It support officer volunteer roles

Position Overview

SEED Madagascar is seeking a Volunteer Backend Web Developer to support the migration and redesign of SEED’s website, ensuring a smooth transition.

This role will focus on handling back-end and server-side tasks, importing data, implementing security best practices, and providing technical support in the post-migration phase.

We are looking for an experienced individual with proven expertise in website migration, database management and server configuration, who is motivated to use these skills to contribute to sustainable development and conservation.

About the organisation

SEED Madagascar is a British Charity working in partnership with communities in the southeast of Madagascar. We integrate high quality community health, sustainable livelihoods, education infrastructure and conservation programmes to support long term, sustainable change and add to international best practice through research and publication across all of our programmatic areas. 

Location: Remote

Timeframe: Long-term, part-time, flexible (approx. 3-6 hours per week, with 1-2 hours per week post-migration phase for server-side support and maintenance)

Duties and responsibilities 

● Perform full backups before and after website migration in cPanel. 

● Export Concrete CMS code files and database content. 

● Import data to WordPress using plugins, custom scripts or migration tools. 

● Assist with setting up a WordPress staging site. 

● Implement security best practices for WordPress. 

● Update DNS records. 

● Perform PHP updates and custom edits as needed. 

● Perform major WordPress upgrades if needed. 

● Perform post-migration functionality testing and bug fixes. 

● Manage the new website database using cPanel. 

● Provide continued/long-term back-end support.

Person specification

Essential 

● Experience using Concrete CMS, WordPress or similar. 

● Experience using HTML/CSS/JavaScript languages. 

● Knowledge of PHP and SQL/MySQL database. 

● Experience with API integration and Linux. 

● Knowledge of File Transfer Protocol. 

● Familiarity with WordPress plugins. 

● Experience with website migration tools, database management, and GitHub repositories. 

● Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work independently in a remote context. 

● Commitment to SEED’s ethos, values and mission, with cultural sensitivity and respect.

Desirable 

● Experience working with NGOs, particularly in development, conservation, or humanitarian fields. 

● Knowledge of Madagascar or wider global south contexts

Could you make a difference as a volunteer Digital Champion? 

We are looking for people with a good understanding of how to use computers,

smart phones and tablets to give peer support to people who are new to these

devices. You will help them to do things like: 

• use Google 

• set up an email account 

• look for reliable health information online 

• connect with friends and family using video calling 

• use MS word to write a CV 

• access job search websites 

You need a good level of basic computer skills, but you don't have to be an IT

genius. Much more important is having enthusiasm and patience to spend some

time helping others to get online. 

In return you’ll get: 

• The opportunity to develop your own digital skills and knowledge 

• Free accredited online training

• Access to a community of Champions to help each other and share ideas 

• Ongoing support from a dedicated Digital Support Officer 

• A Digital Record tracking achievements and learners helped – perfect to show prospective employers!

• A free DBS check

• Payment for travel expenses

• Immense satisfaction that you’ve made a difference to someone else 

Find out more 

Digital Champions | Digital skills and support | Clarion Housing 

Could you join the team? 

We are currently looking for Digital Champions to support learners in Hemel Hampstead on the 2nd and/or 4th Friday of each month.

Sessions are held at Grove Hill Community Centre, HP2 6BJ and Woodhall Community centre, HP2 7JX between 10am and 2pm, you don’t have to be able to volunteer for the whole session, a couple of hours would be perfect! 

Whilst the session time is fixed, we welcome volunteers who can volunteer

weekly, fortnightly or monthly.  

Apply here:

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

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

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

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

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

Trustee: Desirable skills

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

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

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

· Experience in working with or within social enterprises

· Experience in communications and PR

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

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

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

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

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

ENGINEERS/MAKERS

Across the UK, our 60+ local branches help disabled people live the lives they choose. Our network of skilled volunteers respond to thousands of requests each year to design and make customised equipment free of charge.

Our Engineer/Maker volunteers are at the very heart of what our local branches do. They use their practical skills and creativity to help people with disabilities live fuller and more independent lives.

