Lay trustee volunteer volunteer roles

The Opportunity

We are recruiting 3 lay Trustees! Do you bring skills and experience in communications, human resources or membership engagement? Would you like to use these at board level to shape a charity? We'd love you to join our Board of Trustees if so.

This is a fantastic opportunity to have a great impact on the UK’s mental health at the highest level!

Does this matter to you as much as it matters to us? Then a Trustee role with UKCP will give you the chance to support a cause with your professional skills.

Who is the UK Council for Psychotherapy?

UK Council for Psychotherapy is a leading organisation for psychotherapists and psychotherapeutic counsellors. We believe that psychotherapy can help us in profound ways. Solving immediate issues and transforming how we think, feel and behave is how we do this.

We offer professional support for our members here in the UK.  We are also the leading research, innovation and educational body. UKCP continue working to advance psychotherapies for the benefit of all.

What matters to us

We see first-hand the power of psychotherapy to improve lives. We speak up for the importance of psychotherapy in national and local policymaking. UKCP also represents the social value of psychotherapy in the UK today.

If you join us…

You will be a part of a committed Board who is doing more to reflect the communities we serve. This is an opportunity to shape the work and direction of UKCP. Help us achieve our vision of a world in which emotional and mental wellness is a human right.

Equality, diversity and inclusivity are felt throughout our values and the culture of our work practices. So, you’ll enjoy the rewards of helping us to be a voice of change where it’s needed.

Who we’re looking for

We are looking for three Trustees to join the UKCP Board, bringing any or a combination of the skills and experience listed below. All candidates will share our commitment to improving the UK’s mental health and understand the importance of high-level governance in achieving this.

We are particularly seeking:

• HR Trustee – Someone with proven experience and insight into human resources practices, people management, organisational culture, staff wellbeing, recruitment, and talent development.
• Communications Trustee – Someone with professional experience in communications, marketing, and/or public relations.
• Membership Engagement Trustee – Someone who can provide insight-led oversight of UKCP’s membership activities.

Please make sure you read our Candidate Information Pack before applying, as it contains important details about the role and our organisation.

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

What’s next?

Eastside People is supporting UK Council of Psychotherapy in the recruitment of these roles. You can click here/follow the link to apply today.

The closing date for applications is Monday 5th January. Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after. Shortlisted candidates will then have an interview with UKCP shortly after this.

We acknowledge every application. You’ll always hear from us after taking the time to apply - we look forward to hearing from you!

We are seeking a Trustee with expertise in income generation and sustainability to
help guide the charity through its next stage of development.

You will join a committed Board of Trustees who work closely with our small
operational team. Together, we ensure that Tackle remains financially resilient,
strategically focused, and deeply rooted in the lived experiences of those we
support.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute to the Board’s strategic oversight, particularly around fundraising andl ong-term income development.
• Support the Executive Team to explore and strengthen diverse income streams, including grants, corporate partnerships, individual giving, and trading opportunities.
• Help shape our sustainability plan as we transition from growth to consolidation.
• Champion good governance and ensure that fundraising aligns with our values and ethical standards.
• Act as an ambassador for Tackle, using your networks to open doors, raise awareness, and build partnerships.
• Attend quarterly Board meetings (online and in person) and occasional away days or events.

The Chapter constitutes the board of charity trustees of Worcester Cathedral (registered charity: 1207427). The Chapter comprises members who are lay and ordained, executive and non-executive as set out in the Cathedral’s Constitution. The non-executive members provide constructive challenge, input and support to the Cathedral’s strategic direction and operational implementation.

Commitment

Meetings: The Chapter currently meets formally 8 times per year (including two away days), usually for four hours on a weekday morning. Papers are received in advance and all members of the Chapter are expected to have read papers and be prepared to contribute as needed to discussion.

