New Board Members And Chair Of Audit Volunteer Roles
Calibre Audio is a national charity providing an audiobook and audio content service to anyone who is print disabled.
Our members may be blind, partially sighted, have dyslexia or other learning difficulties or even be unable to hold a book. Whatever the reason for their struggle to access print, our vision is an inclusive society where everyone has access to audiobooks.
This pack outlines more about what we do and the impact of our work which we hope you find informative.
Our Board of Trustees is highly motivated with a genuine commitment to use their business and life experience to help make a difference. We are currently looking to appoint a new Trustee to take on the position of Treasurer, joining the Board to support the charity as it moves into an exciting period of growth and development. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary in 2024, it is more important than ever that the charity is well positioned to broaden its membership and to maximise the opportunities presented by the ever-changing technology landscape.
To fulfil the position of Treasurer we are looking for someone who can oversee the monitoring of the organisation’s finances on behalf of the Board. A personal connection to the experiences of our members (visual impairment, dyslexia etc) is useful, but not essential. Other important skills include the ability to be visionary, think strategically and to influence key stakeholders, both within your sphere of expertise and more broadly. Strong communication skills along with a collaborative approach and a commitment to our aims are also vital.
If you have the enthusiasm, skills and experience to help us drive growth and increase our impact, we would love to hear from you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Joining Respond as a Trustee - January 2024
Background Information
Founded in 1991, Respond is a national charity that seeks to transform the lives of people with learning disabilities and autistic people who have experienced trauma. We are committed to bringing about positive change for our clients and their families, enabling them to lead richer and more resilient lives.
Respond's services for children, young people and adults are:
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Survivors' psychotherapy
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Family support services
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Advocacy, including ISVA and domestic abuse services.
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Training, consultancy and reflective practice
Respond supports charities that campaign for equality and inclusion with the aim to prevent abuse and equip individuals and their families to come to terms with their experiences and live more positive lives.
Our specialist training, supervision, reflective practice and consultancy equips agencies and health / social care providers to deliver trauma-informed services. This includes responding to and providing consultancy and training for significant events such as institutional abuse.
Our income base is diverse with trust funds and grants continuing to be a vital part of maintaining core services Respond offers, alongside donations from trusts and foundations. We also continue to have larger ongoing or spot contracts for our work for NHS commissioners and local authorities.
It is a good opportunity to join Respond's Board at this time, following our restructure and as we move towards the last year of our current strategy for 2022-25. Following a challenging period due to changing funding landscape and closure of some services, we will be focused on consolidation and improving impact measurement to secure long-term financial sustainability.
The role of the Board of Trustees
The Trustees (or 'Board members') are trustees of the charity and directors of the limited company. They are responsible for the governance, setting the strategic direction and monitoring the implementation of the strategy. The Board ensures that the charity acts in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.
The Board has responsibility for:
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ensuring the charity acts in accordance with its charitable purpose and is providing public benefit and meets its legal obligations;
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making decisions in the best interests of the charity;
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developing the multi-year strategy;
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monitoring the management of the finances and resources of the organisation (operations, budget, property, workforce and tenders);
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monitoring performance, quality and impact;
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appointing and appraising the CEO.
Who we’re looking for
Following a recent skills audit within the current Board, the Board is seeking trustees with the following skills or experiences;
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Finance - This person will have a financial qualification and will enable the Board to ensure the sound financial health of the charity. The person will collaborate with the Finance Director to ensure that the organisation has systems that meet sector best practice and ensures financial accountability. This trustee will be the Treasurer and chair the Finance Committee.
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Human Resources (HR) - This person will have experience in working in HR roles, preferably in the voluntary sector. This person will help review and strengthen Respond’s HR policies, set up and lead the people committee and guide the Leadership team in dealing with complex HR issues including change management.
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Fundraising, Marketing and Comms – This person will work closely with our Head of Development and Commissioning on our income strategy and communications strategy.
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Psychotherapy /working in a trauma informed setting – As an organisation providing psychotherapy and arts therapies for autistic people and people with learning disabilities, we are looking for a trustee with experience of working as a therapist with a systems-psychodynamic approach.
The Board wants to ensure that the charity's 'beneficiaries' are represented in its governance. We encourage applications from people who have lived experience of autism, learning disabilities and/or trauma-informed work (either directly or through family members). How the Board carries out meetings will also be reviewed to accommodate adjustments requested by new trustees with learning disabilities or who are autistic. (Please refer to a separate document if you or someone you know with lived experience may be interested)
Person Specification
The following knowledge, experience and skills are essential for the role:
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a commitment to the mission of Respond;
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senior experience, ideally including one or more of the following areas – finance, human resources, fundraising/marketing, legal, compliance, hard-to-reach communities, caring/social care, psychotherapy, commissioning.
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ability to identify creative solutions to problems within limited resources;
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good analytical skills;
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ability to think strategically;
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independence and flexibility in thinking;
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ability to communicate efficiently and connect with a wide range of people, internally and externally;
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a willingness to meet the minimum time requirement (see below);
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an understanding of the legal duties of trusteeship set out in the Charity Commission's 'The Essential Trustee'; and
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an ability to work effectively as a member of a team and to make decisions for the good of Respond.
Trustees will be expected to demonstrate the following personal attributes:
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good interpersonal skills including listening;
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commitment to excellence and high expectations of self and others;
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values people and the contribution of all stakeholders;
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sound judgment;
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team-oriented with a supportive approach.
