Trustee jobs in Bedford, central bedfordshire

Senior Business Support Officer

Finance & Operations | Remote (UK-based)

Salary: £40,000 per annum

Hours: Full-time (35 hours per week)

Location: Home-based with occasional paid travel to London

Contract: Fixed Term Contract until 30 June 2028 (with potential for extension)

Join Population Matters

We are a UK charity with a global remit. Our vision is of a world in which our human population lives fairly and sustainably with nature and each other. Our mission is to address the negative consequences of ever more people using ever more of the planet’s resources; to inspire and engage with others to find, share and promote ways to make our vision reality as quickly as possible.  

As we enter an exciting new phase of growth and influence, we’re looking for a highly organised and proactive Senior Business Support Officer to play a key role in supporting our operations.

About the Role

This is a pivotal position at the heart of the organisation. You will provide high-quality operational, governance, and administrative support, ensuring we run efficiently, compliantly, and in line with best practice. You’ll work closely with senior leadership, the CEO, and the Board of Trustees, acting as a central point of coordination across teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Governance Support
• Orgnisational planning and policies
• HR support
• IT support

Apply Now

If you’re ready to play a vital role in a purpose-driven organisation and help shape a more sustainable future, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit a CV (not more than 3 pages) and answer the application questions explaining your interest in this role and how you meet the criteria in the Person Specification. A cover letter is not required. 

Closing date: Tuesday 14th April 2026 at 11:00

Population Matters is an inclusive and diversity-friendly employer. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion across everything we do. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age and all other categories protected by law. Please refer to our full EDI statement attached with this advert.

Thank you for your interest in Population Matters.

#Senior Business Support Officer #Business Support #Governance #Senior Governance Officer

Volunteer Centre Hackney is a thriving charity (annual income circa £1.1m, with 29 paid staff) providing volunteering infrastructure to the voluntary sector across the City of London and the London borough of Hackney. We support over 1500 residents a year to realise their skills and passions through volunteering and social action, and to share these for the benefit of others. We also provide volunteering resource, and advice and guidance on best practice in volunteer management, to hundreds of charities and community organisations.

Through our specialist programmes, our impact on the lives of residents is huge. We match volunteers to housebound residents to help them engage with communities and leave their homes; we provide long term personalised support to people with mental health conditions and learning disabilities to help them volunteer and find paid jobs; we support patients to deliver hundreds of their own activities and peer support groups at GP practices across City and Hackney; and in partnership with Public Health, we support over 250 Community Health Champions to share vital health messaging with their own diverse communities.  

This is a hands-on and strategic role for an experienced fundraiser who thrives in a small to medium sized charity environment. You will have autonomy to develop a whole new fundraising strategy, utilising diverse fundraising methods, and building and developing new project ideas and partnerships. You will lead on income generation primarily through sourcing and applying to multiple trusts and foundations, but diversified by building new corporate partnerships, community campaigns and individual giving. You will build authentic relationships with funders and supporters, and together with VCH colleagues, will identify new programme models as ways to generate income. You will contribute to the development and production of compelling stories, evidence and marketing and build and maintain the infrastructure needed to track and achieve progress against annual income targets.

Post holders need to have excellent communication skills, to represent the charity in writing and in person. You must be enthusiastic, self-motivating and confident to work primarily alone, but also able to engage and collaborate with staff from across the organisation to share information and impact evidence to support your role. If you are successful in securing funding there will be the potential to recruit additional support, and for you to become the Head of Fundraising of a small team.

Land Trust Co-ordinator

Location: Bristol / Home based, United kingdom.
Salary: £30,500 to £32,000 per annum (pro rota)
Type: 21 hours, Permanent

About Us

The Soil Association, formed in 1946, is the only UK charity which works across the spectrum of human health, the environment and animal welfare. That’s because we cannot tackle these issues in isolation.

We campaign for change, we support farming innovation, we serve healthy food in communities, we support and grow the organic market, and we protect forests. We couldn't do any of this without our supporters, partners, donors and dedicated staff. We make a difference in the world where it’s needed the most.

About the Opportunity

The Soil Association Land Trust safeguards legacies of productive land, providing a safe haven and preventing land being lost from farming and growing. Land is donated by retiring farmers and landowners, often those with no dependents, who wish to see their life’s work continue into the future.

Their generosity means not only can we keep land for farming and growing but we can also provide opportunities for people to enter farming, often for the first time.

The Land Trust is part of the Soil Association family and is governed by its own Articles and its own Board of Trustees.
You will be working closely with colleagues in the Farming and Land Use and the Land Trust Woodoaks team.

About You

This is an exciting opportunity to play a central role in the effective running and growth of the Land Trust charity. You’ll provide vital administrative and governance support, organising the AGM, board meetings and sub committees, preparing detailed minutes, and ensuring timely follow up of agreed actions. You will help keep our policies and procedures up to date and work closely with our accounts team to raise invoices and support credit control. Alongside this, you will contribute to the delivery of the Land Trust development plan, supporting fundraising initiatives and helping to produce promotional materials.
You will also be at the heart of managing our existing land holdings, liaising with tenants and land agents on tenancy matters, coordinating repairs and inspections, and supporting compliance. As we explore new land opportunities, you’ll help nurture relationships with existing and prospective donors and contribute to updating land acquisition policies. Acting as the front line contact for all internal and external enquiries, you will champion the Trust’s work, ensuring our services are well promoted and working with the digital team to keep the Land Trust and Woodoaks websites current, engaging and informative.

