Legal advisor volunteer roles

Role: Trustee

Location: Winchester

Position: Voluntary

About us:

As one of England’s oldest charities, we are proud of our 900-year legacy of service. St John’s Winchester provides around 100 almshouses for older people, who have strong ties to the city. Our mission is to support residents to live independently for as long as possible, with 24-hour support delivered by our dedicated Welfare Team. Our residents form a vibrant and caring community, with many involved in faith-based and social activities, and in the wider life of Winchester.

Your role:

As a Trustee of St John’s Winchester, you share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction and planning for the charity. Trustees ensure the charity remains true to its purpose, and delivers meaningful, lasting impact for the people we serve. Trustees are required to abide by both company and charity law, exercising their legal and financial obligations as company and charity directors, adhering to corporate regulation and the charity’s Memorandum and Articles of Association.

About you:

We welcome interest from individuals from all walks of life. We recognise that great governance is shaped by diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. If you share our values and want to make a difference in the lives of older people in Winchester, we encourage you to get in touch.

We welcome expertise in:

· HR leadership roles, including HR Directors or People & Culture leads

· Workforce planning, talent management, or leadership development

· Organisational development in values-led environments

· Volunteer engagement, inclusion strategy, or staff wellbeing initiatives

· Employment law or charity HR governance

Why join us:  

Becoming a trustee at St John’s Winchester offers an opportunity to shape the future of one of England’s oldest and most respected charities, deeply rooted in Winchester. You will benefit from making a real difference in your community, be joining a legacy of local leadership, grow personally and professionally and be a part of a strong evolving organisation.

To apply:

Please send your application by 15 September 2025
 

Are you looking for a way to give back to your community? We are seeking organised, compassionate individuals to be the welcoming heart of our Hub. If you have a friendly smile, are well orgabnised and are looking for a reception based role, this could be for you.

BACKGROUND:

• The Cardinal Hume Centre works to prevent and tackle youth and family homelessness, we: 
• Provide a home to 39 young people
• Offer support to local children and families at risk
• Help families keep or find a stable home and manage their money
• Mentor people to find work or training
• Help people secure their legal right to remain in the UK and access homes, work and benefits.

Last year we helped over 1200 people including nearly 600 families and 230 children and young people.  Our aim is to tackle homelessness, poor housing and poverty at a young age and break its cycle into later life.  We want to see the value in each individual and nurture potential, helping young people and families to thrive.

The Centre prides itself on its welcome and person-centred approach. It recognises each individual is different, often with complex needs and so our response must be multi-layered. We therefore have six principal services: residential services for homeless young people; family support; housing and welfare rights advice; employment support; learning; and immigration advice and advocacy. 

OUR PEOPLE - We believe each person matters: 

Our clients guide everything we do. We’re here to help children, families and young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness, or clients who have urgent needs that can be met at the Centre and not elsewhere. 

We seek to develop trusting relationships with our clients. We rely on them to help us improve and develop our services, so we include them wherever possible in our work. 

Our staff and volunteers: 
Our staff and volunteers are diverse in their backgrounds, and their skills and experience. Many have lived experience of the challenges our clients face. We are proud of our warm welcome and our team’s commitment to support people facing disadvantage to escape the cycle of poverty and homelessness. 

The HUB on Medway Street is the main entrance for clients who wish to access the services on offer.  Staff in the Hub can provide level 1 advice on housing and welfare rights and for more complex cases, can refer clients to one of our other services, such as housing, welfare rights, immigration, employment and learning, and family services. 

Summary of Role.

You will be supporting a team that is helping people from the local community, who are vulnerable and facing disadvantage, including; homeless young people, people living in insecure accommodation or at risk of losing their housing, low-income families with young children, unemployed people, refugees and migrants. (further details below)

Your presence supports the smooth running of the Centre and increases the team’s capacity to see and help more people.

This role is in the heart of the organisation where you will meet people of all backgrounds and learn how a community organisation responds to local need.

What will you be doing?

