Investment Committee Member Volunteer Roles

About the Role

The Bridge Project is a well-established Bradford based charity with over 35 years’ experience delivering services and projects addressing a range of issues such as substance misuse, risk taking behaviours, relationships, housing, physical/mental health, and employment. We work with individuals, families, partners, and communities to improve people’s lives in a sustainable way, empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

We currently employ over 120 staff, 40% of whom are ‘experts by experience’ and have joined us through our volunteering programme.  We are recognised as being innovative and recovery focused, and our services have been highlighted nationally  as examples of best practice in the sector. Our portfolio of services and projects are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of our service users and our local communities. Currently this includes recovery focussed drug treatment services, housing and resettlement support, access to education, training, and employment (ETE), volunteering programmes, support for people engaged with criminal justice services and befriending/mentoring services for people with significant barriers to recovery and community reengagement.

What will you be doing?

Our Trustees play a pivotal role in governing the Bridge Project.  They are responsible for setting our strategic vision and priorities, ensuring our financial sustainability, and providing guidance and oversight to our operations. Our Board is committed to excellence, and we are looking for new individuals to bring fresh knowledge and experience to join us in this important work.  We’re committed to creating a Board which is representative of the communities we support, bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help shape what we do and how we work.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds and from woman, however, we would be pleased to hear from you if you feel you can add value to our Board and would like to help us to make a positive contribution.  This is a rewarding role and you do not need to have experience of been a Trustee before, as there will be a comprehensive induction.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to bring commitment, energy and enthusiasm to the role with a passion for doing your best.  You will work alongside other talented Trustees, engage with our staff and stakeholders, and contribute to our collective mission of empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Bridge Project achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that 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 senior leadership team to enable The Bridge Project to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time Commitment

We ask that you are able to devote time to attend 4 Trustee Board meetings per year, 4 Sub-Committee meetings per year and 1 Planning meeting.  These are a mixture of in-person meetings in Bradford and zoom meetings.  Meetings are currently held in the evening.  Trustees are also encouraged to visit our premises to meet with the staff team and meet the people we support.

What Difference will you make?

You will be joining a friendly, highly engaged, and passionate group of likeminded Trustees who are keen to deepen the impact of the Bridge Project in local communities.  As a Trustee, you will have a real opportunity to offer your unique skill set to help the strategic direction of the charity and directly contribute to these objectives.

You will collectively be responsible for ensuring that the Chief Officer and his team not only grow our services to meet everyone that needs them, but that the service we provide is of the highest quality.  Last year we provided treatment and support to 4,900 individuals.

You will also have an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the voluntary and community sector and give something back to the local community as well as developing new skills.

Job Title: Trustee (3 roles) – with one or more areas of core expertise 

Responsible to: The Board of Trustees

Salary: Non-salaried post 

Level of commitment required: 4 Main meetings a year (evenings) and 1 full day.  The member may also be linked to a sub-committee who meet prior to each main meeting. Additional time may be assigned to visit staff and the offices and for reading and additional research. 

Genuine Occupational Requirement: Must strongly align with the charity’s Vision, Mission and Values. 

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

The Baca Charity is currently looking for Trustees with expertise in at least one of the following areas: 

• Property /social housing expertise including an understanding of housing law, regulations and property market/trends.
• Education – access to education, apprenticeship, progression to FE or HE education to facilitate development of opportunities to support vulnerable people towards employment / entrepreneurship. Safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults.
• Relational Fundraising and Financial Governance.

PERSON SPECIFICATION 

Knowledge 

• Good understanding of the role and function of a Charity Trustee role
• Expert in specific area of Charitable Operation (see areas of Technical Expertise listed in Job Description above)
• Good understanding of the nature of challenges and or opportunities linked to the work carried out by Baca is desirable.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship 

Experience 

• Lived experience as an individual who has sought refuge, been trafficked and experience of the immigration system is highly desirable.
• Experience of being a Trustee in charitable organisation is desirable but not essential. 
• Experience of working in teams, contributing to strategic decision making in a group is desirable.

