Peer support volunteer volunteer roles

About Us

Now in our 30th year, The Eikon Charity supports children and young people across Surrey to feel and be safe, heard, and supported.

Growing up in today’s world can be incredibly challenging. That’s why we empower children and young people to find the inner and outer resources they need – skills, knowledge and resilience – as they develop and navigate life. 

So, we create spaces for them where they can be themselves and talk about their thoughts and feelings. They understand better than anyone what’s happening in their own lives, so we listen, without judging. 

Background to the role

At Eikon we are poised to deliver an increase in our vital, evidence-based services across Surrey and the South-East, as well as to share our model of success and influence children and young people’s services across the UK. We know, and others know, that what we do has an impact on our children and young people who, tragically, need more of everything we offer as their challenges increase.

We are now looking for passion, commitment and bold leadership from our new Chair. You will have had a senior career in the public, private or voluntary sector, you’ll have grown an organisation sustainably, leading with vision and courage, and engaging and influencing stakeholders internally and externally. You will be entrepreneurial and forward-focused with ambition to effect the change that you will believe in as wholeheartedly as we do. You will lead the Board in a way that ensures we remain relevant and fit for purpose for our next season of growth and impact, while also retaining our resilience and sustainability. You will ensure our CEO and senior leadership team are empowered to lead as effectively as possible in an increasingly complex and challenging environment. 

Qualities we’re looking for:

• Visionary leadership: demonstrates bold, strategic thinking and the ability to inspire and guide the Board and executive team toward long-term sustainable growth
• Commitment to mission: passion for the charity’s purpose and a deep understanding of its social impact
• Influencing & advocacy: skilled in representing the charity externally, influencing key stakeholders, and acting as an ambassador for its work
• Integrity & diplomacy: exercises sound judgment, tact, and discretion in complex and sensitive situations
• Inclusivity & collaboration: fosters a collaborative and inclusive Board culture, encouraging diverse perspectives and constructive challenge

What your day to day in this role will look like:

You’ll show bold and strategic leadership and build a good relationship with our CEO, along with the rest of our leadership team. Efficiency and effectiveness will be key in this governance role, as well as maintaining external relations.

How to Apply:

Eastside People is supporting The Eikon Charity in the recruitment of this role. Please click here to apply by submitting your CV and a cover letter both in Word doc format.

Please use the cover letter (max 2 pages) as an opportunity to add to the information you have shared in your CV and ensure that you cover the following: 

○       Why are you interested in the Chair role at Eikon? 

○       Having read the information pack and understanding who we’re looking for, what relevant experience, skills and personal qualities would you bring to this role? 

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability and potential. If you have a disability or require reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process, please contact us so we can support you appropriately.

The closing date for applications is 27 October. Shortlisting interviews will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with the panel at Eikon during the week beginning 3 or 10 November.

Enjoy a good book?

Passionate about the role which literature plays in our lives? 

Interested in using your skills to support Scottish literature in Edinburgh and internationally?

Excited by the prospect of working with the Board and Executive to shape our strategic direction?

Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature Trust is looking for two or three individuals to join the Board of Trustees of the world’s first City of Literature as we look to our future after our 20th anniversary.  

You will be joining an organisation at the heart of Edinburgh’s literary community and an international network of UNESCO Cities of Literature. Literary cities are granted the designation if they can boast a proud creative tradition and demonstrate a commitment to placing stories, literature and reading at the heart of civic life.

If you have experience, knowledge, or interest in the following, please get in touch:

· Financial management (including willingness to take on a leadership role as Chair of our Finance, Audit and Risk Committee)

· Accountancy skills

· Publishing

· Bookselling

· Tourism

Any additional experience in the following areas would also be welcomed:

• HR
• Marketing
• Technology
• Governance

We welcome applications from across all ages, communities and backgrounds. We encourage applications from under-represented groups.

The new appointments will be for an initial period of up to three years. The posts are not remunerated but some expenses are covered as per our Board Members’ Expenses Policy.

Time Commitment:

The Board of Trustees meets five times each year.

Meetings are generally 6 -8pm on Mondays in Edinburgh and in a hybrid format

The Finance, Audit and Risk Committee meets quarterly ahead of Board meetings.

There is an annual half-day board planning session.

Outwith Board meetings, there are individual meetings as required and the opportunity to attend events of interest in the sector.

The overall time commitment for the role is estimated at 8 -10 hours per month.

Application Information

Our Trustee Information Pack contains information about the role, requirements and the application process.

To apply please submit your CV and a covering letter (no more than two sides of A4) outlining why this position is of interest and what you believe you can offer.

If you have any questions or you would like an informal chat, please do get in touch with our Director, Dr Harriet MacMillan.

We are looking for passionate people to join our Trustee team and contribute their skills to the development of our highly ambitious, industry-leading organisation.

First and foremost, we’re looking for people who are passionate about equal access to music and live events, and who will fully get behind Attitude is Everything’s Vision and Mission. We have a vision for accessible employment; that disabled people can have a career in the music and live event industries.

