Policy and advocacy volunteer volunteer roles

Are you a spreadsheet whizz? Do you have a good understanding of financial procedures and accounting practices? If so, please apply to be our next trustee. It’s an exciting time to join us. We registered as a charity in 2023 and are now really focussing on building our fundraising profile and developing our next 3-year strategy.

Overall:

Be committed to the organisation and its work, to act with integrity and selflessness, and to be open, honest and accountable at all times. To understand and accept the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. Be willing to devote the necessary time and efforts to duties as a trustee and as a member of the organisation.

Duties & Tasks:

• To ensure that the organisation complies with and functions within the legal and financial requirements of its constitution, Memorandum and Articles of Association, and any other relevant legislation and regulations.
• To ensure that the organisation pursues objects as defined by its constitution and within aims, policies and procedures agreed by the Board of Trustees.
• With the other trustees to formulate and review the strategic aims and direction of the organisation.
• To promote the organisation and act always in its best interests. To safeguard the good name and values of the organisation and always strive to achieve best practice and the highest standards.

Formulating strategic aims

• Consider the organisation as a whole and its members, in the context of both national and local policies, priorities and political influences.
• Reflect the organisation’s vision and principles, strategy and policies at all times and particularly when developing the strategic and annual plan.
• Contribute specific strategic skills, interests and/or contacts
• Contribute to plans to positively promote the organisation to individuals, organisations and a wider audience e.g. potential members. 
• Support the organisation in all its activities in conjunction with the Chief Executive.

Ensuring policies and practices are in keeping with aims and objectives.

• Ensure that the organisation applies its resources in furtherance of its objects and manages its funds properly.
• Follow the organisations policies and procedures at all times, particularly when exercising the functions of the Board of Trustees.
• Contribute actively to and regularly attend meetings of the Board.

Ensuring best practice and highest standards.

• Be an active member of the Board of Trustees in exercising its responsibilities and functions.
• Support and maintain good relations with all staff; members, volunteers and other Board of Trustees.
• Take part in training sessions provided for the benefit of the Board Trustees.
• Fulfil such other duties and assignments as may be required from time to time by the Board of Trustees.
• Use your best judgment, knowledge, skills and experience to help the organisation and Board of Trustees to make sound decisions and be effective.
• To maintain a strategic view of the organisation and role as a trustee to support the Chief Executive in delivering the business plan and strategy.
• Should the trustee also take on an additional volunteer role for the organisation, to be clear on how the two roles are separate.
• To direct enquiries regarding advice, support or advocacy required into the staff team who can ensure that the person is directed to or referred into the appropriate service. 
• To not raise complaints on behalf of the Coalition without the express agreement of both the Co-Chair’s and the Chief Executive. 

In addition to the trustee requirements, the treasurer usually takes the lead at board level on:

• making sure the charity keeps proper accounts
• reviewing the charity’s financial performance
• drawing up or reviewing policies for finance and investment
• ensuring that the charity has robust and effective financial controls in place
• liaising with finance staff and with the charity’s independent examiner or auditor
• reporting on financial matters to the members

Mencap New Forest is seeking a Chair of Trustees to lead our Board, drive our vision, and champion people with learning disabilities. This is your chance to make a lasting impact on our community.

What will you be doing?

Role Summary

Our Board of Trustees work to improve the lives of people with a learning disability, exercising good governance and following all necessary policies and procedures. 

The Chair of Trustees will:

• Provide leadership and direction to the board of Trustees and enable the Board to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of the organisation. 
• Ensure that the organisation pursues its objects as defined in its governing document, charity law, company law and other relevant legislation/regulations. 
• Work in partnership with the chief executive, senior staff members and support the employees, helping them achieve the aims of the organisation; and to optimise the relationship between the Board of Trustees and the staff. 
• Facilitate the Board of Trustees in stimulating well-rounded and carefully considered strategic decision-making.

What are we looking for?