Respond is dedicated to developing opportunities for Trustees to be appointed reflecting greater and varied diversity among our Board of Trustees, so we welcome applications by suitably qualified candidates irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, marital or parental status, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We particularly welcome applications from Black and minority ethnic candidates who are under-represented on the board.
What we offer
New trustees will:
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Receive induction and training;
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Develop new skills and competencies;
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Meet new people and develop professional networks;
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Contribute to ensuring that the charity offers high quality effective services to autistic people and people with learning disabilities who have experienced trauma, who are in need;
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An annual appraisal
Time requirement - What is involved?
Trustees attend eight Board meetings per year approximately every six-eight weeks currently on a Tuesday evening 5:30pm to 8pm. Meetings are in London, and remote access is available for trustees who live/work outside London.
Each Trustee is expected to be an active member of the Respond community, committing 5 to 10 hours per month to the charity which may also involve being on a sub-committee such as; Finance Committee, Clinical Governance and Safeguarding Committee each of which meets four times per year, typically during normal office hours online or in London.
Trustees are expected to attend an induction session at Respond prior to their first Board meeting. Trustees are expected to attend all Board meetings. Other meetings are away-days over a weekend.
Trustees are invited to the annual general meeting, which takes place typically in November.
Trustees may claim expenses incurred in effectively carrying out their duties, in accordance with Respond’s Trustee Expenses Policy.
Papers are distributed one week in advance of meetings. In addition, Trustees are expected to review documents and communicate with other board members and senior staff between meetings. Every effort will be made to ensure that trustees with learning disabilities or who are neurodiverse have access to documents in formats that they can understand or have the support available for them to fully participate as trustees.
Occasionally, circumstances may require urgent meetings (either face-to-face or virtual) to examine strategic issues or items requiring Board approval
Duration of the role
Board terms are for a five-year term following which the person can be elected to serve another three years.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Voluntary role
Responsible to: Chair of Trustees
Base: the Board works remotely
Main Responsibilities and Duties
• Ensure that SEED and its representatives function within all legal and regulatory frameworks continually striving for best practice in governance.
· Comply with SEED’s Code of Conduct and policies, providing leadership on its value base and organisational behaviour, including safeguarding, human resources and financial management.
· Work alongside fellow Trustees and the Senior Management Team in developing SEED’s strategic direction, promoting and developing this through good governance and clear strategic planning. To evaluate progress made towards achieving the strategic objectives.
• Ensure that SEED operates within its Charitable Objectives and organisational strategy in order that its work remains focussed and makes the greatest impact to those it serves.
• Actively contribute to the development of SEED’s business plan, monitoring and evaluating performance against agreed objectives.
• Prepare for and participate fully in board meetings reviewing all reports coming to these meetings.
• To undertake training when required.
• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions and participate in sub-committees.
· Support the recruitment of senior staff and offer on-going support and monitoring of their work.
· Assist in the recruitment, on-boarding and support of new Trustees when required.
· Act reasonably in decision making and leadership of the organisation and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.
· Maintain sound financial management of SEED’s resources, ensuring expenditure is in line with the organisations’ objects and that assets are protected and managed to ensure the proper investment of the charity’s funds.
· Act as a counter-signatory on charity cheques and any applications for funds.
· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of SEED including having appropriate policies and procedures in place. These policies and procedures are reviewed and signed off by the Trustee Board.
· Ensure that SEED has robust safeguarding policy and procedures in place and that safeguarding is embedded across the organisation
· Safeguard the good name and reputation of SEED, acting in the best interest of the charity, staff and beneficiaries at all times.
· Promote the work of SEED externally seeking opportunities that might further the work and visibility of the Charity.
· Support the Managing Director in leading the Charity, providing advice and practical help and participating in their annual evaluation.
· Maintain absolute confidentiality about all sensitive or confidential information received through carrying out the duties of a Trustee.
· Remain open and accessible to SEED’s staff through occasional communication and site visits.
Accountability:
As a Trustee you are responsible and liable for the governance and functioning of the charity and are accountable in varying degrees to a variety of stakeholders including: service users, members, funders, the Charity Commission, and Companies House.
SEED Trustees should uphold the fiduciary duty required of all charity trustees to act in the best interests of both current and future beneficiaries of the charity, being held personally liable for any breach of that duty.
Support regarding this is given by fellow Trustees, the Managing Director and the Senior Management team.
Required skills & experience:
The successful applicant will:
• Demonstrate a passion for and sound knowledge of development and/or conservation issues facing least developed countries such as Madagascar.
• Demonstrate sound knowledge and keen interest in at least one of SEED’s core areas (community health; sustainable livelihoods; environmental conservation) or in a key functional area (management, finance, marketing).
• Have a reasonable level of understanding of legal, financial, audit and other regulatory requirements of a charity, ideally through experience as a trustee.
• Show commitment to SEED and have sufficient time and willingness to contribute effectively to board proceedings and sub committee work.
• Be able to make quick and sound decisions based on an analysis of information presented to them.
• Have the confidence to both advocate for or challenge ideas and can remain independent of any influence from other organisations or individuals.
• Be able to work effectively as a member of a team and independently.
• Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to SEED’s Code of Conduct and values and be a good ambassador for the organisation at all times.
