28 Main board trustee volunteer volunteer roles

Come and join the magical Patchworking Garden Project, established in 2015. It is a volunteer run charity supporting volunteers with a wide variety of physical and mental health needs through gardening, crafting and friendship. We have a strong identity within the local community and are known for increasing the wellbeing of those we support by valuing everyone’s contribution unreservedly, enhancing self-confidence and encouraging, where appropriate, progression to other activities. The Charity is run entirely by volunteers and those whom we support are supported volunteers.

Under the charity we also run The Patchworking Academy which offers the opportunity to gain an internationally recognised City & Guilds qualification in Practical Horticulture Skills. The Academy seeks to address inclusion via employment-ready qualifications for adults facing challenging circumstances. With the guidance of experienced and highly qualified therapeutic horticulture tutors, learners work at their own pace with a small group of other interested learners.

We are looking for a chair with some charity and governance experience who is

● able to quickly grasp what our values are and how we operate

● used to managing change

● happy in a leadership role,

● committed to a collaborative way of working 

● comfortable dealing with finances (preferably in the charity sector)

It is a lovely role for the right person so do get in touch for a chat if you think you might be interested.  There is a full role description available.

Kiplin Hall and Gardens in North Yorkshire is recruiting Trustees to join the friendly and dedicated Board which oversees the management of this intriguing Jacobean house.  The house was built in the 1620s for George Calvert, Secretary of State to James I, and founder of the US state of Maryland. A member of the Historic Houses Association, the Hall and Gardens welcome 40,000 visitors a year. In 2025 we opened a new Welcome Centre at Kiplin with improved retail and catering for our visitors and with the support of MEND funding undertook major repairs of the Hall roof. The National Lottery Heritage Fund enabled us to create new galleries and improve our visitor access and services. There is a dedicated staff of 10 FTE supported by a team of 240 volunteers.

TRUSTEE - We are seeking a Trustee with skills and experience in finance/accountancy to join the Board. We are keen to recruit someone who can advise the Board on its financial responsibilities and has oversight of the Trust's finances. As a Trustee you will contribute to Kiplin's business strategy and forward plan, ensuring the organisation's financial stability and sustainability. Over the next 10 years we are planning further developments to enhance the visitor experience. We are keen to attract the right person to the Trust Board to help guide Kiplin through an exciting period of change and transition. 

INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR - We are also seeking a new Independent Director to join the Board of Kiplin Hall Trading CIC, our trading arm that looks after our retail and café. We are particularly looking for people with experience in cafés or other catering environments.

Our aim is to develop and broaden the diversity of our governance team, ensuring we have a variety of perspectives and backgrounds and are particularly interested in receiving local applications.

The Bromley Trust is a specialist grant-maker which supports UK charities working with people seeking sanctuary and people in prison. We are looking for someone with experience of managing large scale long-term investments to join us and take over from our retiring Investment Lead Trustee. They will play a central role in overseeing the Trust’s investment strategy and its implementation, alongside the other Trustees, and work closely with the Director, Treasurer and our Investment Managers. 

Collectively Trustees share responsibility for governing the organisation and directing how it is managed and run. We are looking for people who have have an enthusiasm for our areas of interest (human rights / prison reform), good strategic thinking skills, sound judgement, and the ability to work effectively as a member of a small friendly team. You don’t need to have previous experience of being a trustee as a full induction will be provided.

We have a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strategy in place and recognise that having a diverse board made up of people who collectively have a range of perspectives, skills and experiences (including lived experience of our areas of interest) will best enable us to be an effective organisation. For a full job description and more information about The Bromley Trust and its work please see the recruitment pack. 

If you would like to apply for this role, please send a CV and covering letter to our Chair Fiona Cramb stating why you are interested in becoming our Investment Lead Trustee and what skills and experiences you could contribute to the organisation. The letter should also include details of two referees stating their relationship to you and how long they have known you.  Referees will only be contacted if you are offered the role.  Please email these documents before 5pm on the closing date of Friday 30th October 2026. Details of the email address to use are provided in the recruitment pack.

Blood Cancer UK is looking for new Trustees, due to the upcoming retirement of current Board members. At Blood Cancer UK we fund world-class research, provide trusted information and support to people affected by blood cancer, and campaign to improve outcomes for everyone living with or beyond blood cancer. Our vision is clear: we are here to beat blood cancer. 