Person Specification

As an organisation we are particularly keen to ensure that our Trustees are fully representative of the community in which we work and we would warmly welcome applications from people with a diverse range of background, ethnicity, gender, culture and physical ability. 

Essential

• Commitment to the charity’s objects, aims and values and willingness to devote time to carry out responsibilities. 
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship and adhering to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. 
• Strategic and forward looking vision in relation to the charity’s objects and aims. 
• Good, independent judgement, political impartiality and the ability to think creatively in the context of the organisation and external environment. Good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to respect the confidences of colleagues. 
• Balancing tact and diplomacy with willingness to challenge and constructively criticise. 

 Desirable

• Leadership skills exercised through a period change
• Experience of chairing meetings, committee work, some experience of charity fundraising

What difference will you make?

As Chair of Trustees, you will have a profound impact on the future of New Forest Mencap. Your leadership will help us continue and expand our vital services, from social clubs and life skills workshops to advocacy and employability support. By shaping our strategy and ensuring strong governance, you will enable us to reach more people with learning disabilities, empower their families, and build a more inclusive community.

Time commitment

Trustee appointments will initially be for a term of 3 years which may be extended to a second term, or more. The Board of Trustees currently meets monthly in New Milton. We aim to meet for 2 hours, although recent increased activity has tended to extend the time to 3 hours. *The Board recognizes that it would be better to move to a bi-monthly or quarterly schedule, and would like to do so in future. Trustees receive Committee meeting papers a week before the meeting to enable them to prepare for the meeting.

5 x Trustee Position including one Treasurer Role

 3ST (Third Sector Together) North West London Voluntary and Community Sector Alliance

About Us

3ST is the alliance of the voluntary and community sector across North West London's Integrated Care Board (ICB) region. We support the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector in influencing and engaging with our health system while supporting the delivery of meaningful services. Our mission is to increase the VCSE sector's contribution to addressing health inequalities, improving service quality, and supporting healthier lives across North West London.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an experienced professional to join our Board of Trustees, bringing expertise in one or more of the following areas:

• Financial Management and Accounting

• Procurement and Contract Management

• Human Resources

• Corporate Governance

Key Responsibilities

1. Governance

· Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.

· Safeguard the charity’s reputation, values, and mission.

· Ensure compliance with the Charity Commission’s regulations, the charity’s governing document, and relevant UK laws.

· Support the development and monitoring of organisational policies and procedures

2. Strategic Oversight

· Contribute to the strategic direction of 3ST, ensuring alignment with our mission and values

· Monitor the implementation and effectiveness of agreed strategies and objectives.

· Guide the development of procurement and contract management processes

3. Financial Management

· Approve budgets and ensure proper financial oversight, including adherence to charity accounting standards.

· Ensure the charity has sufficient resources to operate sustainably and responsibly.

· Assess and manage financial risks appropriately.

4. Risk Management

· Identify and evaluate potential risks, ensuring appropriate measures are in place to mitigate them.

· Maintain safeguarding practices to protect beneficiaries, staff, and the reputation of the charity.

5. Legal Compliance

· Ensure the charity meets its legal and regulatory requirements, including filing annual returns and accounts.

· Ensure adherence to data protection and equality legislation.

6. Advocacy and Representation

· Act as an ambassador for the charity, fostering positive relationships with key stakeholders and partners

· Uphold and actively promote the charity’s values and aims.

· Support the Alliance's representation and influencing work across the health system

· Champion the role of the VCSE sector in addressing health inequalities

________________________________________

Person Specification

Essential Experience and Skills

· Senior-level experience in either finance, procurement, or governance within the public, private, or voluntary sector

· Understanding of charity governance and trustee responsibilities

· Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities

· Experience in strategic planning and risk management

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

· An understanding of or connection with North West London.

