Learning volunteer roles in highwoods, colchester

                      While gaining invaluable experience, practice your passion within real-life scenarios. 

Join a group who aspire to think big, have fun, and create work that stands out. We’re looking for a passionate dedicated individual to join our team, who will play a key role in the growth of our brand messages and visions. The ideal candidate will assist us to conduct research and gather information on various projects.

Responsibilities
Conduct relevant research, gather information on various projects
Write research reports
Working closely with the communications team

Requirements
Good attention to detail.
Strong verbal, written and organisational skills.
Self-starter, dedicated and willing to learn. 
Microsoft Word and Excel skills.

Please note the role is a voluntary position and could be entirely remote. Any incurred reasonable expenses will be paid.
 
ABOUT TESYouth
TESYouth (Training, Employment Opportunities & Social Development for Youth) is a NFP social enterprise which focuses on improving the rate of youth employment, through volunteering, interactive and skill-based workshops, work-experience and training programmes. Together with our strategic partners, we collaborate with organisations to provide youth to develop their skills, and to assist in achieving their career aspirations.

Main purpose of role:

To support the Fundraising Manager with all aspects of fundraising, with a particular focus on donor stewardship, and small grants/trusts/community fundraising.

The role will be hands on and has the potential for you to learn and develop a variety of fundraising skills.

Responsibilities and key tasks:

• To research and draft applications to small grants and trust.

• Proactively use the fundraising database to develop and manage supporters and ensure all activities are recorded accurately and in line with GDPR

• To assist the Fundraising Manager/Treasurer with the reconciliation of our income and financial processes.

• To assist the Fundraising Manager with the planning and collation of the annual and biannual major funders monitoring reports requests.

• General fundraising/administration duties, as and when required

• This role is expected to meet the minimum financial target per year.

Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

Essential

Excellent written and oral communication skills.  Ability to work independently and a strong team player. Strong relationship building and interpersonal skills and the ability to deal with a diverse range of people. Ability to deal with information in a confidential manner. Highly organised with ability to prioritise a varied and demanding workload. Confident IT skills including Microsoft Office. Desirable. Project management skills. Experience working in a voluntary sector preferrable but not essential.

Who are we?

We are Buttons & Bubbles CIC. We are dedicated to increasing inclusion and representation across society for disabled families.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who can help us apply and increase our funding. We cannot do our valuable work without funding. This role can be done from home, with no rota system and how much of your time you give up is completely up to you. We truly appreciate whatever time your able to offer.

Who are we looking for?

• May have past experience gaining funding or fundraising in the community sector
• Come from a legal background or training.
• Studying law or similar subjects
• Come from a corporate background
• A willingness to learn is essential, experience isn’t although helpful.

What do we expect?

• Must be willing to undertake our training programme which will be done virtually and at a time to suit you.
• Have a basic DBS check (preferably be on the update system)
• Sign our volunteer contract. (If you disagree with anything in it
• please do discuss it with us and we will be happy to have a
• conversation and make small changes if appropriate).
• A positive attitude to disability and illness. We are happy to answer
• questions on this.

Interested?

Email us and lets chat!

Events Volunteer

We’re the MS Society – a community of people living with MS, scientists, campaigners, listeners, organisers, ambassadors and fundraisers. Our volunteers are a key part of achieving our goals and their support is vital. Join us. 

About this opportunity
We are looking to recruit a Regional Development Event Volunteer for the London area. As an Event Volunteer, you will be participating in events and promoting them locally. 
We need you to get involved and help make positive changes to the lives of people affected by MS.
This is a great opportunity to gain experience within a large charity and develop your existing skills and learn new ones.

About you
You’ll have an interest in the MS Society and the work that we do, as well as the enthusiasm to represent both us and our values locally.
You will understand the needs of people affected by MS in your area and be sympathetic to the needs and motivations of volunteers. 
You’ll be friendly and welcoming and able to work as part of a team, with flexibility to travel across London.