What the role involves

This is a varied role where local need shapes what you’ll be working on, but it often includes:

• Designing and making pieces of equipment for individuals with specific needs

• Using your practical skills working with metal, wood, plastic, or electronics (or a combination of them)

• Attending a monthly meeting of the local branch.

We can support you to develop the skills you need for this role, and there’s an induction that covers all the areas above. You’ll also have chance to discuss your role and any additional needs with us.

What you’ll need for this role

Essential

• Practical experience in working with one of the above materials

• Comfortable working with people, listening to them and understanding their needs

• Able to apply our risk management system

• Able to apply disability, equality, and inclusion practices

• Able to keep people’s personal details safe

• Willing to follow REMAP policies and procedures and a commitment to our values

Desirable

• Access to your own tools and workshop (or can access these)

• Able to drive or have good transport links

You’ll also need to complete the induction checklist, as well as a DBS check and reference check.

Where will I volunteer?

This role is largely home based, but will generally also involve visiting clients out in the community. Your local branches hold in-person meetings once a month or so.

Time commitment

This varies quite a lot depending on which cases come in, how complex they are and whether they fit your skills and experience, but it’s essentially a flexible role and there are no set hours.

Why volunteer

When you volunteer with us, you join a community of committed people with a passion for helping to improve the lives of others. We’re a volunteer led organisation and we couldn’t do what we do without your hard work, skills and commitment.

N.B. We’ll reimburse any out-of-pocket expenses during your time with us.

Trustee needed for Faith in Action Homelessness Project. We are seeking a Trustee to join our committed Board working to end homelessness in Merton.

About Us: FiA runs a twice weekly drop in for homeless and vulnerably housed people and a Winter Night Shelter which works in collaboration with faith groups including a Mosque, a Synagogue, a Hindu Temple and Christian churches to provide overnight accommodation and support to find long term housing solutions.

Our Small Team consists of a Manager, a Winter nightshelter co-ordinator and seven part time staff.  The Trustee team is a very hands on group - many are volunteers at the night shelter or drop in and it is a very committed and passionate team.

We are looking for three new trustees to make our board up to 12. 

The Trustee role

This role involves more than just attending meetings.  We are responsible for:

Setting the strategic direction of the charity

Ensuring tranparency and accountablity

Taking specific areas of responsibility - leading on fundraising, or staff recruitment, or governance or communication and PR for the charity.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuatls who can lead on the following areas:

1. Fundraising - especially developing partnerships with local businesses

2. Communications - including managing our strategy on social media and community engagement

3, Governance - supporting the development of policies and procedures

4. HR - offering advice on recruitment and management of staff

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organization that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to the CEO on matters of urgency and importance to the organization.
• Manage the agenda for meetings the CEO holds ensuring all actions are allocated for actioning
• Sign post management across the organisation as required
• Handle multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously
• Organizing and coordinating meetings, appointments, and events to ensure efficient time management for the CEO
• Handling Communications: Acting as the first point of contact for the CEO, managing correspondence.
• Preparing reports, presentations, and other documents needed for meetings and decision-making.
• Assisting with various administrative tasks such as record-keeping and office management.
• Coordinating specific tasks as assigned by the CEO
• Acting as a bridge between the CEO and other senior management, ensuring smooth communication

Requirements

• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Experience in fast-paced environments.
• Good IT skills.
• Ability to use remote systems.
• Ability to engage with others well.
• Good people skills.

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.
• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.
• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organization that takes pride in developing and nurturing our staff and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations.

We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience. If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Policy Advisor
Youth Advantage UK

