Public affairs volunteer roles

Join disability and education charity National Star as a Trustee, guiding the organisation as it implements its recently agreed five-year strategy.

What will you be doing?

Do you want to play your part in supporting one of the UK’s leading disability charities to achieve its ambition for growth, providing more education and long-term living opportunities for people with complex disabilities?

National Star, whose headquarters is in Gloucestershire, is seeking several people who share its vision of a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. As a member of the Trustee Board, you will also be a company director as the charity is also a registered company.

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

What you will bring:

The charity is looking to recruit people with a broad range of experience and are particularly interested in attracting candidates with knowledge / experience of:

* Company law and the specific legal requirements for charities in special needs and social care sectors

* Marketing and communication expertise including networking and fundraising

* Business acumen with a strong financial background

National Star is a Disability Confident Employer. The charity is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all sections of the community, including those currently under-represented on o0ur Trustee Board, which includes women, people with disabilities and members of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

The Trustee Board meets four times a year, generally during the week between 4pm – 7pm. In addition, Trustees are expected to become active members of a sub-committee. Board papers are distributed in advance to allow Trustees to prepare for each meeting.

What are we looking for?

Ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to the charity's values of ambition, collaboration, integrity, respect and sustainability

* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star

* Prepare and participate actively in meetings

* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others

* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy

* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk

* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector

* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

We are recruiting several trustees with a range of skills.

What difference will you make?

By joining National Star's Trustee Board, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a part in the future development of one of the leading disability charities in England and Wales as well as being able to develop your own skills in board level discussions, executive decision making and strategic planning. Your fresh perspective could help the charity to see things in a different light and your professional expertise could be utilised to support our staff team in delivering our vision and values.

You will gain a broad understanding of the challenges faced by young people with complex disabilities and be able to build your professional network.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach in the first instance providing a cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and a CV. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete our additional application form

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that ESS Education and Support Services achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that ESS Education and Support Services has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable ESS Education and Support Services to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

· Support and provide advice on ESS Education and Support Service’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee ESS Education and Support Service’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve ESS Education and Support Services’ financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to ESS Education and Support Services’ CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in ESS Education and Support Services’ operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of ESS Education and Support services’ own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

· Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect ESS Education and Support Service’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of ESS Education and Support Services 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.

What we are looking for

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.

ESS Education and Support Service are looking for Trustees from the following backgrounds: Legal, Financial.

Personal skills and qualities

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept their 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.

· Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

· Trustees are appointed for a 3 year term of office, renewal for 2 further terms to a maximum of 9 years.

· This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

· Attending 6 Board meetings annually. Currently meetings are held virtually.

· Attending charity events and other such commitments.

Support inclusive spirituality, education, and compassionate leadership

OneSpirit Interfaith Foundation is a registered educational charity, founded in 1996, that promotes inclusive spirituality and serves people of all faiths, and none. We train open-hearted adults to serve their communities as interfaith ministers, celebrants, and spiritual companions, supporting life’s important moments through ceremony, ritual, and compassionate care.

Organisational purpose

To benefit the public by the education of mature adults in:

• the core principles of the world’s religions, faiths, and spiritual traditions;

• principles and methods of forgiveness, reconciliation and peace-making;

• and the practice of non-denominational spiritual and pastoral service in the community.

Our Vision

is a world in which humanity awakens into an inclusive global spirituality that encompasses us all in the field of love and life.

Our Mission

is to work towards evolving consciousness in the world, by facilitating open-hearted people to awaken to inner leadership and their capacity for forgiveness, reconciliation, and peace-making.

We are currently seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help shape the future of our organisation. We're especially interested in individuals with experience in marketing, legal affairs, HR, adult education, fundraising, finance, or IT.

This is a meaningful opportunity to:

• Help guide an organisation where spiritual exploration meets learning, where inclusive communities flourish, and where people are supported to offer spiritual care with courage, compassion, and understanding.

