Guide Dogs community, meeting like-minded people in your area.
• A dedicated volunteer manager and fellow peers who will help support you throughout your role.

Training and support

You’ll attend a training workshop to understand the basics of our bespoke training techniques so you can confidently support your dog’s training at home. You’ll also receive ongoing guidance from your volunteer manager. If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your initial phone call along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.

Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any pre-agreed expenses related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, dog food costs and other materials needed for your dog’s training.

Minimum age for volunteer is 18.

We also have a respite fosterer role available in some areas, where a dog would stay with you full time before moving on to the next stage of its journey.

Please check out our website to see what roles are available where you live.

Become a Trustee at Dougie Mac Hospice ��

Help shape the future of outstanding palliative and end-of-life care across  Staffordshire

Dougie Mac Hospice is looking to appoint new Trustees to join our Board and support the effective leadership, governance and long-term sustainability of our organisation.

For over 50 years, Dougie Mac has provided specialist, compassionate care for local people living with life-limiting conditions. Today, we are a multi-faceted, all-age hospice supporting children, young people, adults and families across Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire. With over 500 staff, 700 volunteers, and an annual cost of more than £23 million, strong governance has never been more important.

We are seeking individuals who share our commitment to our values — Compassion, Accountability, Respect and Excellence — and who can bring insight, challenge and support to help us deliver our vision of being a centre of excellence in palliative and end-of-life care.

�� What Does a Trustee Do?

As a Trustee of Dougie Mac, you will play a key role in ensuring the hospice is well-governed, financially resilient and able to meet the needs of our community now and in the future. Trustees collectively:

• Provide strategic leadership and help shape organisational priorities.
• Ensure our resources are used effectively and in line with charitable objectives.
• Oversee organisational performance, risk management and financial sustainability.
• Support and challenge the Executive Team to deliver high-quality care.
• Uphold our values and safeguard the reputation of the hospice.
• Act as ambassadors for Dougie Mac in the community and within their networks.

This is a voluntary role that requires integrity, sound judgement, teamwork and a genuine commitment to supporting excellent hospice care.

�� Who Are We Looking For?

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, skills and lived experiences. You do not need previous trustee experience — just the right mindset, values and ability to contribute at Board level.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with experience in:

• Senior leadership or board-level decision-making
• Strategy, governance or risk management
• Healthcare, palliative care or wider public sector services
• Finance, investment or commercial management
• HR, workforce, organisational development or culture
• Digital, data or information governance
• Community engagement, fundraising or voluntary sector work

Above all, you should bring curiosity, integrity, compassion, and the confidence to both support and constructively challenge.

⏰ Time Commitment

Trustees are expected to attend:

• 4 Board Meetings per year
• 2–4 Committee or Trading Board meetings
• The AGM
• The Annual Trustee Away Day

Additional preparation time and occasional hospice events are also expected.
Out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

�� Training & Support

You will receive a full induction into the role and ongoing access to training, including mandatory governance modules and development opportunities. Trustees are well supported to thrive in their role.

�� Why Join Dougie Mac?

As a Trustee, you will:

• Make a real, lasting difference to local families at the most difficult times in their lives.
• Help shape services across a unique all-age hospice.
• Join a values-driven Board that works collaboratively and respectfully.
• Become part of a warm, passionate, community-centred organisation.

�� How to Apply

If you are inspired by our mission and believe you can contribute to the future of Dougie Mac, we would love to hear from you. See attached Trustee Application Pack. 

�� For more information, please contact:
Wendy Dale, Assistant to Hospice Board

Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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

Who They Are
UWTSD Students’ Union represents and supports every student at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David. Known as “the people in purple,” the Union is dedicated to helping students make the most of their university experience.

From the moment a student applies to UWTSD through to graduation, the Union is by their side. Through a wide range of services and opportunities, it helps students connect with others, understand their strengths, and find their place within the university and the wider world.

As a proudly student-led charity, the Students’ Union has more than 15,630 members — every enrolled student becomes a member automatically. The Union aims to be the trusted friend who understands the student journey and helps guide them through it.

The Role
The Students’ Union is seeking a Trustee with strong experience in marketing and commercialisation. This individual will help bridge the organisation’s charitable mission with its commercial activities, ensuring that those activities remain financially robust, strategically aligned, ethically managed, and effectively marketed.

The successful candidate will demonstrate enthusiasm for UWTSD’s democratic, student-led values and be confident in offering independent, well-informed judgment in support of the organisation’s best interests.