Desirable Experience

· Knowledge of the health and social care landscape in North West London

· Understanding of integrated care systems and NHS structures

· Previous board or trustee experience

Personal Qualities

· Commitment to reducing health inequalities and improving community wellbeing

· Strong ethical principles and commitment to public service

· Ability to work collaboratively as part of a diverse board

· Strategic thinking and ability to analyse complex information

Time Commitment

· Board meetings bi-monthly (6 per year)

· Annual Board Strategy Away Day

· Additional time for document review and strategic planning sessions

Remuneration

This is a voluntary position. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed according to our trustee expenses policy.

The Role

As a Flyer Distributor you will play a crucial role in helping to raise awareness about our services and events within the Enfield community. You will be responsible for disseminating promotional materials such as flyers, brochures, and event announcements to various locations within the Enfield area.

• Distribute promotional materials provided by Age UK Enfield to designated locations across the Enfield area. This may include community centers, libraries, local businesses, healthcare facilities, and other relevant locations.
• Engage with members of the public in a friendly and courteous manner while distributing flyers. Answer any questions they may have about Age UK Enfield's services and provide basic information about upcoming events or initiatives.
• Keep accurate records of the locations visited and the quantity of promotional materials distributed. Report back to the supervisor on to provide updates on distribution progress.
• Act as an ambassador for Age UK Enfield by promoting the organisation's mission, values, and services to the community. Help to increase brand recognition and visibility within the local area.

General Key Skills:

• Ability to work independently without constant supervision.
• Comfortable with walking and standing for long periods in various weather conditions.
• Maintaining professionalism and addressing public inquiries effectively.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality, with a strong sense of responsibility.

Time Commitment

2-4 hours Between 10 am - 2 pm (there are other volunteer opportunities available)

Requirements

A DBS Enhanced check will be required. Training to be provided around safeguarding.

Other Information

Please note: It is a unpaid position however travel costs and other volunteering expenses will be covered.

Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality Trustee - Focus Birmingham

Role Overview
Focus Birmingham is seeking a dedicated Trustee specialising in Care Quality, CQC Governance, and Service Quality to help drive the delivery of outstanding, person-centred care across our services. In this crucial role, you will work closely with the Board to ensure that the charity not only meets but exceeds regulatory standards, with a particular focus on compliance with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) framework. Your expertise will support the Board in overseeing the quality and safety of our services, championing continuous improvement and innovation.

This is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the strategic direction of Focus Birmingham, ensuring the highest standards of care for people with disabilities and support needs.
 

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic oversight and guidance on care quality, safety, and service effectiveness, ensuring that Focus Birmingham meets all CQC requirements.
• Support the organisation in achieving and maintaining high ratings in CQC inspections by contributing expertise in governance, compliance, and quality improvement.
• Scrutinise and challenge policies, procedures, and performance data to ensure the highest standards of care and safeguarding.
• Promote a person-centred approach, ensuring that the voices of the people who use our services are central to decision-making.
• Work with senior leadership and operational teams to identify risks and opportunities related to care delivery and service development.
• Oversee Focus Birmingham’s Safeguarding practices, ensuring robust safeguarding policies and procedures are in place, adhered to, and reviewed to protect vulnerable individuals.
• Support the development of a culture of continuous improvement and innovation in care services.
• Ensure the Board is well-informed about emerging trends, best practices, and regulatory changes in the health and social care sector.
• Act as an ambassador for Focus Birmingham, advocating for high-quality, inclusive, and accessible services for people with disabilities.

What Difference You Will Make
By bringing your expertise in care quality governance and regulatory compliance, you will:

• Help safeguard the well-being of those who rely on our services, ensuring they receive safe, high-quality care.
• Strengthen Focus Birmingham’s ability to meet and exceed CQC standards, leading to improved inspection ratings and public confidence.
• Influence strategic decision-making to ensure care quality remains at the heart of the organisation.
• Support our teams in embedding a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
• Ensure the voices of the people we support are heard, respected, and reflected in how we shape and deliver care.