Who we are looking for 

We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to beating blood cancer and who can bring strategic thinking, sound judgement, curiosity and a collaborative approach. You do not need previous trustee experience to apply. 

We would particularly welcome applicants with experience in areas such as, finance, working in the NHS, clinical practice, research, fundraising, or marketing. We are also keen to hear from people with personal experience of blood cancer and from people whose voices and experiences are under-represented in charity governance. 

How to apply 

Please apply by submitting your CV and a supporting statement (no more than 2 A4 pages) outlining why you are interested in becoming a Trustee and what you would bring to the role. 

Swansea Carers Centre are seeking an experienced and inspirational Chair to lead our Board of Trustees and help shape the next phase of our development.

About Swansea Carers Centre

Swansea Carers Centre is a vibrant, welcoming Tier 2 charity supporting unpaid carers across the City & County of Swansea. Every year, over 1,800 carers access our services, and more than 10,500 carers have registered with us since our founding. We provide welfare benefits advice, counselling, respite opportunities, dementia support, young adult carer projects, volunteer‑led initiatives, training, social groups and more. The services are all designed to ensure carers feel valued, connected and empowered. We also look to identify hidden carers and make certain that people looking after others can find the support they need.

An unpaid carer is anyone who provides support to a family member, friend or neighbour due to a variety of reasons which could include illness, disability, mental health needs, addiction, or age‑related frailty. Many people do not recognise themselves as carers yet they take on vital responsibilities that can have a profound impact on their wellbeing, finances and daily life. Our vision is a society where carers are recognised, respected and supported as equal partners in care. Our mission is to make a positive difference to carers’ lives by working in partnership with carers, statutory bodies and voluntary organisations.

The Role

The Chair will lead a committed Board of Trustees, ensuring Swansea Carers Centre is well-governed, financially sustainable and forward‑looking.

You will work closely with our CEO and Senior Management Team to embed strong governance practices, support strategic decision‑making, and champion a culture of empowerment across the organisation. This is a pivotal leadership role at a time when carers’ needs are growing, and the charity is strengthening its strategic direction.

We are particularly seeking a Chair who can:

• Embed modern, effective governance approaches
• Support the Board to focus on strategic leadership rather than operational detail
• Empower staff and volunteers to deliver high‑quality, carer‑led services
• Build strong partnerships with local authorities, health bodies, funders and community organisations
• Represent Swansea Carers Centre with confidence and credibility

Monthly Board meetings are held in person in Swansea, and we welcome applications from candidates based elsewhere who are willing to travel to attend.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board to ensure balanced, inclusive and focused discussion
• Promote high standards of governance and regulatory compliance
• Provide strategic leadership and support effective decision‑making
• Build a strong, supportive working relationship with the CEO
• Ensure trustees receive timely, relevant information
• Champion carers’ interests and represent the charity externally
• Support succession planning and Board development
• Attend approximately 12 Board meetings per year, plus occasional sub‑committees and events

Term: Three years, renewable

Who We’re Looking For

Essential Experience

• Experience chairing Boards, committees or senior governance meetings
• Strong understanding of charity governance and trusteeship
• Proven leadership and excellent communication skills
• Strategic thinker with sound judgement
• Ability to build consensus and foster positive relationships
• Commitment to improving the lives of unpaid carers
• Financial awareness and comfort with digital tools
• Integrity, emotional intelligence and a collaborative approach

Desirable

• Previous experience as a Chair or Vice Chair
• Experience in voluntary, community, health or social care sectors
• Knowledge of charity finance, fundraising or organisational development
• Experience working with diverse communities

Why Join Us?

This is an opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact on the lives of carers across Swansea. You’ll be joining a passionate team, a committed Board, and an organisation with a clear mission, strong values and a desire to evolve its governance and strategic leadership.

If you want to help shape a charity that empowers carers, strengthens communities and delivers high‑quality support, we would love to hear from you.

Who we are

The Humane League UK (THL UK) is dedicated to ending the abuse of animals raised for food by influencing the policies of leading food companies, advocating for stronger animal protection laws, and encouraging individuals to take action. We are part of a global network of organisations working to create a future where all animals are treated with respect and compassion.

