Legal and trustee volunteer volunteer roles

Many older people in our communities face significant challenges - from loneliness, isolation, and frailty to financial hardship and managing lifechanging conditions like Dementia. The work we do is vital in ensuring they have access to the support and care they deserve.

Our team is deeply passionate about this mission. Many of us have personal experience supporting older relatives through similar challenges, and these lived experiences fuel our commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate services.

Following our successful merger in August 2023, our organisation is now moving forward with greater ambition and a renewed focus on expanding our reach. As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping that future - helping us to serve more people, strengthen our services, and advocate for the needs of older people across Maidstone, Sevenoaks, and Tonbridge. 

We are looking for people from a financial background to help with oversight of our budgeting, planning, forecasting, investments, governance, reporting and financial decision-making. This is a great opportunity to work closely with organisational leaders to ensure every penny makes a difference.

Sunderland Culture is entering a bold new chapter, and we are seeking to appoint two Independent Trustees who can bring expertise, constructive challenge, and important oversight to Board discussions and decisions. This is a rewarding opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, wider Board team and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.

The Role of the Board

 The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;

• Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
• Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
• Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence.
• Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
• Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
• Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures. The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
• Ambition & Quality
• Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
• Inclusivity and Relevance
• Environmental Sustainability

Independent Trustees- Role Description

We are seeking to appoint two independent trustees who will bring expertise, insight, and constructive challenge to Board discussions.

Key Responsibilities:

Ensure compliance with legal and statutory responsibilities.

Contribute to strategic discussions and decisions. Provide oversight of financial, operational, and reputational risk.

Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of governance.

Act as an ambassador for the organisation, including attendance at key events and stakeholder activities.

Serve on sub-committees or working groups as required.

Person Specification

Essential Criteria

An ability to think strategically and independently.

Commitment to good governance and accountability.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

A collaborative and supportive approach.

Passion for the mission of Sunderland Culture.

Relevant lived experience and networks that reflect the make-up of the city.

Desirable Criteria

Relevant experience of organisational governance.

We are particularly seeking expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance and audit
• Fundraising and income generation
• Community cohesion

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.

Introduction:

Thank you for your interest in becoming a trustee and Vice Chair of Harry’s HAT. Please read this trustee application information pack carefully before completing your application.

Who we are:

Harry’s HAT is a UK based charity focusing on paediatric hydrocephalus. Our mission is to make life better for children and their families affected by the condition. The Board of Trustees works to achieve this through:

• Raising awareness of paediatric hydrocephalus through workshops and training.
• Supporting research and funding training for front-line medical health and social care professionals.
• Signposting families to trusted organisations and providing access to peer support.
• Campaigning for earlier diagnosis.

The opportunity:

Harry’s HAT is entering an important phase of development and the Board of Trustees is seeking a motivated individual to join as Vice Chair of Trustees. This voluntary trustee role supports the Chair of Trustees and the Chief Executive Officer in ensuring strong governance, clear policy development and effective leadership across the charity.

Key responsibilities:

The Vice Chair trustee supports the Chair of Trustees in providing leadership to the Board and maintaining effective governance. Working closely with the Chair, CEO and fellow trustees, the Vice Chair supports strategic direction and ensures trustee decisions reflect the charity’s mission vision and values.

The Vice Chair trustee contributes to the Fundraising and Risk Group ensuring governance and policy considerations inform discussions and decisions. A key responsibility is leading trustee oversight of policy development including safeguarding, governance, finance and operational policies, ensuring they are compliant regularly reviewed and embedded in day-to-day practice.

The Vice Chair also supports trustee recruitment and development and acts as a trustee ambassador for Harry’s HAT representing the charity externally with professionalism and warmth.

Meetings and time commitment:P

Trustees are expected to attend:

• Six trustee board meetings per year held online.
• Quarterly Fundraising and Risk Group meetings.
• Two one-to-one meetings per year with the Chair of Trustees.
• The AGM and occasional additional trustee meetings.
• Mandatory online training and timely communication.

Skills and experience:

The ideal trustee will have experience of charity governance and trustee leadership. Essential experience includes chairing or supporting a board or committee, understanding trustee legal duties, experience of policy development, strategic awareness and confident communication. Trustees must exercise discretion and confidentiality. DBS clearance is required.

Desirable experience includes previous trustee or Vice Chair roles familiarity with small charity governance and understanding of safeguarding and risk management.

Personal attributes:

Trustees should demonstrate integrity, fairness and impartiality. The Vice Chair trustee must be committed, collaborative and able to build positive working relationships with trustees staff and volunteers.