What You Will Achieve
As a Trustee, you will contribute to:

• A robust governance framework that supports outstanding care provision.
• Improved service outcomes and positive experiences for individuals supported by Focus Birmingham.
• A confident, well-informed Board that prioritises care quality in strategic planning.
• A proactive approach to regulatory compliance, reducing risks, and enhancing our reputation.
• The growth and development of innovative, person-centred services that empower people with disabilities to live life to the fullest.

Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for an individual with expertise in health and social care governance, particularly in relation to CQC compliance, service quality, safeguarding, and person-centred care. Ideal candidates will have:

• Strategic-level experience working in or alongside CQC-regulated services such as social care, healthcare, or disability services.
• Knowledge of best practices in care quality, safeguarding, and risk management.
• A strong understanding of governance and supporting services.
• The ability to provide constructive challenge and strategic insight to ensure continuous improvement.
• A commitment to our values and mission, with a passion for empowering people with disabilities.
• A team player, willing to work collaboratively with other trustees and staff to achieve our strategic vision.
• The ability to think strategically, analyse complex issues, and develop creative solutions.
• Availability to attend Board meetings (4 per year), committee meetings (4 per year), other meetings, and engage with individuals with disabilities on an ongoing basis.
• A strong commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities and promoting their active participation in decision-making.
• The ability to understand and empathise with the diverse needs and perspectives of adults with care and support needs.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for facilitating engagement and collaboration.

This is a voluntary role, but the impact you will make is invaluable. If you are passionate about driving excellence in care and safeguarding, we would love to hear from you.

To Apply
Please submit a complete application form via CharityJob.

Closing Date for Applications: 11th May 2025

We look forward to receiving your application and welcoming a new Trustee to our team!

We’re currently seeking a new Chair of trustees, and three additional trustees to complete our board and help us lead the charity over our next phase of development. We would be especially interested to hear from applicants with experience of managing change, as the local government reorganisation currently underway is likely to impact us.

Chair

As our Chair, you’ll have excellent communication skills with great leadership qualities, strategic and analytical skills, be able to deliver the vision of the charity, help us to ‘live’ our values, and bring people together. Previous experience of being a Chair is essential and experience of the voluntary sector desirable and we welcome applications from anyone who feels they have the skills to fulfil the role.

Trustees

We’re also looking for three additional trustees to join our board. We want our board to have a diverse range of experiences and backgrounds, so if you think you’re not a typical trustee, then you might be just what we’re looking for! You don’t need to have had experience of Citizens Advice, or of being a Trustee – just a commitment and enthusiasm to help us shape the work and strategic direction of our forward-thinking charity.

Becoming a Trustee will give you the opportunity to gain experience in leadership, governance and strategy and is a great way to give something back to your local community – some employers may even give you time off to volunteer for a local charity.

Citizens Advice Winchester District provides free advice to over 5,000 local people each year, many of whom are in desperate or challenging situations and have nowhere else to turn.

We are looking to recruit a trustee with Fundraising expertise to join Social Links, a new charity in the homelessness sector. Social Links delivers safe, structured befriending, where volunteers are carefully matched to deliver one-to-one befriending.

The successful applicant will join a Board currently comprising three trustees. In addition to this role, we will shortly be recruiting a trustee with communications specific responsibilities.

Key Objectives:

· Along with the rest of the Board, take responsibility for governance of the organisation.

· Ensure that all of Social Links’ activities further the interests of our beneficiaries and the future sustainability of the charity.

· Support the founders to achieve the aims and strategy of the organisation.

· Ensure that effective, productive relationships exist between the Board, all partners and all stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

· Attend meetings of the Board and, in conjunction with other members, make decisions on matters relating to strategy, policy, financing, functioning and monitoring of the charity.

· Read thoroughly in advance of meetings all papers sent out for discussion and prepare ideas and contributions accordingly.

· Participate in the work of any specialist panels and working groups of the Board and other identified projects/activities, subject to your own availability and nomination by the Board.

· Take an active interest in and familiarise yourself with Social Links’ day-to-day operations.

