Lay member volunteer roles

Role Description

St Edmundsbury Cathedral became a registered charity on 1 May 2023 and is looking to appoint additional independent non-executive members to join Chapter which is the Board of Trustees. Chapter is accountable for the governance, strategic direction and management of the Cathedral, and has ultimate responsibility for the care, maintenance and development of the Cathedral estate, all aspects of Cathedral activity, and for securing its long-term viability and financial sustainability.

The objects of the Chapter are:

(a) to advance the Christian religion in accordance with the faith and practice of the Church of England, in particular by furthering the mission of the Church of England;

(b) to care for and conserve the fabric and structure of the Cathedral Church building;

(c) to advance any other charitable purposes which are ancillary to the furtherance of the purpose referred to in sub-paragraph (a) or (b).

Membership

The Chapter consists of the Dean, the Residentiary Canons and other lay members holding appointed or elected positions. The constitution allows for between 8 – 12 members of Chapter. Currently, membership comprises the Dean and the Residentiary Canons (4 clergy) who serve as executive members. One member serves as the senior non-executive member who is a lay person appointed by the Bishop. Two of the other non-executive members are directly elected from the congregation. We are now seeking to appoint an non-executive safeguarding member.

We would particularly welcome applications from individuals with substantial experience in safeguarding. This individual will provide strategic oversight and assurance in safeguarding practice, ensuring that the Cathedral continues to uphold the highest standards of safety, care, and compliance for children, young people, and vulnerable adults, in line with national and diocesan requirements.

Term of Office

Non-Executive Chapter members are generally appointed for a term of three years, and subject to the approval of Chapter and with the agreement of the non-executive member may serve a further three year term, which is the maximum permitted term of office. The role is voluntary and unremunerated. Expenses are paid in respect of some travelling costs, in accordance with the Cathedral’s policies. The appointment is subject to satisfactory references.

Time Commitment and Meetings

Chapter usually meets six times each year. Meetings are held in the Chapter Room within Abbey House beside the Cathedral and the business agenda rarely exceeds two hours. A light lunch or Evensong follows each meeting of Chapter, allowing time for members to socialise. Attendance at some sub-committee meetings as appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

Non-executive members of Chapter ensure that the focus of the Cathedral is the promotion of the Christian faith, maintaining an effective balance between that and its important financial and commercial obligations and ventures.

Members offer strategic advice and oversight on all aspects of the work of the Cathedral, including ensuring compliance with all regulations and statutory obligations and adherence to the highest standards of good governance. They also offer constructive challenge to the executive team, offering expertise and experience to help with evidence-based decision-making.

Chapter members advise and support the Dean, Residentiary Canons, and Chief Operating Officer on issues that are within their areas of particular expertise. This Chapter Trustee will also sit on the Safeguarding Committee, which meets four times a year.

Chapter members are invited to bring innovative thinking, together with new ideas and insights, to help secure the long-term future of the Cathedral and the delivery of its strategy through the Masterplan 2030. Particular emphasis will be placed on members promoting the life and work of the Cathedral at the heart of the Bury St Edmunds community, across the county of Suffolk and the wider eastern region.

Chapter members are welcomed as leading members of the Cathedral community and as such are expected to take part in meetings and events. Visible participation in the worship at the heart of the Cathedral's mission is an important expression of the non-executive membership of Chapter. Lay members robe and have individual stalls in the Quire of the Cathedral. We would hope for attendance at the Sunday Eucharist once a month; and at occasional Evensongs, Greater Festivals and civic occasions as personal circumstances permit.