• Demonstrate the ability, social skills and confidence to give clear guidance and support to other Trustees or members of staff in respect of the philosophy and procedures of SEED in order to protect the reputation of the NGO.
• Be able to work to and advocate for all of SEED’s policies and procedures, working within SEED’s Code of Conduct, safeguarding those that SEED works with and reporting any concerns appropriately.
• Have empathy with those living and working in a developing country with the ability and desire to work with teams from different economic and cultural backgrounds.
• Have excellent listening and verbal communication skills and a flexible and patient attitude.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Treasurer Role Description
About us
We are a global alliance of 47 local organisations in 38 countries, working on the front line with children and families in need. Our vision is a world in which children and families everywhere have access to the support they need to survive and thrive. Our mission is to make that happen through research, knowledge exchange, campaigning and humanitarian responses. We are registered as a charity under the Charity Commission for England and Wales and have two subsidiaries registered in New Zealand and in the US.
What we do
As local practitioners, we provide direct support every day to children and families in our communities, based on our frontline knowledge of what they need most. As an alliance, we use this local insight to inform research, practice exchange, campaigning and humanitarian responses. These lead to change nationally, regionally and globally. Through research, we gather and analyse evidence to discover and develop better ways to help children and families to live well. Through knowledge exchange, we maximise the reach of solutions that have been shown to work so they can be used to support even more children and families. Through campaigning, we influence and inspire others to take action for children and families worldwide.
For more information about our work and our members, please visit our website.
About the role
We are looking for a Treasurer with experience of working with not for profits in setting strategic financial direction and it would be desirable if they have experience in complying with the regulations of the Charity Commission for England and Wales or similar regulatory bodies.
You would be joining our board at an exciting time, as we implement our new strategy, build on our campaigns and broaden our advocacy to mobilise greater support and achieve change. In line with this, we have built our model on realistic income forecasts, we plan to maintain the net unrestricted funds available, we are building restricted funding streams to fund our thematic priorities, we continue to align income and expenditure on 6 month, 12 month and 18 month time horizons and we carefully manage the commitment of our remaining surplus reserves.
Responsibilities of the Treasurer
In addition to the general responsibilities of a trustee (see below), the responsibility of the Treasurer is to maintain an overview of the organisation's affairs, ensuring its financial viability and that the organisation has policies and systems in place to ensure robust financial planning, implementation and reporting. For example, by taking a lead role on behalf of the board in:
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Reviewing budgets, accounts and financial statements, and recommending them to the Board for approval
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Being assured that the financial resources of the organisation meet its present and future needs
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Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate reserves policy
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Ensuring that appropriate accounting procedures and controls are in place
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Ensuring that the charity has an appropriate investment policy
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Ensuring that the accounts are prepared and disclosed in the form required by funders and the relevant statutory bodies
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Ensuring that the accounts are scrutinised through external audits and internal reviews and that any recommendations are implemented
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Keeping the Board informed about its financial duties and responsibilities
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Making a formal presentation of the accounts at the General Meeting and drawing attention to important points in a coherent and easily understandable way
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Chairing the Resource Mobilisation and Communications Committee (formerly the Finance and Human Resources Committee) and leading meetings three times a year
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Ensuring that organisation has processes in place to meet any compliance requirements
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Ensuring the organisation has a risk management process in place
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Reviewing and signing financial transactions and other documentation that requires board approval
Family values mutual accountability and has a Responsibility Framework which outlines responsibilities and rights for board trustees, members and staff. The Treasurer has a key role in ensuring that mutual accountability is upheld in areas of finance by identifying and highlighting potential conflicts of loyalty..
General duties of a trustee of a Trustee of Family For Every Child
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To ensure that Family for Every Child complies with its governing documents, UK charity law, UK company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations of a UK registered charity
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To ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its Articles of Association, and that it uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects
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To ensure that the organisation operates within the parameters laid down by the members in the Governance Manual
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To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees in giving firm strategic direction to the organisation, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets. In doing so, to ensure that the Board has taken account of input from the membership
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To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation
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To ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation
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To ensure the financial stability of the organisation
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To monitor the performance of the Chief Executive Officer
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To represent the organisation externally
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To represent the board on relevant subsidiary entities
Person specification
We are looking for someone with the following experience and capability:
All trustees need to have the following:
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Understanding, or commitment to acquire an understanding, of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trustees of a UK charity. Acceptance of these duties, responsibilities and liabilities, and a commitment to operate within them.
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Good, independent judgement and the ability to operate at a strategic level.
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An ability and willingness to work as a part of a team and to support the staff team.
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Understanding and empathy with Family for Every Child’s vision, mission, values and beliefs.
In addition to the trustee person specification, the Treasurer needs to have:
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Financial and business experience at a senior management or director level
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An understanding of the charity sector, for example an appreciation of the operations, accounting (including SORP) and legal framework in the UK
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Experience in complying with the regulations of the Charity Commission for England and Wales or a similar regulatory body
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Significant experience of financial management and strategy
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Some experience of charity fundraising is desirable
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The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences.
Desirable, but not essential requirements:
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experience of working with or on a board
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a qualified member of a recognised accountancy body
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Experience of both local and international not for profits.
Time Commitment
This is a substantial and responsible role, and will suit someone able to commit about 18-20 hours three times a year. This includes about 18 hours a year for meetings (which are held on Zoom at a time which is most mutually convenient for attendees in different time zones), as well as time for reading and preparation.