· Participate in recruitment for the posts of Trustee and Volunteer, including taking part in interview panels.

· Be prepared to use your range of contacts and acquaintances to promote the work of the charity. On occasion this may, subject to agreement, involve representing the charity at public or media events, or leading on an aspect of fundraising.

· Ongoing support of, and liaison with, the founders.

· Participate in arrangements for assessment and appraisal of the performance of the Board, and that of individual trustees and founders.

· If necessary, conduct hearings in accordance with Social Links’ formal procedures, e.g. disciplinary, grievance and appeal hearings.

· Follow Social Links’ Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Policy and Code of Conduct at all times. Further diversity, equality and inclusion through your activities on behalf of the charity.

· Undertake any development activity identified as necessary to support performance in the carrying out of the above responsibilities (any training to be arranged by the charity staff and paid for by Social Links’).

Fundraising Specific Responsibilities:

· Strategy Development: Lead with the creation and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy, aligned with the charity’s goals.

· Fundraising Campaigns: Oversee and contribute to the planning, execution, and evaluation of fundraising campaigns, including events, online appeals, and grant applications.

· Donor Engagement: Identify and cultivate relationships with donors, partners, grant-making bodies and other key stakeholders.

· Governance: Provide oversight on fundraising activities, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, including GDPR.

· Financial Oversight: Monitor fundraising performance, including setting and reviewing budgets and targets, and reporting to the board on progress.

· Innovation: Identify and develop new and innovative fundraising initiatives to diversify income streams. Lead with recruiting a fundraising volunteer/s.

· Advocacy: Represent The charity’ at external events and in networks to raise awareness of the charity’s work and attract funding.

Our ambition is to continue to develop outstanding services that meet the needs of our community; if you want to be part of our future, we would love to meet you to discuss this further.

Becoming a trustee for Home-Start Southwark (HSS) is an exciting and fulfilling role. The role of a trustee is to ensure that HSS fulfils its duty to its beneficiaries through contributing to the strategic development, effective governance and financial management of the organisation. The board of trustees are both jointly and individually responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of HSS, its financial health, the integrity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals.

We are particularly interested in receiving applications from people with the following skillsets:

• HR
• Legal
• Finance, accountancy, bookkeeping
• Fundraising
• Media and communications

The Breastfeeding Network's services are essential for both families and reducing pressure on health services. We are seeking a new Treasurer to ensure we can meet increased demand.

About The Breastfeeding Network

The Breastfeeding Network (BfN) is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys.

We work across the UK and aid women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. 

What will you be doing?

BfN is the leading charity providing infant feeding and breastfeeding information and support that women and families trust at one of the most vulnerable points on their parenting journeys. We work across the UK and support women and families to feel supported in their feeding choices and are able to breastfeed for as long as they choose. BfN is a Scottish registered charity and a Charitable Incorporated Organisation, registered at Companies House. 

The Treasurer will work closely with the Finance and Systems Manager and CEO to provide effective leadership on the financial good governance and resilience of BfN. 

 Main duties and tasks

The Treasurer has specific key responsibilities relating to their financial knowledge and experience. These include inputting technical expertise and overseeing where appropriate:

· Budgeting, financial control and reporting; 

· Fraud risk reduction;

· Management of deposits and investments; 

· Contract review and management including potential VAT implications;

· Meaningful reporting to the Directors, regulators and high value/ risk donors; 

· Appointment and management of the auditors; 

· Managing short and long term cash flow and reserves policy; 

· Cost recovery of core expenditure needs; 

· Accounting systems, policies and records 

The Treasurer will also help the full Board to understand and consider the financial implications of significant decisions.

The Treasurer will be one of the counter-signatories for online banking and applications to high value funders. 

For full details, please request the candidate pack from the TrusteeWorks team at the email address provided.

This is a remote opportunity.

What are we looking for?