• Contribute your professional skills in a nonprofit trustee role aligned with your values

• Help grow an organisation at the intersection of education, spirituality, and social transformation

What We’re Looking For:

We welcome applications from individuals with experience in any of the following areas:

• Marketing, communications, or branding

• Charity law or legal compliance

• Fundraising, development, or grant-writing

• Finance, accounting, or business planning

• Human Resources or organisational development

• Education or curriculum development

• Interfaith ministry, chaplaincy, or spiritual direction

That said, please don’t be discouraged if you don’t tick every box. If you feel inspired by our values and can uphold our Code of Ethics, we warmly encourage you to apply or get in touch for a conversation! 

You do not need to be a OneSpirit minister or graduate, we welcome interest from both alumni and the wider community.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a values-led, inclusive team committed to compassion and transformation

• Support a charity making a meaningful impact in spiritual education and interfaith work

• Develop new skills in nonprofit governance and strategic leadership

• Connect with a thoughtful, heart-centred network of trustees, staff, and ministers

Commitment to Inclusion:

We believe our strength lies in the richness of our differences. We are wholeheartedly committed to building a Board that reflects the diverse communities we serve, across race, gender, age, sexuality, ability, culture, faith, identity, background, and lived experience.

Whether your path has been traditional or unconventional, whether you’re seasoned in governance or bringing your voice to a boardroom for the first time, you are welcome here.

If you feel called to contribute, we would be honoured to hear from you.

Interested in Joining Us? 

At OneSpirit, there are many ways to contribute to a more compassionate and connected world. Whether through leadership, service, or spiritual growth, your presence makes a difference.

If you feel drawn to our mission and want to offer your time, wisdom, and heart to OneSpirit’s future, we’d love to hear from you. 

You can learn more about our team, our work, and our organisation on our website.

Curious about the training we offer? Come and train with an organisation committed to spiritual exploration, nurturing inclusive communities of care, and creating spaces where understanding and belonging can flourish. Explore the Cherry Tree Pathway, our two-year ministry and spiritual development training, and begin your journey today. Learn more about our training from our website.

We are looking for a Trustee to lead on safeguarding and ensure all non-HR policies are compliant, up-to-date, and effective. 

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Knowledge of safeguarding principles and regulatory requirements.

·Policy development experience.

·Strong governance understanding.

Desirable

·Professional safeguarding training.

·Experience liaising with safeguarding boards or regulators.

Responsibilities specific to the Safeguarding & Policy Trustee role

·Oversee safeguarding policies and procedures.

·Ensure appropriate Designated Safeguarding Leads are trained and supported.

·Lead the review and approval of non-HR policies (e.g. health & safety, data protection, risk management).

·Ensure regular training and awareness for staff, trustees, and volunteers.

·Review safeguarding and policy-related incident reports.

·Maintain relationships with statutory agencies and safeguarding boards.

Wider Responsibilities (Shared with All Trustees)

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’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 Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when 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.

Attributes and qualities

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.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their 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.

We are looking for a Trustee to act as the board’s lead on people and workforce matters, ensuring effective policies, systems, and culture to support staff and volunteers.

The role is unpaid and voluntary with an estimated time commitment of around 2 hours per week. 

You can find out more about being a trustee at Paradise Cooperative in our Trustee Recruitment Pack.

What we are looking for

Essential 

·Professional experience in HR or organisational development.

·Understanding of employment law.

·Strategic and practical HR skills.

Desirable

·Experience in the charity or co-operative sectors.

·CIPD qualification.

Responsibilities specific to the People and HR Trustee role

·Oversee and approve HR policies covering recruitment, induction, training, appraisal, wellbeing, and grievance handling.

·Support the Executive Director on HR-related issues and act as a sounding board for people matters.

·Collaborate with the Executive Director to develop objective-setting and performance management frameworks.

·Provide oversight of the charity’s volunteer engagement strategy, ensuring it aligns with the charity’s objectives, promotes diversity, and fosters a positive volunteer culture.

·Ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded in all people-related policies and practices.

·Ensure compliance with employment law and relevant charity regulations.

Wider responsibilities of the role shared with the other trustees on the board

·Support and provide advice on Paradise Cooperative’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

·Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

·Oversee Paradise Cooperative’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

·Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organization.

·Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

·Review and approve Paradise Cooperative’s financial statements.