• Answering the intercom and buzzing clients in when they arrive
• Welcoming clients to the Centre, signing them in and out of the building calling the staff member to tell them that their client has arrived
• Registering new clients and booking an appointment with the Assessment team
• Assisting with the collection and distribution of client mail
• Administrative support to services, such as, photocopying or scanning documents for service teams and emailing them to relevant staff member
• Printing off and posting out letters to clients
• Possibility of assisting with benefit claims/forms

Other tasks that can be undertaken during quieter periods:

• Assisting clients and staff with phone calls if volunteer speaks a needed language

What are we looking for?

• You will be a confident and patient person with a professional and friendly manner and able to remain calm under pressure
• Some experience of customer service or dealing with a diverse range of people desirable
• Good listening skills
• An ability to communicate well and with confidence when handling enquiries
• Some IT skills useful
• A non-judgemental attitude towards people’s problems in their lives

What is the time commitment?

We are seeking someone for one day a week on a Thursday or Friday from 9.30am to 3pm, with an hour lunch break at 1pm. We are looking for a commitment of 6 months, which sounds like a long time, but there’s lots to learn and volunteers find this goes very quickly! 

How will you be supported?

You will be supported by the Advice and Assessment team  

You will be offered regular supervision and a staff member will be present in the Hub whilst you are on duty

You will be reimbursed for reasonable and agreed ‘out of pocket’ expenses such as travel and contribution to lunch up to £6.

Recruitment Procedure

Apply> Informal interview> Reference and DBS checks> Trial period

Help protect the countryside of North and East Yorkshire for current and future generations. Join the board of CPRE North & East Yorkshire.

Applications close: Monday 8th September 2025.

Location: Hybrid/North and East Yorkshire (Thirsk)

Time commitment: c.1 – 2 days per month

About CPRE North and East Yorkshire

CPRE North and East Yorkshire campaigns to protect, enhance and promote the countryside for everyone’s benefit. We cover the largest CPRE region in England, spanning 6,900 square miles from the River Tees to Goole (south of the River Humber) and west from the Yorkshire Dales to the East Yorkshire coast.

Our vision is for a beautiful and thriving countryside that enriches all our lives. We work tirelessly to ensure the right development occurs in the right place. We actively support biodiversity improvement and champion countryside protection from climate change impacts, while contributing to climate solutions.

Our small but energetic team of volunteer trustees helps people to protect the countryside they love. We have a successful track record of enabling residents and community groups to shape proposed development in ways that enrich their rural communities and the countryside around them. We also use our planning expertise to proactively campaign for local authority planning policies that safeguard and enhance our beautiful and varied landscapes.

About the roles

We are seeking two exceptional individuals to join our Board of Trustees, each bringing specialist expertise while sharing general trustee responsibilities for developing our charity in line with our strategy and ensuring compliance with all legal and governance requirements.

Trustee with Supporter Engagement, Development and Fundraising Experience

This role combines general trustee duties with specialist leadership of our supporter development and fundraising activities. You will inform and guide the Board on supporter development matters, coordinate activities to meet our agreed aims, and lead the recruitment of a new Communications and Supporter Care Officer. Following our recent strategic review with external fundraising consultants, this role is crucial to implementing recommendations that will grow and strengthen our relationships with supporters and safeguard our charity’s future.

Trustee with Local Authority Experience

This position merges trustee responsibilities with expert guidance on local authority engagement and policy development. You will lead our proactive campaigning with local authorities for planning policies that protect the countryside, particularly in meeting climate change challenges. Your expertise will be vital as we work with the newly established North Yorkshire Council and other authorities across our region to influence policy development and implementation.

Who we are looking for

Vacancy 1

We are seeking an individual with management or senior-level experience in supporter development and fundraising. You will have experience in building relationships with supporters, developing fundraising strategies, and implementing successful campaigns.

Vacancy 2

We are also seeking someone with management or senior-level experience, either in policy development within local authorities or as a policy advisor to local authorities, or with experience working with local authorities in a not for profit capacity.

You should understand how local government works, have experience in policy and possess strong communication skills for engaging with elected officials and officers.

