Legal volunteer roles in london, greater london

Every day, disabled people who rely on highly trained assistance dogs face unnecessary barriers. From being refused entry to shops and restaurants, to navigating confusing legal protections. These challenges persist despite the vital role assistance dogs play in giving people greater independence, confidence, and opportunity. Outdated legislation and a lack of clarity around rights and responsibilities mean progress is slow. Change is urgently needed.

That’s where you come in. We are working in partnership with Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK), the umbrella body of 14 accredited assistance dog charities in the UK, to build an Advisory Panel of expert voices to help shape the future of access and protection for assistance dog partnerships. By joining, you will contribute to a vision of a society where disabled people face no barriers, where legislation is clear and enforceable, and where high standards safeguard both people and dogs.

What we’re looking for

Panel members will bring credibility, relevant skills and knowledge, and a commitment to integrity, openness, and collaboration. You will be confident in influencing, communicating clearly, and making an active contribution. The ability to draw on your networks to support the panel’s work is also valuable.

To achieve this, ADUK seeks individuals from the following fields:

• Legal - able to offer insight and guidance on legislative frameworks and legal interpretations
• Lobbying and changemaking
• Advocacy
• Disability rights and access
• Animal welfare
• Strategic communications, marketing or PR

Panel members are expected to:

• Demonstrate high levels of personal credibility, bringing relevant experience, skills and knowledge.
• Conduct themselves with integrity, objectivity, openness, and honesty.
• Demonstrate their capability to be personally effective, with excellent communication skills, and the ability to influence, and actively contribute.
• Harness relevant networks as required.

Training will be provided on assistance dog standards and/or ADUK policy context.

About ADUK

ADUK work to the highest international standards of assistance dog training and welfare, uniting their member organisations, and systematically changing minds - from policymakers to service providers, through to sector professionals and the general public, using evidence-based advocacy and education to further their objectives.

If you’re really excited about this opportunity, but your experience doesn’t align with the skills and experience above, we still encourage you to get in touch to tell us what you can offer the ADUK Advisory Panel.

For more information, please contact Katherine Anderson-Scott, Executive Director of Charisma Charity Recruitment. Expressions of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include a comprehensive CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage expressions of interest from people of all backgrounds who reflect our diverse society.

Closing date: Monday 24 November 2025

Charisma vetting interviews will need to be completed by close of play on the 2 December in preparation for shortlist submission on the 3 December.

Interviews with ADUK are expected to take place in mid-December, with the possibility of some sessions being conducted in January 2026. We appreciate your understanding as we navigate a busy time of year.

We are currently recruiting new Board Directors at GBCC:

The Great Britain - China Centre (GBCC) is a public body under the auspices of, but independent from, the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO). GBCC works to support a robust and effective UK relationship with China which furthers the UK’s national interests, and to facilitate bilateral dialogue and exchanges. Working in close partnership with HMG and other UK institutions including parliament, the political parties, the judiciary and the legal profession, academia and business, GBCC occupies a niche role creating diverse entry points for UK-China dialogue on bilateral as well as global questions.

In operation since 1974, GBCC has established unique networks in China, the UK and globally. Our relationships and influence have provided trusted and consistent mechanisms for exchange throughout changing political climates. 

The Board of Directors comprises independent non-executives, including Members of Parliament, and is attended by representatives of the FCDO and the British Council. GBCC’s Chair is Isabel Hilton OBE, and the Honorary President is Sir David Lidington. The Board meets in London four times a year, and there is a number of sub-committees in which directors are expected to participate. GBCC’s directors are also expected to commit time outside the formal Board commitment to use their expertise to assist the Chair and the executive team in achieving GBCC’s strategic and operational goals. Board members are expected to spend approximately two days per month on GBCC business. 

GBCC now seeks to strengthen its Board and would welcome applications from those with a keen interest in, and experience and knowledge of, China. We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in one or more of the following areas: audit and financial management; fundraising and income generation; legal and governance expertise and the implications of digital and tech advances for our work.