Term and remuneration:

Trustee appointments are voluntary with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The initial trustee term is one to three years with a three month probation period.

#Chair #Chairoftrustees #trustee 

Carers UK is the national membership charity for the millions of people in the UK who are unpaid carers. As an organisation we provide expert advice and information for carers, campaign for greater recognition and support for carers, and use our experience and expertise to help other organisations do more for carers. Our Board of Trustees plays a vital leadership role in the work we do while ensuring the charity is equipped and governed effectively, establishing and monitoring strategy and ensuring we are true to our values and keep carers at the heart of everything we do.

We are now seeking to appoint up to four people to join our Board of Trustees, to steer us towards our vision of a world where carers are recognised, valued and supported.

It’s an exciting time to be part of Carers UK, as we launch our new strategic review in 2026. Our Board is instrumental in ensuring we make the future really impactful for carers through our vision and strategy while fulfilling all our obligations as a charity.

We are also seeking to appoint a Nations Trustee for Scotland. In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee, the Nations Trustee will be expected to ensure that the Carers UK Board is informed on key issues affecting carers in their Nation. 

To find out more about this opportunity and apply, please download the Trustee recruitment pack from our website

Carers UK is committed to representing the diverse society in which we work and actively encourages applications from people with current or recent experience of caring from all backgrounds and experiences.

Wildscreen is a UK-based charity. We connect people with nature through storytelling and democratise the creation of and access to nature’s stories.

We are seeking a purpose-driven, experienced and visionary Chair of the Board of Trustees to lead Wildscreen into its next exciting chapter. The Chair will provide strategic leadership, governance, and support our small but mighty team to ensure the organisation continues to thrive and expand its influence within the international natural history media and environmental not for profit sectors. This role is crucial in guiding Wildscreen’s mission and vision, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, and ensuring robust financial and operational health.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Leadership and Governance: Lead the Board of Trustees in ensuring Wildscreen has a clear strategic direction and uses its resources to effectively deliver its charitable objectives. Ensuring the organisation complies with legal and regulatory requirements the Board operates effectively and with high governance standards. Providing leadership and support and appraising the performance of the Chief Executive Officer and where appropriate, other members of the Executive Team. Participating in and ensuring Board induction, training and effectiveness is undertaken and reviewed annually.
• Strategic Planning: Collaborate with the Board, Executive Team, and key stakeholders to develop and implement Wildscreen’ s strategic plan. Drive the organisation’s vision and objectives forward, ensuring alignment with its mission and values.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as an ambassador for Wildscreen, fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, including funders, partners, education and community groups, and sector bodies.
• Financial Oversight: Work with the Board and Executive Team to ensure the financial stability and sustainability of the organisation. Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and risk management processes.
• Fundraising and Development: Support and guide fundraising initiatives, including identifying new opportunities and cultivating relationships with donors, sponsors, and funding bodies.
• Community and Inclusivity: Promote Wildscreen’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Encourage programmes and initiatives that engage with diverse audiences and reflect the community’s needs.
• Performance and Evaluation: Monitor and evaluate the performance of the organisation against strategic goals and objectives. Ensure continuous improvement and responsiveness to changing needs in the international media landscape.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Strategic Leadership: Demonstrable experience in a senior leadership or governance role within a complex organisation, preferably within the creative industries, environmental, purposedriven or not-for-profit sectors.
• Governance Expertise: Strong understanding of governance, with a track record of effectively chairing boards or committees and ensuring accountability and transparency.
• Stakeholder Management: Proven ability to engage, influence, and build relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including funders, partners, and community groups.
• Financial Acumen: Solid understanding of financial management, with experience in overseeing budgets, financial planning, and risk management.
• Fundraising Capability: Experience in supporting fundraising activities, identifying funding opportunities, and engaging with donors and sponsors.
• Commitment to Diversity: A strong commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, with the ability to champion these values across the organisation and its programmes.
• Passion for Nature and Storytelling: A genuine passion for the power of storytelling with an understanding of the essential role Wildscreen plays in convening important conversations, celebrating the world’s best natural world storytellers and enabling equitable access for all in the UK and internationally.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire, influence, and engage with a wide range of audiences.
• Time and Commitment: The ability to commit sufficient time to fulfil the responsibilities of the role. We estimate a time commitment of 10 days per annum to account for quarterly board meetings, annual away day, monthly CEO support, events, subcommittee meetings (such as governance and finance committee) reading of Board papers and other organisational activities. Occasionally, trustees will be asked to join specific subcommittees or working groups with the wider team and externals where their area of expertise is particularly relevant.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Wildscreen is an equal opportunities and disability confident employer. We welcome from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity. If you would like any additional support or alternative arrangements during our application process which would make you more comfortable, please do get in touch.