Our Trustees are passionate about countryside protection. You will bring strong communication skills, the ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to our charitable aims. Previous trustee experience is not required as we provide comprehensive training and support.

Time commitment

Both roles require the equivalent of circa 1-2 days per month, including attendance at trustee meetings held every 2-3 months (currently in Thirsk), an annual AGM, and collaboration between meetings. Most meetings are held in person, although some are conducted online.

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 on Monday 8th September 2025

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with VoiceAbility.

About VoiceAbility

VoiceAbility is an independent charity and one of the UK’s largest providers of advocacy and involvement services. We deliver a wide range of service contracts funded by local authorities, health trusts and other voluntary and private sector organisations. 

We’ve been supporting people to have their say in decisions about their health, care, and wellbeing for over 40 years. We make sure people are heard when it matters most.  For more information on what Advocacy is and the services offered then please visit our website.

Why Volunteer with VoiceAbility

Volunteering with VoiceAbility allows you to make a difference in your local community, allowing us to help and support everyone to have a voice that counts.  The roles we have available will challenge you, developing your communication skills, allowing you to gain professional experience that can be used in your future career, learn new things about yourself and others, meet new people, and have fun.

Volunteer Positions Available

We're recruiting for the following voluntary positions:

• Hospital Visitor Voluneer
• Relevant Persons' Representative (RPR) Support Volunteer

Hospital Visitor Volunteer

Hospital Visitor volunteers visit hospital settings to ensure that people detained under the Mental Health Act are aware that they have a legal right to an IMHA qualified advocate.  The volunteers are instrumental in ensuring that clients get access to an advocate and can also support the work that advocates undertake.

As a hospital volunteer, you might: 

• hold drop-in sessions

• attend events and ward meetings at local facilities 

• share information

• assist people to request advocacy support by completing a form online or calling our contact centre 

Relevant Person’s Representative (RPR) Support Volunteers

People in care homes should have a voice to communicate their needs wishes and wants. Some people need support with this, but don’t have friends and family available to assist them.  This means they’re entitled to have support from an RPR and volunteer, who are there to make sure they get the care they deserve.  Your role as an RPR Support Volunteer is to collaborate with the VoiceAbility RPR to make sure a person’s views are listened to when decisions are made about their care. 

As an RPR Support Volunteer you might: 

• Visit people in their care home, to make sure they’re getting the right care and support
• Talk with them about their feelings, thoughts and wishes
• Raise concerns
• Keep detailed notes and records
• Make a real difference to someone’s life 

Volunteering opportunities are available Monday to Friday between 09:00 and 17:00.  You will need to be over 18 years old and be living in the UK.

Safeguarding Commitment Statement

VoiceAbility are committed to safeguarding all clients who access our services. All Volunteers will be required to undertake a DBS check at the appropriate level and provide contact details for a minimum of two referees in line with our safer recruitment practice.

ED&I Statement

VoiceAbility believes in fostering an inclusive workplace which welcomes, values and celebrates the diversity of its staff and partners, treats all on a basis of equality and encourages all to meet their maximum potential.

VoiceAbility are a Disability Confident employer, any applicant that identifies themselves as having a disability and can demonstrate that they meet all the essential criteria for the role will be offered an interview. If you need to apply in a different way, please contact HR for further options.

How to register your expression of interest

To find out more click on “Apply Now” and fill out our short expression of interest form.

Hull College is a vibrant, inclusive further education provider based in the heart of Hull, serving a diverse urban population across the city and the wider East Yorkshire region. With one main campus (HU1 3DG), the College delivers a broad curriculum from entry level to higher education, including vocational, academic, and apprenticeship pathways. The College supports around 8,000 learners in total, including approximately 2,100 aged 16–19, 4,750 adult learners, 200 higher education students, and 800 apprentices. It employs around 500 staff, has an annual turnover of £30 million, and was graded Good with Outstanding features by Ofsted in October 2023. Hull College also holds an Outstanding financial health grade.