The Chapter does not normally meet in August. Expenses can be claimed for attendance at meetings or carrying out functions on behalf of the Chapter. Non-executive members of the Chapter will serve as lay canons of the Cathedral (or honorary canons if ordained), having the right to the title of ‘Canon’ and of being assigned a stall in the Cathedral’s 14th Quire. Non-executive members of the Chapter are required to adhere to the Chapter Member / Trustee Code of Conduct

Responsibilities of the Chapter:

A non-executive member of the Chapter shall take a full part in the discussions and decision-making of the Chapter as it fulfils its statutory responsibilities:

• to order the worship and promote the mission of the Cathedral;
• to formulate proposals in connection with the strategic direction and mission of the Cathedral;
• to manage all property vested in the Cathedral and the income accruing from it;
• to ensure that necessary repairs and maintenance of the Cathedral and its contents and other buildings and monuments are carried out;
• to attend to all matters concerning the appointment of staff to the Cathedral;
• ​to prepare an annual budget for the Cathedral;
• to prepare an annual report and accounts;
• to keep under review the Constitution and Statutes of the Cathedral;
• to ensure legal and regulatory compliance;
• to meet safeguarding requirements and ensure best practice; 
• to exercise the power if necessary to provide for the incorporation of limited companies for the better management of the Cathedral.

Contributing to the Cathedral's Life, Worship and Mission:

A non-executive member of the Chapter shall contribute the skills and experience they bring to the Cathedral as opportunity allows, for example:

• by serving on such incorporated limited companies as the Chapter may establish, on sub-committees of the Chapter and on any working groups of the Chapter as may be created;
• by attending and contributing to worship at the Cathedral;
• by contributing to the ministry of hospitality offered at the Cathedral and to such other Cathedral activity as may be appropriate;
• by acting as an advocate for the Chapter of Worcester Cathedral within and beyond the Church of England, across the city, the Deanery and the Diocese of Worcester and the wider region;
• by serving as a Canon of the Cathedral, being seen and present as such, as may be appropriate; 
• by providing critical friendship and constructive challenge to Chapter colleagues, the Chief Officers and the wider Senior Executive Team.

In general:

• to ensure their own compliance with the Chapter’s policies and procedures, and contribute to the review and development of policy and practice;
• to promote and uphold the Cathedral’s reputation and good standing at all times.

Person specification

Essential

1. Communicant member of the Church of England (within the meaning given in Rule 83(2) of the Church Representation Rules), or a communicant member of a Church which is not in communion with the Church of England but subscribes to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity
2. Committed to the Cathedral’s Christian vision, values, mission and ministry.
3. Able to carry out legal duties as set out in the Charity Commission’s ‘CC3 - The Essential Trustee’ and make decisions in accordance with the guidance provided in ‘CC27 – Decision-making for charity trustees’.
4. Willing to follow the Chapter’s Code of Conduct and to uphold all of the Chapter’s safeguarding responsibilities.
5. Willing to complete appropriate safeguarding training and DBS checking.
6. Demonstrable strategic leadership and governance skills; previous experience volunteering as a trustee is welcome but not essential.
7. Willingness to attend to professional personal development including undertaking training.
8. Able to commit a minimum of eight hours a month to attending Chapter meetings (or other business on behalf of the Chapter) including preparation for meetings.

Desirable

1. A professional background or significant experience of working in one (or more) of the following areas:
   •  strategic human resources management
   • property management / development
   • strategic planning

ELIGIBILITY

The Chapter members must be eligible to be trustees under the Charities Act. The Chapter members may not act as a trustee if they are disqualified unless authorised to do so by a waiver from the Commission. The reasons for disqualification, issued by the Commission include:

• being bankrupt or having an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA);
• having an unspent conviction for certain offences;
• being on the Sex Offenders Register

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. As a member of the board of trustees you will be responsible for setting the strategic aims, objectives, and direction of the charity. You will use your knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure we achieve our charitable objectives and represents the interests of all stakeholders.

Kidney Research UK has been at the forefront of pioneering research for six decades, investing in talented researchers and funding work that could ultimately lead to a cure. Our work has resulted in vital breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of those affected, changing the future for many kidney patients.

We have made remarkable progress but there is still much to do. The number of people living with kidney failure continues to rise and we must go further to drive innovation and increase investment in renal research. Of course, like so many other charities and organisations we are doing this important work during challenging times.

We have adapted well to the changing world, and we are finding exciting new ways to reach our goals. We know we must rise to the challenge for kidney patients everywhere and we remain determined to grow our income so we can deliver more impact.

Our trustees play a vital role in the governance of Kidney Research UK, which enables and accelerates the impact that we have as an organisation for our patient community. Working closely with your fellow Trustees, the chief executive and wider leadership team, you will be part of a team that guides and oversees the delivery of Kidney Research UK's strategic priorities. We have a number of trustees who are due to retire from their roles during the next 12 months, and we are looking for new trustees to join our board and be part of this exciting transformation.