Board and committee meetings are three times a year, and there may be ad hoc meetings between the regular meetings. If the Treasurer also sits on the board of a subsidiary entity, there are additional three board meetings. In addition, trustees are requested to provide support and guidance to the CEO and other Secretariat staff on an ongoing basis.
The initial term is a three-year period which can be reviewed by the Board..
Our commitment to diversity
We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, faith or disability. Family’s board is international and we wish to continue to strengthen representation of different cultures and world views. We are hoping to appoint a Treasurer to bring further diversity to our board, and who will enrich our governance by bringing different perspectives and experiences, which reflect our global alliance. The Treasurer does not have to be based in the UK, or be a UK national, and we welcome candidates outside Europe and the US.
Remuneration
Please note that this is an advisory role, with no remuneration. Expenses for travel, as
required, will be reimbursed by Family for Every Child in accordance with our policies.
Family for Every Child has zero-tolerance for abuse and exploitation of all people and all Trustees are expected to understand and comply with the Safeguarding policy (which includes the safeguarding code of conduct) and other related policies.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Every 6 minutes someone learns that they are losing their sight. Every five hours, a baby is born with sight problems. In these moments, two profound questions emerge:
• Can this be stopped?
• How do I (or my child) live this life?
The merger of Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation, which took place on 1st April 2023, will enable us to address both questions. By combining our strengths and expertise we are now the only significant national funder with the efficiency,
capability, and capacity to increase investment in medical research and social improvement. Together we can mitigate both the prevalence and impact of sight loss. We have a clear ambition – to save sight and to change lives.
We are now seeking up to four new trustees as we establish ourselves in our new form and under our new name (soon to be announced). This is an exciting inflection point for us, and our new trustees will be central in enabling us to achieve our ambition.
We have worked through our merger and have a clear focus and vision, as well as a strong Board and senior leadership team, all of whom are ambitious for the potential impact we can make. Our re-brand will also enable us to amplify our position as a leader within the sight loss sector. Our merger was a critical step in accelerating research which will create a positive impact on the lives of millions of people. We do not want this opportunity to pass us by and that’s what makes these such an important and exciting roles for the right people.
As a trustee, you will have the opportunity to steer the course of our charity and our sector, shaping our strategies, and advocating for meaningful change. You will be help us be a driving force behind world leading research into sight loss prevention, and transformative initiatives that enhance the quality of life for countless individuals.
We are particularly seeking individuals who have a medical or scientific research background, ideally in ophthalmology, and those who have experience in retail and fundraising. If you want to be part of something that will really make a difference, we’d love to hear from you.
“I extend a heartfelt invitation to those who share our commitment to making a profound difference in the lives of individuals affected by sight loss. Our journey towards a future where eye diseases are prevented and the challenges faced by the visually impaired are overcome requires the collective effort of dedicated individuals. We are seeking trustees who are not only passionate advocates for our cause but also possess the vision, expertise, and dedication to guide and govern our organisation. Your unique perspectives and skills will play a pivotal role in shaping and defining our impact for years to come.”
Dr Heather Giles, Chair
“Our two organisations came together to form a new dynamic, ambitious, entrepreneurial, impact-driven organisation to save sight and change lives. We are searching for trustees that can join us, and be at the forefront of creating the culture, the outlook and the methods of working and the operations to truly make a difference in society.”
Keith Valentine, CEO
ABOUT US
We are a new organisation forged from two ambitious charities: Fight for Sight and Vision Foundation. Our single, unifying mission is to save sight and change lives.
It is a mission that reflects two urgent questions everyone faces when they receive a diagnosis of sight loss: ‘How do I stop this?’ and ‘How do I live my life?’
Answering these questions guides our strategy as we progress a five-year plan with solid and lofty aspirations.
THE MERGER
Fight for Sight funds breakthrough research and life-changing services to build a more equitable future for blind and partially sighted people by accelerating breakthroughs in multiple sight loss conditions.
Vision Foundation works to inform, include and empower the visually impaired community. Empowerment is at the heart of what we do; our work focuses on what people can do, rather than what they can’t.
The merger will help us to realise a joint ambition to tackle sight loss from both a clinical and social perspective. Our combined organisation is now grounded in data and insight into the science, as well as the lived experience of, sight loss. With this wealth of evidence we’re determined to:
- generate further investment into the sector,
- accelerate clinical progress,
- improve quality of life for people facing or living with sight loss
Crucially, coming together is about growing our influence and impact, not reducing or diluting what we do. So, as we evolve as a merged organisation, we are combining our teams, announcing our new name and fine-tuning our unified
mission and strategy – as well as continuing with the important work we’re already committed to – you can expect big things from us and it is an exciting time to join us as a trustee.
OUR FUTURE
Our principal role is as a grant-maker. We award grants to the scientific community that could lead to scientific breakthroughs and treatments to stop eye diseases from progressing. In the future, we believe research can prevent people from losing sight and reverse sight loss. We invest to advance treatments that will cure eye disease and protect and grow the community of world-class scientists, technologists, and data scientists who can deliver tomorrow’s breakthroughs. Historically, Vision Foundation has funded innovations that directly impact people who are blind or partially sighted, from music classes for children to projects that take eye tests into at-risk communities. We invest in programmes, organisations and activities that deliver equity for and with blind and visually impaired people.