Person Specification

Successful candidates must possess the following competencies and personal attributes:

• be a communicant member of the Church of England, or of a Church which is not in communion with but subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity.
• have an empathy with and be a compelling advocate for the Vision of the Cathedral through the Masterplan 2030; to be able to inform, lead and direct the strategy of the Cathedral
• be competent and able to exercise the highest standards of good governance in a complex Christian organisation
• have the ability to gain the trust, respect, and support of fellow members of Chapter, and the wider Cathedral community
• have the capacity to work collaboratively with all members of Chapter to translate the Masterplans aims into tangible outcomes
• be able to show empathy in dealing with others and to engage diplomatically and with authority in dialogue and debate on critical issues
• be able to voice concerns appropriately, in a frank but professional manner and to deal with conflict constructively
• have the capacity to communicate clearly with other members of Chapter, the Senior Leadership Team and employees on technical, financial and business matters in accordance with the non-executive member’s particular skills
• possess the ability to communicate with confidence and to provide effective strategic guidance
• have strong intellectual and analytical skills with a broad-based and long-term view of strategic and organisational goals
• be able to grasp the bigger picture and avoid immersion in minute detail
• possess the highest levels of trust and integrity
• demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to safeguarding and the promotion of a safe culture within the Cathedral community.

Specific Competencies

In addition to the matters set out above we are looking to recruit a non-executive member with specific skills, expertise or experience in Safeguarding.

Applicants should bring substantial and demonstrable experience in safeguarding policy, practice, or oversight, ideally within a church, education, health, social care, or charitable context. They will provide independent assurance, constructive challenge, and strategic advice to ensure that safeguarding remains at the heart of the Cathedral’s governance and mission.

Join Loughborough Students’ Union as a Trustee 

Unremunerated / Voluntary Role (reasonable expenses covered) 
Closing date: Monday 17 November 2025 

Help us deliver and evolve an award-winning student experience 

Loughborough Students’ Union (LSU) is one of the most successful and respected Students’ Unions in the UK, home to exceptional student leadership, award-winning events, and a vibrant community that empowers every student to reach their potential. 

We’re now looking for innovative and passionate Trustees to help guide LSU into its next chapter -delivering on our new three-year strategy (2025–28), which focuses on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, and ensuring that we remain both environmentally and economically sustainable. 

Why join us? 

Becoming a Trustee at LSU means playing a central role in shaping one of the UK’s leading student organisations. You’ll join a dynamic and skilled Board that: 

• Provides strategic oversight and challenge to ensure LSU thrives long-term 

• Supports bold decision-making, innovation, and positive cultural change 

• Upholds the highest standards in governance, sustainability, and inclusion 

• Helps us maximise opportunities to enhance the Loughborough student experience 

You’ll gain unique exposure to charity governance, strategy, and leadership in a nationally recognised organisation while making a tangible difference to over 19,000 students. 

We are looking for Trustees with expertise in HR and Talent Management and in Finance to join our Board. Our immediate priority is appointing a Trustee with strong HR and people leadership experience, with an additional vacancy for a Trustee bringing financial expertise. Both roles will contribute innovative thinking, strategic challenge, and support to help drive LSU’s continued success. 

If you’re curious, strategic, and not afraid to challenge the status quo, we’d love to hear from you. 

Our commitment to equity 

Loughborough Students’ Union is committed to providing equal opportunities for all, irrespective of age, disability, ethnicity, sex, religion, sexuality, transgender status and working patterns. We are keen to have a Board that appropriately represents all the communities we serve as an organisation. 

Interviews will be held on Monday 1st and Friday 5th December 2025, via MSTeams. 

Lay Trustee roles are appointed for a three-year term and can serve a maximum of two terms. For more information about the role please see the Trustee Role Profile (click on How to Apply and the file is located under Application Resources). 

Are you passionate about birth rights and positive birth experiences? We are seeking new trustees to join our board. 

At The Birth Partner Project, our vision is that no-one should face birth alone. We provide volunteer birthing partners, particularly to people seeking sanctuary, across Cardiff. 

We are currently making big strides to develop our small charity so it's fit for the future focusing on excellence, sustainability and growth. We are looking for dynamic and committed new trustees to join our existing team. 