Apply 
- Read through the role description and project brief carefully
- Apply by clicking the ‘Apply’ link provided.

The MS Society is committed to promoting diversity. We can only offer roles to over 18s.

Hours: Variable – depending on individual circumstances and what people can do

Location: Variable – we are looking to extend our reach of peer support walks throughout Yorkshire

Main Tasks:

We appreciate any volunteering help that you can offer YBTC and want to make sure that our

volunteers have a positive experience with us. We pledge to support you as much as we can.

We want to ensure that volunteering with us does not feel too daunting, so the exact tasks might

vary depending on your circumstances. However, some typical tasks may include:

· Support our regular wellbeing/peer support walks

· Welcome participants and help them feel comfortable, fostering a friendly and inclusive atmosphere

· Encourage conversations among participants, offering a listening ear

· Be attentive to the well-being of all participants during the walk

· Offer information on YBTC services

· Attending occasional training sessions or volunteer meetings organised by YBTC

We are looking for people who are:

· Are warm and non-judgemental

· Reliability – are punctual and committed to scheduled walks

· Collaborative mindset to work effectively with staff and volunteers

· Basic physical fitness to complete the walks, awareness of the needs of participants with

different mobility/health conditions

We can offer you the following:

· Full induction and ongoing training

· Ongoing support and supervision in your role

· Opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people

· The satisfaction of making a positive impact on those affected by brain tumours

Background

Founded in 2003 and originally named Andrea’s Gift and later Brain Tumour Research and Support

Across Yorkshire, Yorkshire’s Brain Tumour Charity (YBTC) is Yorkshire and Humber’s leading

brain tumour charity. Offering practical, financial and emotional support to both adult and child

brain tumour patients, together with their families.

We fund brain tumour research in Yorkshire; we hope this research, dedicated to identifying new

approaches to the discovery and treatment of brain tumours will improve outcomes for patients.

At YBTC we are a small team who are growing to meet the needs of those affected by a brain

tumour in Yorkshire. Around 15 new cases of primary brain tumours are diagnosed in the region

every week.

Our charity values are: Integrity, Compassion, Community & Ambition.

Our Vision/Mission

To improve the lives of people impacted by a brain tumour in Yorkshire through local support and research.

Become a Trustee at Sunrise Multicultural Project

Are you passionate about making a difference in your community?

We are looking for dedicated, enthusiastic individuals to join our Board of Trustees and help guide the future of Sunrise Multicultural Project.

As a trustee, you will play a vital role in shaping our strategy, ensuring we stay true to our mission, and supporting the development of initiatives that promote inclusivity and integration. We are seeking individuals with a range of skills, backgrounds, and experiences – whether in community work, finance, governance, fundraising, or marketing – who share our commitment to empowering minority groups and fostering a more connected, diverse community. 

If you are eager to contribute your time, expertise, and passion, we would love to hear from you!

Join a small charity with a big heart and help shape our future.

Barefoot and Free is a grassroots UK-based charity funding respite breaks for families with neurodivergent children or children affected by trauma. We're growing from the ground up and we’re looking for passionate, creative Volunteer Fundraising Champions to grow with us.

This is more than a stepping stone role. It’s a real opportunity to be part of something long term that's meaningful, mission-driven, and deeply rewarding. You'll play a key role in shaping a small charity with huge potential and your efforts will directly impact the lives of families who truly need support.

Why Join Us?

Grassroots charity work is full of heart but it’s not without its challenges. We don’t have huge budgets, so we need fundraisers who can think outside the box, raise funds rather than spend funds and inspire others to get behind the cause.

But the rewards? They’re immense:

• You’ll see the direct results of your work as we grow together.

• You’ll gain invaluable experience for your CV and future roles in the third sector.

• You’ll be part of a close-knit team where your ideas and efforts are truly valued and supported.

Your Role

As a Volunteer Fundraising Champion, you’ll help us raise the funds we need to provide life-changing breaks for families. You’ll be the creative spark and the friendly face behind fundraising efforts that make a real difference.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan, organise and deliver creative fundraising activities (raffles, online quizzes, challenge events, etc.)