Remote

Unpaid role, expenses not paid

Voluntary

Job description
Youth Advantage UK (YAUK) is seeking a Volunteer Policy Advisor to support its Long-Term Research & Policy Team in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to grow its impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying current policy priorities and trends relating young people and children. Working closely with the Heads of Policy and Senior Policy Advisor, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to help YAUK to identify where it should be focussing its efforts. They will should have a good understanding of UK public policy, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.
Responsibilities:
•    Review government priorities relating to young people, summarising key policies and legislation in a succinct manner.
•    Identify political, governmental or societal figures with an influence over youth policy, mapping these individuals for future engagement.
•    Support other members of the team in the development of policy documents.
•    Monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategic policies and focus.
•    Support the Head of Policy and Senior Policy Officer in delivering the policy team’s wider goals and priorities.
•    Provide insight and advice in the development of wider organisational objective setting.
•    Support the organisation’s Communications Team in developing and implementing effective strategies when required.
•    Support the creation of blogs and articles on policy related issues and to support with the development of academic articles and reports.
•    Provide proof reading and flexible organisational support where needed.
Requirements:
•    Knowledge of UK youth policy and the wider political system.
•    Knowledge of issues affecting children and young people in the UK.
•    Experience of desk research and reviewing policy and/or research papers.
•    Excellent writing and speaking skills.
•    IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.
•    Ability to work well independently and in a team.
•    Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
•    Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.
Benefits
•    Gain valuable experience in research and understanding of the policy process.
•    Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.
•    Flexible working hours.

About YAUK

Youth Advantage UK is a charitable organisation that uses a research-led approach to inform policy work and projects that aim to promote and further the human rights of young people aged 11 to 25 across the United Kingdom.

Please note that this is a remote VOLUNTEER role.

We won't accept applications from individuals residing outside of the UK as we operate on the principle of bettering the lives of young people in the UK. Therefore, we require our volunteers to have an understanding of what it is like to live in the UK.

Responsibilities

• Provide support to the DCEO on matters of urgency and importance to the organisation.
• Manage the agenda for meetings the DCEO holds ensuring all actions are allocated for actioning
• Sign post management across the organisation as required
• Handle multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously
• Organizing and coordinating meetings, appointments, and events to ensure efficient time management for the DCEO
• Handling Communications: Acting as the first point of contact for the DCEO, managing correspondence.
• Preparing reports, presentations, and other documents needed for meetings and decision-making.
• Assisting with various administrative tasks such as record-keeping and office management.
• Coordinating specific tasks as assigned by the DCEO
• Acting as a bridge between the DCEO and other senior management, ensuring smooth communication

Requirements

• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Experience in fast-paced environments.
• Good IT skills.
• Ability to use remote systems.
• Ability to engage with others well.
• Good people skills.

Benefits

• This is a UK-based, 100% fully remote and flexible role.
• Supportive team and management to enhance your skills and build on your experience.
• Your work will help transform and empower many young people’s lives, rights, and interests and assist in promoting equality for all young people.

Why Volunteer with Us?

We are a supportive and friendly organisation that takes pride in developing and nurturing our staff and providing them with excellent opportunities to thrive and further encourage their career growth and future aspirations.

We offer a fully remote working environment and a flexible and adaptable working schedule. This is an excellent opportunity to join a growing organization, enhance your skills, and gain valuable experience. If this sounds like you and you are interested in applying for this position, please submit your CV.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Director of National Impact to develop and lead its National Impact Directorate in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to grow its impact. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the Directorate’s two Departments (Research and Project) produce high-quality research and related projects and events able to influence decision-making and policy on a national scale in line with the organisation’s strategic priorities. Working closely with the COO and the Policy and Ethics teams, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively guide and strengthen the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, national change. They should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Responsibilities:

● In line with the organisation’s strategic priorities, to lead the National Impact Directorate in designing, developing and implementing impactful research and project objectives.

● To line manage the Head of the National Impact Research Department and the Head of the National Impact Project Department, supporting them to effectively manage their own teams and to develop and implement the frameworks necessary for producing top quality research output (including academic articles) and subsequent events, campaigns and project relating to research findings and organisational strategy respectively.

● To work with HR in creating a strong National Impact Directorate composed of individuals with the appropriate skills and expertise. To ensure these volunteers are appropriately supported and trained during their period of service.

● To work alongside the Policy team to source potential commissions and influencing opportunities, shaping research and project focus and output accordingly.

● To develop short- and long-term strategies in relation to both aspects of the Directorate’s activity, ensuring that these align with the wider strategies of the organisation.

● To liaise with the Policy and Ethics teams on an ongoing basis, ensuring that their advice is incorporated into Directorate decisions and output.

● To take responsibility for relationships with key external stakeholders, at all times representing the organisation positively and professionally.

● To work on an on-going basis with the other members of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team in determining its strategic priorities and incorporating these into the Directorate.