Skills and Abilities 

• Strong ability to think strategically is essential
• Ability to communicate your ideas verbally and in writing to other board members 
• Ability to relate to others with cultural sensitivity 
• Capacity for self-reflection and active learning is essential.
• Ability to work in a team 
• Ability to analyse information, make decisions and influence others 

 Personal Qualities 

• Ability to behave in line with values of the organisation and therefore a strong role model that represents Baca with integrity is essential.
• Be willing to undertake training in the role is essential.
• A team player, able to encourage and maintain focus during periods of pressure.
• Commitment to equal opportunities and diversity in the workplace.
• A willingness to meet the minimum time commitment 
• Qualities of Integrity, Selflessness, Objectivity, Accountability, Openness, Honesty and Leadership is essential.
• Motivated by compassion.
• An ability to think strategically. 
• Good, independent judgement.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Willingness to speak their mind.
• An ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to take decisions for the good of Baca.
• Capacity for self-reflection and active learning 

Applicants must be willing to undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. 

LEVEL OF COMMITMENT 

All trustees are required to attend quarterly evening and one full day Board meetings.  Board meetings usually take place at the Baca main office, Loughborough, Leicestershire. As appropriate, meetings could also take place virtually.

In addition to reading papers and preparing for meetings/conference calls, Trustees may be called upon for specific advice if they have particular expertise in a given area. 

According to their individual skills and experience, Trustees may also be invited to serve on Baca’s Finance or Staff & Young People Wellbeing Committees or on ad-hoc Working Groups. Committees meet quarterly, usually in advance of Board meetings. 

Further details of the role are contained in the Recruitment Pack.

Be the Chair or Deputy Chair of the outstanding Hospice of St Francis, Berkhamsted and help their ambition to double the reach of their care supported by establishing new partnerships and funding opportunities.

Applications close at Midnight on Monday 13th May 2024.

About Hospice of St Francis

The Hospice of St Francis was established 45 years ago in 1979 to provide free specialist care for patients, their families, and carers in Hertfordshire and Berkhamsted.

The Hospice is a highly respected and critically important community charity providing exceptional and essential services to its local communities. The importance of this care is reflected in the work of its staff and volunteers, and the support of loyal donors, fundraisers, and customers.

The work of the Hospice is mainly funded by donations, income from retail activities, legacies, grants, and interest on investments. NHS Grants for Hospice Care contribute 19% to total income. At year-end 31st March 2023, total income was £7.45 million. They employ 150 staff and have over 1,000 volunteers supporting their work.

About the roles.

To continue to provide care and support to patients, families, and carers, to meet the increasing complexity of conditions, need for services, and to deliver new and enhanced complementary supporting services, the Hospice of St Francis needs to think differently to consider where funding comes from.

The Hospice seeks a Chair and Deputy Chair who will continue the excellent work of the charity but also help to achieve their ambition to double the reach of their care and to assure the Hospice is funded sustainably now and for the future.

• Chair of the Board

The Chair is an ambassador and public face of the Hospice in partnership with the Chief Executive. Holding the Board and Chief Executive to account for the Charity’s mission and vision, the Chair will provide inclusive leadership to the Board of Trustees ensuring effective governance of the Charity.

• Deputy Chair of the Board

The Deputy Chair will provide support to the Chair of the Board in leadership and stewardship of the Charity. They will be a sounding board for the Chair and have a key responsibility to build constructive and collegiate relationships with the Chief Executive and the executive team. The role may include additional responsibilities such as Freedom to Speak Up Ambassador, to provide clear and transparent governance.

This is a supportive role working with Committee Chairs and the Trading Company Board to support the development of the charity strategy and in working with the People Governance Committee on succession planning and Trustee recruitment. It may also include undertaking assignments at the request of the Chair.

The Deputy is expected to support the Chair with performance reviews of Trustees to review their contribution to the Board and Committees. The Deputy with Committee Chairs will agree on the appropriate appraisal of the Chair.

The role also includes chairing meetings in the absence of the Chair of the Board and acting as an ambassador for the Hospice, promoting activities and engaging with Key Stakeholders on behalf of the Chair and Chief Executive if required.

Time Commitment

The time commitment for the Chair is anticipated to be around 2 -3 days per month based on time to review, prepare and chair four full board meetings, two away days and the AGM, regular meetings with the Chief Executive and Trustees, ad hoc projects and discussions with Stakeholders and potential partners and funders, visiting hospice and retail sites and attend events.

The Deputy Chair is likely to give up to 2 days per month based on attending four full board meetings, two away days and the AGM, ad hoc projects, visiting hospice and retail sites, attending events and serving as a member of up to two Committees.