·Provide support and challenge to Paradise Cooperative’s Executive Director in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

·Keep abreast of changes in Paradise Cooperative’s operating environment.

·Contribute to regular reviews of Paradise Cooperative’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 Paradise Cooperative’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests.

·Contribute to the broader promotion of Paradise Cooperative’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

As a small charity, there will be times when 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.

Attributes and qualities

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.

·Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organization.

·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.

TRC was set up in 2010 to provide a free, confidential and non-judgemental specialist support service run by women for women and girls who have experienced any form of rape, sexual abuse or sexual violence at any time in their lives. We are a feminist organisation and we actively challenge the values, beliefs and behaviours that contribute to women’s
oppression. Our mission is to raise awareness about sexual violence through providing training, guidance and information and working in partnership with local service providers and communities to promote the values of TRC.

We are looking for women who hold feminist values and principles and who are passionate about the mission and values of TRC. We are particularly looking for Trustees who have relevant qualifications and/or experience in the following areas:

• Safeguarding, offering support to the chair and safeguarding leads with the management of safeguarding cases and keeping up to date with best practice
• Legal and Governance, including strategic planning and understanding of the wider political Greater Manchester landscape
• Human resources and personnel management, including a knowledge of employment legislation
• Financial management, planning and budgeting
• Public Relations, Marketing and fundraising, including awareness raising and campaigning through social media
• Capacity building and training, especially for volunteers
• Women’s health and mental health, outreach and partnership work with local services

About 1st Place
1st Place was established in 2005 as part of the Aylesbury Sure Start Programme, shaped by the vision of local children and parents. It was created to be a welcoming and supportive space where families come first—where parents could access the support they need, professionals could collaborate, and services could evolve to better serve the local community.

Families remain at the core of everything 1st Place does today.

The Opportunity
1st Place Children and Parents’ Centre is a respected Family Hub and provider of early years education. Through outreach, nursery provision, and a range of family-focused projects—particularly for children under five—the organisation delivers high-quality, consistent services to the local community.

The Board of Trustees is seeking a new Honorary Treasurer to succeed the outgoing postholder. The Treasurer chairs the Finance & General Purposes Sub-Committee and holds responsibility, on behalf of the Board, for overseeing budgets, internal management accounts, and annual financial statements. The role also ensures that appropriate financial controls and procedures are in place.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of the voluntary sector, charity governance, finance, and risk management. Strategic thinking, effective communication with trustees and senior managers, and leadership experience are essential. A commitment to dedicating time and energy to the organisation’s mission is vital.

We are looking for new Trustees at Jessie May who share our passion and values, and who can bring expertise, insight and challenge to support our future.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Jessie May achieves its core purpose. They provide leadership, overseeing management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Jessie May has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the executive team to enable the organisation to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission of, 'Providing the very best care and support possible, at home, for children and young people with life limiting and life threatening conditions and their whole families – for the whole journey in life, at the end of life, and in bereavement.'

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

DUTIES

• Support and provide advice on Jessie May’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

• Approve operational strategies and policies, monitor and evaluate their implementation.

• Oversee Jessie May’s financial plans and budget, monitor and evaluate progress.

• Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

 • Ensure that key risks are continually identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

 • Review and approve Jessie May’s financial statements.

 • Provide support and challenge to Jessie May’s CEO and the senior leadership team in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

 • Keep abreast of changes in Jessie May’s operating environment.

 • Contribute to regular reviews of Jessie May’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 Jessie May’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

• Contribute to the broader promotion of Jessie May’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.

A basic level DBS check is required for this post, in addition to two references. Jessie May is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.  We are particularly interested in hearing from people who have lived experience related to the services we provide to families.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a visionary and committed individual to lead our Board of Trustees as Chair. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the strategic direction of Huddersfield Town Foundation and to make a lasting impact in the Kirklees community.

This is a pivotal moment to join our team. With the launch of our new strategy in September 2025, we’ve made bold commitments to help our community GROW, BELONG and THRIVE. These pillars guide everything we do, from unlocking learning and opportunity, to building connection and belonging and championing health and wellbeing.​

If you’re someone who stands together with others, keeps learning, goes the extra mile and lives the Terrier Spirit, we’d love to hear from you.​

How to Apply

Please submit your CV, application form and a persuasive covering letter (no more than 2 sides of A4) via email by Monday 6th October.