● To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategies and the National Impact Directorate’s activities.

● To work closely with the organisation’s Communications team in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.

● To create blogs and articles on related issues and to find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

● To support the Chief Executive Officer in presenting national impact strategies to Youth Advantage’s Trustees.

Requirements:

● Experience in research and planning, as well as leading key campaigns or programmes.

● High-level understanding of carrying out quality research, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities.

● Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to effectively disseminating research results.

● Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members.

● Excellent writing and speaking skills.

● IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

● Ability to work well independently and in a team.

● Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

● Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in leading a research and project team.

● Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.

● Flexible working hours.

Role: Director of Local Operations

Job Description:
Youth Advantage UK is seeking a volunteer Director of Local Operations to develop and lead its Local Operations Departments (England and Wales; Scotland and Northern Ireland) in identifying and delivering on opportunities for the organisation to have an impact at a local level through commissioned research projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring these Departments produce high-quality research projects which meet the goals agreed with the commissioning organisations and grow Youth Advantage’s reputation and reach in line with its strategic policies. Working closely with the COO and the Policy and Ethics Departments, the ideal candidate will use their prior experience to effectively guide and strengthen the organisation’s ability to enable evidence-based, positive local change. They should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

This role reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Responsibilities:

● In line with the organisation’s strategic priorities, to lead the Local Operations Department in designing, developing and implementing impactful research and project objectives.

● To line manage the Head of Local Operations (England and Wales) and the Head of Local Operations (Scotland and Northern Ireland), supporting them to effectively manage their own teams and to develop and implement the frameworks necessary for producing top quality research projects based around both desktop research and fieldwork.

● To work with HR in creating a strong Local Operations Department composed of individuals with the appropriate skills and expertise. To ensure these volunteers are appropriately supported and trained during their period of service.

● To work alongside the Policy Department to source potential commission and project opportunities, shaping the focus and output of the Local Operations Department accordingly.

● To develop short- and long-term strategies in relation to the Department’s activity, ensuring that these align with the wider strategies of the organisation.

● To liaise with the Policy and Ethics Department of the organisation on an ongoing basis, ensuring that their advice is incorporated into Departmental decisions and output.

● To take responsibility for relationships with key external stakeholders, at all times representing the organisation positively and professionally.

● To work on an on-going basis with the other members of the organisation’s Senior Leadership Team in determining its strategic priorities and incorporating these into the Department.

● To monitor, analyse and respond to external trends which impact on the organisation’s strategies and the Local Operations Department’s activities.

● To work closely with the organisation’s Communications Department in developing and implementing effective strategies to raise the organisation’s profile and impact.

● To create blogs and articles on related issues and to find and distribute information on related topics which may be of interest to the other organisation members.

● To support the Chief Executive Officer in presenting local operations strategies to Youth Advantage’s Trustees.

Requirements:

● Experience in research and planning, leading key campaigns or programmes.

● High-level understanding of carrying out quality desktop research and related fieldwork, ideally in an area related to the organisation’s priorities.

● Excellent knowledge of a range of methods and approaches to effectively disseminating research results.

● Excellent leadership and organisational skills, with proven experience of setting priorities and motivating team members.

● Excellent writing and speaking skills.

● IT literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Suite.

● Ability to work well independently and in a team.

● Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

● Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

Benefits

● Gain valuable experience in leading a research and project team.

● Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.

● Flexible working hours.

Award-winning theatre company One Tenth Human is seeking people with a passion for developing children’s STEM potential to join our Board of Trustees. Could you help us succeed with our next adventures?

One Tenth Human is an award-winning theatre company based in Lancaster, led by Artistic Director Sarah Punshon. We are a registered charity (no. 1195497), on a mission to empower primary-age children with better stories about their own potential. We explode myths and expectations when it comes to science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths (“STEAM”) because too many children reach adulthood believing these subjects are not for “people like me”. We want to change this.

We create and tour interactive theatrical adventures nationally to arts venues, libraries, schools, and village halls. Since our formation in 2016, we have been commissioned and co-produced by Shoreditch Town Hall, Z-arts, China Plate, Polka Theatre, Tutti Frutti, Big Imaginations, ARC Stockton, The Dukes Lancaster, and Lancaster Arts. We reach nationally, but are deeply embedded in our local region, working closely with schools, community groups, charities, and higher education partners to incubate new work and give more children the chance to take part in our life-changing adventures.