Our Benefits

We offer a range of financial and lifestyle benefits to all our employees, including:

• 27 days annual holiday increasing to 30 days with length of service plus bank holidays (pro rata for part time)
• Pension scheme with ethical investment options and employer contribution increasing with length of service
• Free membership of the Soil Association and discounts on organic produce
• Volunteer days to give back to the local community or support green initiatives
• Family friendly policies and flexible working
• Cycle to work scheme
• Sociable and engaging workplace of professionals that share a passion for healthy, sustainable lifestyle and produce

To Apply

Click ‘apply now’ to submit your CV and Cover Letter application form. Please note we look at applications on arrival and reserve the right to close this vacancy early. 

Interviews will take place in Bristol (online also an option) on Tuesday 21st of April.

Please check your junk/spam folder if you do not receive a confirmation email upon submitting your application. All candidates will subsequently receive an email to confirm whether they have made it through to interview stage.

We know the value of diversity in nature and want it in our organisation. We recognise that diverse backgrounds and experiences will bring a fresh perspective to our work. If you're not sure about applying, please get in touch with us for a chat.

Thank you for your interest in supporting our work at the Soil Association.

Are you an experienced arts manager with a good knowledge of the choral singing sector? We are looking for our new General Manager to work across finance, marketing, strategic and artistic direction, development, smooth daily operations, and responsible for safeguarding. You will be managing a small team of experienced staff and have the support of an active Chairman and Board of Trustees. 

The main duties and responsibilities for the General Manager role are as follows:
GENERAL MANAGEMENT
• Lead the small part time team, maintaining regular contact and guiding their
decision-making and activities
• Ensure that all team members are working effectively and have appropriate
support and resources
• Identifying ad hoc need for extra resource and sourcing this
• First point of contact for any enquiries to the Foundation

STRATEGIC & ARTISTIC DIRECTION
• Working closely with the Founding Artistic Director and Board of Trustees to
develop and deliver the artistic and strategic vision for the Foundation.
• Review current strategic goals and develop 3-5 year plan with the Board for all
activities.
• Produce quarterly general management updates for the Trustees.
• Work with the team to help them deliver on their annual targets (choral
courses; Rodolfus Choir; Development; communication; partnerships)

FINANCIAL
• Overseeing the bank account and payment platforms and updating all
payments in and out of the account via our accounting software, XERO.
• Paying invoices and keeping accurate records.
• Liaising with our accountants and providing information for the preparation of
annual accounts.
• Setting the annual budget and reviewing every quarter for Trustee meetings
• Setting the choral courses budget and Rodolfus Choir budget in collaboration
with the Courses Operations Manager and Choir Manager, for the annual
activities.
• Working with a member of the Board to discuss financial strategy.
• Collating gift aid claims for submission

MARKETING AND REPRESENTING THE ORGANISATION
• Develop and execute a vision and ‘story’ for the Foundation, both for marketing
and fundraising. (in collaboration with the Development Manager and
Communications Manager)
• Attend conferences and events to promote the Foundation as appropriate
• Look for opportunities to develop our activities
• Write and send Newsletters to our database of supporters at least monthly or
when required, liaising with the team for appropriate messages and content.
• Overseeing marketing including print/digital marketing assets for our activities

FUNDRAISING & DEVELOPMENT
• Supporting the Development Manager to develop applications to Trusts &
Foundations, including developing a case for funding as necessary.
• Supporting the Development Manager in their endeavours to develop
Individual Donors

SAFEGUARDING
• Working with our Trustee for Safeguarding, reviewing and updating all
safeguarding policies annually, briefing annual course staff on their
safeguarding responsibilities
• Dealing with any disclosures and keeping records.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for the Foundation

GENERAL
• Attend Team and Board meetings as required
• Be a passionate advocate at all times for Rodolfus
• Adhere to all legal requirements relating to the General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR) as well as all other company policies and procedures
• Create a positive work environment, underpinned by the organisation’s values

We are looking for a strategic, values-driven and collaborative Charity Director/CEO to lead DS Achieve (a small charity) through its next stage, building on strong foundations to ensure long-term sustainability and meaningful impact for the families we support.

This is a rewarding opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of a small community-focused charity supporting children and young people with Down Syndrome. Working closely with the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership, guide the development of the organisation, and support a committed team to deliver high-quality services for families across Hertfordshire and surrounding areas.

Please see the attached Role Profile for details.