GBCC is eager to encourage diversity on its Board. Applications are encouraged from all candidates regardless of ethnicity, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, age or ability. In particular, GBCC welcomes application from across all nations and regions in the UK.

Board meetings and sub-committee meetings are held during working hours and typically take place in central London. GBCC welcomes questions about reasonable special adjustments from prospective applicants. GBCC welcomes applicants who are not permanently based in the UK, but will prioritise those who can commit to attending the majority of Board meetings in person.

GBCC is recruiting new Board members for commencement in January 2026. The appointment is for three years, with the possibility of renewing for another three-year term. The positions are not remunerated.

Applications, including a CV and a covering letter setting out why the candidate believes they would be suitable for appointment, should be sent by e-mail. Please email a copy of your CV together with the covering letter in a combined pdf document marked “GBCC Board recruitment 2025”.

The application deadline is October 19, 2025 

Interviews during the week of November 17 2025. If a candidate would like to discuss any aspect of the Board position before submitting an application, please email the GBCC Chair, Isabel Hilton OBE on the same email.

Are you a confident individual with an understanding of the corporate sector and/or fundraising, and a passion to work with the local church to transform communities?

If you have a heart for seeing the direction of young people’s lives radically changed, this could be the opportunity for you!

Location: Bournemouth

Contract: Part-Time

Hours: 6-10 hours per month

Application pack: Have a look at our application pack for more information about the role and Resurgo

We’re looking for new Trustees for the Board of Spear Bournemouth Trust, which runs the Spear Programme in partnership with Resurgo Trust, equipping and empowering unemployed 16 – 24-year-olds to overcome barriers to employment and turn their lives around by moving into sustainable work or further education.

Responsibilities

Governance and meeting attendance

• Attend Trustee meetings (approx. 6-9 times a year)
• Responsibility for the governance of the Trust, including meeting any legal and Charity Commission requirements
• Ensure the Trust complies with all legal duties including annual reporting, audits, insurance and data management

Local relationship building

• Build relationships with individuals in local churches to build and develop a network of supporters for the Spear Programme
• Act as a spokesperson for Spear Bournemouth, building the charity’s profile locally

Income generation

• Develop and manage relationships with local donors or companies (working with Spear coaches and other trustees)
• Steward relationships with funders, keeping them engaged in the work of Spear Bournemouth
• Input into a fundraising strategy (with significant input and support from the Resurgo team) to fundraise ~£120,000 per year to cover the costs of the Spear Programme

Working together

• Develop strong working relationships with fellow Trustees
• Support the Spear coaches in line with Resurgo’s coaching approach, ensuring the centre continues to thrive and deliver outstanding impact

Active participation in and support for church team and mission

• As the Spear programme is run in partnership with local churches, the Trustees will ideally have a personal presence in a Bournemouth-based church and actively work with and support the mission of Love Church, a key partner. As part of this you may be asked to speak at church/events

Person Specification:

• Professional or voluntary experience in one of the following: Partnership or business development; Fundraising
• An active Christian, passionate about supporting young people with barriers to education and employment into sustainable work
• Effective interpersonal skills and high emotional intelligence
• Good time management and organisational skills, highly self-motivated with good initiative
• Excellent communication skills and confidence building relationships with a diverse range of people

Iprovision is the benevolent fund of The Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). Iprovision is currently looking for new volunteers to join its Board of Trustees.

You don’t need to be a member of the CIPR to become a Trustee of Iprovision, but you do need to be willing to donate your time – and your understanding of the challenges life can throw at us – to consider the plight of those less fortunate.

The role Iprovision plays in helping members in need is really important. For example, Iprovision provides the funding for the CIPR’s mental health hotline that gives members access to expert advice and online materials. CIPR members coping with stress, with job loss, family illnesses or other challenges can turn to Iprovision for expert advice, counselling and, in many cases, financial support. To mark CIPR’s 75th anniversary we also established an education fund to help people get into the PR profession. We plan to continue with this fund in future years.