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

Applications for this role close at Midnight on Monday 13th May 2024. 

Duration: 3 years rolling up to max 9 years

Location: Regents Park, central London

Salary: Unremunerated

Closing date: 28th April 2023

Trustee 

International Students House

Background

International Students House (the ‘House’ or ’ISH’) is one of the leading charities providing support and accommodation for international and UK undergraduate and postgraduate students, singles, couples and families, from over 85 nations studying at over 32 higher education degree awarding institutions.  It is one of the most diverse student residential communities in the UK.  The charity currently has over 350 students in residence in Regent’s Park and Balham and has plans to expand. You can find out more on our website. 

The ethos of the House is to create ‘a home away from home’ for students from all around the globe. Its main activities are the provision of scholarships, affordable housing, social activities and welfare support. To fund its charitable activities, the House manages a bar, a meetings & events operation, and a public entertainment business with a modern, medium-sized central London venue, 229.

The House is completely independent and receives no government or local authority funding.  Overall income last year (2021-22) was circa £6 million, and the charity has physical assets of around £100 million and a substantial investment fund.  It is financially self-supporting with multiple income generating streams and a professional and entrepreneurial management style to fulfil its mission.  The House employs around 90 employees from 35 different home nations.   Recent awards include best Student Accommodation in London 2018, Championing Diversity award 2019, Best Student Community Centre - Greater London 2020, and London Healthy Workplace Award 2021.  

ISH is looking for one or two trustees to join the Board of Governors (the “ Board”).  We are looking for individuals who have experience in the private, public or charitable sector and who can bring their entrepreneurial, management and governance skills to assist the charity in delivering its mission.  This is an exciting time to join the Board of a dynamic and friendly organisation.

Governance

The Board has a maximum of 12 Governors (“Trustees”).  It is supported by a Finance and Audit Committee, a Governance and Nominations Committee, an Investment Committee, a Property Strategy Committee, a Scholarship Committee, and a Student Management Committee.  The Patron is HRH Princess Royal.  Trustees are expected to serve on at least one of the named Committees in addition to the main Board.

The Board is responsible for:

• Setting the strategy, budget and policy framework of International Students House.
• Supporting the Chief Executive and Senior Management Team (SMT) in implementing the strategy and business plan.
• Overall good governance and ensuring full regulatory compliance. 
• Promoting the organisation externally.
• Assisting with fundraising activities when required. 

Role of a Trustee

The statutory duties of a trustee are to:

• Work with fellow Board members and SMT in setting the Charity’s strategic aims, ensuring that the necessary financial and other resources are in place for ISH to meet its objectives and review performance management.
• Provide leadership to the Charity within a framework of prudent and effective controls, which enable risks to be assessed and managed.
• Comply with its governing document, charity law, company law and all other relevant law, legislation and/or regulations; 
• Pursue its objectives as defined in its governing document; 
• Use its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objectives, and in doing so fulfils its purpose for the benefit of the public; 
• Maintain proper systems, procedures and controls and that they are kept under regular review. 
• Safeguard the good name and values of the ISH; and 
• Appoint the CEO and monitor their performance

Person Specification

International Students House intends to recruit trustees who will also be members of appropriate sub–committees and who may be prepared to occupy the posts of Chair and Vice Chair in the future. 

The successful candidates may come from a wide range of backgrounds and especially welcomed would be individuals with experience and knowledge of marketing, finance/accounting, or IT/digital. They will be able to provide a range of skills and experience, from the following areas:  

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of ISH.
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgment and work effectively as a board member.
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
• Financially astute with an understanding of charity financial management.
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
• Enthusiasm for our mission and vision.
• Willingness to lead according to our values.
• Understanding of other cultures and issues faced by international students in the UK.

ISH is committed to reflect the diversity of the communities it serves and therefore welcomes applications from everyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. All appointments will be made on merit, following a fair and transparent process.

Time Commitment

The Board meets four times a year and the Committees also meet on average four times a year. In addition, there are evening social events for our residents which Trustees will be invited to attend as these will give you the opportunity to meet our students and stakeholders. You would normally be expected to attend two of these events a year. All meetings are either in person at Regent’s Park, London or via video conferencing, on dates fixed 18 months in advance and are normally held at around 4.00 to 5.30 pm GMT.  All Trustees are subject to re-election after three years.