Support for and implementation of the Branch’s strategic and service delivery plans

• Supports the Branch Director and Board of Trustees to ensure that the charity meets its governance responsibilities.
• Supports the development and delivery of the Branch Management team’s strategic and service delivery plans in pursuit of the vision, mission, and values of Samaritans and to meet Central London Samaritan’s objectives.
• Supports the development and delivery of a successful fundraising strategy that supports the organisation’s goals and contributes to its sustainability.
• Supports the Treasurer in the management of Central London Samaritans budget to ensure financial resilience.
• Contributes to the development of external and internal relationships and communications, raising the profile and reputation of CLS in support of the organisation’s charitable aims.
•  Contributes to the overall effectiveness of the organisation in ensuring to 24/7 availability to callers.

Provides leadership and line management to the staff team including the following functions:

• External relations and outreach
• Fundraising
• Recruitment and training of new volunteers
• Volunteer rota and support
• Facilities and Office services
• Other areas of responsibility that may from time to time be established.

Main Responsibilities:

Governance

• Support the Director and Board of Trustees to ensure that the charity meets its governance responsibilities.
• Ensure appropriate presentation and reporting on the progress of the organisation and on all matters relevant to the discharge of its charitable responsibilities.
• Provide in a timely and appropriate manner information that will assist the Trustees in carrying out their responsibilities.
• Monitor changes to statutory requirements on behalf of and in consultation with the Trustees and working with the Trustees and Directors to ensure compliance.
• Lead on all areas of Data Protection across the branch including policy development, revision, and implementation.

Financial Management & Fundraising

• Support the Treasurer in the preparation of the annual operating budget for agreement by Trustees.
• Manage the budget on behalf of and in consultation with the Director, Treasurer and Trustees
• In consultation with the Treasurer and other trustees, set an annual fundraising target.
• Support the development and implementation of a strategy for raising income to meet the needs of the organisation.
• Manage project and area budgets with relevant staff and volunteer leads.

Support for and implementation of the Branch’s strategic and service delivery plans

Support the Director and wider Branch Leadership Team in setting the culture and vision for the organisation that will enable staff and volunteers to understand what is expected of them and perform to the highest standards.

• Work closely with the Director and Branch Leadership team to deliver branch strategy and specific services.
• In conjunction with volunteer leads, manage the delivery of the organisation’s restricted funded programmes ensuring project milestones, timescales and financial imperatives are fully met and supporting growth in line with the organisation’s charitable aims.
• Work with the Governance Working Group to implement and manage the organisation’s operational policies and procedures.
• Input into to research and planning of new branch initiatives.
• Monitor changes to national Samaritans policies and guidelines, alerting Directors, and Trustees as appropriate

Line Management

• Work with Trustees and Directors to support the Branch Team to deliver the branch’s volunteering, outreach and fund-raising strategies
• Provide effective line management and leadership to the staff team by managing all aspects of staffing, including recruitment, setting objectives and managing performance.
• Line manage the Business Support Officer, Volunteering Coordinator, Recruitment and Training Coordinator and Fundraising and Events Officer, Trusts and Foundatons Officer and other roles that may from time to time be established
• Act as a role model to staff and colleagues by demonstrating exemplary standards of behaviour, a positive attitude, and high levels of personal performance.
• Identify and develop talent within the team that can be fostered, offering opportunities for personal and career growth where appropriate.
• Work with the Branch Leadership Team to support all staff activities.

Communications

• Work with the Director and Deputy Director for Communications and relevant staff members to support delivery of the branch Communications Plan. This will include coordinating internal and external communications as well as maintaining good relationships with volunteers, partners and other Samaritans branches and the Samaritans Charity.
• Maintain relationships with the Samaritans Central Charity in relation to media activity.
• Work with Director to ensure the Branch is represented on suicide prevention partnerships and involved in strategies with local councils and other organisations within the seven boroughs covered by the branch.
• Work with Branch Leadership Team to ensure the Branch is appropriately represented the branch at external events.

Facilities and Office Management

• Oversees the management of the building on behalf of and in consultation with the Trustees and the Office Manager
• Take overall responsibility for the contracting of services to the organisation
• Take responsibility for compliance with Health and Safety Regulations

Hours of work

1. The basic hours of work are 35 hours per week, spread over five working days. There will be a need to work some evenings and weekend days, so flexibility is essential. The core responsibilities and duties should be carried out during weekdays.

2. The amount of out of hours work will be agreed with the Director on an on-going basis. Time off in lieu will be allowed in agreement with the Director and in line with the current European Working Time Directive.

Limitations

This job description is neither exclusive nor exhaustive and the duties and responsibilities may vary from time- to-time in the lights of changing circumstances and in consultation with the jobholder.

The jobholder will be required to work within the rules and regulations of Samaritans and accept the authority of the Director, who has discretion to delegate authority to the job-holder and to withdraw it.

Equal Opportunities Policy

Central London Samaritans is committed to eliminating any discrimination and promoting diversity and equality of opportunity in all it does. It is therefore Central London Samaritans' commitment to provide equal opportunities in employment and we will not unlawfully discriminate against job applicants, employees of the Company, volunteers, workers, or contract workers on the grounds of their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race (which includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.

Requirements

• Graduate or equivalent by experience
• Relevant postgraduate qualifications

Skills and abilities

1. Proven ability to manage a work programme, which involves managing, mentoring, and developing staff.

2. Ability to work to tight deadlines in managing a variety of tasks simultaneously in ways that ensure key objectives are met.