Key elements of the role include:

• Working with the Board and senior management to shape a commercial strategy aligned with the Union’s mission, offering specialist support to the Design and Communications team

• Supporting brand development and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the Union’s values and impact are clearly communicated

• Overseeing compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory requirements across marketing, communications, and commercial activity

• Contributing to financial sustainability through governance, budget oversight, and risk management

• Championing performance measurement for commercial activity and working with SMT and the Design and Communications team to support risk management

• Bringing strong marketing, communications, and digital expertise, alongside excellent interpersonal skills and an understanding of the charity sector

• Offering strategic thinking, financial literacy, analytical skills, and supportive leadership to management

What They’re Looking For
The organisation has faced several challenges affecting the development of its venue, including sector-wide pressures in higher education and hospitality, alongside building maintenance issues.

However, a new opportunity has emerged: the venue can now become a central social space for students living on campus, hosting vibrant events and strengthening community life. With campus accommodation at full capacity, this is an ideal moment to build strong relationships with students and turn the venue into a thriving hub — while also establishing a reliable secondary income stream for the Students’ Union, enabling greater reinvestment in student activities and experiences.

A Marketing & Commercialisation Trustee therefore plays a pivotal role. They will guide and oversee the charity’s design and communications sub-strategy, ensuring alignment with organisational goals. They will broaden the Union’s reach, enhance visibility and engagement, and support financial sustainability through commercial insight. This includes analysing commercial plans, supporting operational efficiency, ensuring sound financial governance, and contributing to performance measurement and risk management.

In essence, the Trustee acts as the critical link between the Union’s charitable purpose and its commercial ambitions, ensuring all commercial activity is strategic, ethical, financially viable, and effectively promoted.

What Difference They Will Make
Students’ Unions are dynamic, people-centred organisations. As the Marketing and Commercialisation Trustee, the individual appointed will help shape the future direction and growth of UWTSD Students’ Union. Their expertise will support income generation, strengthen financial resilience, and ensure communications remain impactful and engaging.

The Union supports every UWTSD student from application to graduation, helping them connect, grow, and find where they belong. As a student-led charity with more than 15,600 members, it delivers free support through its Voice, Opportunities, and Advice teams — all dedicated to enhancing the student experience.

Mavar is currently seeking a seasoned networker to join the Mavar Trustee Board as a Trustee with special responsibilities for strengthening our fundraising practice and broadening the charity’s donor base. Working with our Board and CEO, you’ll bring experience, insight and strategic guidance to help develop our fundraising capacity in support of the strategic development of the charity.

Mavar’s Mission

Founded on the belief that everyone has the right to choose their own path in life, Mavar’s central mission is to empower individuals who choose to explore opportunities beyond the strictly orthodox community to fulfil personal goals. Mavar supports our members’ efforts to achieve independence, live authentically and cope with the obstacles they may encounter as they explore options to live, work or study in the secular world – whether or not they choose to leave the Charedi community.

Trustee Role Details

The day-to-day operations of Mavar are conducted by staff and volunteers under the leadership of our CEO and with the overall oversight of the Trustee Board.

Main Duties of the Fundraising Trustee:

• Contribute to the overall governance of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees.
• Provide advice and support on fundraising strategy, ensuring income generation is planned and executed in alignment with Mavar’s budget framework and objectives.
• Act as a fundraising champion on Mavar’s board, working with the CEO and supporting other trustees to explore fundraising possibilities.
• If you have personal networks with fundraising potential, utilise them to support the work of the charity.
• Support the development of diverse fundraising streams (e.g. individual giving, trusts and foundations, community fundraising, corporate support) and advise and support with appeals and major fundraising events/campaigns.
• Act as an ambassador for the charity, promoting its work and helping to raise its profile.
• Ensure compliance with fundraising regulation and best practice, as well as Mavar’s policies and procedures. You are expected to give at least one day per month to your role. Board meetings take place four times a year in London, with a mixture of online and in-person meetings and are complemented by occasional online or in-person feedback meetings with the CEO and the Treasurer.

Person Specification

Essential

• Commitment to the charity’s mission and values
• Understanding of the legal duties and responsibilities of charity trusteeship
• Knowledge and experience of fundraising (e.g. trusts, corporates, major donors, community fundraising, or digital campaigns)
• Strategic thinker, able to balance long-term planning with practical advice
• Strong communication and networking skills

Desirable

• Experience of charity fundraising
• Existing networks that could support the charity’s fundraising efforts
• Understanding of charity finance and/or marketing
• Familiarity with Jewish cultural context

Next Steps and Timeline

If you are interested in this role, please contact the Chair of the Trustee Board to arrange an informal chat.