Remuneration

This position is unremunerated.

The Board meets four times a year and the sub-committees normally meet four times a year. In addition, there are many evening social events for our residents which Trustees will be invited to attend and which will give you the opportunity to meet our students and stakeholders. You would normally be expected to attend two of these events a year. All meetings are either in person at Regent’s Park, London or via video conferencing, on dates fixed 18 months in advance and are normally held at around 4.00 to 5.30 pm GMT.  All Trustees are subject to re-election after three years.

Remuneration

This position is unremunerated.

Application Process

Please apply with covering letter setting out how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role, no later than 28th April 2023.

We anticipate that interviews will be held week commencing 9th May 2023, with a view to the successful candidates taking up their posts at the Board meeting in June 2023. 

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.

About We Are Family 

We Are Family is an extraordinary peer support community for adopters and prospective adopters. We’re there for parents throughout their adoption journey. Online and in person, our parents’ groups, events, resources, podcasts and talks offer mutual support, information and inspiration to adopters and those considering adoption. We currently operate across Greater London and the Home Counties, with ambitions to scale nationally over the coming years. 

The Role

We Are Family is seeking to appoint a committed and motivated Treasurer who will work closely with the Board of Trustees and play an active part in the governance of the organisation’s finances.

This is a voluntary opportunity with associated Trustee expenses -  such as travel / childcare -  covered by We Are Family.  The Company Secretary can be based anywhere in the UK. 

Commitment

• We Are Family typically holds four Board meetings per year

• In addition to being involved in Board meetings, the Treasurer should expect to spend 8-10 hours each month on work related to the finances of the charity.

• The normal term of appointment for a Treasurer is three years, after which there is the opportunity to renew for a further three-year period. 

Skills and Experience 

In this role you will:

• Advise on the financial implications of We Are Family’s strategic plan.

• Be an active member of the We Are Family Finance, Fundraising & Resources Committee who meet once every quarter.

• Oversee presentation of budgets, internal management accounts and annual financial statements to the board of trustees.

• Lead on the board’s duty to ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are properly controlled, invested and economically spent, in line with good governance, legal and regulatory requirements.

• Lead the development and implementation of financial reserves, cost management and investment policies.

• Monitor and advise on the financial viability of the charity.

• Oversee the implementation of and monitoring specific financial controls and adherence to systems.

• Oversee the charity’s financial risk management process.

• Review and approve payments (including payroll).

• Be the main point of contact for We Are Family’s bank.

• Act as a counter signatory on important applications to funders.

• Liaise with the appropriate member of staff responsible for the financial activities of the organisation.

• Liaise with the external auditors or independent examiner on specific issues such as the auditor’s or examiner’s management letter and the related board representations. 

This role would suit an individual with:

• Knowledge of charity governance and management

• Experience in a compliance, risk or business management role

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Organisation skills, with the ability to work to deadlines

• Good IT skills, to include Zoom and Google Suite or MS Office.

Although many of our current Board members are adopters themselves, we are also keen to recruit suitably qualified people who are not, but who can demonstrate a commitment to the values and mission of We Are Family.

One of the great strengths of We Are Family is that we are volunteer and member driven, and we represent a diverse community of adoptive parents. We particularly welcome trustees from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds to ensure that the board can benefit from this diversity of experience. We would also welcome single adopters to the board. 

To Apply 

If the opportunity to join an exciting, rapidly growing charity appeals to you as someone able to make a valuable contribution, please send us a copy of your CV and we will contact you with our Recruitment Pack.

Please note that applications are received and reviewed on an ongoing basis, therefore an early application is advised.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Upbeat Communities achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity, and they also ensure we have a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the leadership team to enable Upbeat Communities to grow and thrive, and through this, empower refugees to thrive.

Through regular meetings, strategy days and written reports provided to the board, trustees are able to set the direction of the organisation, develop its strategic objectives and support and keep the staff team accountable in delivering on these
strategic goals.

Trustee meetings are currently held every 2 months either in person in Derby or online (hybrid). We have an annual strategy away day and trustees are also invited to be part of our sub-committees. Trustees are requested to be available to attend occasional ‘unscheduled’ meetings or engage in email communications which address urgent business as it arises, join working groups when needed and spend time preparing for meetings by reading and considering the papers circulated before meetings.

