Legal trustee volunteer roles

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for our new Co-Chair of Trustees. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

 The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation and be able to commit to at least 2 years in the role.

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Specific responsibilities of the Co- Chair

• Ensure the proper management of board meetings, including setting agendas in consultation with the Director, chairing meetings, facilitating discussions and decision;
• Oversee the administration and coordination of any sub-committees; 
• Monitor implementation of board and sub-committee decisions;
• Take "Chair’s action" between meetings, where an immediate decision is required;
• Serve as line-manager to the Director, and conduct regular planned supervision and appraisal;
• Represent Board as required to the public or external parties such as funders and government; and
• Keep other officers fully informed so that they can deputise if necessary
• Working alongside and in collaboration with the other STAR trustee co-chair, sharing responsibilities and ensuring excellent communicative shared working.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications (EXTENDED): 18th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling

Background

The Merchant’s House in Marlborough is a beautifully restored 17th-century silk merchant’s residence, offering a rare glimpse into the town’s rich history. Operated by The Merchant’s House Trust, our mission is to preserve and share this unique inheritance, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of the community far into the future. We are dedicated to engaging visitors and locals alike through educational programmes, events, and exhibitions that celebrate Marlborough’s cultural legacy in the context of the broader national story in which it is rooted. In the words of our motto ‘local heritage, national treasure’.

Your role

The Chair of The Merchant's House Trust leads the Board of Trustees, ensuring the effective governance of the charity and supporting the Trust Manager in delivering its strategy and purpose. The role is voluntary and non-remunerated, ideal for someone passionate about local heritage and community engagement. As a small friendly team, we are looking forward to welcoming a Chair who will bring fresh eyes to our plans for the next exciting phase in the life of this very special local charity.

South Liverpool Domestic Abuse Services (SLDAS) are seeking a new Treasurer to join our Board to oversee the charity’s financial governance, compliance and planning.  As a small independent charity founded in 1998, SLDAS offer free and accessible support to women who experience domestic abuse in South and South-Central Liverpool.  Domestic abuse has a devastating impact upon individuals, families and communities.  Year on year, recorded incidents of domestic abuse have increased in Merseyside, and rose sharply during the pandemic. Women are falling through the net and we want to do more to help them.

We employ a team of nine full and part time staff who support the running of the service, including a director who joined us in April 2023, responsible for managing and developing the staff and service, and developing the strategic direction of the charity alongside the Trustees.

SLDAS is mainly funded by a number of local authority and other national grant providers with an interest in domestic abuse.  Whilst this is a competitive and challenging time for all charities, we have made some steps towards sourcing new multi-year funding to expand our services, making this an exciting time to join us on the board of Trustees.

Please note that this opportunity is open to women only, and is exempt under the Equality Act 2010, Schedule 9, Part 1.

Becoming a Trustee with SLDAS offers a chance to make a real difference to the lives of women at risk of domestic abuse, but it will also offer you opportunities to meet new people, take on new challenges and volunteer in an interesting and strategic role.

To join the board of Trustees as Treasurer, we are particularly interested in receiving applications from women with strong skills and professional experience in the following areas:

• Previous Trusteeship role(s);

• Knowledge of charity accounting guidelines;

• Budgeting and forecasting;

• Management reporting, and the ability to explain financial concepts to non-finance trustees and staff;

• Accountancy qualification preferred, or demonstrable experience in a financial accounting role;

• Financial controls and risk management;

Successful candidate(s) will demonstrate:

• A commitment to support women in South Liverpool to live their lives free from violence, abuse and fear;

• A willingness and ability to devote the necessary time and effort to the role;

• A commitment to take the lead in financial governance, promoting the safeguarding of the financial viability of the Charity;

• An enquiring approach, not afraid to ask questions or challenge;

• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship;

• Clear communication skills, and the ability to work effectively as a member of a board.

The Treasurer will also be expected to attend and chair the Finance Planning and Fundraising sub committee.  Some mentoring hours with the Director and the Finance worker may also be expected.  

SLDAS recognise that the role of a Trustee is a responsible position and that you may require training and support to conduct your role to the best of your ability. We therefore offer Trustees an induction, ongoing training and opportunities for mentoring from other Trustees.