As a grant-maker, we are change-makers, accelerators and drivers of impact. We are bold, energetic, challenging, disruptive, tenacious, and determined.
We aren’t afraid to tackle the challenges facing the sight loss community, either. Recent campaigns include The Unseen, which unearthed the shocking scale and nature of domestic abuse among blind and partially sighted people, and See My Skills, which addressed high unemployment rates. The charity excels at working in partnership with others towards creating a more equitable society for the sight loss community.
As we progress, we’ll scale the impact of projects like these, look beyond the nation’s capital, and drive systemic change. We’ll need to secure the funds to invest in our trusted partners to achieve our ambitions. We’ll continue to fundraise by engaging with supporters and companies through legacies, events such as the London Marathon, and our network of charity shops.
The evidence we commission influences policy and decision-making to demand equality for all.
We’ll shortly have a new name that reflects our united ambitions, so it’s an exciting time for us and the people we serve.
OUR FINANCES
The charity is in a strong position financially, with a high level of reserves that we intend to draw down over the coming years as we focus on investing in sustainable growth and increasing our impact. Compared to many charities, we
have well diversified income streams, predictable costs, and are in the fortunate position to hold a sizable portfolio of investments. Our plans for the short and medium term are to invest in our income generation infrastructure, and to significantly increase the amounts of funding we can put to our charitable purpose.
OUR BOARD AND LEADERSHIP TEAM
Fight for Sight / Vision Foundation is the only organisation in the sight loss sector with an Executive Leadership Team that has over half of its members with lived experience of sight loss.
The Board currently numbers ten trustees, including our newly appointed Chair.
The Board meets four times a year, or more often as required.
Follow this link to find out more about our Board.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
As the most senior leaders in our charity, trustees play a pivotal role in guiding our strategic direction, amplifying our impact, and ensuring the fulfilment of our mission to save sight and change lives. You will serve on the main board and will be invited also to get involved in one of our sub-committees. These are currently:
- Social Impact & Scientific Research Committee (SISR)
- Finance, Audit, Risk & Resources Committee (FARR)
- People Committee
- Retail Committee
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership & Planning
- Provide leadership and strategic guidance to the charity, aligning efforts with the mission and values of the organisation.
- Collaborate with the board, executive team, and stakeholders to develop and implement long-term strategies that advance the charity’s impact and sustainability.
Governance
- Ensure effective governance, decision-making, and compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Work closely with board members, fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, collaboration and open communication, harnessing different views and opinions.
Engagement
- Represent the charity at public events and networking opportunities to promote our mission and raise awareness about our cause.
- Develop and nurture relationships with key stakeholders, including donors, partners, corporations, government agencies, and the visually impaired community.
Evaluation and Accountability
- Collaborate with the board to evaluate performance, ensuring alignment with the charity’s goals and objectives.
- Ensure the charity is accountable to donors and beneficiaries, that is financially robust and sustainable, and that is effective risk management in place.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
We are seeking dynamic and dedicated individuals to serve as trustees of our ambitious merged organisation. The ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to our cause, along with the following:
Specialist experience
At this time, we are particularly interested in candidates who have leadership experience in:
- Scientific and/or medical research
- Ophthalmic research and/or clinical practice
- Strategic oversight of substantial fundraising and/or retail operations
Despite these areas of interest, we welcome a diversity of skills and experience at our charity and on our Board, and want to find the right candidates regardless of their specific areas of expertise or experience. So if you are interested in this role and think you can contribute to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
General attributes
Knowledge & experience
- An understanding of governance, and experience on a committee or board.
- Demonstrated ability to build and maintain partnerships with stakeholders, including donors, corporations and government agencies.
Skills & abilities
- Strategic thinking and the ability to contribute to long-term planning and vision to deliver impact.
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
- Entrepreneurial instincts and a healthy understanding of risk balanced with ambition using sound judgement.
Styles & behaviours
- High ethical standards and commitment to upholding the charity’s values, as well as a passion for advocating on behalf of individuals with, or at risk of, sight loss.
- Collaborative, highly inclusive, fostering trust and valuing difference perspectives.
- Solution-focused, with an ability to see the big picture and be pragmatic.
TERMS OF APPOINTMENT
Remuneration
This role is not accompanied by any financial remuneration, although reasonable expenses may be claimed.
Time commitment
While the exact time commitment may vary based on the charity’s needs and priorities, we anticipate the following general expectations:
- A minimum of four Board meetings per year
- Up to four subcommittee meetings per year (the specific committee depending on skills and experience)
- Preparation for meetings, review of materials, and other trustee engagement as appropriate.
- Annual Strategy Day with full Board and executive team.
- Meetings with members of the executive leadership team as appropriate.
- Representing the charity at high profile events, functions and public engagements to enhance its reputation and partnerships.
Location
At present Board meetings are held in central London. Subcommittee meetings are held remotely.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for people from all walks of life, ages and experience To represent, fundraise, promote and elevate the boroughs of Newham, Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Waltham Forest, East Bank and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
The Foundation for Future London is recruiting 3 unpaid roles: Finance Trustee and 2 Trustees to join the Board Ambassadors, a new voluntary role made up of East London’s most dedicated, passionate advocates
Debt Justice is looking for a Treasurer to support our board to meet our financial responsibilities. Debt Justice is a UK based campaigning organisation that challenges poverty and inequality caused by unjust debt. In solidarity with global allies, we actively challenge the way that debt is used to sustain colonialism and exploitation in the global economy. At the same time, we use a community organising approach to build the collective power of people with lived experience of debt in local communities across the UK. Our local groups bring people on the frontlines of economic injustice together to lead campaigns and win systemic change to tackle the household debt crisis.