If this sounds like you and you think you could make a difference, we’d encourage you to review the attached role description below and apply to join our dedicated board of trustees.

Join the Oasis Charitable Trust’s Board and apply your professional expertise to scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders to build communities that transform.

Applications close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

Location: National

For over four decades, Oasis has been at the forefront of sustainable and holistic community development, addressing inequality across economic, social, physical and spiritual dimensions. Our approach spans education, housing, justice, health, youth and family support.

At the core of the Oasis vision is a belief in the transformative power of community. We envision a place where every individual is not just included, but actively contributes to and realises their God-given potential. This vision is grounded in the understanding that inequality permeates all aspects of life, especially within communities facing adversity.

Every Oasis community is distinctive, yet they share a common goal: the creation of a space where everyone is included and where everyone can flourish. The foundation of our work often lies in integrated “Hubs”. Our model is born out of our experience in communities grappling with disadvantage and poverty. We collaborate with other charities, faith groups and local authorities to provide holistic care and opportunities for all.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking Trustees to join the Oasis Charitable Trust Board and Trustees for our subsidiary boards – Oasis Community Learning, Oasis Community Housing, Oasis Community Partnerships, and Oasis Restore. While we remain open to professional expertise, we hope to appoint effective non-executives who can scrutinise, challenge and support executive leaders as Oasis enters its next strategic phase.

Oasis Trustees play an important role in the effective management and governance of the charity, holding ultimate responsibility for its actions and decisions. Key responsibilities include ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g. with the Charity Commission and the Department for Education), safeguarding assets and using our networks and resources responsibly.

Beyond your fiduciary duties as a Trustee, you will be a custodian of our ethos, ensuring that our leaders embody our purpose for the public benefit. You should exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence, seeking professional advice when necessary, especially where your specialist knowledge is required.

Trustees collaborate to make well-informed decisions that serve our long-term success. The responsible management of the charity’s resources involves making judicious decisions aligned with the organisation’s objectives and implementing policies to safeguard its assets.

Time commitment: varies depending on the Board.

Peridot Partners and Oasis are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and our client expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references before any final offer can be made.

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

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 19th January.

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.

As a Digital Trustee with expertise in AI and digital technologies, including regulation of AI use within organisations, you will play a pivotal role in providing strategic direction to our ethical AI adoption and digital transformation. This position is a voluntary trustee role, requiring a passionate and dedicated individual with experience in emerging tech trends, particularly in the non-profit sector and a genuine commitment to the values and objectives of our organisation.

About Us

The European Network on Statelessness (ENS) is a civil society alliance of organisations and individuals working to promote the right to a nationality in Europe. Our network brings together over 180 members in more than 40 countries. Since establishing in 2012, we have been dedicated to raising awareness about statelessness and the right to a nationality, supporting legal and policy development, and building civil society’s capacity to act. Our secretariat team of 9 is based in the UK, our Board of Trustees includes individuals based in the UK and across Europe.

We are a fully digital and paperless team, using MS365 and a CRM. We have developed and maintain innovative digital tools like the Statelessness Index (which analyses and compares how European countries are protecting stateless people and taking steps to end statelessness) and the Statelessness Caselaw Database (the first database containing case law related to statelessness in Europe, a vital tool for legal practitioners). Now we're looking forward to harnessing technology like AI and more, to continue to innovate in our work to end statelessness and protect people without a nationality.

Community engagement charity Sobus is looking for talented, passionate individuals to join our Board of Trustees.  We are looking for a new Trustee Treasurer to help guide the charity through a time of exciting opportunity and development.

It's an exciting time for Sobus, as we look to refresh our service offer, and maximise the investment opportunity following the disposal of a property in 2024.

Our overarching aim is to “strengthen local communities”, through the provision of infrastructure support to the local voluntary sector in the borough of Hammersmith & Fulham and supporting business communities around our North Kensington hub. 

Our work is focussed on five main areas:

• Voice & Representation
• Information & Intelligence
• Brokerage & Partnerships
• Capacity Building & Business Support
• Affordable Premises (through the provision of our business hubs in Fulham and North Kensington)

Trustee Treasurer: We are seeking a committed individual with a proven, professional track record of financial management and leadership at the highest level, and a sound understanding and experience of the voluntary sector.  We need someone with significant experience of leading long-term strategic development and driving financial sustainability.