HOW TO APPLY

Please complete the online application form. This includes a couple of questions to outline your suitability and reasons for applying for this role with Wildscreen. You will also be required to upload a CV.

Interviews to be held: Mid-late January 2026

* No agencies, please.

ROLE DESCRIPTION
Trustee – Funding & Bid Application Review

We are seeking a new Trustee to strengthen our multi-skilled and hard-working board, with specific expertise in funding and bid applications.

While we already have skilled board members and volunteers who can write strong funding applications, what we currently lack is the time and experience to:

• Research potential funding opportunities
• Review and filter which opportunities are worth pursuing
• Summarise and present recommendations to the Board and staff

This new Trustee role would add significant value to the work we already provide - by helping us focus our efforts on the most promising funding sources.

Skills and Background

We are open to a range of professional backgrounds. You may not be actively working or may have a little time free to support us in this role, but we are looking for people who can bring the following:

• Experience in bid applications, grant funding, or fundraising — particularly in identifying and assessing opportunities
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills to weigh up eligibility, likelihood of success, and fit with our charity’s mission
• Confidence in working with information, making judgements, and communicating clear summaries to colleagues
• A background in areas such as fundraising, charity administration, project management, finance, business development, or legal/governance would all be relevant and useful

Commitment

As a Trustee, this voluntary role involves attending Board meetings, which are approximately every two months, an annual strategy day, occasional working groups and the AGM. Meetings are held in person where possible, with online options available. We also hold fundraising events, which you are warmly encouraged to support. The expected commitment is around 10 hours a month, including reviewing opportunities and communicating with fellow Trustees and staff via email, WhatsApp, or phone.

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.

Location: London, W2 1AY

Working hours: Part time (one day per month)

Salary: Resonable expenses paid

Join Imperial Health Charity at an exciting moment as we launch our ambitious new strategy to shape the future of healthcare across one of the country's largest Trusts and make a genuine difference to over 1.3 million people.

Who we are

At Imperial Health Charity, we help our hospitals do more through a comprehensive programme of grants, arts, volunteering and fundraising. As the dedicated charity for Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, one of the largest trusts in the country, our work helps to support more than 1.3 million patients and more than 16,000 NHS staff each year across Charing Cross, Hammersmith, Queen Charlotte’s & Chelsea, St Mary’s, and the Western Eye hospitals.

The opportunity ahead

Our new strategy for 2026-2031 will guide significant investments in patient health priorities and staff well-being, including our support of the Fleming Centre, a flagship research and innovation facility opening in 2028 to mark the centenary of Sir Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin and the redevelopment of St Mary’s Hospital.

We’re raising our profile through more ambitious public relations and social media efforts, seeking national corporate relationships and consolidating funds to create more focused, meaningful impact in priority areas.

Who we are looking for

We’re seeking two trustees who each bring distinct strengths. The first should have experience in safeguarding, ideally gained through work with volunteers, or in community settings. You could have a background in adult and children’s services, care, or service delivery organisations that utilise volunteers at scale.

You’ll provide board-level oversight of our safeguarding and ensure best practice in policies and legal considerations.

The second trustee should bring grant-making experience, preferably with an understanding of how fundraising and grants work together in a charitable context. You’ll help us through support and challenge to improve our impact reporting, storytelling and the strategic pipeline between fundraising and grant distribution. Commercial thinking and an appreciation of how to demonstrate impact to attract donors would be valuable.

Time Commitment

You’ll attend four board meetings and four committee meetings each year, plus an annual strategy day. Meetings are typically held in person from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. We estimate the time commitment to be equivalent to one or so days per month, inclusive of meetings, preparation, ad hoc conversations and occasional involvement in events or visiting some of our programmes and projects during the year.

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 close at Friday 30th January.

Board Trustees

Voluntary Position 

Required to attend a minimum of four quarterly business meetings per year (travel expenses are available).

About Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust:

Since 1988, Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust (PKHT) has worked collaboratively to preserve, enhance, and increase understanding of the historic environment of the area, through a wide remit encompassing historic building conservation and archaeology. 

PKHT achieved their objectives through the delivery of projects, the provision of grants, information, and advice, and through a programme of outreach and training activities. The Organisations current key projects include the transformative work of the Perth City Heritage Fund, and an exciting new programme of community archaeology which will aim to engage communities across all of Perth and Kinross. Their aims are to maintain and enhance sense of place; provide a learning resource for local communities; and to build sustainable economic development through improvements and events for both local residents and visitors. 