As the Treasurer, you will play a key role in helping us fulfil our mission. You will also benefit from:
· Opportunities to make strategic decisions and develop new skills
· The chance to support an economic justice organisation campaigning in solidarity with people affected by debt in local communities and in the global south.
· Induction and training to help you in your role as Treasurer, including a nominated trustee-buddy to provide peer-support
We are committed to equity, justice, diversity and inclusion across our work and this includes taking measures to support your application and your ability to participate in board meetings, including but not limited to:
· Any travel or childcare costs reimbursed
· The option of joining board meetings remotely
· Discussing your accessibility needs and making reasonable adjustments as needed
Experience of being a Treasurer is not essential. We are looking for someone who has skills in financial management and there is no requirement of any knowledge of campaigning, advocacy or communications. If you are interested in becoming a Treasurer for the first time, we'd be happy to talk to you about what it involves to help you make up your mind.
We are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone regardless of background. We recognise that people face systemic oppression based on factors including their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age and disability and therefore we have a responsibility to centre anti-oppression in our work. We also recognise that people from certain backgrounds are under-represented in this sector and we are committed to addressing this in whatever way we can.
To express our commitment to achieving a more diverse board, we are aiming for 50% non-male board membership and 15% people of colour. We would particularly like to encourage applications from women and non-binary people, people of colour, people who identify as LGTBQIA, people with disabilities and/or chronic health conditions and people who identify as working class or have done in the past.
If you are not sure whether to apply, please get in touch and we would be more than happy to have a chat and answer any questions you may have.
Please view the recruitment pack for full details of the role.
To apply for the role please submit your CV with a letter of interest of no more than 2 pages, Your cover letter should demonstrate how you meet the requirements under the four headings in the person specification and confirm that you are eligible to act as a charity trustee.
Please send your CV and cover letter by 9am on Monday 29 April. Interviews will take place on zoom on Friday 10 May. We can provide funds for childcare if this is needed to enable candidates to attend an interview.
The Chair of Debt Justice’s Board is available to answer any questions about the role so please get in touch with us, we’d love to have a conversation with you.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Our system keeps your personal information hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
At Mid Norfolk Mencap we are passionate about supporting people with learning disabilities and their families. Enabling people to live independently, person-centred care is at the heart of what we do.
Our mission is to support and enable the people who use our services to lead fulfilling lives, to be involved in their local wider community, and to have access to the same opportunities as all members of society.
Mid Norfolk Mencap was established since 1977, and every year we provide residential living, social opportunities, and specialised Community Outreach support for more than 100 people with a learning disability in Norfolk. However, with around 16,500 adults in Norfolk with a learning disability, we know we can do so much more.
This is an exciting time for us as we work to grow and strengthen our services. As a trustee you will play a vital role in helping us deliver a stronger and more sustainable organisation for the benefit of our service users, their families, and for the staff who work to deliver those services.
Position: Trustee
Location: Trustee Board meetings and many of our charity’s activities take place in Dereham. In addition, some work may be required remotely using Zoom/ Teams, or in other parts of Norfolk from time to time.
Salary: This position is unpaid but reasonable expenses may be paid.
Responsibilities
This role is suited to candidates who can demonstrate professional or skills-based knowledge of benefit to the charity. We would particularly welcome applications from people with experience in the third sector, PR, fundraising, governance, risk management, management and law, and accountancy.
This job is for you if:
- You have a proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information.
- You are a keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge.
- You have a commitment to the charity, are approachable for our service users, and are enthused for its vision, mission and aims.
- You understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship.
- You are willing to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (c. 2 – 3 hours per week depending on your role and any specific responsibilities within the Board).
- You are willing to participate in frank and open discussion and can work effectively as a member of a team.
- You can analyse proposals and their consequences, have a good level of competence with IT.
- You are willing to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis.
Training
You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the senior management team. We also strongly encourage trustees to spend time participating in our services delivery, getting to know our staff and volunteers – and most importantly, our beneficiaries. We will customise a training and familiarisation package for the successful candidate based on prior knowledge and experience.
Our Recruitment Process
Excellence is important to us, and we know that being a trustee is a great commitment, so it has to be right for both the organisation and for you. Our recruitment process typically includes:
- Two interviews, providing the opportunity for you to meet with at least two existing trustees.
- An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap head office and residential home, meeting some of our service users and staff
- An informal meeting with a member of our senior management team
- Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concerns
Our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue. We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.
We look forward to meeting you!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Trustees - Field Studies Council
Thank you for your interest in being a charity trustee at Field Studies Council. We champion field studies in and beyond educational curricula. We encourage curiosity for the natural world. We practice and promote sustainability.
The Organisation:
We are an environmental education charity, best known for providing residential and day field trips for those studying biology and geography. But our mission is to create outstanding opportunities for everyone to learn about nature.
We have welcomed over 3.7 million visitors since we opened our first centre in 1946. In 2023 123,000 or so learners visited our centres: most were aged 25 and below and were in school or university groups. We (the Charity and its trading subsidiary) employ 325 or so people and in an accounting context have annual turnover in the range £15m to £20m.