Benefits of Being a Trustee

We believe being a trustee of Upbeat Communities offers a number of fantastic
benefits:

• Strategic decision-making that positively impacts the lives of over a thousand
• asylum seekers and refugees every year
• Supporting an innovative, talented and passionate staff team as they develop
• our work and explore new services and ways of working
• Being part of a committed and focused trustee team working to see the charity
• grow
• Using your skills, experience and passion to contribute to an effective and wellfunctioning
• board
• Opportunities to learn new skills and experiences to contribute to your own
• personal development

Duties

Any individual acting as a trustee for Upbeat Communities would be required to
carry out the following:

• Promote the vision, mission and values of the charity
• Ensure Upbeat Communities and its representatives function within all legal and
• regulatory requirements applicable, and in line with its constitution, continually
• striving for best practice in governance
• Determine the overall direction and development of Upbeat Communities
• through good governance and clear strategic planning
• Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their
• implementation
• Oversee Upbeat Communities’ financial plans and budgets and monitor and
• evaluate progress
• Review and approve the charity’s financial statements
• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively
• Provide support and challenge to Upbeat Communities’ Chief Executive in the
• exercise of their delegated authority and affairs
• Contribute to regular reviews of Upbeat Communities’ own governance.
• Attend Board meetings, and be adequately prepared to contribute to
• discussions.
• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and
• protect the charity’s interests, avoiding any personal conflict of interests
• Take appropriate professional advice in all matters where there may be a
• material risk to the charity
• Maintain confidentiality about all aspects of the trustee’s business

Finance Specific Duties

• Lead on the strategic financial management of the charity at board level
• Liaise with our outsourced finance team (including our Finance Director)
• Chair the finance sub-committee (which meets 6 times per year ahead of every
• board meeting)
• Maintain a clear grasp of the charity’s financial position and ensure full and
• timely financial transparency and information disclosure to the board
• Support the board of trustees in financial decision making processes
• Review and approve annual budgets
• Advise on banking and investments
• Take an active role in the financial audit process
• Contribute to the financial management of our trading subsidiary (Upbeat
• Enterprises Limited)

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?

The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now 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 up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.

We have worked through our merger and 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. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.

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.

We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. 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

“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”

Keith Valentine, CEO

 

ABOUT US 

We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. 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.

THE MERGER

Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.

Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.

The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:

- generate further investment into the sector,

- accelerate clinical progress,

- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss

Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified

mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.

OUR FUTURE

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. Historically, Vision Foundation has 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.

As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.

We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.

As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.

The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.

We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.

 

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.

OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM

Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.

The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.

The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.

Follow this link to find out more about our Board.

 

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 be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:

- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)

- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)

- People Committee

- Retail 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.

- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.

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.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:

Specialist experience

At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:

- Scientific and/or medical research

- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice

- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations

Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.

General attributes

Knowledge & experience

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

- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.

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

- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)

- 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.

We are looking to recruit new Trustees to the Cleeve School Board.  We are the largest secondary school in Gloucestershire and one of the most innovative, forward thinking and dynamic schools in the region.  We are specifically looking for people with a sound knowledge and experience of working on a Board, including chairing committees and panels.  We are also seeking to strengthen our finance expertise on the Board.

We continually monitor the diversity of our Board to ensure staff and students are represented.  We would particularly welcome applications from women and under-represented groups within our community at this time.

Further details are available on our website (current vacancies).

Vision Action is a unique organisation, that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses, and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal.

The role of the Board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The Board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

1. Terms of service

For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years. Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online. Papers are circulated for reading in advance.

In addition to this, it is expected that trustees attend the AGM held on a weekend and occasional Members’ Forums or other Vision Action events, which are usually arranged on the same day as a Board meeting in the evening. There may be other ad hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics. Trustees will be expected to commit time to receive a proper induction.

2. Main tasks

Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the three sub-committees (Fundraising and Investment; Programmes; Finance, Administration and Remuneration). The Committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings.

3. General Responsibilities

• Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his/her performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each Trustee should attend Board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

4. Additional Specific Responsibilities

In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair designate and assume the role of Chair in November 2024.

Vision Action is looking for a Trustee who will be able to support us in 3 key areas:

1) Provide advice and experience at the level of Chair so that they can provide leadership to the Board of Trustees as well as the CEO

2) Act as the Chair designate until they assume the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees in November 2024.