Thanks to our effectiveness, The Humane League has been named Top Charity by the independent evaluator Animal Charity Evaluators for every rating period since 2012.

THL UK is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to furthering equity and inclusion, and we value diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds who will bring a fresh perspective to the team, not just because it is the right thing to do, but because it makes us stronger. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Committed Employer, demonstrating our commitment to recruiting, retaining, and supporting disabled people and people with health conditions, based on their skills and talent.

The Position

We are seeking two new Trustees to add to the current Board of four voluntary members.

Board members (trustees) of THL UK are responsible for providing strategic leadership, ensuring strong governance, and safeguarding the organisation’s mission, values, and financial sustainability.

This is a voluntary position, and trustees are expected to act in the best interests of the charity and in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
 

Whether you are an experienced charity trustee or looking for your first board position; if you believe you can share our commitment for ending the abuse of animals raised for food and have the qualities, knowledge and experience we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you.

For full details about the role of trustees please view our information pack which you can find in the application resources below.

If you would like to watch a recording of our recent webinar where we discussed the role in more detail, you can view this by following the link to our website.

Person specification and requirements for this role

While specific experience in animal protection is not essential, all Board members must:

• Demonstrate a commitment to the aims and values of THL UK.

• Understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.

• Bring a strategic mindset and the ability to make well-reasoned, independent decisions.

• Be able to communicate in ways that build understanding and trust, and contribute positively to collaborative team working.

• Be willing to devote the necessary time and effort to the role.

• Be committed to moving forward with Diversity, Equity and Inclusion best practices.

Specialist Expertise Sought

In addition to the general requirements above, we are particularly seeking candidates who can bring expertise in one or more of the following areas:

1. Charity Governance

• In-depth knowledge of charity governance best practice, preferably gained through prior trustee, board, or senior charity leadership experience.

• Understanding of regulatory compliance and governance frameworks for UK charities.

• Legal skills relating to charity law, contracts, risk management, or related fields (desirable).

2. Charity Fundraising

Experience and understanding of charity fundraising, with particular relevance to EA-aligned funding environments.

• Knowledge of charity fundraising principles, governance considerations, and ethical fundraising practice.

• Understanding of the Effective Altruism funding landscape, including grant-making bodies, donor expectations, and impact-led funding criteria.

• Experience supporting or advising on grant applications, funder relationships, and individual donor stewardship.

3. Farmed Animal Campaigning

Knowledge of campaigning and advocacy within animal protection movements, with a particular focus on farmed animals.

• Understanding of the strategic landscape of farmed animal protection, including corporate campaigns, legislative advocacy, public engagement, and movement priorities.

• Experience of designing, advising on, or evaluating campaigns that seek measurable improvements for farmed animals.

• Awareness of the wider animal protection movement, including key organisations, campaign tactics, risks, and opportunities for collaboration.

• Scientific or veterinarian understanding and experience with farmed animals (desirable).

We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds and with a range of perspectives. Having reviewed existing Trustees' diversity we would particularly welcome applications from ethnic minorities, disabled people and marginalised groups.

Where candidates bring similar skills and experience, we may take lived experience or background into account to help us build a more representative and inclusive board.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in giving strategic direction, setting overall policy, defining goals, and evaluating performance.

• Ensure that THL UK complies with its governing document, charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.

• Oversee the financial health of the charity, approving annual budgets and monitoring financial performance.

• Champion the fundraising work of THL UK in various ways–for example by introducing new donors from your network, actively promoting THL UK’s fundraising initiatives (like our end of year appeal), or by donating directly if you have the means to do so.

• Protect and promote the charity’s values, reputation, and effectiveness.

• Support and challenge the executive team to achieve the organisation’s objectives.

• Act as an ambassador for THL UK, promoting its work to stakeholders and the public.

• Participate in Board meetings (typically four per year) and occasional sub-committee meetings, as well as contributing advice and guidance outside formal meetings when required.

Key competencies

• Strategic thinker: Looks at consequences, implications, interdependencies, and indirect effects, all in both the short and longer term. Looks beyond the immediate goal or issue and with the greater context, not just the content of the moment. Is able to think and act creatively in difficult situations.