You will share our vision and want to take a leading role in our journey to be recognised as an outstanding organisation. It would be a significant advantage if you have an understanding or experience of working in the voluntary and community sector, and even more so if you are a current or former resident of Hammersmith & Fulham or have a tangible, established and current connection with the area.

Sobus was formed in 2014 following a merger between the Community & Voluntary Sector Association and Fulham Community Partnership Trust. However, we were first established as the local CVS in Hammersmith & Fulham in 1998. 

Sobus is fully committed to equality of opportunity and diversity to ensure that we reflect the full breadth of the people that we support. We therefore warmly welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Selection process:

Candidates are requested to complete an application and a equalities monitoring form., and if shortlisted, an interview with our outgoing Treasurer, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the CEO.  t

For an informal discussion about the position, of for the Job Description and application form, contact the Sobus CEO, Sue Spiller

We are seeking trustees with the following skills, to help us end poverty for older people across the UK:
fundraising
brand / marketing / engagement
business development / transformation / innovation / technology.

What will you be doing?

You would be joining a strong, experienced Board who are working together with our dedicated charity staff to tackle poverty in later life.

As we head into 2026, the final year of our current strategy period, we will continue to build on the strong foundations we've established, with the expectation that a new strategy will be approved at our September 2026 Board meeting. 

As well as being Board members, trustees generally serve on at least one of our Board committees.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking trustees who are concerned about the growing impact of poverty in later life on our society, and can bring us any of the following skills : finance, fundraising, brand / marketing / engagement, business development / transformation / innovation / technology. 

We particularly encourage applications from people who have backgrounds, characteristics or perspectives that align with the priority groups we have identified (please see pack).

What difference will you make?

Like all charities, we are run by a Board of Trustees that sets our overall direction. Our trustees also provide detailed oversight of our fundraising, finance, risk, investments, governance, impact services and policy work through Board committees. 

Quartet Community Foundation is seeking a new chair of trustees to lead our dynamic and committed Board.

Quartet distributes approximately £5 million across  1,000 grants each year to support local communities and charities in the region. ​Trustees on our Board  actively contribute to setting the strategic direction of Quartet, helping to advise and run the organisation. As Chair of Trustees, you will work with other members of the Board to form an effective, accountable governing body which provides leadership and support for the dedicated staff team in delivering Quartet’s strategic plan.​

The role of the Chair of Trustees

The chair, along with their deputy is appointed by the Board with the following key responsibilities: ​

• To effectively chair board meetings, ensuring that the board  considers and observes best practice governance of Quartet. ​
• To be actively engaged in setting the strategic direction and policy of Quartet.​​
• To contribute to the performance management and review of the strategic plan and related targets.​​
• To help set and agree a balanced financial budget and support the Chief Executive Officer and staff in remaining within it.​​
• To be an ambassador and advocate for the work of Quartet in the wider community, including representation at evening and daytime events (with and sometimes as a substitute for the CEO). ​
• To support the CEO in their work, conducting an annual appraisal of their work and setting realistic goals in agreement with them.​
• To participate in grant-making panels as a representative of Quartet, as required and to visit at least one funded project per year.​​
• To attend quarterly board meetings, the AGM, meetings of our four sub-committees, and chair of chairs meetings. ​
• To ensure that Quartet complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law, internal policies and procedures, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.​​
• To participate as appropriate in the national network of community foundations, contribute to its development and set the work of Quartet in the wider context.  This usually involves two days a year at a UKCF south west chairs and CEOs workshop.​
• ​Joining trustees are supported to understand and engage with all of these elements, and the successful candidate will also be offered the opportunity to shadow the existing chair  for 6-9 months, before she leaves the role in 2026.

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.

Friends Without Borders (Portsmouth) CIO. The relief of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees who are suffering hardship or distress or in need, particularly, but not exclusively, in the City of Portsmouth, by the provision of financial and other assistance and raising the awareness of the general public.

As the new Chair your role will be pivotal within our team and we are excited to learn from the unique skills you bring. Your contribution will help Friends Without Borders to flourish and grow and we are excited to welcome you into our dedicated team.

What will you be doing?

Now is an exciting time to join the Board of Trustees at Friends Without Borders and help shape the charity’s future.

This role will allow you to put your professional skills and charity expertise to great use for the benefit of individuals who have had to flee their homes and livelihoods.

The Chair provides leadership to the board, ensuring effective governance, strategic direction and a strong public profile for Friends Without Borders. The Chair will engage trustees, support staff and oversee the charity’s mission in line with legal and regulatory requirements.