The time commitment for Trustees is around 4-6 hours a month. Board meetings are monthly, usually in the evenings. Most of the meetings are virtual via zoom meeting, although we do try and meet in person on occasion, either at the office or in the South Liverpool area. Trustee positions are unremunerated, but reasonable travel, subsistence and childcare expenses will be reimbursed.

• Closing date for applications: Please contact Manager Beckie Radcliffe for information

• Shortlisting and interviews: TBC

St Leonards Youth & Community Centre are looking for someone with accounting experience to join the Board as a Trustee to advise on financial matters, ensure we meet our financial obligations, and help us build a sound financial strategy.

What will you be doing?

As a trustee you will share collective responsibility for the governance of the charity and all decisions made by the board, ensuring the organisation is well run, fulfils its mission, is compliant with charity law and that the charity is open and accountable. The Treasurer leads the financial affairs of the charity and ensures that they are conducted within required legal and accounting best practice. It is also the responsibility of the Treasurer to work in partnership with the Chairperson and other trustees to ensure the financial viability and development of the organisation.

Key tasks:

• ensure the board fulfils its financial responsibilities
• ensure that the Charity has proper systems for budgeting, financial control, insurance and reporting
• inform the trustee board members of the finances of the Charity by written report, at least on a quarterly basis ensuring that the board have a clear picture of the financial health of the food bank
• ensure that financial reports: are comprehensible and properly discussed at trustee board meetings; are provided in the proper format and at the proper time, as required by the relevant charity regulator body (Charity Commission of England & Wales); have properly appointed auditors or independent examiners, as our income is over £25K

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, including ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, avoid undue risk and not over-commit the charity
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate
• to ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled appropriately
• To ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored and progress is evaluated
• to provide financial statements
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equality, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• a knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of St Leonards Youth & Community Centre
• a willingness to engage with the local community, including our beneficiaries and volunteers
• previous experience or an ability in: financial accounting and reporting procedures; communicating financial information to those who may have little or no financial background; keeping all financial records up to date
• confidence to actively participate in discussions concerning the needs of the charity, always acting in its best interests
• experience of working effectively with others
• sound, independent judgement and the ability to think creatively

What difference will you make?

By leading on the financial matters of the charity’s operation, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or coming into contact with St Leonards Youth & Community Centre.

Lead the change. Use your strategic skills to empower communities in LeicesterShire.

Last year, we helped 31,000 people find a way forward, securing them £14 million in income. Citizens Advice LeicesterShire is a dynamic £1.7m charity with a clear purpose: sharing knowledge to transform lives.

We are now looking for strategic leaders to join our Board of Trustees and steer our future. This is a high-impact role, moving beyond traditional governance to shape our strategy and drive performance. We need your professional expertise to help us pioneer new solutions and ensure our sustainability.

Your experience in one of the following areas will be critical to our success:

• Financial planning, risk management, and data ethics (including AI).
• HR, people management, organisational design, and wellbeing strategies.
• Compelling storytelling, PR, strategic marketing, and professional networking.
• Business strategy, project management, and technology.

While professional experience is key, your personal commitment is what truly matters. We are looking for people who share our values – we care, we help, we excel, we challenge – and have a passion for social justice. We believe lived experience is as valuable as professional skill.

The return on your investment:

• Apply your leadership skills to a significant social challenge.
• Directly influence the strategy of a respected, high-impact local charity.
• Collaborate with a dedicated professional board and senior leadership team.

"Being a trustee for Citizens Advice allows me the opportunity to use my skills to the benefit of others.” - John Walters, Trustee

This is a flexible, voluntary role with bi-monthly evening board meetings. All expenses are reimbursed.

If you're ready to make a difference, visit our website to read the full information pack and apply.

For an informal, confidential discussion about the role, please contact our CEO, Vicky Gutteridge.

Do you have experience with UK employment law as an HR Manager, HR Director or equivalent? 

Connection Support are seeking a Trustee that will support us in our vision of being a thought-leader in the prevention of homelessness, mental ill-health, and leading innovative services that prevent crises from happening. 

About us

At Connection Support, our team of staff and volunteers work alongside people to overcome life’s challenges.  We do this through our values of empowerment, collaboration, compassion and taking a personalised approach in all aspects of our work. 

We believe in a future where people are free from crisis, and effective prevention is the key. But for times when crises do happen, we’ll be there to help every step of the way. 

About the role

The trustee will support the board, the CEO the Head of HR and wider senior team with advice, guidance and sharing their experiences specifically related to: 

• Contributing to existing projects. 