• Problem solver: Identifies issues, effectively structures problems, analyses information to produce insights and generates wise, actionable recommendations. A forward-looking thinker who anticipates the needs of the organisation.

• Effective: Strategically able to focus our energy, resources and talent toward impactful actions that will reduce, and ultimately end, the abuse of animals for food.

• Communication and strong interpersonal skills: Ability to communicate in ways that build understanding and trust and can adapt to different tones and styles and be able to engage with people from all walks of life.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is an important time for Asylum Aid as we continue to strengthen our impact and support survivors, asylum seekers and refugees. Our work is more crucial than ever as we advocate for people seeking protection within an increasingly challenging and evolving global landscape.

We are looking to recruit a Trustee to provide strategic leadership and oversight of the charity’s financial affairs and fundraising activities. This is a key role within the Board of Trustees, helping to ensure that Asylum Aid remains financially sustainable, well governed and equipped to deliver its charitable objectives.

Working closely with the Executive Director, Director of Finance and Governance, Group Director of Fundraising and the wider Board, the Trustee will provide expert advice and support on financial strategy, budgeting, risk and reserves management, audit and financial governance.

Full details are available in the Recruitment Pack.

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to apply for the role of Trustee, please submit your CV and a short statement.

Your statement should then address the following three questions:
1.What is the main thing that interests you about applying for the role of Trustee at Asylum Aid?
2.What is the particular skill (or skills) you have that you feel would be beneficial to this role? Please relate your answers to (1) and (2) to the information in this pack about Asylum Aid and the skills we are looking for.
3.Do you have any previous experience of working with a charity board in particular or supporting a charity in general? If you do, please let us know what this was.

The questions can be responded to in one of four different ways:
1.Written A4 (No more than 2 sides of A4)
2.PowerPoint (No more than 3 slides)
3.Audio recording (No more than 5 mins)
4.Video Recording (No more than 5 mins)

If you would like to submit your application using these methods, please email us.. 

Otherwise, please submit your application via the website along with your CV and statement by 10am on Monday 14th September. 

If you would like to get more information about the role - or talk to the Chair of Trustees at 
Asylum Aid, Elizabeth Mottershaw - before you express an interest in our trustee position
please contact Hannah Padfield, Director of People (details on the website).

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on Monday 14th September 
Preliminary interviews (online): Monday 21st September 
Final panel interviews (in person): Friday 9th October

EXPERTS BY EXPERIENCE SUPPORT

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network , which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources at their website.

Why join us

Rebuild with Hope Foundation was established in 2021 and began supporting people facing multiple barriers to employment. From our humble beginnings we have seen continued and exciting growth which has allowed us to further develop and expand our support programmes alongside the opening of several retail outlets, high street stores and a community hub and café.

Our additional retail stores are in Runcorn (two stores), Earlstown, Kirkham, Thorn Cross and Wrexham. Our mission is to support those facing multiple barriers to employment by providing mentorship, employment opportunities and holistic support. Rebuild With Hope provides opportunities and delivers comprehensive support making transitioning back to work as smooth as possible.

We offer training, volunteering, work experience and progression to real work opportunities, coupled with wrap around support to foster independence, promote self-esteem and provide hope for people when they need it most. Employment and volunteering opportunities continue to help us support communities with the ongoing and ever challenging cost of living crisis.

Overview

The Rebuild with Hope Foundation is a fast growing and impactful charity supporting those facing barriers to work. Due to our continued growth we are looking to increase and diversify our Board membership. We are looking to appoint Trustees, no former experience is required as training will be provided. We are also looking to appoint a Treasurer a long with an experienced Chair of the Board. There are separate recruitment packs for each of the three roles, with each outlining the different knowledge and experiences required .

As Trustee you will help steer the charity towards achieving its mission. This vital role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful community initiatives, support sustainable growth, and foster positive relationships with stakeholders. As a Trustee, you will play a key part in shaping the charity’s future, ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective governance. This paid position invites passionate individuals eager to make a lasting difference through dedicated service and innovative thinking.

Role Description

Board Members are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, probity of its activities, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives, and goals in accordance with the Constitution, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Board Members should be aware of and understand their individual and collective responsibilities and should not be overly reliant on one or more Members in any aspect of the governance of the charity.