Perth and Kinross has a rich physical heritage of archaeological sites and historic buildings and PKHT is committed to delivering projects and activities that increase awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the historic environment for everyone. Supported by a range of funders, the outreach and learning activities are often delivered through funded projects such as the King’s Seat Hillfort Archaeology Project, while They also co-ordinate the Doors Open Days programme for the area.

Trustee Details:

Perth and Kinross Heritage Trust is currently seeking new trustees for their board and, to sustain their invaluable work, are inviting new board members, who have the right skills, experience, and time to take on the role effectively and impactfully, as well as sharing an affinity with their aspirations to safeguard local heritage and promote it to a wider audience.

The trust are keen to hear from people who have skills in buildings conservation, marketing and social media, legal and finance, IT and General Fundraising but would welcome expressions of interest from others who share a passion for what the area has to offer - and what is still to be uncovered. People who live further afield from the area are also encouraged to apply, especially if they bring similar experiences from further afield. The Trust is also keen to diversify its board and welcomes applications from younger candidates from a range of backgrounds.

In addition, candidates who are willing to progress to take on the Chair role are encouraged to apply. The current Chair has decided that following several years’ service it is now time to step back from this role. The PKHT board are keen to hear from any candidate who feels they have the skills and experience, and time available for the Chair role. To discover more about this role and the Trust’s expectations, an informal exploratory chat with the incumbent is encouraged and BTA would be happy to help make arrangements for this.

Trustee needed for Faith in Action Homelessness Project. We are seeking a Trustee to join our committed Board working to end homelessness in Merton.

About Us: FiA runs a twice weekly drop in for homeless and vulnerably housed people and a Winter Night Shelter which works in collaboration with faith groups including a Mosque, a Synagogue, a Hindu Temple and Christian churches to provide overnight accommodation and support to find long term housing solutions.

Our Small Team consists of a Manager, a Winter nightshelter co-ordinator and seven part time staff.  The Trustee team is a very hands on group - many are volunteers at the night shelter or drop in and it is a very committed and passionate team.

We are looking for three new trustees to make our board up to 12. 

The Trustee role

This role involves more than just attending meetings.  We are responsible for:

Setting the strategic direction of the charity

Ensuring tranparency and accountablity

Taking specific areas of responsibility - leading on fundraising, or staff recruitment, or governance or communication and PR for the charity.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuatls who can lead on the following areas:

1. Fundraising - especially developing partnerships with local businesses

2. Communications - including managing our strategy on social media and community engagement

3, Governance - supporting the development of policies and procedures

4. HR - offering advice on recruitment and management of staff

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

We are seeking a Director and Chair of Trustees Designate to help shape the future direction of our organisation. We are looking for an individual with proven senior leadership experience - ideally, though not necessarily, within the third sector - who can bring strong strategic thinking, sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership style.

The Board of Trustees plays a vital role by steering and supporting the charity development. We are seeking to appoint a Chair or a Vice Chair. The Studio Upstairs Board is drawn from a diverse range of backgrounds and has a variety of skills. To complement the current Board, we would envisage that the Chair had a wide experience of running organisations and a particular interest in the charity sector. We are keen to hear from candidates with skills in the areas of Corporate Governance and Business Development ie: Partnership working or Fundraising as well as those within Digital Technologies, Health or Legal expertise.

The Board Meetings are to be held four to six times a year in London or online. In addition to the full board meetings  there may be occasional committee meetings or meetings of specific task groups. It is expected that the Chair will also maintain regular contact with the Managing Director and other Board members.

The Opportunity:
Her Centre is seeking a dynamic Chair to help shape the future of our organisation
and lead our excellent board of trustees. This opportunity will involve working closely
with our CEO to drive change and ensure that our vital work continues to support
every woman in Greenwich who needs us. This is an exciting time of change, which
you will be embarking on with our CEO. You will be joining a dedicated board that
includes expertise from across the private and charitable sectors, the local authority,
and lived experience.

Our Work:
Greenwich has one of the highest rates of domestic abuse in London. Last year
alone, over 4,000 domestic offences were recorded in the borough: a shocking 35%
higher than the London average. Demand for our services has risen sharply: in 2017,
we received 321 acute high-risk referrals but by last year, this had more than
doubled to 780. The most common form of abuse reported is physical violence
(62%), followed by controlling and coercive behaviour (46%). However, the sad
reality is that many women face multiple and overlapping forms of abuse, including
sexual abuse and rape, threats to their children, financial control, and forced
imprisonment.
Last year, Her Centre supported nearly 1,000 women to find safety, seek justice, and
rebuild their lives. We also help children who witness abuse recover from trauma and
support teenagers facing exploitation or violence to recognise unhealthy
relationships and build self-worth. Her Centre is a safe and welcoming space where
all women are listened to and believed in an environment of trust and respect.
Please submit your Covering Letter and CV by Friday, 2 January 2026.