We are particularly keen to hear from people who have expertise in financial management, employment law, marketing & communications, and technology. We are also interested to hear from experienced midwives who have an interest in our work. 

Join Royal Agricultural University Students' Union as an External Trustee 

About Royal Agriculture University Students' Union 

The Royal Agricultural University Students’ Union (RAUSU) is an independent, registered charity dedicated to enriching the student experience at the Royal Agricultural University. Over the past year, the Students’ Union has undergone a period of transformation — and this journey is only just beginning. 

They are now seeking three dedicated and forward-thinking trustees, including a new Chair, to join them at this exciting stage in their development. As they continue to grow, they are very much in start-up mode, meaning you’ll have the opportunity to make a meaningful and visible impact from day one. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Contribute to the Board’s strategic oversight and decision-making processes. 

• Support the President and Director in achieving the organisation’s goals and objectives. 

• Ensure the organisation remains financially sound, balancing income and expenditure while planning for both short-term initiatives and long-term needs. 

• Uphold and enhance good governance practices, ensuring compliance with the Charity’s Articles and regulations. 

Candidate Profile 

RAUSU is looking for candidates who are passionate about education and organisational development. You’ll bring curiosity, courage and commitment to help shape their vision for the future. They’d especially welcome candidates who can demonstrate: 

• The ability to challenge assumptions, ask thoughtful questions and bring fresh perspectives. 

• A sound understanding of issues within Higher Education. 

• Expertise in one or more of the following: finance, HR, legal, charity governance, leadership or change management. 

• Strong strategic thinking and sound judgement, with the ability to balance competing priorities. 

RAUSU's Commitment to Diversity 

RAUSU is deeply committed to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in everything they do. They believe their leadership should reflect the vibrant diversity of the communities they serve. 

They warmly encourage applications from candidates from racially and ethnically marginalised backgrounds, women, non-binary individuals, and those with disabilities. If you meet at least 80% of the essential criteria and identify as part of a marginalised group, you will be guaranteed an interview. 

Time Commitment 

• Term: Four years and lay trustees can serve up to two terms. 

• Commitment: Approximately 12–18 days per year, including six Board meetings annually. 

How to Apply 

Please click 'apply now' or contact Anh at Atkinson HR Consulting if you have any queries or would like to arrange an informal discussion. The application includes submission of a CV and a personal statement. 

Key Dates 

• Applications close: 12noon, Tuesday 2nd December 2025 

• Interviews: Monday 8th December 2025 

Are you motivated by the opportunity to positively impact the UK’s mental health at the highest level, and be part of an internationally recognised organisation improving therapy standards? You might just be the right person to join the UK Council for Psychotherapy team.

Who is the UK Council for Psychotherapy?

UK Council for Psychotherapy is the leading organisation for psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors in the UK. We believe that psychotherapy can help us in profound ways, solving immediate issues and transforming how we think, feel and behave. Alongside offering professional support for our members, we are the leading research, innovation and educational body working to advance psychotherapies for the benefit of all. We regulate the profession and speak up for the importance of psychotherapy.  

What matters to us

UKCP’s mission: We see first-hand the power of psychotherapy to improve lives, so we speak up for the importance of psychotherapy in national and local policymaking and represent the social value of psychotherapy in the UK today.

Our vision: A society that understands the value and impact of high-quality psychotherapy, the importance of making psychotherapeutic services available to those in need and the relevance of psychotherapy in improving lives.

And our all important values: Our values are central to us. We recruit according to them, appraise our people against them, embed them in our working practices with colleagues, ensure that our practice is continually informed by them and measure our impact against them. We encourage you to read the candidate pack to learn more about our values.

So what does life as a trustee at UKCP look like?