As a registered charity, Iprovision is led by its small board of up to 12 volunteer Trustees who consider the applications from CIPR members for support. Based on advice from a professional Support worker – the Trustees make the final decision on the type and level of support to be provided. This might be a straight cash grant, or the Trustees might elect to pay for some training and coaching to help someone get back into employment.

Each applicant for support is presented to the Trustees anonymously, and decisions are taken purely on the facts presented, the situation being experienced, and the types of support that are available.

As a charity, Iprovision depends for its funding purely on the voluntary annual donations that some members pay on top of their CIPR subscriptions, and fundraising activity and events.

The Trustees have a vital role to play – driving awareness of the fund, arranging and supporting fundraising activity, and of course considering applications for support. The Trustees meet four times a year (mix of in person and hybrid meetings) and are responsible for ensuring that the charity manages its funds wisely.

Knowledge, experience and attributes

Charitable Trustees have a general obligation to:

• Act in the charity’s best interests 
• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly 
• Act with reasonable care and skill.

Trustees should understand the purpose and activities of the charity and ensure they are in line and complying with the governance documents (the Memorandum and Articles of Association).

We are particularly keen to hear from people with experience or knowledge of:

• Fundraising 
• Governance and charity law 
• Accountancy and financial planning 

Support & Training 

We will provide opportunities for you to learn new skills and grow your expertise as we develop our plans. We encourage a culture of learning amongst our trustees, encourage and support them to develop existing skills, which help you flourish as a trustee on our board.

Benefits 

This is a volunteer role so no material rewards are offered. Benefits are non-material and include experience, the opportunity to contribute, to learn and become part of a dynamic community. You will gain lasting relationships, insight into a benevolent fund, experience of non-executive leadership and the rewards of contribution. We will reimburse out of pocket expenses, including travel to attend any Iprovision meetings. 

Liability

Iprovision is a separate legal entity (it is incorporated) and this acts as a mitigation to any personal liability.

For more information: see the essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do. Charity Commission England & Wales.

Our terms of service 

Trustees are elected to serve terms of three years with an expectation that they will serve no more than 2-3 terms of three years.

We encourage applications from all sections of society and locations and are keen to ensure continued diversity brings constructive challenge and adds to the governance and work, of the charity.

Chair of Trustees Role Profile

• Remuneration: This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses for travel may be reimbursed.
• Location: Must be available for board meetings in person in London
• Time commitment: Quarterly board meetings, annual strategy day, plus additional time for Chair duties as required
• Term: 3 years (renewable up to a maximum tenure of 9 years)

The Chair of the Board of Trustees provides leadership to the Board, ensuring it functions effectively to support and guide the charity in achieving its mission. The Chair is responsible for setting the tone for the Board’s work, promoting a strong culture of governance, and facilitating effective, inclusive decision-making. The Chair helps to steward the strategic direction of Dallaglio RugbyWorks, ensuring that the charity remains focused on its purpose, values, and long-term sustainability. The Chair also acts as a key ambassador for the organisation and helps build productive relationships both within the Board and with external stakeholders, including the charity’s founder.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in maintaining a clear and strategic focus on the charity’s mission, values and long-term goals.
• Chair quarterly board meetings, facilitating inclusive, well-informed, and effective decision-making.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance among Trustees.
• Provide a supportive and constructive relationship with the CEO, acting as a sounding board and trusted advisor.
• Ensure that the board fulfils its legal and governance responsibilities, including oversight of financial health, compliance and risk.
• Ensure robust financial oversight, including the long-term financial sustainability of the organisation, and the appropriate use of resources.
• Build and maintain a constructive and appropriate relationship with the charity’s founder, supporting their continued connection to the mission while ensuring clarity of roles and governance.
• Represent the charity externally, where appropriate, to build its profile, credibility and influence.
• Support the executive team by facilitating introductions to key contacts, influencers, and potential supporters or partners.
• Lead board development, including Trustee recruitment, succession planning, and reviews of board performance.
• Champion best practice in governance and uphold the charity’s values and reputation.
• The Chair is a member of the Nomination, Remuneration & HR Committee, with twice yearly online meetings to be attended.