Duties

• Ensuring the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements and acts within the confines of the Constitution and its charitable objects.
• Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries, and future beneficiaries.
• Promoting and developing the charity to help it grow and maintain its public benefit.
• Maintaining sound financial management and control of the charity’s resources.
• Ensuring a fully effective and appropriate system recruitment, for appointment the and monitoring of the work and activities for the CEO and Senior Management team.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources, striving for best practice in good governance.
• Maintaining absolute confidentiality about all aspects of Trustees’ business

This role offers an inspiring opportunity to contribute your skills and experiences toward creating positive change while working alongside passionate professionals dedicated to making a difference in our communities.

How to apply

Please download the relevant recruitment pack for either Trustee, Treasurer and Chair. The application process is outlined within the pack.

We request no contact from external agencies

Action for Refugees in Lewisham is looking for a trustee to act as secretary, supporting the board's governance role helping AFRIL deliver for refugees and vulnerable migrants in south-east London. Time commitment is flexible, and not onerous, and formal company secretary functions are supported by a member of staff.

AFRIL was founded in 2006 to support asylum seekers, vulnerable migrants and refugees in south-east London to lift themselves out of poverty and rebuild their lives in the heart of our community. Our support is holistic: both crisis support to meet immediate need, and longer-term, flexible programmes that tackle the underlying problems that lead to crisis, supporting people to integrate, contribute and thrive. We work in the community across south-east London, including in local asylum hotels.

We are a small charity, with mostly part-time staff, but we make a significant difference. Our client group is predominantly people in, or with experience of, the asylum system. We also support newly granted refugees, and migrants with no recourse to public funds who have complex and unmet protection needs.

AFRIL's board of trustees is collectively responsible for supporting and challenging the charity to oversee its good governance and proper financial control in line with its charitable aims and strategic plan, charity law, and all other relevant legislation. The time required of trustees is not onerous, and is flexible - although it is, of course, possible to take on more responsibility and expand your time commitment.

As a board member, you will be expected to be available for board meetings approximately every two months, which are generally an hour and a half long and take place in a weekday evening. These mostly take place online, with occasional hybrid meetings or meetings in-person.

As secretary to the board, you will be responsible for the timetabling of meetings, the agenda, and for taking and sharing a minute of board meetings – just main points and actions – to support the board in carrying out our remit. You may also assist with other areas of support to the governance for the charity, such as ensuring that we maintain regular review of the organisation’s policies, and providing some assistance from time to time to the member of staff leading on liaison with the Charity Commission and Companies House.

You will also need to be able to commit some ad hoc time to consider papers ahead of meetings, and occasionally to take part in email discussion on issues as they arise. You would also be expected to attend the charity’s AGM, which tends to take place on a Saturday afternoon in January/February.

We value diversity in our trustee team, as we do in the staff team. We particularly welcome applications from anyone who can bring lived experience of the immigration and asylum system, and are always keen to see applications from people with experience with fundraising, or with HR. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief.

To apply, please submit a short (no more than one side of A4) letter explaining why you would like to join AFRIL’s board, and what skills and experience you would bring to the role, along with your CV.

Why join us

Rebuild with Hope was established in 2021 and began supporting people facing multiple barriers to employment. From our humble beginnings we have seen continued and exciting growth which has allowed us to further develop and expand our support programmes alongside the opening of several retail outlets, high street stores and a community hub and café.

Our additional retail stores are in Runcorn (two stores), Earlstown, Kirkham, Thorn Cross and Wrexham. Our mission is to support those facing multiple barriers to employment by providing mentorship, employment opportunities and holistic support. Rebuild With Hope provides opportunities and delivers comprehensive support making transitioning back to work as smooth as possible.

We offer training, volunteering, work experience and progression to real work opportunities, coupled with wrap around support to foster independence, promote self-esteem and provide hope for people when they need it most. Employment and volunteering opportunities continue to help us support communities with the ongoing and ever challenging cost of living crisis.

Overview

The Rebuild with Hope Foundation is a fast growing and impactful charity supporting those facing barriers to work. Due to our continued growth we are looking to increase and diversify our Board membership. We are looking to appoint Trustees, no former experience is required as training will be provided. We are also looking to appoint a Treasurer a long with an experienced Chair of the Board. There are separate recruitment packs for each of the three roles, with each outlining the different knowledge and experiences required .