• Engage and support individual fundraisers (e.g. sponsored runners, event hosts)

• Act as a key contact for fundraising volunteers providing encouragement, advice, and practical support

• Develop and maintain a central fundraising tracker (Excel or similar)

• Log all fundraising activity, targets, and deadlines

• Collaborate with our social media volunteer to promote campaigns

• Support recruitment and onboarding of new fundraising volunteers

What You’ll Bring

• Clear, friendly written and verbal communication

• Creativity and confidence in engaging with people online and offline

• Strong organisation and time management skills

• Self-motivation and the ability to work independently

• A genuine passion for our mission and grassroots charity work

• Experience in fundraising or event planning is helpful but not essential, heart and drive matter more

Time Commitment

• Flexible and remote

• Around 2 to 5 hours per week

• We’ll work around your availability this role can fit around your life, studies, job, or family

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in fundraising, event planning and project coordination

• Something impressive and meaningful for your CV or portfolio

• Real-world charity sector experience

• Friendly support and mentoring from a passionate team

• A strong sense of purpose, knowing your efforts directly support families in need

• References available on request

How to Apply

Please send a recent CV along with a short note about yourself, including any relevant fundraising or event planning experience (formal or informal!).

We can’t wait to hear from you and hopefully welcome you to the Barefoot and Free family.

Job Description:

Youth Advantage UK is seeking a Volunteer HR Officer to provide administrative support to the HR department. The successful candidate will be responsible for assisting with HR-related tasks such as recruitment, policies, onboarding, and maintaining employee records. The ideal candidate should have excellent writing and speaking skills, IT literacy, and the ability to work well independently and in a team.

Responsibilities:

• Lead internal communications initiatives to ensure cultural consistency and alignment.

• Work with the Policy and wider HR team on refining our end to end volunteer lifecycle processes to ensure better engagement from our volunteers. 

• Partner with leadership to craft sharp, impactful messaging for various internal initiatives.

• Partner closely with the L&D team to ensure content aligns with the organisational values and culture.

Requirements:

• Excellent writing and speaking skills.

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

• Ability to work well independently and in a team.

• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.

• Ability to prioritise tasks and manage time effectively.

• Interest in HR and the non-profit sector.

• Experience not required, but any previous experience in HR or administrative roles is a plus.

Benefits:

• Gain valuable experience in HR and the non-profit sector.

• Opportunity to work with a dedicated and passionate team.

• Develop professional skills, such as communication, teamwork, and time management.

• Flexible working hours.

To Apply:

To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest.

The Volunteer HR position with Youth Advantage UK offers a unique opportunity to be a part of a fantastic team that is working on exciting projects aimed at empowering young people across the UK. By joining our team, candidates will have the chance to gain valuable experience in the HR and non-profit sector while developing professional skills and making a positive impact on the lives of young people. Youth Advantage UK is committed to providing opportunities for young people to reach their full potential, and the successful candidate can be a part of making that happen. This is an incredibly rewarding experience for anyone looking to give back to their community and make a difference.

We are looking for up to ten UK university students to join our volunteer Student Ambassadors team and help Ygam achieve its social purpose by reaching out to students at university. This will be achieved by advising Ygam on the needs of students, supporting with content development, organising activities at your campus, and join us at events to raise awareness of gaming and gambling harms.

We are seeking individuals who are outgoing, with a confident personality. You will enjoy engaging with other students and be able to advise us on the experiences of students with regards to gaming and gambling.We’d love to hear from students with an interest in mental health, psychology, content development, and gaming. 

Skills and Education Group is recruiting a new Chair to lead the Board of Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB. Help guide two respected awarding organisations through the next phase of strategic growth, regulatory excellence and sector impact.