• Maintaining good relationships with relevant agencies and potential partners.

• Advising on Human Resources issues affecting Connection Support staff and volunteers. 

• Assisting the tendering process for existing and new contracts. 

• Guiding the board on addressing employee needs and advising on potential strategies that enable Connection Support to grow in the sector. 

This is an exciting time to join Connection Support as we start our new three year strategy. 

Time commitment

The anticipated time commitment for a Trustee is up to a day a month. Approximately 2-3 hours per month in person, and then 2-3 hours of supporting with projects which can be from home. 

Trustee positions are not paid but travel and subsistence expenses are reimbursed.

About you

Our values are extremely important to us, so it is essential that your personal values align with ours, and you are passionate and motivated by the impact you can have by being part of Connection Support. We would also like you to have the following;

• Experience of UK employment law as an HR Professional at Manager or Director level. 

• Creating and implementing staff and organisational development programs to support career development and staff wellbeing.

• Provide guidance on a myriad of HR topics e.g.; TUPE, remuneration, benefits, disciplinary, recruitment and training. 

If you are not sure if this role is for you, we can arrange a no obligation chat with a member of the board or the CEO. 

Previous experience as a Trustee is not necessary as we provide a full induction. We pair new Trustees with an experienced member and offer training opportunities to Board members. 

How to apply

Please submit the following documents to our recrutiment department, informaiton can be found in the recuritment pack.

• We want to know why you’re interested in becoming a trustee. Please send us a cover letter or email telling is why you want to join the Board of Trustees, and your experience as outlined above. If you would like to share your experiences with us in a different way, please let us know and we are happy to support. 

• We want to know more about you! Please send us an up to date CV of your career history, key responsibilities and achievements. If you do not have a CV, you can send us an email with a summary of your experience.

• We need to know what others say about you. Please send us two professional references(only contacted with prior consent). If you have any difficulty with references, please contact us and we can discuss alternatives with you.

Interviews

Interviews will be held as suitable people apply, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early. 

If you are interested in finding out more about the opportunity and would like to discuss the role informally, please contact us and we will arrange a no obligaiton chat with the CEO or a member of the board.

Further information can be found in our Board of Trustees Recruitment Pack. 

As a member of the Finance, Audit and Risk (FA&R) Committee, you will be expected to provide FFL with scrutiny and oversight, with particular focus on risk within audit & finance. You will support the Co-Chairs of the FA&R and The Foundation ’ s Co-Chairs and wider Board to oversee all the financial and audit-related risks of the charity in line with good practice, and legal obligations of the Charities Act, providing the wider board with advice, recommendations and reassurances that all financial processes and related risk controls are operating effectively. The Finance & Risk Trustee will ensure that effective risks for financial sustainability, measures, controls and procedures are put in place and operate effectively. You will be expected to be an active board member and may also be asked to use your skill set, interests and wider stakeholder contacts for other duties such as networking, fundraising and charity promotion/ambassadorial commitments

Join us and help us transform lives and communities together!

Greater Together Manchester (GTM) is a dynamic and forward-thinking charity, working across Greater Manchester to support communities to tackle deprivation and transform the lives of vulnerable people.

This is an exciting time for GTM as we look at our strategy post-pandemic, and how we can expand the remit of our work to better achieve our charitable aims. 

The aims of the charity include:

• To kick-start, grow and support social action/community outreach projects and initiatives by equipping local churches, groups, individuals and communities with the skills and confidence to make a real difference to the lives of the most vulnerable people in their local area.
• To connect projects, people, and organisations together to help them to share best practice, resources, and ideas. 
• To work together with multi-agency partners to influence local, regional, and national policy and strategy. 
• To provide training and information to individuals and organisations to help equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to support and sign post vulnerable people more effectively.

As a trustee with fundraising expertise, in particular grant and trust fundraising, you will have the skills and capacity to support our staff in applying for grants. 

You will take the lead on fundraising at board level, working with trustees and staff to create and implement a robust fundraising plan for all of GTM’s activities. 

This is an unpaid, voluntary role, but presents a great opportunity for personal and career development. Trustees are able to claim out of pocket expenses in accordance with GTM’s expenses policy.

The role would suit a range of people, from young professionals looking to broaden their leadership credentials, to senior or retired professionals looking to give something back to their local communities.