General Trustee Responsibilities

As Chair, you also carry the core responsibilities of a Trustee, including:

• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and all relevant legislation and regulation. Using your skills, knowledge and experience to support sound decision-making and organisational development.
• Safeguarding the assets and values of the charity, and ensuring resources are used effectively to achieve charitable purposes.
• Acting in the best interests of Dallaglio RugbyWorks at all times, exercising reasonable care and independent judgement.
• Promoting transparency, inclusivity, and integrity across the organisation.

The above list of duties is indicative only and not exhaustive. Trustees will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonable commensurate with the role. The Board of Trustees is jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Trustees, should also be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual Trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

Person Specification

We are seeking a strategic and inclusive leader with a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people.

Experience

• Proven experience chairing a Board or senior committee in a charity, public body or corporate setting.
• Previous experience serving as a charity Trustee, with a strong understanding of governance and collective responsibility is highly desirable.
• A respected professional with credibility and connections in relevant sectors, able to influence and support the charity through relationships and networks.
• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Dallaglio RugbyWorks.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Trustees, senior leaders and stakeholders.
• A track record of strategic thinking, sound judgement and independent decision making.
• Familiarity with governance frameworks and the legal duties of charity trustees.

Skills & Attributes

• A strategic and inclusive leader with strong facilitation, communication and interpersonal skills, able to build consensus and navigate complex discussions.
• Prepared to commit the time required for effective leadership, including attending quarterly Board meetings in person and supporting ad hoc responsibilities between meetings.
• Willing to use personal and professional networks to support the charity’s development, profile, and partnerships.

Home-Start Suffolk is seeking an exceptional individual to join our Board of Trustees as Vice Chair.
This is a unique opportunity to play a key leadership role in a well-established and growing charity that
supports families across Suffolk. As Vice Chair, you will work closely with the Chair, CEO and wider Board to
help shape our strategic direction, support strong governance and ensure we continue to meet the needs of
families in our communities.

We are specifically looking for someone with charity governance experience. You will bring a solid
understanding of how effective boards operate and feel confident supporting other trustees, offering
constructive challenge and helping to ensure the charity meets its legal and strategic responsibilities.
This Vice Chair role is part of our wider trustee recruitment and we welcome applicants who bring any of the
following:

• Experience or knowledge of the local charity or voluntary sector
• Understanding of family support or volunteer management
• Strong networks and connections within local businesses
• Previous involvement with Home-Start Suffolk as a volunteer or someone who has received support
• A passion for making a difference in your community

Interested?
We would love to hear from you. more information and a candidate pack can be found on our website.

Closing date: This is an open and rolling recruitment
Interviews: Held as applications are received
 

Two in three of us will become carers. Bring your expertise to the Board of Carers First and help support and champion the UK’s millions of unpaid carers.

Location: Hybrid with some meetings in London

At Carers First, we have been working alongside unpaid carers for over 30 years, helping them find balance and live life to the fullest. With an estimated 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK, the need for our work has never been greater. We are looking for three new Trustees to join our Board and play a vital role in shaping our future. We are particularly looking for people with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Legal
• Digital strategy (including AI and technology to enhance user experience).

As a Trustee, you will join a committed and diverse Board, ensuring our strategy and resources make the greatest possible difference to the lives of carers. You’ll bring your skills, experience, and values to support our work in providing support for carers, with carers, so they can lead fulfilling lives.

Who we are

Carers First is a dedicated charity supporting unpaid carers across England, helping them navigate the challenges of caring while maintaining balance in their own lives. We provide personalised information and tailored support in the way that suits them: online, on the phone, or face-to-face, in their local community.

Recognising that each caring journey is unique, Carers First works collaboratively with local councils, communities, and volunteers to deliver inclusive, accessible services. Our mission is to empower carers, and our impact is significant. Last year, we reached over 330,000 people to provide information about caring and 51,000 carers are registered with us to receive information and support. In addition:

• 96% of carers felt more resilient in their caring role after our support.
• 95% of carers felt listened to and that their own needs were taken into account through our interventions.
• 93% of carers felt more confident and informed in their caring role after our support.