The Role:
Who are we looking for?
You will bring diversity of thought and outlook, as well as new perspectives to the organisation. You will improve board decision making and outcomes for an increasing range of members of the public, especially children and young people.
To find out more about us, the role description and person specification please download the Candidate Information Pack.
Person Specification:
You may have had limited opportunity to explore nature, and you might be new to outdoor learning. And not every Trustee needs to be an academic, ecologist or environmentalist or have charity trustee, company director or equivalent experience. We are in particular looking for individuals who are able to bring their skills and expertise in the following areas:
• Hospitality and tourism
• The delivery of inner city projects for young people
• Strategic management and development of a property portfolio
How to Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this role, please ensure you provide:
• An up to date CV detailing your relevant experience and including the details of two referees (who will not be contacted without your prior consent).
• A supporting statement addressing the criteria in the person specification and your motivations for applying.
If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, alternatively please contact Melissa Baxter.
Closing date for applications: Monday 4th March 2024
Interviews with Field Studies Council: Week commencing 18th March 2024
We are committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and working inclusively across our organisation and to reflect this are keen to have a more diverse Board. Field Studies Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.
Join the team at Newcastle Rugby Foundation with some exciting trustee and committee opportunities now available for enthusiastic individuals.
Are you ready to be part of a team that’s making a real difference in our community?
Newcastle Rugby Foundation are offering two unique volunteer roles where your passion and expertise can help drive positive change. Whether you’re interested in guiding the charity’s strategic direction as a trustee or lending your marketing skills to support our mission through our marketing and commercial committee, we have a place for you.
Who are Newcastle Rugby Foundation?
Newcastle Rugby Foundation is the official charitable arm of Newcastle Falcons and Newcastle Thunder rugby teams. Our purpose is to make rugby the positive difference that changes lives for good.
Roles Available:
1. Trustee position (specialising in Education, health, or social inclusion): As a trustee, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the direction of our charity, influencing regional and national policy, and contributing to our mission of using rugby as a force for positive change. No trustee experience or formal qualifications are necessary; we provide training and support for the right individual who shares our values and vision.
2. Marketing and commercial committee member: As a member of the marketing and commercial committee, you will work closely with the committee chair, supporting the development and execution of our marketing strategy. This voluntary role is not a trustee position but offers a valuable opportunity to contribute your skills and expertise to a worthy cause.
What Newcastle Rugby Foundation Offers:
- A chance to make a tangible difference in our community.
- Training and support provided for both roles.
- Opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and grow both personally and professionally.
How do I apply?
A full job description for both roles, as well as how to apply can be found in the Trustee and Committee Recruitment Pack.
Applications close on Wednesday May 15.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Seeking Passionate Trustees to Drive Financial Equity
Are you ready to make a tangible impact in your community? Talking Money invites passionate individuals to join as Trustees, driving forward their mission to empower those facing financial hardship. As a Trustee, you’ll wield independent control and legal responsibility, shaping the strategic direction of the organisation and ensuring alignment with their core purpose.
About Talking Money:
Talking Money is a Bristol-based charity dedicated to empowering individuals facing financial hardship. With a focus on inclusivity and equity, they provide essential support and guidance to those in need, regardless of background or circumstance. Their mission is to alleviate financial stress and promote long-term stability by offering tailored advice, practical assistance, and advocacy services.
Driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to financial education and support, Talking Money delivers a range of programmes and initiatives designed to address diverse needs within the community.
The role:
We are looking for people who care about supporting local people in financial hardship and reducing inequality, who are willing to bring energy, enthusiasm, and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking and perspective on the board. Whether you bring expertise in housing, disability, mental health, or fundraising, your unique perspective would be invaluable to the Talking Money board.
We particularly welcome applications from people with direct or indirect (for example though a family member or friend) lived experience of the kinds of issues our clients face (e.g., poverty, financial hardship, over-indebtedness, homelessness).
Personal skills and qualities:
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
- Creative thinking and strategic acumen to drive organisational growth.
- Effective communication skills and a collaborative spirit.
- A strong alignment with our vision and mission.
Responsibilities:
As a trustee, you’ll play a pivotal role in:
- Overseeing organisational strategy and financial plans.
- Providing support and challenge to our executive team.
- Ensuring compliance with governing documents and legal obligations.
- Promoting and protecting the interests of Talking Money.
Time commitment and expenses:
- This is a voluntary position with reasonable expenses reimbursed.
- Minimum commitment of 17 hours per year, including board meetings and team events.
- Opportunities for professional development and training sessions
Terms of appointment:
- Initial 5-year term, with the possibility of renewal. Potential for progression to Chair of the Board.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in your community? Do you have expertise in finance and a desire to contribute to a cause that positively impacts lives? If the answer is yes, then this could be the perfect role for you!
STAMP Revisited is a small but ambitious charity, which provides advocacy and emotional support to those experiencing mental health difficulties. We support them to access vital services they need that they would not be able to access independently. We have already supported thousands of the most disadvantaged people to have their voice heard and respected.
We are currently recruiting a new Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. As a Trustee of STAMP Revisited, you will play a crucial role in setting the strategic direction of the charity and ensuring good governance. You will contribute to ensuring that the charity fulfils its mission, operates effectively, and remains accountable to those experiencing mental health issues.