The statutory duties of all trustees are:  

• To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• To ensure that the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations, and that the organisation complies with all relevant reporting requirements. 
• To act in the best interest of the organisation at all times, acting with reasonable care and skill.
• To ensure that the organisation manages its resources responsibly and that its assets are only used to support or carry out its objects.

Main Responsibilities of Trustee (Fundraising Lead):

To advise the Board of Trustees on matters relating to funding and fundraising

• Working with other trustees and senior staff, the Trustee (Fundraising Lead) will take a lead role in setting an effective fundraising strategy for GTM. 
• Provide governance leadership on GTM’s fundraising, helping to build and implement fundraising that supports our strategy.
• Provide strategic oversight of fundraising.
• Draw on your networks and experience to support the work of GTM. 
• Help ensure that staff have the skills and capability that they need to implement the strategy.

Person Specification 

Essential for the Fundraising Lead: 

• Recent experience in a fundraising role, ideally at a senior level, with a track record of large grant successes.
• An understanding of the UK charity sector, good governance, and statutory requirements relating to companies and charities.
• A thorough understanding of fundraising policies and procedures.

Essential for Trustees:  

• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trustees.
• Enthusiasm and belief in our vision and mission.
• Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values, and a willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities. 
• Strategic, forward-looking and the ability to think creatively in relation to the aims of the charity.
• Good, independent judgement and the ability to act in the best interests of the charity.
• Ability to work at a strategic level whilst understanding the detail and complexities of delivery.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Respect for the importance of confidentiality.
• The ability to balance tact and diplomacy with the willingness to challenge and constructively criticise.

Desirable for Trustees  

• Personal experience of poverty, or experience of working with people experiencing poverty.
• Prior experience of being a charity trustee.
• Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the organisation.
• A wider involvement/interest in the VCSE sector. 
• A knowledge and understanding of the Church of England and/or the Diocese of Manchester.

Time Commitment and Location  

You will be expected to commit approximately one day per month to support with grant fundraising, although this will be flexible and can work around your schedule. There may also be a requirement to meet with staff to discuss fundraising and grant applications outside of these meetings and to act in an ambassadorial role for GTM at other meetings and events. 

Trustee meetings take place four times per year, normally at GTM’s offices in central Bury. 

You will also be expected to commit to approximately 1-2 hours to prepare and/or read through papers prior to each meeting (papers are distributed one week in advance of meetings).

The Board is also called upon for advice or to update on ongoing matters, or to make more urgent decisions by email.

Are you a dedicated professional with a heart for healing, nature, and community? The Therapy Garden is seeking exceptional individuals with expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising to join our team of Trustees.

About Us: The Therapy Garden is a horticulture and education charity that uses gardening to generate positive change. We work with adults and teenagers with learning difficulties, physical disabilities and mental health challenges and offer school-age teenagers interventional education opportunities.

Based in the village of Normandy, Surrey, the charity was established in 1998 by a local resident, with the aim of using the healing power of horticulture to connect with vulnerable members of our community.

Your Role as a Trustee: As a Trustee, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping and supporting the future of The Therapy Garden. Your expertise in Horticulture or Fundraising will be vital as we continue to flourish and offer our services to a growing community.

Responsibilities include:

• Charitable Knowledge: Impart knowledge and take the lead in guiding the trustees in charitable matters.

Requirements:

• Demonstrable experience working at or with charities.
  Knowledge of the regulatory and legal frameworks for charities.

Why join us:

• Meaningful Impact: Make a direct impact on individuals seeking healing and rejuvenation through the power of nature
• Collaborative Environment: Collaborate with a passionate team that shares your commitment to well-being and community
• Personal Growth: Enhance your leadership skills and expertise by being part of a dynamic team dedicated to making positive change.

Previous board/trustee experience is not necessary and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds.

If you’re ready to align your expertise with a purpose-driven cause, The Therapy Garden invites you to apply as a Trustee. Together, we can cultivate well-being, nurture growth, and provide solace to those in need.

Transform lives through nature.  Apply now to become a Trustee at The Therapy Garden.

We are excited to welcome new Trustees who share our passion and vision.

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.Campaigning is vital to a healthy society. We help campaigners to thrive. In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.

The Chair will hold the Board and staff team to account for SMK’s mission and vision, provide inclusive leadership to the Board and ensure that Board members fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of SMK. The Chair will line manage and support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the Chief Executive and staff team to achieve agreed objectives. They may also be asked to act as an ambassador and a public face of SMK in partnership with the Chief Executive and the Board.