As Trustee you will help steer the charity towards achieving its mission. This vital role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to meaningful community initiatives, support sustainable growth, and foster positive relationships with stakeholders. As a Trustee, you will play a key part in shaping the charity’s future, ensuring accountability, transparency, and effective governance. This paid position invites passionate individuals eager to make a lasting difference through dedicated service and innovative thinking.

Role Description

Board Members are jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, probity of its activities, developing the organisation’s aims, objectives, and goals in accordance with the Constitution, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Board Members should be aware of and understand their individual and collective responsibilities and should not be overly reliant on one or more Members in any aspect of the governance of the charity.

Chair Specific Duties

• Rebuild with Hope operates within the law, and according to its constitution and its commitments to stakeholders and is adequately resourced to meet its commitments.
• Rebuild with Hope develops an effective strategy in line with the core values of the organisation
• All Board Members are fully involved in discussions and decisions, and the contribution of individual Members is monitored. The Chair will encourage group decision making, teamwork, and a sense of shared purpose, and will foster a sense of inclusivity and shared mission by informing the Board at each meeting of any ‘Chair’s business’ which has taken place since the last meeting
• The Board’s agenda is appropriate and focuses on the key strategic issues, all planned business is dealt with in an equitable, fair manner and a conclusion is reached in each case, and that decisions are clearly and accurately minuted
• The Board continually monitors Rebuild with Hope’s progress, and that Board Members have regular, timely and relevant information on strategic and financial issues and key risks
• Board Members have a proper knowledge and understanding of their roles and responsibilities
• The Board delegates, as appropriate, to its Committees and to its Chief Executive
• Regular reviews of Board, Committee and Chief Executive performance are undertaken, and a programme of development processes for the Board, its Members, and the Chief Executive is established
• Periodic reviews of the composition and workings of Rebuild with Hope are undertaken to ensure it continues to respond appropriately to changes in the wider environment
• Effective use is made of the Board’s time within, and between, meetings
• The Board receives professional advice when necessary
• The support and commitment of Rebuild with Hope’s partners and key stakeholders are developed and sustained
• They represent Rebuild with Hope as required and foster positive relationships with a range of stakeholders. The Chair will ensure that a high profile is maintained for the organisation, and that stakeholders are kept informed of our work
• Positive working relationships are maintained among Board Members and with the Chief Executive to enable an appropriate balance of challenge and support to be provided 

Duties

• Ensuring the charity complies with legislative and regulatory requirements and acts within the confines of the Constitution and its charitable objects.
• Acting in the best interest of the charity, beneficiaries, and future beneficiaries.
• Promoting and developing the charity to help it grow and maintain its public benefit.
• Maintaining sound financial management and control of the charity’s resources.
• Ensuring a fully effective and appropriate system recruitment, for appointment the and monitoring of the work and activities for the CEO and Senior Management team.
• Ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the charity and its resources, striving for best practice in good governance.
• Maintaining absolute confidentiality about all aspects of Trustees’ business

This role offers an inspiring opportunity to contribute your skills and experiences toward creating positive change while working alongside passionate professionals dedicated to making a difference in our communities.

How to apply

Please download the relevant recruitment pack for either Trustee, Treasurer and Chair. The application process is outlined within the pack.

We request no contact from external agencies

Position Description 
This is an exciting time to join the Heart of the City trustee board. You will join a small but ambitious Charity with strong foundations and networks across the public and private sector. This is an opportunity to shape the next chapter for the Heart of the City, with a strong focus on developing a robust, sustainable three-year Strategy. The Strategy will be supported by work to further diversify funding streams, that provide greater financial resilience without compromising our mission to support SMEs to become responsible businesses and play a full role in responding to the Climate Emergency.

The incoming Chair will support the team to develop a three-year Strategy to support the growth of the Charity.

The plan will explore:

• The Mission of the Charity and how it should grow
• Diversifying and securing new sources of funding
• Broadening our programmatic offer to SMEs
• Defining the strategic relationship between Heart of the City and the City of London Corporation

Unlike most small charities, Heart of the City has an extensive network and governance structures with prestigious organisations. The Chair will help manage key relationships with the Bank of England and Corporation of London, as well as key Council Members. The Chair will be instrumental in managing an effective and focussed set of Trustees to help shape, scrutinise and deliver the Charity’s mission.