The successful candidate will have a background as a chartered accountant, with experience of risk and strategy. An experience of working with public sector or charities and an understanding of charity finance will be desirable.

Essential

Qualified accountant with hands on experience of managing the finances of an organisation (or equivalent level, Qualified by experience)

Understanding of charity and/ or public sector finances or chartered / management accountant, ready, and able to proactively gain the understanding and insight on charity and public sector finance required for this role

Basic IT skills relevant to the requirements of the role

Hands on experience of governance in a charity or comparable resource-constrained organisation

Experience of managing relationships with auditors and regulators

Strong affinity with and commitment to the work of BfN

Proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to a board and other stakeholders

Understanding and commitment to undertake governance and legal duties, including Treasurer responsibilities in particular

Availability to attend Board, FAR and other required meetings, in person or virtual – dates agreed by consultation in advance

Ready, willing and able to provide ad hoc advisory input as required to the Finance and Systems Manager, CEO, FAR, Chair and wider Board by email and attend remote meetings with BfN        

Desirable

Hands on experience of managing or auditing a charity’s finance

Knowledge / experience of the charity SORP

Experience of contributing to business planning

Knowledge of the infant feeding, early years, health or similar sectors

What Difference will you make?

By contributing to a charity that achieves phenomenal impact for women and families, you will have a rewarding opportunity to apply your skills and experience in accounting and finance, for good. You will know that your expertise and insight can really support in an increasingly challenging operating climate, for charities as a whole, not least in the health and social care sector.

Becoming a Director of BfN you will join a charity which is trusted by healthcare professionals and parents alike for the consistent quality of the services we run through mums and parents who have breastfed themselves. You will know the charity makes a difference and has a track-record of effective management and governance.

Time Commitment

Hours: Anticipated to be between two and two-and-a-half days per month.

Deadline: 9am, Monday 12th May 2025

WellChild, based in Cheltenham, is the national charity for seriously ill children and their families. We fund programmes and services to make it possible for children and young people living with complex medical needs to thrive at home instead of hospital.

What we are looking for:

An experienced senior paediatric doctor with knowledge of the current challenging environment faced by children with complex medical needs and their families.

Purpose of the role:

Our medical trustee is the professional/clinical link championing our families and professional voices to ensure that we always act in the best interest of our service users which is the focus of our charity.

It is the duty of the board of trustees to act in the interests of the charity’s service users. It should ensure that the charity has a clear strategic direction and fulfils its charitable purpose as set out in the charity’s governing document – Articles of Association.

The board of trustees follows the Nolan principles of acting with integrity. It adopts values, applies ethical principles to decisions and creates a welcoming and supportive culture which helps achieve the charity’s purpose. The board ensures the charity’s ethics and values are embedded throughout the organisation.

Trustees undertake their duties with this in mind.

Help us to make a difference tackling loneliness in Oxfordshire.

We are a pioneering charity who have been changing lives for more than 40 years.

If you have experience in fundraising and would like to help us to develop our income generating approach, we would love to hear from you. Your expertise in fundraising will be instrumental in ensuring the financial sustainability and growth of our organisation.

Job description available on the Archway Foundation website (details attached).

If you'd like to discuss the role with the CEO, please call our office to arrange a call or email (details attached).

We actively encourage applications from individuals belonging to underrepresented groups.

Background to the Role

We are currently creating a brand new three-year strategy, setting out an exciting vision to support, promote and defend the mental health, rights and social position of young people. This follows a period of organisational growth, where expanding services into the North Somerset region, and working in partnership with the local statutory mental health provider, has increased our staffing to over 100 employees.

Our new Chair will be an experienced Trustee or Board member who is skilled in effectively managing meetings for productive discussions. We are looking for someone with energy and drive and who will ensure robust governance, aligning strategy and operations. A number of our Trustees have been with us for less than a year and we also have a new CEO and a fairly new SLT, we are therefore looking for an experienced hand who is a skilled relationship manager and a decisive leader, capable of listening to all sides and finding compromise to make difficult decisions.