Hull College is defined by its "Hullraisers" spirit. This is an ethos of ambition, resilience, and transformation. The College is more than a place of learning; it is a thriving community committed to innovation and tangible impact. Its "Living and Thriving" personal development programme supports learners beyond academics, helping them develop confidence, promote their wellbeing, and prepare for the future. Strong partnerships with employers and civic organisations ensure the curriculum aligns with industry, while enrichment activities build learners leadership, digital, and employability skills. The College plays a critical role in meeting the skills needs of the region and is on a journey to be recognised nationally as a world-class institution.

Hull College has recently approved an ambitious Strategic Plan ‘Fearless by Design’ for 2025–28, with exciting developments underway including the launch of a new Higher Education strategy and brand, deployment of Microsoft Copilot, an AI Academy, and the start of an estate transformation. The College is also expanding local partnerships, aiming to grow its regional impact. Governors will play a vital role in overseeing delivery, monitoring key performance indicators, and championing the College.
Looking to the rest of a new governor’s term, priorities for the College include launching major capital projects, building international partnerships, and achieving national recognition in areas such as Construction. Governors will contribute to strategic decisions to drive development and support the College’s national profile. By 2027–28, Hull College aims to be a sector leader in AI, sustainability, and technical education. Governors will help shape the post-2028 vision, guide improvement, and ensure long-term financial resilience.

Becoming a Governor at Hull College is an opportunity to influence meaningful change and make a tangible difference in local lives. Governors help set the strategic direction of the College, ensure high standards of education and training, and support its financial sustainability. This is a chance to work alongside likeminded professionals, build networks across education and industry, while using your experience to support a vital community institution. It is a role where your insights matter, your contributions are valued, and your decisions shape the future of thousands of learners each year.

The College’s requirements

The Corporation Board at Hull College is seeking to appoint three new governors to support the College’s strategic growth, academic excellence, and governance capability. These vacancies include: an opening on the Higher Education Advisory Committee; a vacancy for the role of Chair of the Standards Committee; and a role as Vice-Chair of the Corporation. All roles require individuals who can act as a critical friend by providing robust challenge, strategic oversight, and constructive support to senior leaders while helping ensure accountability, compliance, and progress against the College’s objectives.

The successful applicant to the Higher Education Advisory Committee will bring significant knowledge of Higher Education regulation and governance, including the Office for Students (OfS) conditions of registration, QAA frameworks, and statutory guidance. With experience of governance or leadership in HE or FE, they will contribute a strong understanding of academic assurance, compliance, and risk. Their role as a critical friend will involve offering independent insight, questioning standards where appropriate, and supporting the continued delivery of high-quality, compliant HE provision.

The incoming Chair of the Standards Committee will be an educationalist, ideally from a FE background, with substantial experience in curriculum quality, student outcomes, and sector-wide benchmarks. They will be confident in scrutinising performance data, challenging achievement rates, and applying their knowledge of Ofsted’s Education Inspection Framework. This individual will be responsible for leading rigorous, evidence-based discussions and ensuring continuous improvement across teaching, learning, and progression. They will support the executive team while holding them accountable to high expectations for learner success.

The future Vice-Chair of the Corporation will be a senior leader with strong governance experience and a background in complex, high-level corporate or public sector settings. They will bring expertise in leadership resilience, talent management, and succession planning, and will Chair the Remuneration Committee. This role requires strategic thinking, a deep understanding of governance and accountability, and the ability to work collaboratively with the Chair, Board, and senior leaders to ensure effective leadership continuity and organisational stability.

New governors are supported through a structured induction to help them quickly understand their role, responsibilities, and the college’s strategic priorities. Before appointment, they receive a recruitment pack outlining the role and expectations. Once approved, they are welcomed with an appointment letter, key documents, and early meetings with the Chair and Director of Governance to explore board culture and key issues. An induction pack and mandatory training in areas like safeguarding, GDPR, and finance ensure a strong foundation.

To build college familiarity, governors tour facilities, meet staff and students, and observe meetings before active participation. A buddy system and specialist link roles (e.g. safeguarding or finance) deepen engagement. Throughout the first year, regular check-ins, ongoing development opportunities, and an appraisal support their growth.
These are vital roles for the next phase of Hull College’s journey; ideal for professionals who want to make a tangible impact on education, the community, and the region’s future skills landscape.