Are you looking for a voluntary role that is rewarding and offers you the chance to provide leadership with your HR or communications skills? Then here is a look at some of the key tasks you’ll be involved in as trustee. You will:

• help to embed good governance practices in everything UKCP, the trustees and officers, and staff undertake as well as promoting diversity and inclusion
• provide leadership and direction to the organisation in order to pursue UKCP’s vision, mission and strategic direction
• prepare for and attend Board and other meetings and contribute expert ideas and know-how
• provide your HR or communications expertise to support understanding and decision-making across the Board.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

UKCP is committed to doing more to reflect the communities we serve. The Equity, Diversity and Inclusion – Belonging, Intersectionality, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (EDI-BIIDE) Committee plays a vital role within UKCP governance, driving the strategic management of equity and inclusion initiatives across the organisation.

Who are we looking for?

We are looking for two trustees who share our desire to improve the UK’s mental health and an appreciation of the role of high-level oversight in achieving this. Having communications, PR or professional HR expertise, along with an understanding of the distinction between governance and management, will be key in these trustee roles.

If you have experience in working in an influential role and feel that you have good, independent judgement; can also act with impartiality, fairness and respect confidences; we believe that you may be a great addition to our board.

Don’t think you quite meet all of the specifications? Please don’t count yourself out – we’d still love to hear from you and learn more about you and your interest in joining UK Council for Psychotherapy.

Sounding good? Here’s how you can apply today.

Eastside People is supporting UK Council of Psychotherapy in the recruitment of these roles. Please apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter, both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

• why you are interested in the trustee roles at UKCP
• having read the information pack, what relevant experience and skills you feel you would bring to this role. This might come from paid work, study, community or voluntary work or other experience.

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

The closing date for applications is Monday 24th November. Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after, and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with UKCP shortly after this. 

We look forward to hearing from you!

We currently have a vacancy for a Trustee on the Board of the Mosaic Learning Trust, based in Standish, Wigan.

Our Trust comprises three schools across Wigan and Lancashire. We’re looking for someone passionate about making a genuine difference to children’s education and school experience.

Our Board brings together professionals from a wide range of backgrounds – whether your expertise lies in Human Resources, Marketing, Legal Services, Community Engagement, or another sector, your skills could help shape the future of our schools and improve outcomes for all our students. Prior experience in education isn’t necessary, as we provide full training and support.

This is a voluntary role, and we welcome interest from anyone who feels they have the skills and time to contribute. Being a Trustee is both rewarding and impactful – it’s a meaningful way to give back to the local community while developing valuable board-level experience.

We are looking for a Communications Officer who can strategically identify and post engaging content for our social media feeds and other communication channels, which will inspire people to support our work with refugees and asylum seekers in Epirus. You are the person who thinks “this would make a good post”, while activities are taking place. More than that, your interest and belief in digital communications as a force for good should be backed with an interest in data and analytics, using them to influence our overall communication strategy.

Your role would include:

• Interacting with our digital communities to increase engagement, followers and the quality of user experience.

• Identifying key influencers and conversations that we should engage in to better showcase our work and expand our reach.

• Managing our other channels of communication, including newsletters, donor engagement, website and press service.

You should be able to:

• Manage communication channels in a professional capacity

• Create and deliver communication strategies for specific programmes and campaigns

• Produce regular data reports using Facebook Insights, LinkedIn Analytics, Google Analytics or similar tools, analysing data and adapt strategies accordingly 

• Keep up-to-date with the latest trends/developments in digital communications

• Identify key influential external figures and agencies to further our reach and impact

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience working in a refugee context or with a vulnerable population

• Experience working in an NGO, Charity or in the field of human rights

What do we offer?

• A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow; investing in personal and professional development.

• Accommodation in a shared house

• Transportation to/from work

• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Have experience leading a team of this type?

Consider applying to become a Communications Coordinator. Whether your experience lies in the humanitarian sector or elsewhere, we are looking for people with expertise that can drive us forward as an organisation.

Looking for an internship?

If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.

Go remote

This position is also open to remote candidates. If you wish to apply for a remote role, mention this in your application.