3. Work effectively with a range of different stakeholders, including paid staff, volunteer directors, volunteers engaged in service delivery, third party organisations and users of the services.

4. Strong communications skills, both oral and written, especially in matching style/language to audience being targeted.

5. Ability to research and develop reports at a senior level.

6. A self-starter who has the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions to both new and existing challenges.

7. Proven ability to assimilate/summarise complex information and to familiarise themself quickly and confidently with key issues.

8. Ability to build effective relationships, especially with organisations operating near people in distress, other helping agencies, and healthcare professionals.

9. Ability to enthuse and motivate paid staff and volunteers.

10.  Good financial management skills –evidence of leading and managing a budget.

11.  High level organisational delivery skills.

12.  Proven ability in managing staff who report to others for task management purposes, such as in a matrix structure.

Experience

• Experience of working with volunteers and paid staff
• Experience of financial planning and management, including budgetary control.
• Experience of implementing systems to comply with relevant legislation, including that on data protection, freedom of information, and health and safety.

Project management knowledge and skills.

1. Experience of working in a charity or not-for-profit helpline service, ideally like that of Samaritans

2. Experience of issues affecting London government

3. Experience of working with Boards of Trustees

Knowledge

• Sound general working knowledge of IT
• General knowledge of business management
• Experience and understanding of managing / developing teams.
• Knowledge of advanced IT and telephony, such as those required by Samaritans.
• Understanding of the policies and principles followed by Samaritans.
• Understanding of the rules and regulations, as overseen by the Charity Commissioners, by which Samaritans are bound.
• Knowledge of voluntary sector in terms of high-level policy decisions, structures and influences through government, small charities and local community organisations

Personal qualities

1. Intellectually strong, applying a structured approach to work.

2. A flexible and co-operative team approach, which is respectful of the ideas and expertise of others.

3. Adaptable to change, while being able to work unsupervised.

4. Able to use initiative, assessing and adjusting to changing work priorities.

5. Affinity with charity’s goals and values

Evolve Counselling is a long‑established Cambridgeshire charity providing professional, affordable mental‑health support to individuals, organisations and communities. Each year, Evolve delivers thousands of counselling sessions through a team of trained, accredited counsellors working across the East of England region.

Our mission is to deliver counselling services to adults at the lowest possible cost, wherever possible seeking to subsidise sessions for those on low incomes. We do this through a mixed model of commissioned services, private counselling, and grant‑supported provision. By working to grow and foster a membership body of professional counsellors, Evolve strives to improve access to quality counselling and psychotherapy for all, and to create a positive working environment for those in the profession.

The CEO role provides strategic and operational leadership to drive Evolve’s growth, sustainability and impact. The position delivers effective organisational management, high‑quality service delivery, robust governance, regulatory compliance, and a positive staff culture.  Working in conjunction with the board, this is an exciting opportunity to shape the organisation’s future, ensuring that Evolve remains a trusted, quality and sustainable source of mental health support for years to come. 

Following several years of successful internal stabilisation—strengthening governance, staffing, and operational systems—the charity is ready to enter a critical period of transformation and growth. Our current CEO plans to retire in September 2026, having laid strong foundations for what must come next.

Our new CEO will lead Evolve into this next phase—strengthening partnerships, expanding referral pathways, stabilising revenue streams, and championing accessible counselling across our communities.

Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving)

Salary£49,321.55 per annum

LocationLondon/Hybrid

Weekly Hours35

The Vacancy

Job Title: Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving)

Location: London/Hybrid

Salary: £49,321.55 per annum

Weekly Hours: 35

Reference: YMC1095733

Join YMCA England & Wales as our next Senior Fundraising Manager (Major Giving) and play a crucial role in transforming the lives of young people. This is your chance to lead a vibrant fundraising initiative that makes a real difference!

About Us:

At YMCA England & Wales, we uplift vulnerable young people by providing them with safe homes, vital life skills, and the support they need to thrive. We’re all about fairness, opportunity, and collective action—join us in making a difference!

Your Role:

As our Senior Fundraising Manager, you’ll develop and execute an ambitious Major Giving strategy, building strong relationships with high-net-worth donors and engaging new prospects. Get ready to innovate with Giving Circles, Development Boards, and more!

What You'll Do:

- Cultivate and grow a portfolio of major donors.

- Host exclusive events and personal meetings to engage and inspire support.

- Create compelling proposals and impact reports that resonate with supporters.

- Collaborate with senior leaders and Trustees to strengthen relationships with philanthropists.

- Bring your strategic mindset to implement YMCA’s Major Giving Strategy.

About You:

You're a motivated and personable fundraising professional with a track record of securing five- and six-figure gifts. Your relationship management skills are top-notch, and you’re passionate about crafting unforgettable donor experiences. 

Why Join Us?

- Be part of a vibrant, growing fundraising team impacting young people's lives.

- Work for a charity that values collaboration and celebrates your contributions.

- Enjoy a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

If you’re ready to make a real impact and promote a fun, friendly environment, we’d love to hear from you! Join us and help shape the future of young people across England & Wales!