Time commitment and meeting schedule

On average, the DfE expect governors to commit up to two days per month to effectively contribute to their role, including meetings, any preparation, committee involvements and on-site visits.

Hull College estimates that governors typically volunteer around two days per month to fulfil their responsibilities. While expectations may vary depending on the individual’s committee involvement or role, we encourage all prospective candidates to discuss their availability and capacity during the application process and the College has already laid out its 2025/2026 meeting schedule.

The Corporation Board meets five times per academic year, with one additional strategic away day and one SAR validation day. Committees meet between three and five times annually. Meetings are usually scheduled for Tuesdays or Thursdays at 4pm. Corporation meetings are encouraged in person at Hull College (Wilberforce Drive, Hull, HU1 3DG), though hybrid arrangements via Microsoft Teams are available. Committee meetings are primarily remote.

Some in-person engagement is recommended to build relationships, gain a deeper understanding of the college environment, and contribute effectively to the College’s strategic aims. If you are ready to take the next step in your governance journey and want to play a meaningful role in shaping the future of Hull College and its wider community, we welcome your interest in these roles.

Establishment Information

• Unique Reference Number (URN): 130579
• Address: Wilberforce Drive, Hull, HU1 3DG
• Type of establishment: Further Education

What does the role include?

Governors work together as a board to provide strategic leadership, ensuring the College Corporation or company is legally compliant, financially sustainable, and delivers excellent value for public funds. FE College Corporations / companies operate as independent charitable institutions, with governors acting as charity trustees and the governing board ultimately accountable for overall performance. The principal regulator of FE and Sixth-Form College corporations is the Secretary of State for Education, and the Department for Education (DfE) works closely with the FE Commissioner and sector stakeholders to both regulate and support FE governance. Where needed, support is provided by the Commissioner’s team of advisers and National Leaders of Governance for FE, who offer peer-led mentoring. To read further about regulation, support and intervention please refer to the sixth-form College Corporations: governance guide, linked within the further reading on the GfS website. 

What are the benefits?

Volunteering on a College Corporation board is a meaningful way to shape learner’s lives and strengthen education in your community. You will play a vital role in setting strategic direction and holding executive leaders to account — ensuring the College delivers the best outcomes. This is a great opportunity to support your career development and give back to education.

Further information

You can also find out more public information about the College, along with useful resources, additional reading and interactive content about being a FE College Governor by clicking through to the GfS website.

�� Trustee recruitment – health & safety & financial expertise

Organisation: Easy Housing Association (EHA) – Registered Social Landlord
Location: Remote
Type: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Closing Date: 22 June 2025

Join EHA’s board of trustees – provide strategic oversight for a safer, stronger social housing future.

Easy Housing Association (EHA) is a progressive, mission-driven Registered Social Landlord (RSL), committed to delivering safe, secure, and affordable homes for those who need them most. As we continue to grow, we are strengthening our governance and seeking two experienced and strategic individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As a trustee, you will provide high-level oversight, ensuring strong leadership, regulatory compliance, and financial resilience.

We are specifically looking for trustees with senior-level expertise in one or both of the following areas:

• Health & safety within the social housing sector
• Finance and strategic oversight in the charity or housing sectors

As a trustee, you will advise, challenge, and support EHA’s leadership, helping us meet our legal obligations, protect tenant wellbeing, and maintain long-term sustainability.

��️ Trustee oversight role: health & safety (social housing focus)

We are seeking a trustee to provide strategic oversight and governance on health and safety systems across EHA. You will help ensure we meet the highest safety standards for tenants, staff, and volunteers, and remain fully compliant with housing regulations.

Key areas of expertise include:

• Interpreting and overseeing compliance with H&S laws relevant to RSLs
• Ensuring robust systems for fire, gas, asbestos, and communal area safety
• Providing risk management insight across housing stock and services
• Understanding the Regulator of Social Housing (RSH) expectations
• Reviewing inspection, audit, and incident-reporting frameworks
• Championing a strong, proactive safety culture across the organisation

Your contribution will help ensure EHA protects people and property through effective governance.