For further information, see our website and the recruitment pack. 

Voluntary Trustee

St Margaret’s Hospice Care ​

Board meetings 3.5 to 4 hours, in-person preferred (held in Taunton, Somerset)

& Quarterly committee meetings 2 hours, online or onsite

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people facing life-limiting illnesses?  Our client,​ St Margaret’s Hospice Care, a community-funded charity in Somerset, is seeking two dedicated Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of hospice care. ​

We are particularly seeking individuals with knowledge or experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Income generation across various fundraising disciplines. ​
• Charity retail or commercial retail with experience in business development. ​
• Marketing, communications, PR, or digital marketing. ​
• Senior strategic leadership experience, ideally at Board level. ​

Key Attributes

• Strategic thinking and leadership skills. ​
• Strong interpersonal and communication abilities. ​
• Commitment to ethical responsibility and integrity. ​
• Understanding of governance and compliance. ​

Time Commitment

• Quarterly committee meetings (2 hours, online). ​
• Quarterly Board meetings (3–3.5 hours, in-person preferred). ​
• Twice-yearly half-day strategy sessions. ​
• Occasional visits to hospices and shops. ​

Further information and an applicant pack this can be requested via email, FAO Sandy Hinks or Leighann Beck, quoting Ref JO2607 to manage this campaign and is therefore unable to accept CVs from third-party agencies. All CVs and expressions of interest received will be forwarded directly to Moon Exec Search for consideration

Family for Every Child, est. 2014, is a unique and innovative model of collaboration. We seek Trustees ready to do things differently and challenge conventional approaches to social impact across 51 local organisations in 40 countries.

What will you be doing?

You would be joining our International Board at an exciting time, as we implement our new strategy, build on our campaigns and broaden our advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change. Our vision is a world in which children and families everywhere have access to the support they need to survive and thrive. Our mission is to make that happen through research, knowledge exchange, campaigning and humanitarian responses. Our model is based on local leadership at all levels and we are committed to a journey to decolonise the way we work. We are registered as a charity under the Charity Commission for England and Wales and have two subsidiaries registered in New Zealand and in the US. 

Our Board is unique in comprising Trustees from national member CSOs alongside co-opted Trustees. Our Board receives guidance on strategy from our General Assembly made up of all our members. This means that our Board and governance processes are truly representative of our democratic principles. 

What are we looking for?

Our Board is unique in comprising Trustees from national member CSOs alongside co-opted Trustees. Our Board receives guidance on strategy from our General Assembly made up of all our members. This means that our Board and governance processes are truly representative of our democratic principles. 

We are looking for a Trustee bringing experience of two or more of these key capabilities : 

• High level networking for fundraising or policy change
• Digital strategy/innovation
• Income Generation
• Global advocacy
• Global employment
• Legal 

Experience in complying with the Charity Commission for England and Wales or similar bodies’ regulations is desirable.

We welcome responses from individuals who perform best in agile environments, bringing curiosity and connections to enrich the Board in shaping our direction and overseeing our delivery of impact. Your experience and connections will be crucial in helping us sustainably grow our network of supporters and funders to future proof Family For Every Child’s voice for children.

All Trustees need to have the following: 

• Passion for delivering social change for families and children 
• Willing to bring disruptive thinking and challenge to discussions.
• Committed to decolonising international development and instead achieving democratic, equitable collaboration.
• Understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trustees of a UK charity. 
• Acceptance of these duties, responsibilities and liabilities, and a commitment to operate within them.
• Interest in local and/or international not for profit sectors
• Good independent judgement and the ability to operate at a strategic level
• An ability and willingness to work as a part of a team and to support the staff team.
• Understanding and empathy with Family for Every Child’s vision, mission, values and beliefs. 

Desirable, but not essential requirements: 

• We especially welcome those whose own lived experience resonates with our Vision and Mission.
• We are looking for individuals who can connect us with people who will help us take forward our mission be that policy makers, donors, or strategic partners, as we look to grow both our impact and our reach.
• Experience of working with a Board. 

What difference will you make?

As local practitioners, we provide direct support every day to children and families in our communities, based on our frontline knowledge of the changes that are needed. We are committed to local leaders being in the driving seat, influencing policy and practice at local, national, regional, and international levels. 