Location: Homebased with occasional in person meetings

Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 12th August

About Skills and Education Group

The Skills and Education Group is a purpose-driven organisation dedicated to improving lives through further education, assessment, and social impact. With a portfolio that spans regulated awarding organisations, access to HE qualifications, and a membership body, CPD offer & charitable foundation, Skills and Education Group operates as a federated group committed to supporting individuals, providers, and communities across the UK.

Comprising Skills and Education Group Awards, BIIAB, and Skills and Education Group Access, our qualifications support lifelong learning and workforce readiness across a wide range of sectors. Our membership body represents the further education & skills sector bringing together professionals to access relevant & credible CPD and accessing the charitable foundation which provides grants and professional development to frontline educators and learners, ensuring we contribute meaningfully to social mobility and educational equity.

About the role

Skills and Education Group is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chair to lead the Board of Trustees for Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB.

This pivotal role involves providing clear leadership to ensure the board effectively governs and supports the organisation’s mission to deliver high-quality awarding and qualifications.

The Chair will steer the board’s strategic direction, foster strong relationships among trustees, and ensure robust oversight in line with regulatory requirements.

The Chair of Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB Board will liaise with the Chair of the Group and work closely with the CE as required in line with the responsibilities of the role, whilst also reporting into the main group board to ensure unity with and contribute to the Group’s overarching strategic goals and ambitions.

This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of these respected awarding organisations within a fast-evolving education landscape.

Who we are looking for

We welcome candidates with a solid understanding of the awarding organisation (AO) sector and its regulatory environment including understanding of Ofqual conditions.

Ideally you will have previous trustee experience, or at least an understanding of governance processes through being involved in committees or advisory groups and reporting to boards.

We are open to new Chairs who bring a strategic mindset, strong leadership skills, and a passion for education and skills development.

The ideal Chair will be able to inspire and unite the board, promote good governance, and help shape the organisation’s long-term success.

The role carries significant governance and oversight responsibilities to ensure the effective management and strategic direction of the individual awarding organisations within the Skills and Education Group, including a charitable organisation and commercial entity.

Key duties include financial stewardship, regulatory compliance, and leadership in strategic planning, all with a focus on balancing the organisations’ commercial success and sustainability whilst also maintaining robust regulatory and governance standards.

The Chair, alongside the board, plays a crucial role in overseeing performance, risk management, and compliance, while ensuring alignment with the Group’s overarching strategy and values.

Remuneration

The position of Trustee is unremunerated, but reasonable expenses are paid.

Time commitment

The joint Skills and Education Group Awards/BIIAB Board normally meets three times a year and the Chair will also represent these two companies at 4 Skills and Education Group Group Board meetings. These meetings are carried out in October, January, April and July.

As part of our strategic transformation goals we will be looking reform our governance structure, as such meeting dates may change as we work with our Chairs and Trustees to ensure a robust and sustainable approach to our governance in line with similar group organisations.

The size of the Skills and Education Group Awards and BIIAB Board (including the Non-Executive Chair) is four. The main Group Board has 10 Non-Executive Directors plus the Chair.

The Board has statutory and fiduciary responsibilities under Charity Law and the Companies Act, and it is responsible for developing strategy and acting as a challenge to the executive, who has the responsibility of day-to-day delivery.

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. Tuesday 12th August.

About QuilomboUK

QuilomboUK is a pioneering organisation dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion (D&I), and social justice. We champion a People First approach, embedding fairness and belonging into every aspect of our operations. As we grow, we seek a strategic leader to guide our Talent Advisory team in shaping equitable workplaces and empowering employees to thrive.

Role Overview

As the Manager: Talent Advisory, you will lead the Talent Advisory team (including Talent Advisors and Administrators) to deliver high-impact HR solutions that align with QuilomboUK’s mission and business goals. You’ll oversee the development of HR policies, advise leadership on complex employee relations (ER) and performance matters, and drive initiatives to enhance retention, engagement, and compliance. This role combines strategic oversight with hands-on leadership, ensuring our People & Culture practices reflect our commitment to social justice and equity.