�� Trustee oversight role: finance & charity sector governance

We are also recruiting a trustee with the financial acumen to guide EHA’s strategic financial direction, ensuring transparency, accountability, and sustainability across operations.

This role suits someone with financial leadership experience in charitable housing providers, housing associations, or social enterprises.

Key responsibilities include:

• Monitoring long-term financial strategy, planning, and risk
• Understanding Charity SORP and RSL financial standards
• Overseeing reserves policy, budgeting, and funding management
• Ensuring compliance with the Charity Commission and RSH
• Supporting transparent and effective financial reporting
• Holding executive teams to account while enabling performance

Your insight will strengthen the board’s ability to govern with integrity and impact.

⏱️ Time commitment

Trustees are expected to attend monthly board meetings (approximately 2.5 hours online) and commit an additional 4 hours per month to board-related duties, including reading papers, joining sub-committees, or contributing expertise.

�� What you’ll gain

• A high-impact role in a values-led, tenant-focused RSL
• Opportunities to shape policy, compliance, and social impact
• Professional development in governance, housing, and regulation
• The fulfilment of helping improve lives through safe, secure housing

EHA is proud to be an inclusive and tenant-focused RSL. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds especially those with lived experience of social housing.

Your leadership and strategic oversight can help us build homes and futures that are safe, equitable, and resilient.
By joining our Board, you will help change lives—ensuring that safe, secure, and affordable housing is not a privilege, but a right.

We are looking for 2 Helpline Volunteers to play an essential role in ensuring service users (SUs) receive timely, empathetic, and confidential support, as well as clear signposting to relevant services.

You will support the SBS Helpline in providing high-quality, trauma-informed advice, information, and emotional support to Black and minoritised women and girls affected by domestic abuse and other forms of gender-based violence, including forced marriage, rape and sexual abuse, so-called honour crimes, and related issues such as immigration and No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF).

EHRAC is a team of experts in international human rights law and international mechanisms. We support and collaborate with human rights defenders in Ukraine and the South Caucasus to litigate ground breaking strategic cases to secure justice and challenge impunity. 

EHRAC’s Advisory Board provides guidance to the Co- Directors on issues of finance, operations, communications and strategic direction, and provides insight and advice on the situation in EHRAC’s target region. 

The Advisory Board member with financial management experience maintains an overview of EHRAC’s financial affairs. They ensure that effective and appropriate financial measures, controls and procedures are in place and provide support to EHRAC’s finance and grants team on an adhoc basis.

As well as attending the main meetings of the Advisory Board, they will join the Subcommittee, which consists of three Advisory Board members and meets quarterly (online or in person).

The Honorary Treasurer is a key voluntary post within Mountain Training England and the wider network of related mountaineering organisations. As a member of the Board of Trustees, the Treasurer shares the responsibility for overseeing the management of the organisation and implementing the strategic objectives of its members.

The Treasurer has an oversight role over all aspects of financial management, working closely with other members of the Board of Trustees to safeguard the organisation financially. They act as an informed reference point for the Chair and other Trustees.

Although it is the Treasurer’s responsibility to ensure proper financial records and procedures are maintained, much of this work is delegated to the Finance and Audit Sub-committee and paid staff.

Our annual statement of accounts can be seen at Companies House.

Role of Mountain Training England Treasurer

• The Treasurer oversees the financial matters of Mountain Training England in line with good practice and in accordance with the governing document and legal requirements of the Charities and Companies Acts and reports both quarterly to the Board and to the Members at three Council meetings per year about the financial health of the organisation.
• The Treasurer ensures that effective financial measures, controls and procedures are in place.
• The Treasurer takes the lead on the formulation of policies for finances, reserves and investments.