• As an alliance - we use this local insight to inform research, practice exchange, campaigning and humanitarian responses. These lead to change nationally, regionally and globally. 
• Research - we gather and analyse evidence to discover and develop better ways to help children and families to live well. 
• Knowledge exchange - we maximise the reach of solutions that have been shown to work so they can be used to support even more children and families. 
• Campaigning - we influence and inspire others to take action for children and families worldwide. For more information about our work and our members, please visit our website
• Digital Impact - we have embraced the opportunities with digital technology to achieve greater reach and impact. Our digital platform Changemakers for Children is the largest online collaborative space for practitioners working on child wellbeing with over 4,000 users. Our Virtual Gallery is a powerful tool for children and young people to share their perspectives and call for change.

Before you apply

We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. Family’s Board is international, we wish to continue to strengthen representation of different cultures and world views. We are hoping to appoint a Trustee who will enrich our Governance and progress impact by bringing different perspectives and experiences,  reflecting our global alliance. 

If you believe this is an opportunity you can commit your time to fulfil and enjoy the challenge of our embracing our innovation in social impact please provide a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience. Please apply through Reach in the first instance.

Are you the future FOMA leadership?

FOMA trustees seek Expressions of Interest (EoI) from parties that would like to explore the options to take forward FOMA under new trustee leadership, or merge FOMA with an exsisting organisation, as outlined below. Trustees are open to considering EoIs from any person or organisation, including organisation and people we have worked with previously.

Background
The Friends of Malawi Association (FOMA) was formed in 1969 to foster friendship, goodwill and understanding between
the people of the United Kingdom and the people of Malawi. It is strictly non-political. Many of the members have lived
and worked in Malawi and wish to maintain their links with the country and with one another. There are two entities that
form FOMA:
● Friends of Malawi Association - where FOMA members pay to be part of and support the organisation
● Friends of Malawi Association Charitable Trust Fund - which seeks to help the people of Malawi by providing
small project grants
FOMA has an active membership of around 300 people, and has a (mainly passive) income of around £10,000 per year.
Each year FOMA organises a Spring meeting online and Summer Garden Party as well as an AGM in September. At these
events there is the chance to hear about the projects we support, talks on Malawi’s history and current events, and meet
other members.
FOMA has delivered a huge amount of positive social impact, by providing grassroots grants to people or organisations
running projects, normally up to £1,000. We have a role is supporting people and organisations that are normally
overlooked by international development funders, due to the small size of grants. FOMA has funded over 255 projects
since 1990, totalling around £250,000. More information available on the FOMA Website.
 

FOMAs Future
FOMA was established to continue bonds of friendship between people in the UK and Malawi after Malawian
independence in 1964. This created a strong platform of members, but over time FOMA has not attracted new younger
members leading to the membership being largely an older demographic.

In late 2024, FOMA’s treasurer Peter Lawrance very sadly passed away. He will be very much missed, not in the least
because of the huge amount he did for FOMA as Treasurer, managing events and donations. FOMA’s trustees are now
unable to continue running the organisation in its current form.

Trustees are looking for options to continue the
organisation in its current format, if a suitable new treasurer and other trustees can be found:

• Recruiting a new treasurer, and other trustees to continue the organisation in it’s current format. Trustees have put out a live advert for this role.

However, the organisation has struggled to recruit new trustees in the past, and therefore the current trustees are also
considering the following options outlined by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO):

•  Merger. A merger is where two or more organisations formally come together. It’s most common for one organisation to transfer everything they own to the other. Typically this leads to one legal entity being closed. Trustees are happy to consider possibilities for merging FOMA to another organisation, in order to deliver the most social benefit from FOMAs history and association of members.
• Radically change FOMA ways of working. Since FOMA was established, the world has significantly evolved. Indeed, over the last year, the massive reduction in Foreign Aid globally has sped up this change. FOMA trustees would be open to a new set of trustees taking forward the organisation in a new direction. Examples of this may be to explore a partnership organisation like Scotland Malawi Partnership or a more Malawi based organisation.
• Closure. If the other options do not appear to present a viable alternative, then trustees will close FOMA. Given how far the world has moved on since FOMA was established in 1962, this may be the right option and will allow FOMA trustees and member to support new causes in Malawi.

FOMA trustees seek Expressions of Interest (EoI) from parties that would like to explore the options outlined above. Trustees are open to considering EoIs from any person or organisation, including organisation and people we have worked with previously.