To apply: please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role

Our recruitment process is anonymised and candidates' names are hidden. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds. Safer recruitment is important to us and the successful applicant will be asked to provide two references. They will also be required to complete a safeguarding self-declaration, safeguarding training and undertake a DBS check.

CEO

• Salary for FTE: £62,000 - £75,000 dependant on experience
• 38 hours a week over 5 days (flexibility for right candidate)
• Home-based with travel for events and meetings

Reporting into the Board of Trustees, we are seeking an inspirational CEO for the PDA Society, who can lead with humility and curiosity, empowering and supporting our staff along the journey. They will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the charity and its staff and volunteers, and will oversee the development of our training products, research and support services, whilst ensuring sustainable growth in impact and income.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a trusted enterprise within the PDA community with a strong mission and a committed, values driven team. The successful candidate will be passionate about improving the lives of PDAers and their families. You will be energetic, creative and bring new ideas for enhancing the charity’s reputation, through nurturing existing relationships and developing new ones to achieve the charities goals. Our ideal candidate will have lived experience of autism, PDA or other neurodivergence although this is not essential.

Closing date for applications: Midnight on 22nd April 2026

Interviews with Trustees:  April / May 2026

Operations and Finance Officer

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance
18 hours per week | £16–£17 per hour
12-month contract (with potential to extend)
Flexible / Remote working

Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance is a user-led national charity supporting people with muscle-weakening conditions. We provide peer support, advocacy, research and campaigning to improve quality of life and drive systemic change.

We are now recruiting an Operations and Finance Officer to strengthen our internal systems and help ensure the smooth and sustainable running of the organisation.

About the Role

This is a key Officer-level role supporting financial administration, governance processes, HR coordination and organisational systems. You will work closely with the CEO and support the trustee board.

You will not hold financial sign-off authority, but you will be responsible for ensuring processes are accurate, organised and compliant.

Key Responsibilities

• Setting up supplier payments for CEO approval

• Importing and reconciling bank statements in accounting software

• Supporting budget tracking and financial record keeping

• Inputting payroll data and liaising with payroll providers

• Collating and submitting DBS applications

• Tracking HR processes (supervisions, appraisals, probation reviews)

• Organising trustee and staff meetings

• Maintaining policy review schedules and compliance deadlines

• Improving and documenting internal systems and processes

About You

We particularly encourage applications from people with lived experience of neuromuscular conditions or other long-term disabilities. Reasonable adjustments will be provided throughout the recruitment process and in the role.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience in administration, finance or operations

• Is highly organised and detail-oriented

• Is comfortable using spreadsheets and digital systems

• Can manage multiple deadlines and confidential information

• Is confident escalating queries where needed

• Shares our commitment to equity, co-production and inclusion

Experience in the charity sector is welcome but not essential.

What We Offer

• Flexible working arrangements

• A supportive, values-driven team

• The opportunity to shape and strengthen a growing national charity

• A genuine commitment to lived experience leadership

To apply, please submit your CV and a short covering statement outlining why you are interested and how you meet each criteria.

Interviews will be held on Monday 13th April

SMART CJS – Trust and Foundations Bid Writer

Role Overview

Are you committed to supporting people who are homeless or rough sleeping?

Are you proactive with a positive attitude?

Job Title: Trust and Foundations Bid Writer (with some responsibility for corporate fundraising)

Hours: 37 hours per week

Location: Working from our office in central Bedford, with some provision for remote working.

About SMART CJS

Founded in 1997, we are a charity that provides safe spaces for people who are facing or experiencing homelessness, are rough sleeping or have fallen on tough times. As times have changed, our services have adapted and grown, but we’ve always kept the people we support at the centre of all that we do. We believe that everyone needs a little help sometimes and, with trust, respect and honesty, people can make incredible changes. Our vision is to transform communities so that everyone has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential, participate in and contribute to all aspects of life. Our mission is to provide safe spaces to work with vulnerable people within our communities, empowering them to make positive changes and take control of their lives.

Why Join Us?

We believe in diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.

Benefits include:

• 27 days Annual Leave (rising to 30 after 3 years) + Bank Holidays (pro rata)
• Generous Pension scheme (after successfully completing a probation period)
• Excellent Development and Growth Opportunities
• Access to a Charity Worker Discount scheme
• Access to the company health and wellbeing service including support with mental health, legal advice and more
• Access to an online GP service

We require all staff and volunteers to be committed to safeguarding and to respond proactively to safeguarding concerns. Successful applicants are required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). This job description will be supplemented by annual objectives which will be developed in conjunction with the post holder.

The Role

SMART CJS is looking to recruit a Trusts and Foundations Bid Writer. The successful candidate will also have some responsibility for corporate fundraising with businesses based in Bedford and beyond; this responsibility will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

The main responsibility, though, will be to generate income by writing bids to charitable trusts and foundations, and to statutory funders.

The role will include researching and identifying charity trusts and similar bodies which are able to make an award to SMART. It will also include keeping abreast of developments in fundraising in the charity sector as a whole, especially in the field of grant awarding and, to a lesser extent, of corporate giving.