Key ResponsibilitiesHR Strategy & Policy Development

• Design, implement, and refine HR policies, procedures, and frameworks that align with QuilomboUK’s values and legal requirements.
• Partner with the Director of People & Culture to integrate D&I and social justice principles into all talent processes.
• Stay ahead of HR trends and best practices, adapting strategies to meet evolving organisational needs.

Talent Advisory & Employee Relations

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on complex ER issues, performance management, and workforce planning.
• Resolve high-risk employee concerns with fairness, empathy, and adherence to labour laws.
• Lead investigations into grievances or misconduct, ensuring equitable outcomes and minimal organisational risk.

Team Leadership & Development

• Manage, mentor, and develop the Talent Advisory team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide regular feedback to ensure alignment with departmental and organisational goals.
• Promote continuous learning within the team, particularly in areas of D&I, social justice, and equitable HR practices.

Engagement & Retention

• Partner with the People & Culture team to design programs that boost employee engagement, retention, and belonging.
• Analyse turnover data and exit interviews to identify trends and recommend proactive solutions.
• Champion recognition initiatives that celebrate contributions aligned with QuilomboUK’s mission.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure HR practices comply with employment laws, regulations, and internal equity standards.
• Mitigate organisational risk through robust documentation, audits, and training on HR policies.
• Lead compliance reporting and address gaps proactively.

D&I Integration

• Embed diversity, equity, and inclusion into talent lifecycle processes (e.g., hiring, promotions, succession planning).
• Advise leaders on creating inclusive team environments and addressing systemic inequities.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to advance external social justice partnerships and initiatives.

Qualifications

• Experience: 5+ years in HR management, with expertise in employee relations, policy development, and team leadership. Prior experience in mission-driven or D&I-focused organisations is a plus.
• Skills:
• Strong knowledge of UK employment law and HR best practices.
• Proven ability to resolve complex ER cases with diplomacy and cultural sensitivity.
• Excellent stakeholder management, coaching, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in HRIS systems and data-driven decision-making.
• Knowledge: Deep understanding of D&I frameworks, social justice principles, and workforce planning strategies.
• Alignment: Passionate about QuilomboUK’s mission and values, with a track record of advocating for equity.

Personal Attributes

• A confident leader who inspires trust and fosters psychological safety within teams.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to balance organisational priorities and employee needs.
• Resilient problem-solver who navigates ambiguity with grace.
• Unwavering commitment to fairness, inclusion, and amplifying marginalised voices.

Why Join QuilomboUK?

• Impact: Lead a team that directly shapes equitable workplaces and social justice outcomes.
• Innovation: Drive cutting-edge HR practices in a growing, mission-driven organisation.
• Culture: Join a collaborative, values-led environment where your voice matters.
• Development: Access to mentorship, training, and opportunities for career growth.

The Professional Development Programme with Quilombo UK is a 16-week UNPAID opportunity that requires a minimum commitment of 12 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

QUILOMBO UK is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment that values diversity and promotes equality for all employees. As part of our commitment to upholding these principles, we adhere to the guidelines outlined in the Equality Act 2010. We firmly believe in creating a workplace where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated.

Help us build workplaces where everyone belongs. #TalentWithPurpose #SocialJustice #InclusiveLeadership

Skills and Education Group is seeking an experienced board leader with strong governance expertise and a track record in complex organisations, ideally within education; to join us as our new Chair. If you're ready to provide strategic oversight and guide us through our next phase, this is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a respected organisation.

Location: Homebased with occasional in person meetings

Time commitment: 4 board meetings per year plus any additional meetings

Closing date: 9 a.m. Tuesday 12th August

About Skills and Education Group

The Skills and Education Group is a purpose-driven organisation dedicated to improving lives through further education, assessment, and social impact. With a portfolio that spans regulated awarding organisations, access to HE qualifications, and a membership body, CPD offer & charitable foundation, Skills and Education Group operates as a federated group committed to supporting individuals, providers, and communities across the UK.