Guided by values of positivity, collaboration and ambition, Carers First continues to innovate and expand its reach, championing the needs of carers nationwide.

About the role

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of unpaid carers, ensuring that our work aligns with our mission and that our resources are used wisely and effectively. You will join a Board with a strong mix of skills and experience, including finance, communications, business, and health and social care.

In this role, you will play a vital part in shaping the strategic direction and governance of the charity, helping us deliver support to unpaid carers effectively and sustainably. You will be part of a committed Board that meets quarterly and is supported by two committees: Finance & Risk and People & Governance, one of which you will join.

Using your expertise, you will advise on key issues, support new initiatives, and help the organisation innovate and grow. Your impact will be felt directly by the carers we support, ensuring our services remain inclusive and accessible, our resources are managed responsibly, and our work continues to make a meaningful difference in carers’ lives.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for individuals who have a strong commitment to our cause and a genuine passion for supporting the needs of carers, while upholding the values that guide our work. In addition to the skills we are looking for, we seek people with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to explore diverse perspectives, foster inclusive discussions, and make timely, well-informed decisions.

We are actively committed to increasing the diversity of our teams and welcome applications from all sectors, backgrounds and sections of the community. If you have caring responsibilities, then we welcome and value your experience and will be as flexible and accommodating as possible around your needs.

• Time Commitment

The Board meets quarterly, with an additional annual Development and Strategic Planning Day. Our two committees, Finance & Risk and People & Governance, also meet quarterly. Most meetings are online. One Board meeting and one Development Day are held in London. Trustees should expect to commit the equivalent of circa one day a month for meetings, preparation, Board development, engagement with staff and carers, recruitment activities, professional development, and occasional public events.

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 Friday 14th November.

We are looking for trustees who will offer challenges, experience, and expert knowledge to help us think differently. We are looking for individuals who will take an active role in the governance of the Charity and support our expansion objectives - to remain financially stable whilst actively growing our volunteer network, our geographical coverage and our paid services to increase the number of families and young people we can support each year.

Person specification:

• Good, independent judgement and strategic vision.

• Commitment to the organisation and a willingness and ability to devote the necessary time & effort to the role.

• An understanding of, or interest in, special educational needs and disability affecting children and young people and their families.

• Skills to analyse proposals, examine their strategic consequences and make concise recommendations as part of the Board.

• Ability to cooperatively work with the whole team of trustees, and with employees and volunteers.

• Willingness to speak your mind and appropriately challenge other trustees and employees; but also listen to the views of different people before reaching a decision.

• Secure personal access to digital communication technology with an ability to competently and efficiently use those resources.

• Willingness to be available to employees for advice and enquiries on a scheduled or ad-hoc basis.

The ideal applicant would also possess the following:

• Extensive networks, and a willingness to draw on contacts as appropriate.

• Experience of working at a senior management / leadership level.

We are keen to hear from anyone who has a passion for our cause and feels that their experiences and expertise could be beneficial to our Board.

If you would like to be considered, please contact us for an application form link and provide a copy of your CV.

The application process will comprise of a two-stage interview, followed by referencing. We anticipate that successful applicants will be invited to join the Board in Autumn 2025.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Our trustees are the people that have overall oversight of Foothold.  They are not involved in running Foothold on a day-to-day basis as we have a team of staff and volunteers that do this.  However, our board of trustees collectively make decisions about the approach the Foothold will take and its future direction.  They make sure that, as an organisation, we have the policies and procedures we need to ensure we’re complying with our legal obligations.  They provide support, ideas and constructive challenge to our staff team to test our thinking and help Foothold to achieve the best it can for our community members and demonstrate the difference that we make.

Join the Board of Via, the charity delivering vital person-centred and well-being care to people and communities affected by substance use across the UK.

Applications for this role close Monday 10th November.