We want our Board to be representative of the communities that it serves, so we’re particularly interested in people who identify as disabled, deaf and/or neurodivergent and who are from diverse backgrounds, including from lower socio-economic backgrounds and from regions outside of London.  We are particularly interested in hearing from senior leaders in the music industry, those with strong knowledge and experience of the fundraising landscape and individuals with policy experience.

INTRODUCTION
Thank you for your interest in joining the Board of Trustees at The Diana Award. We are expanding our Board to help shape the future of a charity that exists to celebrate and empower young people making positive change in their communities.

As we mark 25 years of continuing Princess Diana’s legacy, we stand at a pivotal moment. Our newly refreshed strategy and global partnerships demand an ambitious, dynamic, and forward-thinking Board – one that reflects both our values and the communities we serve.

We are seeking to appoint:

• Four new Trustees
• With one Trustee to serve as Chair of our new Income Generation sub-committee

A few words from the Chair

“This is a pivotal and exciting time for our charity. We have a clear vision, an ambitious strategy for growth, and the support of a skilled and dedicated senior team and Board.

Since stepping into the role of Chair last year, I’ve been continually inspired by the passion, expertise, and commitment of our trustees and staff. Their collective experience has been invaluable as we navigate the evolving challenges facing the sector.

While the external environment remains complex for all charities, we are focused on the future – confident in our direction and energised by the opportunities ahead. We are now seeking new trustees to join us on this journey and help shape the next chapter of our work.” - Rebecca Crook

ABOUT THE DIANA AWARD

The Diana Award is a charity legacy to Diana, Princess of Wales’ belief that young people have the power to change the world for the better. Since 1999, over 47,000 young people have been recognised with The Diana Award for making an outstanding difference in their communities’ across the globe.

With the support of HRH Prince William, The Duke of Cambridge and HRH Prince Harry, The Diana Award aims to inspire and recognise social action in young people by going beyond its original Awards programme with three additional youth led initiatives that emphasize a peer led approach.

We exist to:

1. UNLOCK POTENTIAL

With support, guidance, and opportunities, every young person can reach their full potential, ensuring no young person is left out or left behind.

2. CREATE OPPORTUNITIES

It is vital that young people have a seat at the table. Through our initiatives, we will provide them with skills, tools, and experiences which empower them to lead the change they want to see, both for themselves and the world around them.

3. INSPIRE ACTION

We will continue to inspire, empower, and advocate for action through our initiatives, guided by young people and the change they want to see in the world.

WHY WE ARE RECRUITING

Our Board of Trustees is committed, diverse, and values led. We have strong foundations in strategic leadership and finance. However, a recent skills audit highlighted areas we now wish to strengthen as we continue to evolve.

We are therefore seeking up to four Trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Fundraising and Income Generation
• Mental Health and Wellbeing 
• Education Sector
• Social Sustainability 
• Marketing, PR, or Communications
• Legal and Compliance

We are particularly keen to hear from diverse leaders and individuals with lived experience related to our mission. 

Please note: All applications must have the right to volunteer as a trustee in the UK. As part of our safeguarding commitments, all trustee appointments are voluntary and subject to a UK Enhanced DBS check, which must be satisfactorily completed before confirmation of the role.

THE ROLE OF A TRUSTEE

As a Trustee, you will be part of a Board that sets the strategic direction and ensures robust governance of the charity. You will work in partnership with the Chief Executive and Senior Leadership Team to oversee the delivery of our objectives and safeguard the charity’s future. Training and support will be provided for all new trustees.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Trustees are expected to:

• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission regulations and governance best practice
• Uphold the charity’s vision, values, and legal and financial integrity
• Provide strategic oversight and challenge to plans, budgets and risks
• Support income generation through networking, advocacy or fundraising
• Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s work
• Attend and contribute to Board and sub-committee meetings

COMMITMENT

• A three-year term, renewable once

• About of 2 hours per month, which breaks down as:
  • Four board meetings per year (2.5 hours each, usually 5pm–7.30pm)
  • One full-day annual strategy session
  • Optional participation in events or subcommittees

• Meetings are hybrid (London-based with virtual access)

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR - PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES

• Passionate about The Diana Award’s mission and youth empowerment

• Understand the importance of youth voice participation

• Strategic thinker with good judgement and independence of mind

• Inclusive communicator who values diverse perspectives

• Willing to contribute time, expertise, and networks

• Understanding of governance, or willingness to learn quickly

• Commitment to safeguarding practices

DESIRABLE SKILLS/EXPERIENCE

One or more of the following:

• Fundraising and Income Generation - In an increasingly competitive and uncertain funding environment, we need trustees who can help us think creatively and strategically about income generation. This includes drawing on networks, identifying new opportunities, and supporting innovative fundraising approaches that will strengthen our financial resilience and enable us to deliver long-term impact for young people. We are also looking for a new Trustee to chair our new Income Generation sub-committee.
• Mental Health & Wellbeing - With youth mental health at a critical point, we seek trustees with expertise from educational, therapeutic, or public health settings to guide evidence-based strategies that help young people thrive.
• Education Sector - As our work is deeply rooted in schools and learning environments, we value trustees with knowledge of the education sector. Your insight will help us navigate its priorities and challenges, forge strong partnerships, and ensure our programmes complement and enhance the role of education in young people’s lives.
• Social Sustainability - We are seeking trustees who understand how to build inclusive cultures, systems, and communities. Your expertise will help us embed equity and belonging across our organisation, partnerships, and programmes, ensuring every young person feels seen, valued, and able to thrive.
• Marketing, PR, or Communications - We need trustees with senior-level experience in communications, marketing, or public/government relations to help amplify our voice, strengthen our brand, and influence key audiences. Your skills will ensure our message resonates with supporters, partners, and decision-makers.
• Legal and Compliance - Robust governance is critical to maintaining the trust of our stakeholders and the integrity of our work. We are seeking trustees with expertise in legal and compliance matters to help us navigate an evolving regulatory landscape, manage risk effectively, and ensure our policies and practices meet the highest standards.

GOVERNANCE

The Board is chaired by Rebecca Crook and supported by a strong leadership team including CEO Dr Tessy Ojo CBE. The Nominations Committee, a sub-committee of the Board, leads the trustee recruitment process. We are committed to inclusive recruitment and welcome candidates from all backgrounds. In particular, we welcome and encourage applications from young people, and those from black, Asian and global majority backgrounds.

You can see more information about the Nominations Committees governance structure and terms of reference at the end.

RESOURCES

If you’re new to being a trustee, you may find the following resources helpful in understanding the role and responsibilities:

Charity Commission (UK): The Essential Trustee Guide

Young Trustee Movement

Getting On Board - Resources for aspiring trustees

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please email:

1. Your CV (including contact details for two referees)

2. A Supporting Statement (no more than two pages), outlining:

o The skills and experience you bring in relation to the list of desirable criteria

o How your skills and expertise align with the needs of our Board at this time

o If you wish to be considered for the role of Chair of the Income Generation Subcommittee, please outline your relevant experience and how it would support this area of our work

o Your motivation for becoming a Trustee of The Diana Award and the contribution you hope to make to our mission

Email Subject line: Trustee Application – Your Name

Please submit your applications by Friday 26 September 2025 at 5.00pm

PROPOSED TIMELINES

Application Milestones

Dates

• Trustee Recruitment Launch: Week commencing 1st September
• Deadline for Applications: Friday 26th September, 5:00pm
• Interviews Conducted: Thursday 9th & Friday 10th October
• Induction Begins: November
• Trustees Officially Begin: November/December

INTERVIEW PROCESS

Youth Panel Interview (Online) 30 minutes - You will meet with members of our Youth Panel. This will include structured questions and a 5-minute presentation about yourself, focusing on your background, motivations for applying, and what you hope to bring to the trustee role

Nominations Committee Interview (Online)  45 minutes - You will also meet with our Nominations Committee. This will involve structured interview questions focusing on your skills, experience, and alignment with our organisational values and strategic priorities

FUTURE BOARD MEETINGS

Dates

• 21st November 2025 - Strategy Day
• 12th February 2026, 5-7pm
• 7th May 2026, 5-7pm
• 10th September 2026, 5-7pm
• 26th November 2026 - Strategy Day

FINAL THOUGHTS

This is an exciting time to join The Diana Award. As we enter a new chapter, we are looking for bold, compassionate and future-facing leaders to help us shape our journey. We hope you are inspired to join us in empowering young people across the UK and the world.

We look forward to hearing from you.

APPENDIX

Purpose: The primary purpose of the Nominations Committee is to identify, evaluate, and recommend candidates for appointment as Trustees of The Diana Award. This committee ensures that the Board has the appropriate mix of skills, expertise, and diversity to effectively govern the organisation and fulfil its mission.

Membership: The Chair of the Nominations Committee (a Trustee) A minimum of two other Trustees CEO (ex officio member) Any additional members as deemed necessary (e.g., board secretary or HR support)

Frequency of Meetings: The committee will meet as required, typically monthly, and more frequently when necessary for the recruitment process 

Key Responsibilities:

• Review the current composition of the Board of Trustees to identify gaps in skills and diversity
• Develop a recruitment strategy that aligns with the strategic direction of The Diana Award
• Source and evaluate potential Trustee candidates
• Conduct interviews and assessments of candidates’ skills, expertise, and commitment to the mission
• Provide recommendations for new Trustee appointments to the full Board
• Ensure that diversity and inclusivity are considered in all recruitment activities
• Ensure compliance with legal and governance requirements related to Trustee recruitment
• Onboard new Trustees and ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities

Reporting Structure: The Nominations Committee reports to the Board of Trustees, providing recommendations for Trustee appointments