Comprising Skills and Education Group Awards, BIIAB, and Skills and Education Group Access, our qualifications support lifelong learning and workforce readiness across a wide range of sectors. Our membership body represents the further education & skills sector bringing together professionals to access relevant & credible CPD and accessing the charitable foundation which provides grants and professional development to frontline educators and learners, ensuring we contribute meaningfully to social mobility and educational equity.

About the role

Following a period of significant leadership changes and organisational review, Skills and Education Group has stabilised under successful interim leadership and is now focused on building a sustainable future.

We are seeking a new Chair who will bring strategic vision and confident leadership to support the Board in consolidating recent progress and driving the organisation’s next phase of development.

Your role will involve leading the Board to ensure robust governance and effective oversight, developing collaborative relationships with executive leadership and key stakeholders, and maintaining a clear focus on the organisation’s core purpose amid evolving challenges.

The Chair of the Group Board will work closely with the CE, guiding their strategic leadership and supporting them to drive forward the organisation’s ambition and deliver associated targets.

A key part of your role will be contributing to the continued development and reform of our governance structure, ensuring it is fit for purpose and aligned with the Group’s financial, commercial and social objectives, as well as the expectations of our regulators.

You will also have the opportunity to contribute to the recruitment process for the newly appointed Chief Executive(CE), as the organisation positions itself for sustainable growth and impact.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking a governance professional with proven experience as a Chair, Vice Chair, or chairing significant committees within complex or regulated organisations—preferably in the education sector. You will bring strategic insight, sound judgement, and the ability to support an organisation working its way through a period of significant change.

You will be confident leading a Board through transition, striking the right balance between encouraging open discussion, robust debate and thoughtful challenge, while ensuring that meetings remain focused, decisions are made, and consensus is achieved.

A collaborative and transparent leadership style will enable you to build trust across the Board, leadership team, and wider stakeholders, supporting high standards of governance and accountability.

A deep commitment to the public value of education, alongside a passion for upholding high standards of governance and accountability, is essential. You will bring clarity, focus, and resilience to the role, helping the Group navigate complexity while maintaining its core purpose and ambitions for growth.

Remuneration

The position of Chair of Skills and Education Group is unremunerated, but reasonable expenses are paid.

Time commitment

As Chair, you will be expected to dedicate sufficient time to effectively fulfil your duties, including attendance at Board meetings.

The Skills and Education Group Board comprises 10 Trustees, including the CE and Chairs of the Awards/BIIAB and Access Boards.

The Board has statutory and fiduciary responsibilities under Charity Law and the Companies Act. It is responsible for setting the organisation’s strategy and providing constructive challenge to the executive leadership, who manage day-to-day operations.

The Board meets at least four times a year, recently with additional combined meetings held regularly alongside the Awards/BIIAB and Access Boards to ensure coordinated governance across the Group. The majority of meetings are held remotely.  It is expected that the Chair of the Group Board will regularly meet with the CE, ideally in-person at the company headquarters in Nottingham.

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. Tuesday 12th August.

Welcome from Chair

Welcome to Action Duchenne. I became Chair of the Charity in January 2025. By background, I am a retired GP and NHS Leader, and my grandson Sebastian has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

The Charity has been going through a period of significant change, as our previous CEO has moved on and several of our Trustees have retired. It has given us the opportunity to review and refresh our focus and our ways of working together.

We have also recently been awarded significant funding from the National Lottery over the next three years to develop and expand our All Through Support programme. The programme offers tailored support to families over years as they navigate the different challenges Duchenne brings and aims to travel alongside them throughout their journeys. No other statutory or charitable organisation is able to offer this level of support.