Do you want to be inspired by the impact of education? Do you have the skills to lead an established board of governors? A school in Tewkesbury is looking for a skilled volunteer to drive school improvement by becoming a chair of governors.

What will you be doing?

Governing bodies are responsible for the strategic management of a school and will make decisions about a wide range of issues

The core responsibilities involved are:

· Ensuring accountability

· Providing support and challenge to the schools senior leadership team

· Monitoring and evaluating the school’s progress

· Budgetary allocation and control

· Shaping plans for school improvement and overseeing their implementation

· Setting the school’s aims and values

· Appointing senior members of staff including the Head Teacher

A school governing body is made up of representatives from the school, the parents, and the local community.

What are we looking for?

This vacancy is for an alternative provision secondary school. Ideally, you would have previous experience in the education sector however please still apply if your skills lie in a different industry. Previous chairing or leadership experience is desired but not necessary if you feel you have education knowledge to offer.

You must be over 18, but you don’t need to be a parent or have children of school age. Often, it’s the outside perspective you can bring that a school needs. Professional experience in areas such as safe guarding, change management, and leadership skills are all useful to a school. Soft skills such as communication and problem solving are also great additions.

What difference will you make?

Governors make decisions that affect schools for years to come. Chair of Governors work in partnership with Head Teachers and the Senior Management Team to help deliver the best possible education, and help children realise their expectations and aspirations.

Our recent impact survey found that our volunteers bring £9.9 million worth of value to schools each year, and 9/10 volunteers would recommend being a governor to a friend.

As a chair of governors, you will be encouraged to visit the school to gain an understanding of the culture and ethos and to get the most out of the role. You’ll also have the opportunity to meet children, parents, and teachers, and see the impact of your work first-hand.

What's in it for the volunteer?

Volunteering as a chair of governors is a challenging but rewarding role. As part of the governing board, you’ll:

· Have support from the vice chair(s) and the clerk, to ensure the effective functioning of the board by keeping it focused on its core functions. You will also encourage the board to work together as an effective team, building its skills, knowledge and experience.

· help schools overcome challenges to ensure a bright future for children in your community

· work collaboratively with people from different backgrounds, challenging your own perspective and broadening your network

· gain experience outside of your job description and skills you can bring back to work

Before you apply

You will need to complete an application form and will have an interview with the school. DBS checks will be taken up.

About Governors for Schools

Objectives

Governors for Schools exists to improve educational standards so that children and young people have the chance to realise their full potential.

We believe the key to improving school performance is effective governance. By finding, nurturing and supporting a committed network of governors we help to drive systematic change in how schools operate. We have been connecting schools across England for over 20 years, and expanded our service into Wales in 2020, with skilled and committed volunteers, supported by our business and university partnerships.

We are looking to recruit people for our Youth Programme, for a minimum commitment of 10 weeks. The Youth Programme works with young refugees and asylum seekers in the Epirus region of Northern Greece, providing them with a sense of community and experiences that they wouldn’t otherwise receive!

There are some specific applicant requirements, however the most important is to have a strong desire to work with young refugees and have the commitment to improve the situation for them here in Greece. Second Tree works in a transparent way in a challenging and changeable situation on the field; therefore, an ability to learn quickly and be open to feedback is vital.

Your role would include:

We are looking to recruit people that are open to filling one (or more) of the following roles within our Youth Programme. Whilst these should guide applications, the roles often overlap and are interchangeable. Imagination and flexibility is encouraged when applying: let us know your suggestions on how we can use your skills!

The roles range across:

• Children’s English Teacher: responsible for the planning and delivery of the programme’s English classes. Classes focus on low level English learning and must be fun and engaging. TEFL/equivalent experience is preferable, but not essential.

• Excursion Lead: responsible for the planning and leading of weekend excursions, a highlight of the programme for participants! Excursions require an organised, methodical planner who is engaging and confident leading groups of children.