There will be a probationary period for the role. As it generally takes six months for a grant to be awarded (though some arrive more quickly), the probationary period will need to be for a minimum of seven months, though its precise duration can be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Training will be given; the scope of the training will depend on the candidate’s previous experience.

This is an exciting opportunity to join SMART’s friendly and dedicated team. You’ll need to be able to manage your time effectively; the role is primarily self-directed. We envisage that you’ll be working primarily from our offices in Prebend Street, Bedford, though you'll be able to work from home for some of the time as well. Given the nature of our work, personal resilience is important; some of the stories we use when applying for funding can be emotionally challenging.

Our fundraising comes from regular gifts, donations from the community (individuals and groups), and corporate bodies (businesses). The majority of our fundraising income comes from grants. There will be a realistic target for the amount you need to raise; this will reflect the performance for grant applications in the charity sector as a whole and it will not be unrealistic. Fundraising is not an exact science; the assessment of performance against the targets will be fair and reasonable. The final responsibility for SMART’s fundraising rests with the trustees; they appreciate and understand the complexity of the issues involved.

Main Purpose of the Role

You will work closely with the CEO, the Chair of Trustees, the Head of Business and the fundraising team. The post involves gathering information, writing the bids, tracking the progress of submissions, and reporting back to grant awarders on how their money has been spent, if they require this.

There will also be a responsibility for corporate fundraising. This will involve building relationships with businesses in and beyond the Bedford area. The responsibility for this will be shared with our Community and Corporate Fundraiser.

Key Responsibilities

Fundraising and Bid Writing

• Research and identify suitable grant and funding opportunities from charitable trusts, foundations, and statutory bodies.
• Write and submit high-quality funding applications and proposals in line with SMART’s strategic priorities.
• Work collaboratively with service leads and front line teams to gather accurate, up-to-date data and service information for applications.
• Tailor the applications to the funder’s criteria, using storytelling effectively.
• Manage a pipeline of applications and submissions, ensuring deadlines are met and income targets are tracked.
• Maintain and build relationships with key funders, providing timely reports and updates on grant-funded work.
• Work to realistic targets and be able to provide feedback on these.
• Organisational Development and Support
• Contribute to the strategic development of SMART’s income generation plans.
• Support development of strong internal bid and grant management systems.
• Monitor success rates and provide monthly reporting on funding performance to the Head of Business and to the Chair of Trustees.
• Represent SMART CJS at funding briefings, webinars, and networking opportunities where appropriate.

Other Responsibilities

• Participate in SMART’s performance management and appraisal process.
• Attend the monthly meetings of the Fundraising Committee (a sub‑committee of the Board of Trustees).
• Comply with health and safety policies and procedures.
• Undertake any other duties commensurate with the role, as required by the CEO, the Head of Business or the Chair of Trustees.

Person Specification

Whether you’re already an experienced bid-writer, or whether you think this is something that you could learn to do effectively, we’d like to hear from you. You need to have excellent skills in written English and be able to write in prose that’s clear and readily understandable to the general reader. The criteria for each grant awarder are different; you need to be able to match your bid to what they would like to fund (homelessness, mental health, relief of poverty, women’s issues and so on). You need, then, to tell SMART’s story in a way which appeals to each funder.

You need to have excellent inter-personal skills and be able to work as part of a team. While there is a strong element of self-direction in the role, you need to be able to work closely with senior management and also with the trustees; the trustees have the final responsibility for fundraising in the charity.

You will need, too, to have a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, and to have a genuine interest in homelessness and the work of the charity, and a commitment to improving our clients’ lives and wellbeing.

Help tackle loneliness among older people in care homes

Thousands of older people living in care homes receive few or no visitors. Friends for Life Bedfordshire exists to change that.

Through our befriending and group activities, we bring companionship, connection and meaningful relationships to care home residents across Bedford and the surrounding area.

We are now looking for a Manager to lead the charity through a period of growth and transition – expanding our reach, strengthening our team, improving our delivery whilst building a sustainable future.

About Friends for Life Bedfordshire

We are a Bedford-based charity working to address the social isolation of older residents in Bedfordshire’s care homes.

Founded in 2007, we have grown from a small local initiative to a registered charity with c90 volunteers supporting more than 30 care homes across Bedford Borough. In the last year, over 1,100 care home residents received our services.

The Role

This is a leadership role responsible for the overall management, performance and development of the charity.

You will lead a small team which includes specialist leads responsible for fundraising, volunteer management, and marketing & partnerships.

Your role is to set direction for the team to deliver the charity’s strategy and business plan, aligning priorities and creating the conditions for the team to succeed.

You will also act as the public face of Friends for Life, working closely with the Board of Trustees. Whilst we are small charity and this is a hands-on leadership role, success will come from enabling others, not by doing everything yourself.