We want to expand and develop the Trustee Board to harness a wider set of skills, expertise and experience that will enrich the charity as we go forward. It is an exciting time to join us, and to be part of something that makes a real and tangible difference.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Dr Vicky Pleydell

Background and Direction

Action Duchenne is a charity providing holistic support to those living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (Duchenne) and their families. Our core activities involve bringing people together to share their experiences and learn from one another, increasing awareness of Duchenne, and bringing together families, Clinicians and pharmaceutical companies to increase understanding of the needs of those living with Duchenne. We provide support for families from the moment of diagnosis through their whole Duchenne journey.

We have been through a period of change and development, and are now looking to expand our Trustee Board with people with the following skills:

• Finance (a Treasurer role is available)

• Charity Governance

• Fundraising

• Legal 

We have recently been awarded significant funding from the National Lottery, which is enabling us to develop and increase the reach of our programmes. 

Trustee Role and Person Specification

The Trustees of Action Duchenne are pivotal roles, providing oversight and ensuring legal compliance. Board members are each expected to actively participate in quarterly meetings, and in turn are expected to dedicate sufficient time to the role.

The Trustees appointed will become Directors of the Company limited by guarantee (no. 04899036) and a Trustee of the registered charity (no. 1101971), and therefore need to be eligible to take on these roles.

All Trustees must 

• ensure that the charity is carrying out its purpose for the public benefit

• Comply with governing documents and the law

• Act in the charity’s best interests

• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly

• Act with reasonable care and skill, and

• Ensure the charity is accountable.

The Trustee role is voluntary and unpaid, but reasonable expenses will be met.

The majority of formal meetings are conducted remotely through emails and conference calls, with bi-annual away days.

Essential Criteria

Applicants must clearly demonstrate:

• A strong commitment to the holistic approach of support

• Relevant skills and experience drawn from a professional background

• A willingness to devote time to the governance of Action Duchenne, including preparing for and attending Board meetings and Away Days

• Emotional intelligence to understand the physical, mental, social and emotional challenges facing those living with Duchenne

• An understanding and acceptance of legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities associated with trusteeship, or the willingness and ability to acquire this

• Strong independent judgement and the ability to constructively challenge ideas on the Board and with the CEO

• Proven ability to work creatively and strategically in a Trustee or Board setting.

• Strong communication and analytical skills

Skills

Action Duchenne is looking for new Board members with a wide range of skills; please note these are a few areas of focus, but we are also looking for general Trustees, so please apply as we are looking to grow the Board in a number of ways.

• Finance experience and skills

• Governance experience and skills developed through time on a Charity Board

• Fundraising experience and expertise, with evidence of success across different income streams

• Legal experience

Lived experience/diversity

The Board currently has a majority of Trustees with lived experience of Duchenne, and therefore in this instance, we are looking for those without personal experience. If there is a reason relating to accessibility or diversity in which you feel you can’t apply for this role, please contact us for a chat before making your application.

Time Commitment

The Trustees currently meet monthly, and aim to move to quarterly meetings. For each meeting, there is an expectation of pre-reading and preparation, and where there is capacity and appropriate expertise, Trustees can advise on their anticipated standards relating to areas of work (safeguarding, fundraising, HR, for example).

The anticipated time commitment is likely to be 4-8 hours a month, with the away days in addition to this.

A trial period of six months is offered, to ensure the fit works for both the new Trustee and the Board, and a maximum term of three years, with the opportunity to be re-elected once, to serve for a total of two terms - six years.

How to apply

If you would like to have a chat about the role first, please contact Vicky Pleydell, Chair, via our website. Please share your CV and a short covering letter (no more than two A4 pages) noting why you would like to be a Trustee of Action Duchenne, how you align with the Charity, and what you feel you can give to the organisation through the Apply button before the closing date.

Closing date for applications

Applications will close on 9am on Monday 4th August, with interviews aiming to be held in the week commencing Monday 18th August.