Should you wish to have an informal discussion about the role, please contact us via email to arrange this.

All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application, whether they are invited to attend interview, or not.

Safeguarding

HTF is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Applicants must disclose all previous convictions including spent convictions in accordance with the associated legislation. Trustees must not have any previous disqualifications or have been barred from undertaking activities involving children and young people.

The amendments to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (2013 and 2020) provide that, when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain convictions and cautions are considered ‘protected’. This means that they do not need to be disclosed to employers and, if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account.

Guidance about whether a conviction or caution should be disclosed can be found on the Ministry of Justice website.

The Chair will be required to undergo safeguarding training in accordance with the Foundation’s Trustee training plan, which includes the EFL Trustee Safeguarding training. 

Further information can be provided by the Foundation’s Safeguarding manager. 

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

HTF is a diverse environment and an organisation which respects all characteristics under the Equality Act 2010. We want everyone to feel valued and included within the Foundation and to be able to achieve their full potential. 

We have a zero-tolerance approach to any form of discrimination and we are committed to the redress of any inequalities by taking positive action where appropriate. 

Charity and company details

The Foundation is a registered charity (Charity number 1146501) with a Board of Trustees controlling the management and administration of the charitable activities of the Foundation. HTF is also a company limited by guarantee (company number 07690182) meaning that the Trustees are also Company Directors and manage the affairs of the Company in accordance with its Memorandum and Articles of Association.

Lay Trustee role - Healthcare Infection Society - deadline: 23 September 2025

Our current Lay trustee demits in December 2025, and we are seeking a successor who is not from a clinical background but shares our values and vision This is an opportunity to bring your expertise to help shape HIS’s future, ensuring strong governance and supporting our ambitions for growth.

As a Lay Trustee, you will:

• Work with the Council and Chief Executive to uphold HIS’s vision, mission and values. Council meets quarterly.
• Work with Chief Financial Officer and serve on the Finance Committee, which meets quarterly to review financial performance, remuneration, and strategic and operational risks.
• Contribute to delivering the 2025-30 strategy.
• Oversee compliance with financial, legal and regulatory requirements.

No prior trustee experience is necessary – a full induction will be provided.

Who we are looking for

We are especially keen to hear from candidates with

• Financial investment and management experience (ideally in healthcare)
• Candidates should have no clinical background.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds who support our mission and can actively contribute to our work. HIS is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture.

Can you bring your vision, passion, and experience to support our rapid growth, and strengthen our board to deliver our strategy? North Cotswold Foodbank are looking for a trustee with experience in fundraising to join them.

What will you be doing?

North Cotswold Foodbank are looking for a trustee with experience in fundraising to join them. We are a fast-growing charity that requires a Trustee who can enhance the board and build our fundraising ability to support our growth, ensuring that we are compliant with fundraising legislation and in line with our policies.

Responsibilities (specific to your role):

• Help to develop and approve the charity's fundraising strategy, ensuring it aligns with the charity's overall goals and values. 
• Ensure compliance, taking responsibility for ensuring the charity's fundraising activities comply with all relevant laws and regulations, including those set by the Fundraising Regulator and the Charity Commission. 
• Manage any risks associated with fundraising activities, including conflicts of interest, and ensuring the charity's reputation is protected. 
• Trustees have a responsibility to scrutinize the fundraising budget and ensure that fundraising activities are properly funded and monitored. 
• Trustees play a key role in ensuring the charity's fundraising activities are conducted ethically and in accordance with the Fundraising Code. 
• Trustees may be involved in representing the charity at fundraising events or speaking to donors and the public. 