By the end of the three-year period as Chair, you will have supported the development and implementation of a Strategy, which meets the vision of the Charity, helped develop a sustainable and resilient funding model, ensured that the Charity is making an impact and reporting on its achievements and maintains effective relationships with key strategic partners.

Typically, the Chair will:

• Hold regular fortnightly meetings with the Managing Director.
• Attend quarterly Trustee Board meetings (usually lasting around two hours and held during the working day).
• Participate in a strategy half-day with Trustees and staff.
• Attend Council meetings (up to two per year).
• Support introductions to potential members, partners and stakeholders.
• Attend and occasionally speak at Heart of the City events on an ad hoc basis.

The Chair will contribute to ad-hoc requests including:

• Sharing their views on responsible business in interviews for our newsletter, social media or webinars
• Championing our work at other external events and meetings, on social media and on their own biographical profiles

About you
We do not expect one person to fulfil all specifications but would welcome applications from individuals who are able to demonstrate most of the following:

Experience & Knowledge

• Senior Executive experience in the Corporate, Charity or Public sector.
• Strong understanding of SMEs, their motivations and challenges.
• Strong commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices.
• Proven track record of setting strategic direction and leading senior teams.
• Well-connected senior network across businesses.

Skills & Attributes

• Excellent chairing, facilitation and sound judgement in complex situations.
• Strong strategic thinking with the ability to align resources to long-term mission and impact.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage audiences from SME leaders to senior stakeholders.
• Strong ambassadorial and relationship-building skills.
• Excellent listening, questioning and consensus-building abilities.

Commitment

Commitment to Heart of the City’s mission, values and responsible business agenda. Willingness to devote the time and energy required to fulfil the role effectively.

Closing application date
Midnight on 27 September 2026

Interviews
Trustees aim to meet with the candidates in the week commencing 12 October 2026.

Chair of Trustees – Hackney Playbus

Are you passionate about giving every child the best start in life?

Hackney Playbus has supported children and families across Hackney for more than 50 years through free, inclusive play sessions, family support and community outreach. We are now looking for an inspiring and collaborative Chair of Trustees to help lead the organisation into its next chapter.

This is an exciting opportunity to work alongside an experienced Board and Co-Directors to shape the strategic direction of a well-established local charity with a strong reputation and growing ambition.

As Chair, you will provide leadership to the Board, ensuring strong governance, thoughtful decision-making and a clear focus on our charitable mission. You will support and challenge the Co-Directors, help build an engaged and diverse Board, and act as an ambassador for Hackney Playbus with partners, funders and the wider community.

We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach. Previous Chair experience is welcome but not essential; we’d also love to hear from people with senior leadership, governance or committee experience who are ready to take on their first Chair role.

This is a voluntary position requiring approximately 1–2 days per month, including quarterly Board meetings, regular meetings with the Co-Directors and occasional attendance at events and partnership meetings.

Alongside recruiting our new Chair, we are also seeking trustees with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation
• Corporate partnerships and employee volunteering
• Communications and marketing
• Advocacy and influencing

By joining Hackney Playbus, you’ll help ensure that children can play, families feel supported, and communities continue to thrive.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and lived experiences and are particularly keen to hear from people who reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

Inclusive Boards is delighted to be supporting Oaklea Trust in their search for their next Chair of Trustees. 

About Oaklea Trust

The Oaklea Trust is a charitable organisation whose purpose is to give vulnerable people the opportunity to live and work as independently as possible within their community. Established in 2002 and based in Cumbria, County Durham and Northumberland, we support disabled, disadvantaged and vulnerable children and adults. Our charitable work supports people of all ages who have Learning Disabilities, Physical Disabilities, Mental Health needs, and/or Dementia.

The Oaklea Group is made up of the charity, Oaklea Trust, and its commercial arm, Right2Work. Together, they support people and communities to learn, develop and thrive through person-centred care and support, learning opportunities, and pathways into employment.

This is a unique opportunity to help lead a values-driven organisation that supports people and communities across the North of England to learn, develop and thrive.