• Workshop Lead: responsible for facilitating workshops that can be either thematic, reinforcing the vocabulary learned in English class to make it more practical and interactive, or focused on social and emotional learning, helping students develop their self-awareness through creative and mindful activities, or touch upon any scientific/mathematical knowledge the teacher might bring. 

No matter the role(s) filled, team members are expected to help plan, prepare and participate in various community engagement activities such as: picnics, community excursions, sporting events, etc.

You should be able to:

• Be consistent with your application of behaviour management techniques

• Be honest and transparent; be able to give and receive feedback in the most straightforward way

• Manage a wide range of tasks and intense workload effectively and efficiently 

• Communicate in English, both written and orally

• Deliver programme activities and carry out administrative and logistical tasks

• Plan and deliver effective and dynamic educational activities

• Care for people: the interests of the people we work with should always be your first concern

The ideal candidate will have:

• Experience with young children and teenagers in educational and leisure activities

• Experience working as a Scout leader or a leadership role in other such youth activities

• Experience working in the refugee context

What do we offer?

• A nurturing and collaborative working environment. We work hard to help our team members grow, investing in personal and professional development.

• Accommodation in a shared house

• Transportation to/from work

• After completion of a three-month trial, if you commit long-term, a small monthly expenses refund

In certain periods of the year, demand is extremely high, and the shared houses might be full. If you have the means to pay for your own accommodation, please let us know. We would still be happy to host you if space is available. However, in a situation where the shared houses are full, this would allow us to offer an opportunity to someone that cannot afford to pay rent.

Have experience leading a team of this type?

Consider applying to become a Youth Programme Coordinator. Whether your experience lies in the humanitarian sector or elsewhere, we are looking for people with expertise that can drive us forward as an organisation. 

Looking for an internship?

If, because of your degree or for any other reason, you would like to have your period at Second Tree credited as an internship, just apply to the vacancy that you’re interested in and mention this. We have agreements with several universities across Europe, and in many other cases, these agreements can be developed on an ad hoc basis.

Branch Secretary Trustee (Lancashire)

Do you have professional expertise you could use to help a good cause? Are you passionate about animal welfare? Become our principal communications trustee and help us to maintain our branches affairs and improve animals’ lives.

Overview of the Branch Secretary opportunity

As a Branch Secretary, you would be in an essential volunteer role as the principal communications trustee managing and maintaining the administrative affairs of our branch. Using your expertise and skills, you will be able to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.

As a minimum, trustees are expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment will vary as they will play an active role supporting branch activities.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Preston and District Branch

The Preston and District Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Secretary

• To act as the primary contact point for all branch communications with the national Society, the branch committee, and the branch membership.
• Arrange branch meetings, ensure accurate minutes are taken and distributed in accordance with branch rules.
• Ensure all branch committee decisions are implemented and actions completed.
• Arrange the branch AGM including the compilation and distribution of the annual report, nominations, and agenda in line with the strict timetable laid down in the branch rules.
• Arrange the timely dissemination of the contents of all correspondence and literature received by the branch, ensuring availability to all committee members, and reply to all branch correspondence where necessary.
• Order and distribute RSPCA stationery, leaflets, posters and other fundraising and promotional material.
• Liaise with the Branch Partnership Manager (BPM) and group chief inspector and notify them of all branch meetings.
• Advise the BSS of all changes to branch facilities, services, and contact details.
• In the absence of the membership secretary, assume responsibility for the maintenance of the branch membership list.
• Submit recommendations for national Society awards to the BSS, in accordance with the wishes of the committee.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support regional initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer:

Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare.

Specific skills such as finance, fundraising, project management, business experience, awareness of employment and/or charity legislation can be useful, but not essential.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert, although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Secretary

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.
• Trustees must sign up for a 3 month membership

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

The Circle is a global feminist organisation supporting marginalised and vulnerable women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic injustice across the world. To help achieve that we are looking for two new Trustees, including a Vice-Chair, to join our board. We are particularly looking for one individual with overseas programmes and grant-making experience and one with public campaigning experience. 