3) Provide insight, knowledge and connections to help us build our reputation and position as a worthy international charity in the eye health sector in the UK and Internationally so that Vision Action can grow its relationship with individuals, bodies and corporates in the sector.

Person Specification

Each Trustee must have:

• A commitment to the mission and value base of Vision Action.
• A commitment to the key policies of Vision Action – on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistle-blowing, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti-Bribery.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak his/her mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training/information will be offered in this area).
• An ability to contribute effectively to the workings of the Vision Action Board and any sub-committees or working groups.

In addition to the above, this specific appointment is looking ideally for Trustees who have:

• Previous experience of leading and Chairing at the senior level in an organisation;
• Previous experience of governing and managing at the Board level;
• Previous Board level experience in the charity sector;
• Willingness to undertake obligatory tasks with the Charity Commission on behalf of the organisation;
• Willingness to stay updated on changes to governance issues and policies that might impact Vision Action;
• A willingness to engage in activities in the vision sector as it relates to the work of Vision Action, including fundraising.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may have a connection to the vision sector either through personal or professional experience and those who might come from one of the countries that Vision Action is currently active in – Zambia, Ghana, Sierre Leone, and Ethiopia.

Worcestershire Association of Carers (WAC) is a well-established charity with passionate staff and volunteers who have a good reputation for delivering. We provide an independent expert source of information, advice and support for the thousands of unpaid adult carers in and around Worcestershire. We understand the role of unpaid carers and the huge contribution they make to the community. We assist carers through a range of personalised services provided directly and through signposting to other sources of help. When carers receive the best possible services available to them, they are empowered to continue caring more effectively, continue to have a life beyond caring and are less likely to suffer health breakdown.

We are looking for an experienced financial manager who is based in a commutable distance from Worcester to join our Board as Treasurer. As well as being a trustee, you will oversee the financial administration of WAC, and advise the Board of Trustees on the Charity’s financial health, liaising with the Chief Executive and Finance Manager.

Do you want to join a Board with an ambitious strategy to grow the amount of care we provide to people with complex disabilities, within a well established care organisation? At Vision Homes, we are seeking to recruit passionate and committed new trustees to our Board to help shape future strategy and growth.

We are seeking Trustees to bring additional knowledge and input to our Board. It is an opportunity for those that who are keen to use their skills and experience, whether professional or personal, to make sure Vision Homes can continue to serve and to grow the excellent care that it provides to people with complex needs such as sensory impairment with acquired brain injury. Those in our care range in age, and have differing needs, and we aim to offer personalised care so that everyone can live the best life that they can. 

We’re particularly interested to hear from you if have direct experience of adult care services (care homes or home care) or experience in the supported housing sector. We also have a need to add to our skills and diversity, as a Board, in areas such as charity, governance, strategic management, or experience as a Chartered Surveyor. No prior experience of sitting on a board is necessary as we offer induction and training.

Support U is a Reading based charity set up in 2010 to provide support to LGBTQ people in the Thames Valley.  Our small team runs social, emotional and wellbeing support and social groups and provides some counselling services.  We are looking to revitalise our Trustee Board and require a new Chair of Trustees.

This role description includes:

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a Trustee

2. Specific Responsibilities for your role as a Chair of Trustees

1. Your general statutory responsibilities as a trustee:

· Ensuring that the organisation pursues its stated objects (purposes), as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

· Ensuring that the organisation complies with its governing document (ie its constitution), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Ensuring that the organisation applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects (ie the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its own objects, however worthwhile or charitable those activities are) for the benefit of the public

· Ensuring that the organisation defines its goals and evaluates performance against agreed targets

· Safeguarding the good name and values of the organisation

· Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation, including having appropriate policies and procedures in place

· Ensuring the financial stability of the organisation

· Protecting and managing the property of the charity and ensuring the proper investment of the charity’s funds

In addition to the above statutory duties, each trustee should use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the board of trustees reach sound decisions.

This may involve:-

· scrutinising board papers,

· leading discussions,

· focusing on key issues,

· providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.