Key Responsibilities

Management of the Charity

• Lead the day-to-day running of the charity and the delivery of its business plan
• Work with Trustees to shape and implement plans for development, sustainability and impact
• As a member of the Board, contribute to the wider governance of the charity

Management of People

• Lead and develop a team of 5 part-time staff, including functional leads for fundraising, volunteer management, and marketing/partnerships
• Set clear priorities, objectives and accountability across the team
• Support and challenge team members to deliver against ambitious targets

· Rebuild and stabilise the team following a period of transition

Operational Management

• Ensure effective delivery of the befriending and activity programmes
• Drive growth in the number of residents supported by scaling volunteer recruitment and engagement
• Use digital tools and services to improve the quality and efficiency of service delivery
• Ensure services remain high-quality, safe and responsive to need, whilst complying with legislation and safeguarding requirements

Management of Fundraising

• Ensure effective delivery of fundraising strategy
• Support the development of new income streams including community fundraising, individual giving and partnerships
• Ensure income targets are met and funding relationships are effectively managed

Management of Partnerships & Profile

• Build and maintain relationships with care homes, other partners and stakeholders
• Raise the profile of the charity through external engagement, advocacy and partnerships

Financial Management & Governance

• Oversee budgets and ensure effective financial management
• Work with the Treasurer and Board on financial planning, risk and compliance
• Ensure safeguarding, governance and regulatory requirements are met

About You

We are looking for a strong people leader who can bring clarity, structure and momentum to a small but ambitious charity.

You will likely bring:

Experience

• Experience in a management role, ideally in a charity, community or care setting
• Experience leading and developing teams, including through change or growth
• Experience overseeing service delivery, process improvement and organisational performance
• Experience of fundraising, income generation or partnership development (at a strategic level)
• Financial and budget management experience

Skills & Attributes

• Strong people management skills—you know how to get the best out of both staff and volunteers
• Ability to set direction and hold others accountable for delivery
• Ability to work co-operatively with the Board of trustees, playing an active role in the governance of the charity, and ensuring alignment between strategy and operations
• Organised and outcome-focused, able to prioritise in a resource-constrained environment to maximise positive impacts for our beneficiaries
• Confident in the use of digital tools and technologies to improve performance
• Confident communicator, able to represent the charity externally and build strong relationships with partners and funders
• Resilient and comfortable in leading change and managing ambiguity
• Empathy and understanding of the challenges facing older people in care homes
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and inclusion

Experience working with trustees, knowledge of charity governance or experience in services for older people would be an advantage.

What We Offer

• £40, 930 per annum (£22,921 pro rata for 21 hours a week)
• Employer Pension
• Flexible and Hybrid working
• A supportive and passionate team of staff, volunteers and trustees
• The chance to transform the lives of care home residents every single week

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short covering statement outlining how your experience aligns with the position.

Selection will be via an interview.

Please note that applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be able to evidence this prior to interview.

Finally, the role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Closing date is Friday 1 May 2026.

Help tackle loneliness among older people in care homes

Thousands of older people living in care homes receive few or no visitors. Friends for Life Bedfordshire exists to change that.

Through our befriending and group activities, we bring companionship, connection and meaningful relationships to care home residents across Bedford and the surrounding area.

We are now looking for a Fundraising Lead to help secure and grow the income that makes this work possible.

About Friends for Life Bedfordshire

We are a Bedford-based charity working to address the social isolation of older residents in Bedfordshire’s care homes.

Founded in 2007, we have grown from a small local initiative to a registered charity with c90 volunteers supporting more than 30 care homes across Bedford Borough. In the last year, over 1,100 care home residents received our services.

The Role

This is a pivotal role for the charity. It is key to the delivery of our business plan and growth aspirations.

You will take ownership of fundraising and income generation, ensuring we have the resources to sustain and grow our impact.

You will lead on grant fundraising whilst also developing community and individual giving, and delivering engaging fundraising events.

This is a hands-on role in a small organisation, so you will have real ownership and visibility. You will shape our fundraising strategy and directly influence how many residents we can reach.

This role is suited to someone who is both strategic and practical — someone who can develop the fundraising strategy and the plan to deliver this, but is equally comfortable writing applications, building relationships and making things happen.

Key Responsibilities

Grant Fundraising

• Identify and secure funding from trusts, foundations and statutory bodies
• Write high-quality, compelling funding applications
• Build and manage a strong pipeline of funding opportunities
• Maintain relationships with funders, including reporting and stewardship

Community & Individual Fundraising

• Grow income through local partnerships, supporters and community initiatives
• Engage schools, businesses and individuals to generate support
• Work with Marketing, Partnerships & Activities Lead to develop campaigns that drive regular and one-off donations
• Strengthen our local supporter base and visibility

Fundraising Events

• Plan and deliver fundraising events (community and corporate), managing logistics, budgets and stakeholder coordination
• Work with Marketing, Partnerships & Activities Lead to promote events through social media and marketing platforms
• Ensure events are engaging, effective and financially successful
• Evaluate performance and improve future activity

Strategy, Compliance & Reporting

• Develop and deliver a clear fundraising strategy aligned to organisational goals
• Track performance against targets and provide insight
• Ensure all fundraising is compliant with regulations and best practice
• Represent the charity externally with confidence and credibility

About You

We are looking for someone who can take ownership of fundraising and produce results in a small, resource-constrained environment.