Our current Board has expertise in the arts, business management, charities, and STEM public engagement. You can find out more about them here.

The Board meets for 90 minute meetings every quarter on Zoom, with occasional in-person Away Days.

Written information is sent out a week before each meeting, requiring careful reading and consideration. Trustees may take on additional tasks suitable to their area of expertise between meetings, but the role is fundamentally one of governance and strategic guidance.

We are currently recruiting for Board members with the following skills:

(A) Financial Management Trustee. We are seeking a Board member who would be able to support our financial management, working with the Treasurer (and our accountant) to oversee financial planning, processes, and compliance. Your experience might be an accountancy qualification, experience with charity financial management, experience in business, or similar. Your role would include joining our Budget Working Group, which meets quarterly, one to two weeks before each Board meeting.

(B) Board Members. More broadly, we are keen to recruit Board members who have any one (or more!) of the following areas of expertise:

• ○  Marketing/PR;

• ○  Fundraising / philanthropy;

• ○  Charity governance / legal;

• ○  IT;

• ○  Children aged 3-10 years - whether as a teacher, parent, carer, or volunteer;

• ○  Education, particularly primary education;

• ○  Science, technology, engineering or maths: this might mean in industry, in academia, in

  museums, or another public engagement area. In addition, we expect all Board members to have:

• ○  Interest in our work

• ○  A commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion across all aspects of society

• ○  The equivalent of about 1 day per month to devote to us.

  We would be particularly interested to talk to applicants who are based or have networks in the North-West, but this is not essential. Our meetings are via Zoom and current Trustees are based in Manchester, Leeds, York, and London.

While we are West Sussex based, it is not essential that our Trustees are, although it is expected that they will live within a reasonable commutable distance of the county

Joining Carers Support West Sussex as a Trustee is a chance to make a meaningful difference to the lives of unpaid carers in West Sussex. You’ll form part of a passionate, collaborative team committed to improving services and championing carers’ rights.

CSWS currently has 9 Trustees, including the Chair. We are looking to add a further two Trustees to our friendly and inclusive Board, who are willing to bring energy and enthusiasm to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board. We are particularly interested in hearing from people with experience, and skills in Media Management/PR & Comms, Corporate Fundraising or Carers / NHS Operational delivery.

Key skills

Media Management/PR and Comms - Individuals will have experience in digital marketing, social media strategy, and/or digital service delivery, with a solid understanding of how these tools can support non profit growth, engagement, and impact. You’ll help provide strategic guidance on our digital presence, support digital innovation, and ensure our online platforms align with our purpose and values.

Charity Fundraising - Individuals will have a proven track record in charity fundraising, at a mid to senior level with a deep understanding of various fundraising streams such as grant funding raising, corporate fundraising or individual giving.

Health and Social care operational delivery - Individuals will bring valuable insight from either a caregiving background or operational experience within the NHS. You will have a strong understanding of the challenges faced by carers or frontline Health and Social Care services, with the ability to offer strategic guidance on service delivery, partnership working, and policy impact. Your professional experience will help ensure our work remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the needs of carer

We are looking for individuals who share a strong empathy with our mission and bring a collaborative, respectful approach to working with others. Excellent communication skills along with a willingness to contribute actively to the life and development of the Board. Whether you are looking to give back as a result of your personal experience as a carer and desire to share your insight and experience, or to share your professional and/or technical experience, we look forward to hearing from you.

We are currently looking for a new Digital Fundraising Trustee who can use their skills to support our growing charity. We need someone with relevant fundraising experience who thrives as part of a dynamic group of Trustees, who is willing to champion the charity and who values seeing the impact that our work can make

The Digital Fundraising Trustee will participate in all areas of the charity’s governance with a special interest in the fundraising implications of the strategy, governance and support with the Board’s understanding and interpretation.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, developing the CLAPA’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we implement our new 5-year strategy for 2025-2030.

The Link to apply is listed in the attached Recruitment Pack or can be accessed via the Redirect to recruiter button.