About The Circle

The Circle is a global feminist organisation, founded by Annie Lennox and other leading women in 2018, supporting marginalised and vulnerable women and girls confronting gender-based violence and economic injustice across the world. What started as a small group of influential women, including activists, lawyers and creatives coming together, has grown into a global network of thousands.

The Circle brings together Global Feminist changemakers to use their resources, networks and creativity to cultivate long lasting change. Through the delivery of frontline services, fundraising, advocacy and convening and connecting, our global network supports each other on the journey towards a future where there is safety and equality for all women and girls.

We are on a mission to dismantle the economic barriers women and girls experience and end the pandemic of violence they face by funding & supporting frontline grassroots organisations in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. We advocate for long-term structural change and use our collective voices and those with lived experience to strive for progress. Global Feminism is our guiding light.

Since 2008, The Circle has supported over 1.5 million people directly on women’s rights and empowered more than 700,000 women and girls facing violence, discrimination and fear globally. The Circle has supported the creation of safe spaces and refuges, counselling, educational workplace training programmes, emergency assistance and much more.

Role Specification

• Ensure that The Circle is carrying out its vision and purpose. Understand its objectives, be able to explain them and ensure they are adhered to.
• Contribute actively to the Board in giving strategic direction to the charity, agreeing on overall strategy, policy, targets and evaluation performance.
• Ensure The Circle is complying with its governing document, legal obligations and statutory and accounting reporting requirements.
• Manage The Circle’s resources responsibly (including its finances, assets, reputation and value)
• Use any specific skills, knowledge, and experience to offer challenge and advice to help the Board reach sound decisions
• To safeguard the good name and values of The Circle
• The Vice Chair supports the Chair and the Board, deputizes in the Chair’s absence, and helps maintain good governance and strategic direction.

Person Specification

We are seeking two new Trustees (including a Vice-Chair) to join our Board with energy, commitment and specific skills and experience in the following areas (with the understanding that candidates may have more than one of the skills listed):

• Senior experience in international development/gender programming, including grant-making
• Public or digital campaigns for advocacy
• Additional skills such a corporate connections and networks will also be desirable.
• We recognise the importance of having a diverse and inclusive Board, and The Circle is committed to achieving greater diversity. We welcome applications regardless of sex, gender, race, age, sexuality, belief, or disability. Trustees will be required to be UK-based, but we welcome applicants with connections and heritage to the countries we work in. A commitment to our values of anti-racism, oppression and decolonisation will be essential.
• Most importantly we are looking for Trustees who share and want to be actively involved in our passion for an equal and safe world for women and girls.

Join disability and education charity National Star as a Trustee, guiding the organisation as it implements its recently agreed five-year strategy.

What will you be doing?

Do you want to play your part in supporting one of the UK’s leading disability charities to achieve its ambition for growth, providing more education and long-term living opportunities for people with complex disabilities?

National Star, whose headquarters is in Gloucestershire, is seeking several people who share its vision of a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. As a member of the Trustee Board, you will also be a company director as the charity is also a registered company.

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

What you will bring:

The charity is looking to recruit people with a broad range of experience and are particularly interested in attracting candidates with knowledge / experience of:

* Company law and the specific legal requirements for charities in special needs and social care sectors

* Marketing and communication expertise including networking and fundraising

* Business acumen with a strong financial background

National Star is a Disability Confident Employer. The charity is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, including those currently under-represented on o0ur Trustee Board, which includes women, people with disabilities and members of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

The Trustee Board meets four times a year, generally during the week between 4pm – 7pm. In addition, Trustees are expected to become active members of a sub-committee. Board papers are distributed in advance to allow Trustees to prepare for each meeting.

What are we looking for?