Specific Responsibilities

• To oversee/verify and present budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements to the Board and Members after discussion with the Finance Committee. 
• To ensure that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place.
• To ensure that full and accurate accounts and records are kept.
• In conjunction with the Executive Officer maintain sound financial management of MTE’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.
• To ensure compliance with relevant legislation e.g. Companies and Charity legislation and contractual agreements with external agencies such as funders and statutory bodies

• Chairing the Finance and Audit Committee in line with its terms of reference and reporting back to the Board.
• Present the annual statement of accounts to the Members at the Annual General Meeting.
• To liaise with designated staff about financial matters.
• Advising on the financial implications of MTE’s strategic and operational plan.
• Ensure that the annual accounts are compliant with the current Charities Statement of Recommended Practice.
• Ensure any recommendations of the independent examiner are implemented.
• Contribute to the fundraising strategy of the organisation.
• Advise on reserves policy and investment policy.
• Ensure that there is no conflict between any investment held and the aims and objects of MTE or partner organisations.
• Ensure that MTE has sufficient liquidity to meet its future commitments.

 PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL SKILLS, QUALIFICATIONS EXPERIENCE

Considerable experience as a treasurer of similar sized organisations

Some experience of walking, rock climbing or mountaineering.

OR experience of controlling a budget in a small-to-medium-sized (SME) organisation/business

Have an interest in the development of the Mountain Training awards

Financial accounting and reporting experience

Experience of working with charity or educational body accounts

Recognised accountancy qualification e.g. ICAEW, ACCA, CIPFA, CIMA, AAT etc

DESIRABLE

Knowledge of Charity SORP

An understanding of Equity/Inclusion applicable to financial resources

Commitment

As Treasurer you will chair the Finance & Audit Committee, which meets quarterly. You will also be expected to attend four Board meetings and a minimum of one of three Members’ Council meetings per year.  Attendance at the AGM is expected to present the annual statement of accounts to members.

Occasional attendance at MTUKI Council meetings and Finance Planning Group meetings is required.

Term

Trustees serve for a maximum of three years and are re-elected annually at the Annual General Meeting. At the end of the first three-year term of office Trustees are eligible for re-election for one further term of three years. From time to time the positions of Treasurer, Vice-Chair and Chair become subject to renewal. The Trustees nominate these positions from the Board and the Council votes to approve them at the AGM.

Expenses

Reasonable travel, parking and subsistence expenses are paid to Trustees, in line with MTE expenses policy.

TREASURER (TRUSTEE)

Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:

• Can this be stopped?

• How do I (or my child) live this life?

Our charity exists to address both questions. We are the only significant national funder with the efficiency, capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.

We are now seeking a new Treasurer. This is an exciting point for us, and our new Treasurer will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.

We have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes this such an important and exciting role for the right person.

As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.

If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.

“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”

Dr Heather Giles, Chair

ABOUT US

Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.

It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’

Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.

Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs.

We have funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.

OUR FINANCES

The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.

ROLE DESCRIPTION

As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will also chair our Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources (FARR) committee.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Planning

- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.

- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.

Governance

- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.

- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.

Engagement

- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.

Evaluation and Accountability

- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.

- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.

Key Responsibilities of the Treasurer

- Chair the Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee, ensuring effective scrutiny and oversight.

- Provide strategic financial leadership and ensure that appropriate financial controls and risk management frameworks are in place.

- Ensure compliance with statutory reporting and regulatory requirements in partnership with the executive.

- Act as a trusted advisor to the Chief Financial Officer and offer guidance to fellow trustees on financial matters.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Specialist experience

We are particularly interested in candidates who have:

- A recognised financial qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA or equivalent)

- Experience of senior financial leadership – ideally as a CFO, COO, FD, or equivalent

- A sound understanding of finance, audit, and investment management

General attributes

Knowledge & experience

- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.

Skills & abilities

- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.

- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.

- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.

Styles & behaviours

- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.

- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.

- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

Remuneration 

This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.

Time commitment

While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:

- A minimum of four Board meetings per year

- A minimum of four subcommittee meetings per year

- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.

- Annual strategy day with full Board and executive team.

- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.

- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.

Location

At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.

HOW TO APPLY

If you have questions about the role and would find it helpful to have an informal conversation, please contact us at our trustee recruitment inbox and we will be happy to arrange a call.