In your EoI please outline the option you would like to explore, and summarise how you could see the option working in practice. Please summarise the inputs and help you would like from existing trustees. Please outline how you think the option would deliver on the FOMA Charitable objectives. Trustees will consider these options, before presenting an suggested option to members at the next FOMA AGM in September. 

We’re looking for new Trustees! We’re looking for people who support our mission and values, and who can act as ambassadors for YHA.

What will you be doing?

We’re looking for new Trustees

YHA enables everyone, especially young people, to connect with each other, nature and heritage through hostels in amazing places throughout England and Wales. Since 1930, we’ve been increasing access to travel and adventure. It’s our aim to reach and positively impact the lives of more people from more diverse backgrounds. And we target our support to young people and groups from under-served communities.

It’s a really exciting time to join YHA as we’ve just launched a refreshed strategy that will see us focus our activities and deepen our impact with the aim of growing people’s confidence, connection and sense of belonging - outcomes vital to wellbeing in this uncertain world.

What you’ll get from joining our Board

• the opportunity to contribute to the success of a national charity
• the chance to use your knowledge to make a valuable contribution to society
• a full induction and membership of an inclusive, welcoming Board

This could be a great fit for you You don’t need to have been on a Board before to become a YHA Trustee. We’re looking for people who support our mission and values, and who can act as ambassadors for YHA.

What matters most is that you bring good communication and listening skills, fair and reasoned decision-making, the confidence to challenge and support constructively, and time to commit to the role.

Diversity We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and strongly encourage people from the global majority to apply. These voices are currently under-represented on our Board, and we are committed to changing that.

Valuable additional strategic experience We’re also looking to strengthen the Board with Trustees who bring strategic insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance
• Hospitality
• Information technology, cyber security and data protection
• Leadership in a schools environment

Please note, you don’t need to have all these attributes to apply. Candidates must be over 16 years of age. 

Experience comes in many forms. Whether you’ve taken part in a community group, student council, parent committee, trade union, local campaign, or formal Board settings - those insights are all valuable here. 

What are we looking for?

You don’t need previous Board experience to become a YHA Trustee. What matters most is that you bring:

• a strong belief in YHA’s mission and understanding of our strategic direction
• good communication and listening skills
• fair and reasoned decision-making
• the confidence to challenge and support constructively
• time to commit to the role (including preparation and attendance at meetings)
• a commitment to YHA’s HEART values: Helpful, Efficient, Authentic, Respectful, and Team-spirited

We believe diversity in all its forms makes us stronger, more effective, and better able to deliver our mission. We care about who you are — not just what you’ve done.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. In particular, we strongly encourage people from the global majority to apply. These voices are currently under-represented on our Board, and we are committed to changing that.

We’re also looking to strengthen the Board with Trustees who bring strategic insight in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance
• Hospitality
• Information technology, cyber security and data protection
• Leadership in a schools environment

You don’t need to have all these desirable attributes to apply. We welcome applications from candidates who have relevant work and life experiences and have the passion to make a difference with YHA.

What difference will you make?

Becoming a Trustee is both deeply rewarding and genuinely enjoyable. This is an opportunity to help shape the direction of YHA — a charity dedicated to connecting people with each other, the outdoors nature and heritage.

Our Trustees hold overall legal responsibility for YHA. The Board sets and oversees the delivery of our strategy, and provides guidance across key areas such as impact, finance, risk management, property, hospitality, and performance.

With Trustees from a wide range of personal and professional backgrounds, boardroom conversations are rich and dynamic — and every voice contributes meaningfully to our progress.

YHA places access and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. As a Trustee, you’ll be part of an open, collaborative culture where diverse viewpoints are not only welcomed but essential to our success.

Join current Trustees for a special webinar on 23rd June 2025 at 6pm to find out more about the opportunity and what it’s really like to be a Trustee. Sign up via the link on the YHA website.

Before you apply

You don’t have to be a current YHA member to apply to become a Trustee. To be elected, however, you will need to become an Association Member of YHA before the AGM on Saturday 8 November 2025. 

Please apply via Reach, after which we will ask you to complete our online application form, which includes your personal details, diversity monitoring and candidate statement which will ask you some questions relating to your skills and experience. If you need support with the application process or to submit your application in an alternative format, please contact us via Reach.