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values of ambition, collaboration, integrity, respect and sustainability

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

We are recruiting several trustees with a range of skills.

What difference will you make?

By joining National Star's Trustee Board, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a part in the future development of one of the leading disability charities in England and Wales as well as being able to develop your own skills in board level discussions, executive decision making and strategic planning. Your fresh perspective could help the charity to see things in a different light and your professional expertise could be utilised to support our staff team in delivering our vision and values.

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

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance providing a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and a CV. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete our additional application form

We are New Wine

New Wine is a network of leaders and a family of churches, committed to seeing local churches thrive and communities transformed.

Our strategic priorities are:

• Equipping Leaders – Investing in current and emerging leaders through training, mentoring, gathering and practitioner-led ministry.
• Empowering Younger Generations – Investing in ministries that raise up children, youth, and young adults to know Jesus and lead with courage and conviction.
• Multiplying Churches – Supporting church plants, revitalisations, and pioneering expressions of church in diverse contexts.

Representing over 1,000 churches, 4,000 church leaders and 50,000 individuals, building networks, equipping leaders and empowering people to advance the Kingdom of God through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus’ church is always facing challenges and opportunities, and it’s as true now, and for New Wine, as it’s ever been. At this time of tremendous opportunity, we are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to work with our Board and Leadership to oversee and steward our mission, people and strategic priorities.

Could you be that person?

We’re looking for an exceptional, Godly person as our next Chair who has:

• A vibrant faith in Jesus, evident in their life and leadership, who is actively engaged in a local church aligned with New Wine’s vision and values, and who is passionate about seeing the Kingdom of God advance in the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Proven governance experience, with an ability to bring wisdom, accountability, and spiritual discernment to lead the Board in fulfilling New Wine’s mission and values.
• A proven ability to bring strategic oversight and discernment, that will help shape and steward the New Wine’s vision and priorities in pursuit of its mission.
• Strong emotional intelligence, with an ability to lead collaboratively and build consensus to enable effective and unified decision-making.
• Exceptional relational and leadership abilities, with an ability to inspire, influence, and build effective working relationships across the Board and the wider New Wine network.

This is a time of amazing opportunity.

As the ‘quiet revival’ continues across our nation, New Wine’s mission of local churches changing nations feels more spiritually potent than ever. We are living in a time of exceptional opportunity for New Wine and we will need a Chair who can help us realise the full potential God has for us.

Could you be that person?

Closing date for expressions of interest is12pm GMT on Friday 21st November 2025.

Treasurer 

Closing date Midnight Sunday 29th November 2025 

We are looking for ambitious and passionate Treasurer to join our Team at Advicenow at a time of growth for the charity but also substantial social and economic challenges for our beneficiaries.

Advicenow has been providing legal support to individuals and communities since 2011. We provide routes to access to justice for people who are otherwise unable to secure basic rights and entitlements to their income, their home and to protect their families. We have a strong track record in leading technological innovation, and educational and research design to tackle legal needs at scale.

As a member of the board you will ultimately be responsible for the overall direction, vision and strategy of Law for Life. We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Treasurer to work alongside the Chair, Board, CEO and Finance Manager to ensure the charity’s financial wellbeing, accountability, and sustainability.

You will have the ability to innovate, to think strategically, while demonstrating sound judgement. You will help us to move on to the next stage of our three year strategic plan.

We are looking to appoint individuals who share our values in social justice and legal empowerment and would like to become involved. In particular, we would also like to hear from people who have experience in any of the following areas:

• People with experience in financial management, accounting, audit, or a senior finance role in a relevant sector.
• Professional experience in working with or advising Boards on financial matters, particularly in a charity context.
• Leadership or governance experience in charity & non-for-profit, justice & human rights, health, or technology sectors.

We are searching for people from all backgrounds and sectors but are particularly keen to enhance Board expertise from people with lived experience of discrimination, poverty or access to justice needs.

For more information and how to apply download our recruitment pack.