In addition to the general duties as Trustee, as Treasurer you will play a pivotal role in securing the financial integrity and sustainability of our charity. You will ensure that effective and appropriate financial measures are put in place and report to the Board at regular intervals about the financial health of the organisation.
If you are interested in finding out more about being a Treasurer and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Background
Thyroid UK is a charitable company working primarily within the United Kingdom. Formed in 1998, we became a company limited by guarantee in 2007 and in 2008 we became a registered charity.
The provision of quality information for people with both diagnosed and undiagnosed thyroid disorders is the primary concern of Thyroid UK, and we work effectively in this field through dialogue with NHS departments, networking with other voluntary organisations, and providing services directly to patients.
We are a small charity, with just three permanent employees, plus contract staff, but we have a wide influence, and provide a great deal of support to our beneficiaries, within the UK and abroad. The charity’s annual income in 2023 was £96,900.54 , with the majority of that income being spent on both running the charity and conducting campaigns and activities to support our beneficiaries.
The Thyroid UK Board of Trustees is a diverse group of 7 individuals, including the CEO, a Chairperson, Deputy Chair and Treasurer. Our board members have a collective responsibility. This means that our trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.
Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Thyroid UK achieves its objectives. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Thyroid UK has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support the executive team to enable Thyroid UK to grow, thrive and achieve its mission.
Role
We are looking for a trustee who will support and provide advice on Thyroid UK’s purpose, vision, goals and activities. Their duties include:
· Approve operational strategies & policies and monitor/evaluate their implementation.
· Review/approve Thyroid UK’s financial plans, statements and budgets, and evaluate progress.
· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.
· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.
· Support Thyroid UK’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.
· Hold the chief executive to account for the effective management and delivery of the organisation’s strategic aims and objectives, where appropriate
· Keep abreast of changes in Thyroid UK’s operating environment.
· Contribute to regular reviews of Thyroid UK’s own governance. Attend board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.
· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect Thyroid UK’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.
· Contribute to the broader promotion of Thyroid UK’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.
As a small charity, there will be times when the trustees will need to be actively involved beyond board meetings. This may involve scrutinising board papers, leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, presenting externally, or other issues in which the trustee has special expertise.
Time requirement
The role will require a time commitment of an average of 1 to 2 days per month, with more time required in some months than others. This includes three planned board meetings of approximately 3 hours (two held online and one held in London with the option to join remotely, if needed) and the Thyroid UK AGM.
Term of office
The term of a thyroid UK trustee is two years, following which the Trustees may re-elect the position for a further one or two term(s).
Remuneration
Thyroid UK is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation. Trustee roles are not remunerated. However, reasonable expenses for travel can be paid for those not living in London.
Key Responsibilities
We are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.
Personal skills and qualities
· Willingness and ability to understand and accept responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
· Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member.
· Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.
· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.
· Willingness to lead according to our values.
Apply by sending us your CV and application form with a short covering letter
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Can you spare a few hours a month to support STAMP Revisited, a local mental health charity?
We are, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), which has provided advocacy services for the people of Teesside for almost 30 years, and we are currently looking for new Trustees to join our Board.
Our advocates provide advocacy to adults who are experiencing mental health difficulties that impact on their ability to make their voice heard and are unable to independently navigate personal issues such as aspects of their health, finances, or housing needs.
Trustees are essential to the success of a charity, and the Board is the charity’s governing body. Trustees are responsible for ensuring the charity meets its objectives and are responsible for its general administration and control of the charity.
If you are interested in finding out more about being a Trustee and sitting on our Board, we would love to hear from you. Our Board welcomes people from diverse backgrounds, aged 18 or over with a wide range of skills. We are keen to welcome people who have personal experience of mental health challenges, including service users and carers.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Could you be an Action for M.E. Trustee?
Are you impatient for change, passionate and have time to spare to make a positive impact? Around 1.3 million children and adults in the UK with M.E. and M.E.-like symptoms following Covid-19 urgently need people like you.
Action for M.E. is the only UK charity support children and adults with M.E., through information, support, advocacy and healthcare services while working to secure change for the future. Over half of our Board of Trustees have direct experience of M.E.
We are a small organisation that regularly punches above its weight, working on a national and international scale and are delighted to be working with staff, volunteers and our Board of Trustees team who are passionate, dedicated and determined. We have high aspirations and ambitions and believe that Action for M.E. can, and will, make a major contribution to creating the change that is so desperately needed.
As a Trustee, you will play a crucial role in guiding Action for M.E. to deliver critical services to meet present needs, while working to secure change for the future.
You will work as part of a dynamic Board of Trustees, helping to shape the strategic direction of the charity, bring fresh ideas and perspectives, ensure effective governance and financial stewardship and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
We're looking for up to three individuals, from diverse backgrounds and experiences. We have a particular need for those who bring skills in either one or more of the following areas: research, science, local/national government, policy/advocacy and communications. These will complement the skills we currently have on the Board.
Are you committed to making a difference? Do you want to accelerate change? If you are ready to contribute your time and expertise to this worthwhile cause, we want to hear from you.
Join us in our mission to transform lives. Become our Charity Trustee today!
Please review the application pack attached for further instructions on how to apply to become our next Action for M.E. trustee.
We are a Disability Confident employer and welcome any reasonable adjustment requests required to take part in this recruitment process.
The closing date for applications is 30 April 2024, with interviews happening on a rolling basis.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.