To make an application, please send your CV and a supporting statement (max two pages) to our trustee recruitment inbox outlining your motivation for applying and how you meet the attributes outlined in the personal specification.

We hope you will consider making an application. Together, we can achieve extraordinary things.

As a Trustee at NSDAS with a focus on the Treasurer role, you will play a vital part in ensuring the financial stability and integrity of the charity. You will work closely with the Board of Trustees CEO and Finance Manager to oversee the financial management of the charity, providing strategic guidance and ensuring compliance with certain regulatory requirements.

The role of the Treasurer 

·Oversee the charity’s financial management and reporting, ensuring transparency and accountability.

·Work closely with the CEO and Board to develop a long-term financial strategy.

·Ensure compliance with charity finance regulations and best practices.

·Contribute to financial reports to the Board, making complex information accessible and actionable.

·Manage and review the work of the Finance Manager.

North Surrey Domestic Abuse Service (NSDAS) supports anyone affected by domestic abuse and their children living in the boroughs of Elmbridge, Spelthorne and Epsom and Ewell. We provide free, confidential and independent advice, skilled practical help and ongoing emotional support and information, regardless of sex, race, ability, gender, religion or income level.

Reducing the Risk is an Oxfordshire-based charity. We work locally, regionally and nationally to empower professionals, volunteers and communities who support victim-survivors of domestic abuse.

Join us in empowering survivors of domestic abuse and expanding our impact, using your financial expertise to ensure our stability and drive sustainable growth.

What will you be doing?

The Treasurer plays a crucial role in maintaining the financial integrity of Reducing the Risk. This role involves overseeing the charity's financial affairs, ensuring financial viability, and ensuring that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. The Treasurer provides strategic financial guidance to the Board of Trustees and supports the charity's mission through sound financial management.

Time commitment: 

• Estimated on average 1 day a month, with an expected increased time commitment at Year End and the Annual Return months. Initially, the time commitment will be slightly higher whilst you settle into the role and complete our induction. 
• Board meetings: 4 board meetings and 4 committee meetings a year
• Meetings may be in person or online and timings are agreed by those involved

What are we looking for?

Essential:

• A strong background in financial management, or a related field.
• Professional accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
• Understanding of SORP requirements and charity law, or willingness to undertake necessary training.
• Experience in financial planning and budget management.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate financial information to non-financial stakeholders.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Reducing the Risk.
• Commitment to developing a knowledge of Charity Finance regulations and practices (guidance will be provided)

Desirable:

• Previous experience as a Treasurer or in a similar role within a charity.
• Experience with financial software and systems used by charities.

What difference will you make?

By joining us, you’ll help sustain a charity known for its safe, trusted services and innovative partnerships. Your financial expertise will support our plans to expand community-based programs, develop our training into a self-financing enterprise, and enhance our impact on victims of abuse and their children, both locally and beyond.

Before you apply

The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting Reducing the Risk with their Trustee recruitment. Applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance. To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to the board.

Cripplegate Foundation is looking for new Governors (trustees) to join our board. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of a trusted, independent and innovative grant- making organisation that has been supporting Islington for over 500 years.

Working alongside our partners at Islington Giving, we invest over £2 million a year in local charities and community groups. Together we amplify local voices, improve access to opportunities and support lasting change.

 Who we’re looking for

• Do you want to make a real difference in Islington?
• Are you passionate about tackling local poverty and inequality?
• Can you help amplify the voices of those we work with, through your personal or professional experience?
• Could you bring additional diversity to our board so that we better reflect the communities in which we work?
• Do you have some frontline charity experience, senior leadership or otherwise?
• Are you able to commit the time required to make the most of joining us?

We are genuinely encouraging a wide range of people to come forward and cannot emphasise enough how your background, life experience, approach and values are more important than any knowledge or experience of grant making, or of being a trustee elsewhere.

Full induction, mentoring and ongoing support will be provided. This is a voluntary/unpaid role, with expenses covered.

The closing date for applications is 16th October at 5:00 p.m.

For more details and how to apply, please visit our website and download the full Candidate Pack.