2. Your specific responsibilities as Chair of Trustees, including person specification

Your responsibilities as Chair of Trustees include:

· Providing leadership to the organisation and the board by ensuring that everyone remains focused on the delivery of the organisation’s charitable purposes in order to provide greater public benefit

· Chairing and facilitating board meetings

· Giving direction to board policy-making

· Checking that decisions taken at meetings are implemented

· Representing the organisation at functions and meetings, and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

· Bringing impartiality and objectivity to decision-making

· Planning the annual cycle of board meetings and other general meetings where required, for example annual general meeting

· Setting agendas for board and other general meetings

· Developing the board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning

· Addressing conflict within the board and within the organisation, and liaising with the chief executive (if staff are employed) to achieve this.

Person specification for the Chair

· Leadership skills

· Experience of committee work

· Tact and diplomacy

· Good communication and interpersonal skills

· Impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.

In most circumstances, it would also be desirable for the chair/vice-chair to have knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation and a wider involvement with the voluntary sector and other networks.

Your role also includes the following person specifications, which are universal for all trustees:

· A commitment to the organisation

· A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort

· Strategic vision

· Good, independent judgement

· An ability to think creatively

· A willingness to speak their mind

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

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

· A commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Calibre Audio is a national charity providing an audiobook and audio content service to anyone who is print disabled.

Our members may be blind, partially sighted, have dyslexia or other learning difficulties or even be unable to hold a book. Whatever the reason for their struggle to access print, our vision is an inclusive society where everyone has access to audiobooks.

This pack outlines more about what we do and the impact of our work which we hope you find informative.

Our Board of Trustees is highly motivated with a genuine commitment to use their business and life experience to help make a difference. We are currently looking to appoint a new Trustee to take on the position of Treasurer, joining the Board to support the charity as it moves into an exciting period of growth and development. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2024, it is more important than ever that the charity is well positioned to broaden its membership and to maximise the opportunities presented by the ever-changing technology landscape.

To fulfil the position of Treasurer we are looking for someone who can oversee the monitoring of the organisation’s finances on behalf of the Board. A personal connection to the experiences of our members (visual impairment, dyslexia etc) is useful, but not essential. Other important skills include the ability to be visionary, think strategically and to influence key stakeholders, both within your sphere of expertise and more broadly. Strong communication skills along with a collaborative approach and a commitment to our aims are also vital.

If you have the enthusiasm, skills and experience to help us drive growth and increase our impact, we would love to hear from you.

Alpine Garden Society President and Board Chair person 

Thank you for expressing interest in joining the Board of the Alpine Garden Society as our President and chair. You do so at an exciting time for the charity as it seeks to embed recent changes to thrive for another 90 years.

Since our founding in 1929 we have been a specialist interest society that has aimed to share our passion for growing and conserving alpine plants. With the increased pressures on society with smaller gardens and the advent of social media, alpines are enjoying a resurgence and so we wish to see the society grow from the strong foundations of the past.

The last five years have seen us adapt to change and develop to the modern society we are today. Our switch to embracing digital technology and use of modern communication has allowed us to harness the decades old love of our interest and bring it to new audiences on a global stage. We continue to indulge in traditional activities like garden visits, plant fairs and shows that we are renowned for by our loyal members.

The next chapter on our journey to our centenary sees consolidation of our operation and putting our membership at the heart of what we do to deliver our charitable mission. We wish to grow our membership from a stable base and seek new and exciting ways to inspire people through our passion for plants.

About Us

Welcome to the Alpine Garden Society! We are one of the largest specialist garden societies in the world. The Society has a wide interest in plants that encompass not only true alpine and mountain plants, but also small hardy herbaceous plants, hardy and half-hardy bulbs, hardy ferns, hardy succulents, and small shrubs. We are passionate about plants.

The Alpine Garden Society was founded in December 1929. The main purpose of the Society was, and still is to educate its members and the public on alpine plants, their cultivation and conservation. We achieve our charitable objectives through staging our National Shows, publishing our quarterly Journal, The Alpine Gardener and by organising talks, events and conferences. Ever since its inception the Society has also built displays incorporating alpine plants at various national Flower Shows.

We are passionate about the conservation of alpine plants and as a registered charity, we fund cultivation and conservation projects across the UK and abroad. We also encourage the development of knowledge and skills in the alpine field by funding the AGS Trainee Scheme.

Alpine Garden Society members enjoy exclusive benefits such as expert-led AGS Expeditions tours all over the world and access to one of the biggest seed exchanges in the world.