What are we looking for?

The ideal Chair will demonstrate:

Experience & Knowledge

• Board level experience, ideally in the charity sector either as a Trustee or a CEO (You do not need to have been a Chair before).
• Knowledge of charity law, governance and reporting requirements.
• Understanding of strategic planning, policy development and risk management.
• Commitment to developing a familiarity with the client group and relevant social/political context.

At Friends Without Borders, we believe that diversity strengthens our work. We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to our Board. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of the asylum system, as well as candidates from underrepresented communities. 

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join the Trustee Board at Friends Without Borders and a fantastic opportunity to Influence the growth and future of a dynamic charity

As Chair, you will play a key role in enabling us to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, empowering them to rebuild their lives in safety here in Portsmouth.

This role offers a valuable opportunity to:

• Use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference to individuals who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods.
• Contribute strategically to the management and development of a growing charity.
• Deepen your insight and expertise in charity governance, financial oversight, and organisational leadership.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering are supporting Friends Without Borders with their Board recruitment.

Please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board. Please do also supply the details of two Referees (no contact will be made with Referees without your express permission and only at the point that a Trustee role has been offered and accepted).

At Friends Without Borders, we are committed to meeting the aims set out in our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies.  As part of this commitment, we invite you to complete an anonymous and voluntary EDI monitoring form. This form is not part of your application and will remain confidential. Please get in touch to request the form.

If you would like to have an informal initial conversation either with the TrusteeWorks team of with a member of Friends Without Borders, please do contact TrusteeWorks who would be happy to arrange this for you.

Friends Without Borders (Portsmouth) CIO. The relief of immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees who are suffering hardship or distress or in need, particularly, but not exclusively, in the City of Portsmouth, by the provision of financial and other assistance and raising the awareness of the general public.

As the new Treasurer your role will be pivotal within our team and we are excited to learn from the unique skills you bring. Your contribution will help Friends Without Borders to flourish and grow and we are excited to welcome you into our dedicated team.

What will you be doing?

Now is an exciting time to join the Board of Trustees at Friends Without Borders. This role will allow you to put your professional skills to great use for the benefit of individuals who have had to flee their homes and livelihoods. It will also provide you with the opportunity to develop your insight and expertise into all aspects of managing a growing charity. 

The Treasurer is a voluntary role that ensures the financial health and accountability of Friends Without Borders. The role combines strategic oversight, advice and hands-on financial management. Between our Client Services Manager and volunteer Bookkeeper, spreadsheets relating to petty cash, income and expenditure are prepared. Our Treasurer will be responsible for payroll, pension payments and tax returns.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Professional accounting or finance qualification, or equivalent experience.
• Experience with financial systems and controls, ideally but not essentially in a charity or small organisation.
• Understanding of budgeting, forecasting and long-term financial planning.

Desirable

• Familiarity with charity financial regulations, Gift Aid, restricted funds and statutory reporting.

At Friends Without Borders, we believe that diversity strengthens our work. We warmly welcome applications from individuals who bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to our Board. We particularly welcome applications from individuals with lived experience of the asylum system, as well as candidates from underrepresented communities. 

What difference will you make?

This is an exciting time to join the Trustee Board at Friends Without Borders.

As Treasurer, you will play a key role in enabling us to continue supporting refugees and asylum seekers in the UK, empowering them to rebuild their lives in safety here in Portsmouth.

This role offers a valuable opportunity to:

• Use your professional skills and experience to make a meaningful difference to individuals who have been forced to flee their homes and livelihoods.
• Contribute strategically to the management and development of a growing charity.
• Deepen your insight and expertise in charity governance, financial oversight, and organisational leadership.

Before you apply

Reach Volunteering are supporting Friends Without Borders with their Board recruitment.

Please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills would add value to the board. Please do also supply the details of two Referees (no contact will be made with Referees without your express permission and only at the point that a Trustee role has been offered and accepted).

At Friends Without Borders, we are committed to meeting the aims set out in our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) policies. As part of this commitment, we invite you to complete an anonymous and voluntary EDI monitoring form. This form is not part of your application and will remain confidential. Please get in touch to request the form.

If you would like to have an informal initial conversation either with the TrusteeWorks team of with a member of Friends Without Borders, please do contact TrusteeWorks who would be happy to arrange this for you.