Main Responsibilities

• To be responsible for providing effective strategic leadership and management to the Board of Trustees, enabling them to fulfil their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of OTR.
• To chair meetings of the Board of Trustees effectively and efficiently, bringing impartiality and objectivity to the decision-making process.
• To plan the annual cycle of Board meetings.
• To set agendas for Board meetings and review minutes.
• To ensure the Scheme of Delegation to the CEO is reviewed and updated.
• To be knowledgeable about, and abide by, the Articles of Association and Charitable Purpose.
• To represent OTR at functions and meetings, and act as a spokesperson as appropriate.

Person Specification

• Strong leadership skills and a collaborative team member.
• Strategic vision.
• Able to display impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidences.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship from the Charity Commission and Companies House.
• Excellent people management skills, and an ability to build trusting relationships with Trustees, senior staff, external partners and stakeholders.
• Ability to make measured and fair judgements and decisions.
• A regard for Nolan's 7 principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Diversity and inclusion 

At OTR, whatever your role or professional background, you will be expected to work in a way that is anti-oppressive and inclusive. A key focus for OTR is to develop an organisation that is inclusive for all. We do not claim to be experts in this, but we are committed to continuous learning and improvement in these areas and invite you to join us on this journey. 

OTR recognises the benefits to individual practice and organisational credibility of having a diverse community of staff and volunteers and to this end, is continually working towards building and maintaining an environment which values and pursues diversity accordingly. 

We recognise that tackling systemic inequality, prejudice, racism, and oppressive practice requires each of us to actively engage, self-examine and make changes where necessary in order to improve access and ensure an equitable experience for all in society and all of those who come through our doors at OTR. 

How to apply

Eastside People is supporting Off the Record (Bristol) in the recruitment of this role. Please click here to apply by submitting a 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 is OTR’s work important to you and how can you contribute as our Chair?
• Your experience of working at a strategic level and of effective governance.
• How would you go about ensuring that our many stakeholders are heard and represented at Board level

Having a call of this kind will not influence the success or otherwise of your application. 

The closing date for applications is Friday, 16th May. Longlisting interviews with Eastside People will take place shortly after and shortlisted candidates will have an interview with the panel at OTR during the week beginning 2nd June.

Role Title: 1-1 Support Buddy

Weekly Hours: Flexible; 4 hours per week minimum

Expenses: Expenses are compensated where applicable such as travel

Commitment: At least 6 months

Responsible to: Senior Mental Health Support Worker

Project overview:

The Mind in Kingston 1-1 Support Buddy service offers goal-oriented, practical, and emotional support to individuals who have accessed Information, Advice, and Guidance but continue to experience mental health challenges. Volunteers deliver support for up to 12 weeks through flexible means—face-to-face, phone, or virtual. Volunteers will typically work with individuals needing a lower level of support, while the 1-1 Support Worker handles more complex cases.

This may include supporting an individual with setting small, achievable goals, prepare for an important appointment or helping someone regain confidence to build a social network. The work will involve building a supporting and boundaried relationship with individuals over their time with the service (up to 12 weeks). The role is about empowerment, offering encouragement and reassurance while promoting self-sufficiency.

About us:

Mind in Kingston supports people with mental health issues and raises awareness within Kingston and surrounding areas. Volunteers are essential to our work, and we welcome applicants with lived experience of mental health challenges. We provide comprehensive training, supervision, and opportunities for career development.

Volunteers are extremely valued within our team and a vital part of our service delivery. We encourage and welcome people with lived experience of mental health issues to apply to volunteer with us; this could be personal experience relating to yourself, a family member or a friend, or in a professional capacity working with people with mental health issues.

We care about everyone’s wellbeing and as an integral member of our team; volunteers receive extensive support to ensure they are trained and skilled up in their roles, so that they may also progress further in their career aspirations. They receive regular supervision and development opportunities as well as be part of our volunteer awards programme to recognise and celebrate their achievement and contribution to our community. As team members, volunteers have the opportunity to engage with the board of trustees, staff and other volunteers both professionally and socially.