Make a Real Difference in Norfolk's Learning Disability Community

Mid Norfolk Mencap seeks up to 6 committed trustees to join our Board  

Are you looking to use your skills and experience for meaningful impact? Mid Norfolk Mencap, supporting people with learning disabilities across Norfolk, is recruiting trustees to guide our charity.

Location

Our charity’s office and principal activities are in Dereham, Norfolk.  All Board meetings are held in person. Sub-committees can meet face-to-face or hybrid via Teams to suit sub-committee members. We encourage our trustees to visit the office and all services whenever possible.

Support 

You will be supported by the Chair, other members of the Board of Trustees, and the CEO.

Responsibilities

As a trustee, you have important personal responsibilities to ensure the charity is well-governed, effective, and operates for the public benefit.

· Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes and delivering public benefit

· Understand the charity’s purposes as set out in our governing document, and be able to explain how all activities further or support these purposes

· To ensure that the charity pursue its stated purposes, as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

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

· Manage the charity’s resources responsibly by making sure that the charity applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of its members

· Ensure that the charity’s assets, beneficiaries or reputation are not exposed to undue risk

· You must exercise reasonable skill and care, drawing on your own expertise and experience, and seek appropriate advice when necessary

· You should dedicate sufficient time, thought, and energy to your role, ensuring you are well-prepared for, attend, and actively participate in all Board meetings.

· Be able to demonstrate that the charity is complying with the law, well run and effective

· Ensure appropriate accountability within the charity, both to members and in relation to delegated responsibilities.

Qualities and experience 

This role is best suited to candidates who can demonstrate knowledge and experience that will benefit the charity, and who possess the following characteristics:

· A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information

· A keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge

· Commitment to the charity, approachable for the people we support, and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (we estimate this to be 2-3 hours per week in addition to Board meeting commitments below)

· Strategic vision

· Sound, independent judgement

· Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· The ability to read and understand management reports

· Skills to analyse proposals and their consequences

· Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the Board

· General competence with IT

· Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis

Time commitment

The charity holds quarterly Board meetings, with each lasting approximately 2 – 3 hours. All Board meetings are held outside of normal office hours.

It is suggested that approximately two hours preparation time be allowed for prior to each meeting to ensure trustees are familiar with items to be discussed.

Sub-committees meet quarterly with each lasting approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. Approximately one hour is suggested for preparation in advance of the meeting.

Typically, all trustees attend the AGM in person, and at least one annual fundraising or social event hosted by the organisation. These are held on evenings or weekends.

To allow time to settle into the role, and to see the fruits of your work, we suggest that candidates assume a three-year commitment to Mid Norfolk Mencap at the outset.  

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the leadership team. 

All trustees are required to complete the statutory Oliver McGowan training. Additional training opportunities will be identified based on your individual experience and qualifications, ensuring you have the support needed to excel in your role.

Through the trustee recruitment and on-Boarding process, we will arrange for you to meet with our Chair and CEO, and we encourage you to explore their motivation and rewards as part of your evaluation of us.

Rewards

The role of a trustee is voluntary and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed for required travel, training, communication and childcare/carers to enable trustees to attend and participate at Board meetings.  

Conditions of engagement

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. At Mid Norfolk Mencap, we celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an environment where every employee, volunteer and Board member is valued, respected, and empowered – no matter their background.

You cannot serve as a trustee if you are disqualified under the Charities Act. This includes situations such as having an unspent conviction for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (for example fraud), being bankrupt or having entered a formal arrangement with creditors (such as an individual voluntary arrangement) or having been removed as a company director or charity trustee due to misconduct.

Appointment to our Board of Trustees is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and the production of a clean enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate.

Application process

If you would like to apply for a trustee role, or to discuss it informally, please contact us.

Our recruitment process will typically include the following:

· Interview, providing the opportunity for you to meet with the Chair, CEO and other members of staff

· An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap office to meet some of the people we support

· Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concern

Closing date for applications 14th November 2025. Interviews will take place 24th November - 5th December 2025. Successful applicants will be formally nominated to join the Board at our AGM on 22nd January 2026.

Please note: our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue.  We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.