The Alpine Garden Society is governed by a Board of Trustees and run by a director alongside a small staff cohort and a team of dedicated volunteers.

We are located adjacent to Pershore College in Worcestershire, where we maintain a quarter of an acre alpine garden adjacent to our office. We have a network of AGS local groups located around the country who stage regional shows, talks and events.

Person Specification – who we are looking for

• An inclusive, empathetic, transparent approach to leadership
• A passion for alpine plants
• A balance of independent judgement and an ability to work effectively as part of a cohesive Board
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship
• A diplomatic, clear, tactful approach, with the ability to listen and engage effectively
• A demonstrable understanding of the role of charity Board Members

• Proven experience of working effectively with a Board, with an ability to make the most of the skillsets around the table
• Experience of non-profit governance, ideally in a board capacity
• Experience playing a key role in an organisation’s evolution and growth

Role Responsibilities and Duties (three year term)

The President/Chair of the Society has a dual role.  In addition to having the same responsibilities as any trustee they also have to act as a team leader with the extra duties and responsibilities that accompany this role.

General responsibilities of the President/Chair

Providing leadership for the board as it fulfils its governance duties and responsibilities toward the organisation, including :

• setting vision, values, mission strategy and high-level policy in accordance with charity regulations and the governing document
• monitor the organisation's performance against established targets
• securing financial stability for the organisation
• assisting the Treasurer to protect and manage organisation property and investments
• safeguarding the organisation's reputation and values
• must guide the Board to ensure that the Society operates in line with its charitable purposes
• must always act in the best interests of the organisation as a whole and not allow any personal interest to sway policy making
• making sure all organisational activities comply with regulations and the law
• reviewing major risks and making provisions for the organisation to respond appropriately
• appointing and managing the Chief Executive Officer (Society Director)
• organising and leading board development activities such as self-assessments
• delegating the above duties appropriately

Specific duties:

Meetings

· planning meeting schedules and setting agendas, in close liaison with the Society Director

· leading meetings and facilitating discussion, encourage all trustees to participate and prevent the more talkative members from dominating the debate

Board  leadership

· Alongside the society director, lead trustee recruitment and induction

· Ensure that the whole board is engaged - A Chair must not allow cliques or inner circles to form or allow cliques to influence policy to suit their own personal interests or those society activities in which they are interested.

· Utilise the skills and interests of all board members.

· To oversee the establishment and activities of the board committees, ensuring they are accountable and report properly to the board.

· Deal with conflict on the board

· Give direction to board policy -making.  Exercises leadership by setting priorities for the board and steering discussion toward strategic issues

· Monitor the implementation of board decisions

· Work closely with other Officers

Representing the organisation

· Represent the organisation at functions and meetings (both internally and externally), and acting as a spokesperson as appropriate

Financial & legal responsibilities

· The President must be prepared to be a signatory on the Society bank mandates and other official investment documents.

Limited Companies

· Act as a Director of each limited company and also a signatory on the bank mandate forms.

· Undertake the necessary ATOL training and pass the certification process to be the responsible person ATOL holder on behalf of the limited company.  This also involves ensuring that the necessary ATOL quarterly returns are accurately completed and submitted on time to the CAA.  In addition to ensure that the correct documentation and renewal forms are completed as part of the annual ATOL licence renewal process. 

· Ensure that the necessary insurance policies are in place with regard to AGS Expeditions Ltd.

· Assist and advise with the planning of AGS Tours.

Staffing

· Work closely with the Society Director who acts a the CEO to the Society.  Both the Director and the President should liaise regularly and work together as a team on behalf of the board.  They should jointly seek ways of improving board effectiveness.

· Recruitment - oversee the selection process when a new Society Director is appointed.  This will entail ensuring that an appropriate job description is produced, proper selection procedures are followed and also representing the board on the appointment panel. 

Renumeration

The position is a voluntary role although all reasonable expenses in pursuit of exercising the role will be covered

How to Apply

To apply for the president/chair role, please provide the following documents:

• An up-to-date CV.
• A supporting statement. Please submit a PDF document (maximum two pages) that outlines a bit about you, what you feel is your most relevant experience qualifying you to be our president, and why you’re interested in becoming president of the Alpine Garden Society. Moreover, we would like to understand how you perceive the role of Chair of a charity like Alpine Garden Society, how you might approach the relationship between Chair and CEO and what is your vision for the society.