Main purpose of the role:

·Provide weekly person centred, 1-1 practical and emotional support.

·Help service users set and work towards personal goals.

·Offer empathic listening and promote wellbeing.

·Signpost service users to relevant services.

Tasks will include:

· Delivering regular (typically weekly) goal-focused 1-1 support sessions to individuals. These sessions may take place online, over the phone or at Mind in Kingston offices.

· Maintain knowledge of local services for signposting.

· Reporting risks & safeguarding concerns.

· Maintain regular contact with the supervisor.

· Attend meetings and supervision sessions.

What you will receive in return:

· Training in skills that will include mental health awareness and boundaries.

· Training in adult safeguarding and local procedures.

· Training for any other skills as identified by yourself and your supervisor.

· Regular check-in with your supervisor, reflective supervision, and managerial support.

· An opportunity to learn new skills and develop existing ones while being a part of a supportive team at Mind in Kingston.

· Reimbursement of reasonable expenses.

· Professional references upon completion.

What we expect from you:

·Commitment for at least six months.

·Completion of required training.

·Adherence to Mind in Kingston’s policies (e.g., confidentiality, safeguarding).

·Confidence in supporting people with mental health challenges.

·Proactive engagement with your supervisor for support.

·Safe handling and return of any equipment issued.

You may on occasion volunteer from home, so a confidential space is essential.

Application Process:

·Two references (one from a professional contact) are required.

·An enhanced DBS check is necessary.

We ask volunteers for two references, one of which must come from a professional connection such as a current or previous employer or a tutor. You will also need to undergo an enhanced DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check, as you will be working with vulnerable adults.

Disability charity in Brighton seeks new trustees. Help shape the next 5 years as we go through an exciting period of change.

A well established charity operating in Brighton & Hove and across Sussex, we are a user led organisation, whose membership, staff, volunteers, and trustees, are drawn from people with a personal or professional experience of disability. 

Our charity has been through a period of change, with a new Chief Executive Officer appointed in August 2024, following a year with an Interim CEO in place. We are ambitious about what we can achieve, and passionate about being the voice of disabled people within our communities. We are navigating a period of cultural change and discovering new opportunities to develop our work and reach broader communities. 

The charity has faced a changing and challenging funding landscape, with local councils and grant making bodies both reducing the monies available, against a background of rising costs. We have diversified our income streams, but seek further help and direction with this and in particular are seeking fundraising skills and innovative income generation and marketing ideas. 

We envisage the next 5 years as being a period of growth and change with real opportunities to shape the future direction of the charity. We are seeking trustees who have relevant professional skills across a broad range of areas who can help us move into the next stage of the charity's development with confidence. 

Currently 75% of our staff and volunteers have lived experience of disability and as a disability charity we particularly welcome applications from disabled trustees or those with lived experience. However, we welcome all applications.  

As a course of positive action and to ensure a wide representation of our diverse communities, we actively encourage applications from younger people, people from minority ethnic groups, people from the lesbian and gay communities, and those who are transgender, non-binary, or gender-diverse. We recognise these communities are currently under-represented on our board and we would love to hear from you.

Becoming a trustee is a rewarding and interesting role, with plenty of opportunity for personal growth. More importantly, you have the opportunity to make a real difference to the lives of disabled people and those living with long-term health conditions, including mental health.

We are looking for to increase the number of trustees on our board and are looking for candidates who are truly passionate about our vision and mission. Maybe you could play a part in ensuring the development and sustainability of the charity as we continue to support disabled people and look towards the future?

We need trustees with the right skills and experience to guide and challenge the strategic direction of every area of the organisation. 

As a charity it is imperative we have a reliable Board, fit for purpose. You don’t need prior experience being a trustee; If you are committed, passionate, and determined, we would love to hear from you.