If you would like to make a formal application, please send a CV and cover letter outlining your qualifications, relevant expertise and interest in Mavar’s mission to the above. Please put your name and the role you are applying for in the subject line.

Context: Mavar’s Service Users

Some men and women who have grown up in the closed world of the Charedi community hold personal and religious values that are not in line with the rest of the community. Attempts to follow their own path often bring them into direct confrontation with family, friends and neighbours who regard expressions of individualism or self-determination as heresy. These individuals fear that the community will ostracise them, leaving them feeling trapped, isolated and helpless.

Some may simply wish to explore options for obtaining a general education or improving their access to employment opportunities whilst wishing to remain within the ultra-orthodox community; others may look to divest themselves of the strictures of ultra-orthodoxy and to lead a more mainstream lifestyle. They all typically lack the everyday life skills to cope with the challenges of the secular world, which appears to them as a confusing, frightening and alien planet. Any effort to integrate with the outside, secular world is hampered by limited English language skills, cultural disorientation, lack of basic education or qualifications and negligible skills for employment.

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.

We're recruiting two non‑executive Co‑Directors to help guide Studio Lutalica's next chapter. You won't run day‑to‑day ops; you'll bring clear, values‑led oversight so our team can focus on impact.

ABOUT THE ROLE

Our Co-Directors form our board and are collectively responsible for the governance and strategic direction of Studio Lutalica. This is a non-executive role, akin to that of a trustee in a charity. You will play a crucial part in ensuring we remain true to our values, legally compliant, and financially sustainable, all while helping to steer our long-term vision. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of a ground-breaking design studio and contribute to our community impact.

SHARED RESPONSIBILITIES FOR ALL DIRECTORS

Strategic Leadership + Governance

• Contribute to the development and implementation of the organisation's strategic plan.
• Act in the company's best interests and in good faith to achieve its community purposes.
• Ensure the company complies with all legal and regulatory requirements for a CIC in Scotland.
• Exercise independent judgment and reasonable care, skill, and diligence in your duties.

Values and Ethics

• Champion our core values of intersectional feminism, trans inclusivity, and environmental justice in all decisions.
• Foster a culture of inclusivity, accountability, and wellbeing for the entire team.
• Uphold our commitment to design excellence and accessibility.

Operational Oversight

• Participate actively in quarterly board meetings and join our Governance + Finance subgroup meetings.
• Scrutinise board papers, ask critical questions, and contribute to collective decision-making.
• Avoid conflicts of interest and declare any interests in proposed transactions.

WHAT YOU'LL BRING

We're specifically looking to fill expertise gaps in Finance and Fundraising + Income Generation, though we welcome a diverse range of expertise and lived experience.

Finance

• Review budgets, management accounts, and financial statements prepared by the executive team.
• Ask constructive, challenging questions and highlight risks and trade‑offs.
• Ensure appropriate internal controls and policies exist and are followed.
• Advise on the financial implications of proposed strategies, projects, or partnerships.
• Stress‑test scenarios and support sensible reserves and risk policies.
• Provide assurance that statutory filings and CIC obligations are being met by management.

Fundraising + Income Generation

• Develop and oversee the execution of an ambitious and achievable fundraising strategy in collaboration with the team.
• Identify and research potential funding sources, including trusts, foundations, corporate partnerships, and public sector grants.
• Provide strategic guidance on the preparation of high-quality funding applications and proposals.
• Act as a champion for Studio Lutalica, helping to build and maintain relationships with key funders and stakeholders.
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on fundraising performance to the board, providing insight and recommendations.

DESIRABLE SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We always welcome additional expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Governance + Policy
• Creative Practice + Client Delivery
• Communications
• Legal
• People + Culture
• Impact Data + Measurement

TIME COMMITMENT

Co-Directors are expected to attend a 90-minute board meeting each quarter. In addition, you will be expected to join at least one of the subgroups which meets regularly. The total time commitment, including meeting preparation and subgroup work, is anticipated to be around 5-6 hours per month.

WHY STUDIO LUTALICA?

Join us at Studio Lutalica, where your skills in communications and partnerships will directly contribute to creating a more inclusive world. We’re a feminist and queer-led organisation dedicated to empowering underrepresented communities. By joining our team, you’ll be part of a workplace that values creativity, inclusivity, and collaboration.

​Who are Governors for Schools?

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

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

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

What’s involved?

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

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

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

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

Who can be a governor?

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

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

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

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

What’s the process?

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

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

Ongoing support

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