• Location: UK-wide (Board meetings online, with occasional in-person events)
• Time Commitment: 8–12 hours per month
• Term: Initial 3-year term, renewable up to a maximum of 9 years
• Remuneration: Voluntary Role (expenses reimbursed)
• Start Date: October 2025
• Applications Open: July 2025
• Applications Close Date: 5 pm, Friday 5th September 2025
• Interview Dates: 15th September (PM) and 17th September (AM)

About DiMHN:

The Design in Mental Health Network (DiMHN) is a UK-based charity dedicated to transforming mental health environments through inclusive, evidence-based design. Our network brings together professionals from healthcare, design, policy, and lived experience to improve mental health outcomes and create spaces that promote dignity, safety, and healing.

Role Overview:

As a Trustee, you will help guide the strategic direction of DiMHN, ensure effective governance, and champion our values. Trustees are expected to provide strategic oversight and contribute expertise to subgroups or advisory functions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Shape and review DiMHN’s strategy, vision, and values.
• Ensure compliance with legal, financial, and governance requirements.
• Monitor performance and support the CEO and executive team.
• Act as an ambassador for DiMHN, promoting our vision, purpose, and values, as well as the work we do.
• Contribute to fundraising, research, and partnerships. 

Why Join Us

Joining the Board of DiMHN presents an opportunity to shape the future of mental health environments across the UK and beyond.

You’ll be part of a passionate, forward-thinking community working at the intersection of design, care, and lived experience. 

As a Trustee, you’ll:

• Shape strategic direction to drive meaningful change in mental health environments across the UK and beyond.
• Collaborate with a diverse network of leaders, experts, and lived experience advocates, influencing the future of mental health design.
• Provide governance and oversight that ensures the charity’s growth, sustainability, and impact.
• Champion inclusivity by elevating voices often excluded from design and decision-making processes
• Influence policy, standards, and innovation at national and international levels to embed evidence-based design in mental health care.

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for people who believe in the power of design to change lives. Whether you come from healthcare, design, research, lived experience, or another walk of life, if you’re motivated by the idea of creating more inclusive, compassionate mental health environments, we want to hear from you.

We have two Trustee vacancies and warmly welcome applications from both first-time trustees and those with previous board experience. 

We value fresh perspectives and offer support to help you thrive in the role. We are especially interested in individuals who can bring insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Mental Health Services & Policy: Clinical, community, lived experience, commissioning, or estates, facilities and planning.
• Digital Health & Technology: Expertise in AI, immersive tech, digital platforms, or digital strategy in care settings.
• Finance & Commercial Strategy: Income generation, business development, or financial planning in health, social impact, or design sectors.
• Research & Evaluation: Academic or applied research, impact measurement, or policy analysis.

We’re also looking for Trustees who embody our values:

At DiMHN, our work is grounded in our core values. We’re looking for Trustees who reflect these values through both mindset and action:

Be Courageous – You’re willing to ask challenging questions, confront assumptions, and help push boundaries to make mental health spaces more inclusive and compassionate.

Empathy in Design – You understand that good design starts with empathy. Whether through lived experience or professional perspective, you value collaboration and co-production with those who access mental health care and support.

Evidence-Led, Impact-Driven – You’re curious, reflective, and motivated by real-world change. You use evidence to guide decisions and are focused on outcomes that make a difference.

Improve Together – You believe in learning together. You’re generous with your skills and committed to helping the DiMHN and the wider sector grow stronger through collective action.
 

Eligibility:

Applicants must be over 18 and eligible to serve as a charity trustee 

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion

We are actively working to improve the diversity of our Board, recognising that inclusive leadership strengthens both our governance and our ability to achieve our purpose. Diverse perspectives lead to better decisions, richer insight, and more equitable outcomes for the communities we serve.

We know that some groups remain underrepresented in charity governance, including people from racialised communities, disabled people, LGBTQAI+ individuals, younger adults, and people with lived experience of mental health. We also value regional diversity and welcome applications from across the UK. We encourage applications from 

How to Apply:

Send your CV and a short written or video/audio statement (max two pages or five minutes), titled “[Your Name] Trustee Role.”

In your statement, tell us why you’re interested, what you’d bring, and any support you might need to thrive in the role.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.