About the Chair opportunity

As Chair, you will energise and empower the Board and the Group as a whole. You will foster a culture of openness, collaboration, and constructive debate. You will inspire confidence and ensure the highest standards of governance, integrity and accountability. 

You will also help shape the Group’s future impact, supporting our mission to reduce inequality and create opportunities for people and communities to thrive. Through your strategic insight and advocacy, you will help extend our reach, strengthen partnerships and ensure more people can access the care, support and opportunities they need and deserve.

The Chair of the Oaklea Board of Trustees will:

• Ensure the Board functions effectively
• Guide Oaklea Trust’s strategic direction
• Ensure governance oversight
• Represent Oaklea Trust internally and externally
• Evaluate and support the Chief Executive
• Champion the leadership of Committees

We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees who can bring the following experience and capabilities to the role. We recognise that lived experience can offer valuable insights that greatly enhance a role like this, especially when combined with professional expertise.

Experience/Background:

• Experience of strategic leadership and governance within an organisation of equivalent size and complexity to Oaklea Trust, ideally within a Group structure. 
• A track record of driving growth and innovation, with the ability to apply insight to support the achievement of Oaklea Trust’s strategic objectives. 
• Understanding of the challenges associated with leading and delivering regulated services and the management of the associated risks.
• Ability to constructively challenge and hold space for compassionate and constructive conversations.
• Financial and commercial acumen, including experience in financial planning, oversight, risk management, and the establishment and monitoring of systems of control and accountability. 
• Ability to scrutinise and manage financial risk, ensuring long-term financial sustainability and safeguarding against fraud. 
• Ability to open doors, build networks and maximise opportunities with a range of stakeholders, funders and partner organisations.
• Previous trustee and/or Chair/Vice Chair experience is desirable.

ABOUT THE ROLE

This is an exciting time for the Helen Bamber Foundation as we continue to grow our impact and strengthen our services for survivors of torture, trafficking and human cruelty, as well as those seeking protection. Our work is more crucial than ever as we advocate for vulnerable individuals within a challenging and evolving global landscape.

This year, we are looking to recruit a Trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee to replace the current postholder, who is retiring from the role. This is a key position within the Helen Bamber Foundation’s Board of Trustees, providing oversight of the charity’s financial health and helping to ensure strong financial governance.

Working closely with the CEO of the Helen Bamber Foundation, the Director of Finance and Governance, and the Board, the Trustee will support strategic decision-making by ensuring that trustees have clear and accurate financial information and that the charity operates with robust financial controls. The role also plays an important part in helping the Board balance ambition and growth with responsible financial stewardship.

As a Trustee, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the charity and supporting its long-term stability.

Full details are available in the Recruitment Pack.

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to apply for the role of trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee, please submit your CV and a short statement.

Your statement should then address the following three questions:
1.What is the main thing that interests you about applying for the role of trustee and Chair of the Finance and Fundraising Committee?
2.What is the particular skill (or skills) you have that you feel would be beneficial to this role? Please relate your answers to (1) and (2) to the information in this pack about Helen Bamber Foundation and the skills we are looking for.
3.Do you have any previous experience of working with a charity board in particular or supporting a charity in general? If you do, please let us know what this was.

The questions can be responded to in one of four different ways:
1.Written A4 (No more than 2 sides of A4)
2.PowerPoint (No more than 3 slides)
3.Audio recording (No more than 5 mins)
4.Video Recording (No more than 5 mins)

If you would like to submit your application using these methods, please email us.

Please apply upload  your CV and statement by 10am on Monday 14th September
If you would like to get more information about the role - or talk to the Chair of Trustees at Helen Bamber Foundation, Adam Epstein - before you express an interest in our trustee position please contact Hannah Padfield, Director of People (details on our website).

TIMELINE

Closing date: 10am on Monday 14th September
Preliminary interviews (online): Wednesday 23rd September
Final panel interviews (in person): Friday 9th October

EXPERTS BY EXPERIENCE SUPPORT

We are also proud to be a member of the Experts by Experience Employment Network , which aims to increase representation of people with lived experience in the charitable sector.

If you are an expert by experience (a refugee or a migrant with direct, first-hand experience of issues and challenges of the UK asylum or immigration system), you can ask for an independent and confidential support for your job application from the Experts by Experience Employment Network and access other information and resources at their website.