You will likely bring:

• Experience developing or contributing to a fundraising strategy
• Proven experience in fundraising, with a track record of generating income
• Strong experience in writing successful grant applications
• Experience of developing and growing income from community fundraising initiatives (e.g. partnerships, volunteer-led activities, individuals and events)
• Ability to build and manage relationships with funders, donors or partners
• Strong written communication skills — able to create compelling cases for support
• Ability to work independently, prioritise effectively and meet deadlines
• A proactive, resourceful approach — you don’t wait to be told what to do
• Comfortable balancing strategy with hands-on delivery

What We Offer

• £16.79 per hour (£18,334 per year for 21 hours per week)
• Employer pension
• Flexible and hybrid working
• A supportive and passionate team of staff, volunteers and trustees
• The chance to transform the lives of care home residents every single week

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a short covering statement outlining how your experience aligns with the position.

Selection will be via an interview.

Please note that applicants must have the right to work in the UK and be able to evidence this prior to interview.

Finally, the role is subject to an Enhanced DBS check.

Closing date is Friday 1 May 2026.

As a local grant maker, Young Camden Foundation's grants processes and operations are key to our success. This role will suit an adaptable and organised team player, who is up for a challenge and keen to learn. 

You will lead and develop YCF’s significant grant-giving programmes, organising and improving the grants process, keeping donors in the loop, and communicating the impact of the small grants programmes, and coordinating support from the team to ensure this work is well supported. In this role you will oversee both YCF’s small grants programmes to members, and also YCF’s delivery of the Holiday Activities & Food Programme, which together amount to around £900,000 per year in grants out to Camden’s youth sector.

You will lead on YCF’s operations, including clerking to the Board of Trustees, ensuring timely applications and reporting to funders, and overseeing all aspects of YCF’s operations. You will be supported by our Operations & Administrations Apprentice. You will support the CEO across YCF’s partnerships, cultivating our pipeline of funders, including Trusts & Foundations and corporate donors, and spotting and supporting opportunities wherever you can.  

As a natural team player working in a small team, you will spot opportunities to support  YCF’s membership (especially regarding grants) and the other functions of YCF’s work. As a place based organisation, you will ensure you are known in the local community, and amongst our key stakeholders, including grassroots VCS partners, Camden Council, and our key funders.

Along with the CEO and the Head of Membership & Impact, you will support YCF’s partnerships, including with business neighbours, spotting opportunities to amplify YCF’s work. In this important and dynamic role you will lead on both, working closely with the CEO to also support fundraising and partnerships.

Main Purpose of the Role

Grants management:

· Grants management: You will direct and lead the YCF small grants programmes (including Small & Mighty Fund, Holiday Opportunities Fund and Heads Up Mental Health Fund, of around £150,000 p.a.), including leading on design and guidelines, engagement with YCF’s grants committee structures, and reporting back to Trustees and funders. You will lead on grants decisions processes and communications, as part of YCF’s membership offer. You will oversee all due diligence processes as part of YCF’s grant giving offer, and ensure smooth reporting cycles with grantees

· Strategic oversight of HAF: Strategic leadership of the Camden HAF programme, overseeing the HAF Programme Manager in the stewardship of this DfE programme, and retaining oversight of key deliverables, together with the Heads of Children’s Commissioning at Camden Council

Fundraising and reporting:

· Fundraising: You will maintain our pipeline of supporters, including of our grants rounds, and lead reporting for YCF’s grants and core funding to funders, supported by the team. You will ensure timely funding applications submissions Together with the Head of Membership & Impact, you will support the CEO in all fundraising for YCF and our programmes, including identifying funding and partnership opportunities, drafting bids and pitches, and so on.

· Reporting: You will oversee and deliver timely reporting across YCF’s funders. You will manage and be supported by the Operations Apprentice to ensure smooth and timely processes. You will ensure YCF’s monitoring and evaluation frameworks are fit for purpose. You will work with the rest of the team to ensure this function is properly and efficiently supported, and will proactively identify ways to more efficiently record and report on information to funders, including effective use of our CRM.

Operations and governance:

· Operational leadership: You will be responsible for YCF’s operational running as an organisation, ensuring our processes are smooth and fit for purpose. In practice, this may include supporting the CEO in operational and strategic planning, supporting budget oversight (and leading in the areas of grants). Supported by the Operations Apprentice, you will oversee YCF’s HR processes for onboarding, recruitment and so on.

· Governance: You will support YCF’s governance processes, due diligence and compliance, ensuring YCF is compliant with our charitable obligations, and ensure our policies are up to date and we are compliant with them.

· Board minute taking: You will take minutes of YCF’s Board meetings, and ensure actions are followed up with, and oversee the Operations Apprentice in the setting up of meetings and logistics. You will support the CEO and Chair with the preparation of papers, as needed.

Management and leadership

· Management: You will manage two important roles for YCF, modelling leadership at YCF, alongside the CEO and the Head of Membership & Impact

· Representing YCF: You will represent the organisation at a senior level at external events, including via speaking opportunities 

Please download the job specification for full details of this role, as well as our essential and desirable criteria, against which applications will be reviewed.