Location: Flexible (Via has services across London, NW England and SW England)

Who we are

Via is an exceptional charity that puts people at the heart of everything we do. Over three decades, we’ve evolved from our origins as Westminster Drug Project, with a new now award-winning name and brand, into a dynamic, multi-service organisation delivering vital support across substance use, mental health, employment, sexual health, smoking cessation and youth services. With a turnover of £36m for 24/25 and remarkable growth of over a third in 2023/24, we’re now supporting over 12,500 service users annually across an expanding geographical footprint from London to Gloucestershire.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation is evident in our industry-leading services, which consistently perform significantly above the national average. We’re particularly proud to be pioneering the development of the UK’s first women-only detox facility, demonstrating our commitment to addressing crucial gaps in service provision.

Our Approach Makes Us Different

At Via, we believe in doing things differently. This starts with our commitment to staff well-being, including up to six months of full sick pay – a policy that exemplifies our trust in our people and our understanding that supporting our staff enables them to better support our service users. We achieved Investors in People Gold certification and were nominated for UK Employer of the Year and Third Sector Employer of the Year at the Investors in People Awards 2024, recognising our dedication to creating an outstanding workplace culture.

Our active Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group drives real organisational change, ensuring our services are accessible and effective for all communities. These aren’t just initiatives; they’re expressions of our core values: Care, Be Human, and Do the Right Thing, which guide everything we do.

The opportunity

As we have experienced growth and welcomed a new Chair to the Board, we are looking to appoint new Trustees. We are looking for three dedicated trustees to join our Board, each bringing distinct expertise to support our next strategic phase. We are particularly looking for trustees with:

• clinical experience in substance misuse or mental health services, who can provide valuable insights into clinical risk and governance, and service delivery.
• HR expertise, specifically in organisational development, who can guide our people strategy and support our workforce development initiatives.
• legal expertise, ideally someone with in-house legal experience who understands corporate operational challenges and can provide challenge and support.

These roles offer the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while contributing your professional expertise to advance our strategic objectives and ensure we deliver the highest quality services to those we support.

This is an exciting time to join with a new Chair, and next summer we will begin to plan our next strategy.

Diversity in governance isn’t just a goal for Via – it’s a necessity. Our services support people from every part of society, and we want our Board to reflect this diversity. We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of addiction/recovery (whether personal or as family members/carers), and people from communities currently underrepresented at board level.

• Time Commitment: The equivalent of a day a month

The Board meets quarterly, usually in person. Including preparation time, representation at events, and strategic input, we estimate a commitment of the equivalent of a day per month. This includes:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Quarterly committee meetings
• Annual strategy away day
• Preparation for meetings
• Ad hoc conversations with fellow board members and the Executive
• Occasional representation at events and meetings with key stakeholders, including at services.

Making a Difference Together

This is an extraordinary time to join Via as we expand our geographical reach, innovate our evidence-based offer and increase access to more people. We’re not just growing – we’re evolving. You’ll help shape innovative services like our women’s detox facility while ensuring we maintain our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and person-centred care.

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 Monday 10th November.

Our Trustees perform a vital and fulfilling role, ensuring that Jigsaw4u fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries and delivers on our vision, impact, goals and values.

About the Organisation

Jigsaw4u is a community charity in South West London that supports children, young people and families to put the pieces back together following complex social and emotional difficulties.

What you will be doing

Jigsaw4u’s Board of Trustees are jointly responsible for:

• The overall governance and strategic direction of the charity.

• Its financial health.

• The probity of its activities.

• Developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines.

All Trustees should also be aware of, and understand their individual and collective responsibilities, and the Board should not be overly reliant on one or more individual Trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

What's in it for you?

Trusteeship with Jisgaw4u offers the opportunity:

• To use your knowledge and experience to make a difference in the community.

• To gain Governance and finance experience and learn new skills.

• For personal growth and career development.

• To expand your network and work alongside people from a wide variety of professional and personal backgrounds.

What skills will you need?