Role Description:
Board Chair

• Time commitment: 6-8 hours monthly. The HER Centre board meetings are hybrid

and currently held every two months.

• Location: Hybrid, in-person meetings at Clockhouse Community Centre, Defiance

Walk, London

Purpose of the role:
The Board Chair is responsible for leading the board, ensuring its effectiveness in
enabling the HER Centre to provide best-in-class service to HER Centre users,
providing strategic direction, and keeping the HER Centre as a leading agency
supporting women, particularly those in crisis due to abuse. The Board Chair focuses
the board on strategic matters, prioritising long-term goals and planning, including
approving the annual business, financial, risk, and operational plans. The Board
Chair also adheres to the Charity Commission's essentials of a trustee:
1. Ensure the HER Centre carries out its purpose for public benefit
2. Ensure the HER Centre complies with the governing document and law
3. Acts in the HER Centre’s best interest
4. Manage the HER Centre’s resources responsibly
5. Act with reasonable care and skill
6. Ensure the HER Centre is accountable
7. Reduce risk and liability

Main roles and responsibilities:
• Maintain high standards of governance, fostering transparency and ensuring the
HER Centre holds itself accountable to its service users and stakeholders.
• Ensure trustee awareness and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements,
including those set out in the constitution and the Charity Commission’s guidance
on trustee roles and responsibilities.
• Ensure that the trustee board annually reviews its structure, effectiveness,
delegations and key policies, and implements agreed changes as necessary.
• Manage trustee relationships to foster a positive board culture, including ensuring
the Board has the policies it needs.
• Liaising with the Board Secretary to arrange meetings and set agendas, and
chairing meetings to ensure these are well run and focused on delivering the HER
Centre’s work.
• Line managing the HER Centre CEO, by supporting, positively challenging and
holding them to account, including working with the Board to approve an appraisal
of the CEO.
• Act as a link between trustees, staff and the Service User Advisory Committee
• Act as a HER Centre representative and spokesperson as required
Term: Two years, renewable for a maximum of nine years.

Training and Induction:
You will receive an induction on the work of the HER Centre and meet the Trustees
and staff.
Payment and Expenses:
The Board Chair is a voluntary role. Agreed, out-of-pocket expenses will be
reimbursed.

Do you want to support the running of the charity that supports people in Berkshire’s hospitals?

Are you the person to develop and lead our business opportunities planning, alongside our existing trustees?

You could join the Board of the Friends of Berkshire Hospitals, a charity that improves the experience of patients, visitors, medical staff and others who work in the Royal Berkshire and Wokingham Hospitals.

Our charity grew from a Reading-only organisation set up in 1957, which itself grew from a charitable group in the 1940s. We’re now serving both Reading and Wokingham hospitals, and intend to expand our services and thus our charitable business even further: to better serve all those in the hospitals. Our expenditure in 2024 was £366k, and we have plans to expand our business and fundraising operations outside of hospital premises.

The role and what we are looking for in a new trustee

Trustees are the people who make the top-level decisions for our charity. Our Board includes people with experience and skills in the services we provide to those in hospitals, and we’d expect new trustees to have empathy with our cause and our beneficiaries. 

We are looking for experience of developing a business, not necessarily in the not-for-private-profit sector, identifying new opportunities and relationships, creating and implementing our new marketing strategy.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for people from a variety of backgrounds to join our charity. We want to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups. 

You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as full induction to our organisation will be provided, plus specialist support as a new trustee, including access to external training.

If you can think strategically and plan long-term, you have the primary skills needed by our trustees; you’ll also need to be able to work collectively with other Board members.

Trustees are not be expected to get involved in the organisation’s operations on a day-to-day basis; however, regular contact and liaison with other trustees and employees is expected.   

We ask for no more than ten  hours of your time per month, which includes all meetings, discussions, etc.  You will need access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

How to apply  

This appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer a no-obligation discussion by phone or video. A detailed Role Description and Skills Specification is available.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references.

Your CV or similar will be read by our existing trustees, and an interview offered as soon as mutually convenient.

I need to know more 

Contact Mike Allen via Apply Now, below, for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams or Zoom)