We’re looking for passionate and committed individuals who believe in the work that we do, and who want to play a part in our future strategic development.

You do not need to have been a Trustee before or have previous Board experience.

We need people who are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to support the work of Jigsaw4u, that have an ability to think creatively and are happy to provide views.

We are very lucky to have a Board of varied backgrounds, experience and skill sets and we are looking to add further skill sets and replace those of Trustees who leave when their terms come to an end. It is important that individuals have an understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liability of being a Trustee (we can provide further information on those duties and responsibilities).

We particularly welcome applications from a diverse range of ages and backgrounds in order to reflect the diverse nature of our beneficiaries. The young people we work with come from a broad range of backgrounds, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, young people with mental or physical disabilities, or those experiencing complex issues and low levels of agency.

To best support all the people we work with, our Trustees need to come from a wide range of ages and backgrounds themselves.

DBS check required.

As life becomes ever more difficult for migrants across London, the UK and the world, Waltham Forest Migrant Action (WFMA) are committed to fighting back in solidarity and supporting our fellow human beings who are often suffering in the most extreme of circumstances. Since 2013, we’ve run a weekly Drop-in Centre providing visitors a warm welcome, free advice on immigration, accommodation and welfare issues, and opportunities to socialise with the local community. Last year, we helped 366 people from 71 nationalities, and our numbers continue to grow. WFMA is currently in an exciting phase of development. In recent years, we have transformed from an all-volunteer organisation to having six part-time staff, navigating a period of sustainable growth.

The role
We are looking for 2-3 compassionate individuals with a strong interest in migrant justice to contribute to an organisation that centres migrant voices and experiences. Whether you bring experience in HR, marketing & communications, finance, legal, fundraising, operations, service delivery, or another area, your insight and guidance has the potential to strengthen our organisation. We welcome applicants from all ages and backgrounds, and we are open to first time Trustees!

We strive to have a board that is diverse and representative of the communities we work with and for, and we are particularly keen for those under 30 and / or with lived experience of the UK migration system to apply. We value skills gained both through formal professional experience and through grassroots activism, voluntary work, or community organising.

Essential

• A strong interest in migrant justice and anti-racism

• Commitment to the aims and objectives of WFMA, and its vision 

• Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort required

• Good oral and written communication skills in English

Desirable but not essential
Following recent a skills audit, we have identified priority areas and skills needed for our board, and we are particularly keen to hear from candidates who can contribute one or more:

• Lived experience of the UK migration system and the difficulties faced by migrants in accessing services

• Fundraising and bid writing experience

• Financial oversight and accounting experience (we are keen to recruit and train a potential future Treasurer)

• Experience and/or willingness to serve as Chair

Time commitment
This role requires around 10 days commitment a year, and this includes attending bi-monthly board meetings, sub-groups, strategy days and reading board reports prior to meetings.

Arthritis Action is a registered charity, and company limited by guarantee, whose directors are the members of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is the ultimate decision-making body of Arthritis Action, and most of the Board also serve as members of committees or working groups which report to the Board. The Board of Trustees is committed to continually improving its governance of the Charity, and meets as a whole on a minimum of four occasions in each calendar year. For efficient operational purposes, the Board of Trustees is also sub-divided into two working Committees - the Finance & Risk Committee and the Remuneration & Nominations Committee. We are currently looking for Trustees with access to an established professional network, who can advise our growing organisation and support the delivery of our exciting strategy.

In particular, we would welcome new Trustees with the following areas of expertise:

• Charity Fundraising & Income Generation
• Law
• Accountancy
• IT & cybersecurity in the charity sector or small business
• Professional experience in the NHS We would particularly like to hear from individuals from under-represented or diverse groups

 The role of the Trustee is to:

• Ensure that:
  • you understand Arthritis Action’s purpose and that you are able to explain how all of its activities are intended to further or support its purpose;
  • the Charity pursues its purposes and objectives, as defined in its Articles of Association, and does not apply its resources on activities which are beyond the scope of its purposes and objectives;
  • the Charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations;
  • a high standard of governance is maintained at all times;
  • the Charity complies with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and is appropriately accountable to members, the Charity Commission and other stakeholders;
  • the Charity’s values, principles and good name are upheld in the delivery of its purposes and objectives.
• Act in the best interests of the Charity, its members and its stakeholders at all times, and either avoid or declare potential conflicts of interest.
• Work with fellow Trustees to:
  • set the Charity’s overarching vision;
  • shape and drive the Charity’s strategy; and o ensure that the Charity remains focussed on achieving its strategy by setting targets and evaluating performance against these targets.
• Devote sufficient time to prepare for and participate fully in board meetings, committees or ad hoc working groups.
• Contribute actively in leadership and decision making of the Charity, by making balanced and adequately informed decisions with due regard to the long term as well as the short term.
• Ensure efficient and effective management and administration of the Charity, including establishing internal accountability and making sure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place.
• Safeguard the Charity’s assets and resources and ensure the financial stability of the Charity.
• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience you have to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions by leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which you have expertise.
• Maintain confidentiality in respect of all sensitive information.
• Identify and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.
• Appoint and support Arthritis Action’s Chief Executive and monitor their performance.
• Promote the work of Arthritis Action externally.

Use your expertise to shape education, influence communities, and grow as a leader. Roles available at colleges England.

Are you a business leader or corporate professional looking to make a meaningful impact outside the boardroom?

By becoming a volunteer governor at a further education (FE) or sixth form college, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of an organisation that transforms lives through education and skills—while strengthening your own governance experience and leadership credentials.

Why it’s relevant to professionals like you

Further Education colleges train over 1.6 million learners annually, preparing the skilled workforce that keeps our economy moving—from engineers and IT specialists to healthcare professionals and construction experts.

As a college governor, you’ll sit on the board of an FE institution (and registered charity), where your insight into strategy, risk, people, or finance will have a direct impact on how public funds are spent, how performance is measured, and how learners are supported to succeed.

This is an opportunity to:

• Apply your corporate skills in a charitable leadership role
• Gain board-level experience and enhance your CV
• Contribute to local economic growth and social mobility
• Support a vital sector during a time of transformation

What you’ll do

As part of a governing board, you’ll:

• Set strategic direction: Help define the college’s mission and goals
• Hold leadership to account: Monitor finances, performance, and outcomes
• Ensure governance excellence: Make decisions in the best interests of learners and stakeholders
• Act as a charity trustee: Ensure financial sustainability and legal compliance

You’ll also engage with senior leaders and external stakeholders, including local employers, regulators, and community partners.

Who we’re looking for

We welcome professionals from a broad range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• Finance, Audit & Risk
• HR, People & Culture
• Strategy, Transformation & Operations
• Technology, AI & Digital
• Legal, Governance & Compliance
• Marketing, PR & Communications
• Education, Apprenticeships or vocational courses

What matters most is your strategic thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Prior education experience is not required. Full induction and training are provided, with access to DfE-funded development and peer mentoring where needed.

Time commitment

Expect to give approximately 1–2 days per month, including:

• Attending board and committee meetings (in-person or remote)
• Reading papers and preparing questions
• Participating in training and occasional college visits

The time commitment is manageable alongside a full-time role—and many employers actively support staff to take on governance roles as part of their professional development.

Where you’ll be needed
Some colleges offer remote governance and meetings take place online. This may suit you best, or we may suggest a role where you volunteer on a hybrid basis at a college within a reasonable distance from you. We are recruiting governors for colleges across England, with new opportunities added regularly. 

What’s in it for you?

· Enhance your board-level and governance experience

· Develop strategic oversight and leadership outside your day-to-day role

· Expand your professional network

·Give back in a way that creates long-term, measurable impact

· Gain exposure to the education, charity, and public sectors

Ready to step into a strategic, purpose-driven leadership role?

If you’re ready to bring your corporate insight to the education sector and help shape the future of skills, opportunity, and social mobility—we’d love to hear from you.

Apply now to become a volunteer college governor.