Responsibilities (common to all trustees):

• Collaborate with the trustee board to ensure that North Cotswold Foodbank’s financial dealings are systematically accounted for and on time, independently examined and made publicly available when necessary.
• Ensure your charity is accountable, actively complying with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and the law. 
• Ensure appropriate financial plans are in place for future budget allocations as well as looking after contractual agreements with external partners that award money for core costs and additional projects.
• Ensure that North Cotswold Foodbank has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equal opportunities, safeguarding & GDPR compliance/data protection etc.
• Act with reasonable care and skill, giving your time, thought and energy to your role.
• Give good counsel and measured advice on any matter that requires it, acting in a collaborative, positive, and constructive way.

What are we looking for?

North Cotswold Foodbank are looking for a trustee with experience in fundraising to join them. We are a fast-growing charity that requires a Trustee who can enhance the board and build our fundraising ability to support our growth, ensuring that we are compliant with fundraising legislation and in line with our policies.

Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• Knowledge, ability and passion for fundraising and grant application writing
• An ability to lead on any fundraising and grants matters in a supportive and confident manner
• An ability to lead on any matters relevant to your role.
• The ability to provide carefully considered advice in a constructive way.
• A knowledge of, and commitment to, the work of North Cotswold Foodbank and Trussell. 
• Sympathy towards the ethos and principles of Trussell.
• An understanding of the reasons why people face hunger, food insecurity, and/or food poverty.
• Someone who enjoys working as part of a team.
• An understanding that some periods throughout the year are busier than others.

We welcome applications from new and experienced Trustees.

What difference will you make?

By leading on Fundraising strategy for the food bank, you are providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting or anyone who comes into contact with North Cotswold Foodbank.

Mind in Havering, Barking & Dagenham is looking to recruit a number of people to join its Board of Trustees and provide positive leadership and direction. As a Trustee, you will be part of a team responsible for the strategic and financial management of the charity, ensuring that our core purpose is carried out and help promote our positive vision:

 “We will not give up until everyone experiencing a mental health problem gets both support and respect.”

About Mind in Havering, Barking & Dagenham

Established over 50 years ago, we are a local mental health charity based in Havering. We provide services to people living in Havering and Barking & Dagenham who are experiencing mental health problems. We also campaign for better services, deliver training and raise awareness of mental health. We are affiliated to national Mind, but we are an independent charity and raise our own funds.

What we are looking for

We welcome applications from people of all ages and backgrounds. We want to broaden the diversity of our Board to create a group that truly represents the communities that we serve across both Boroughs. We are particularly interested in applications from individuals who have skills and expertise in one of the following areas:

• Hands on support for our events
• Digital marketing
• Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
• Health Inequalities and NHS
• Barking & Dagenham Borough
• GDPR
• Safeguarding
• Clinical/public sector commissioning
• Legal

The competencies we are seeking include

• Interest in or lived experience of mental health problems.
• Leadership skills, strategic thinking and strong networking abilities.
• The ability to analyse complex information, to think creatively and to generate solutions.
• An ability to work effectively and constructively as a member of a team.
• Time management skills to handle multiple priorities.
• Previous Board and/or Trustee experience is desirable but is not essential.
• You must be willing to participate in Board meetings every two months and join one of our four, active sub-committees.

How to apply for the role

Please take a moment to explore our website, where you can submit your application and hear directly from one of our current Trustees as they share their experience in the role.

Our trustees play a vital role in making sure that Julian Support achieves its core purpose. They ensure that Julian Support has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. They scrutinise financial management and ensure the process of sound governance including the identification and mitigation of risks. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the Chief Executive and the senior leadership team to enable Julian Support to grow and thrive, in line with its objectives and values.

Board members have a collective responsibility. This means that trustees always act as a group and not as individuals.

Duties:

· Support and provide advice on Julian Support’s purpose, vision, goals and activities.

· Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation.

· Oversee Julian Support’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress.

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve Julian Support’s financial statements.

· Provide support and challenge to Julian Support’s CEO in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs.

· Keep abreast of changes in Julian Support’s operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of Julian Support’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 Julian Support’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third party interests.

· Contribute to the broader promotion of Julian Support’s objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

Finance Trustee - What we are looking for

As with all our Trustee roles we are looking for people willing to bring energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role, and someone who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our board. For the Finance Trustee role you will:

· ideally be a qualified accountant

· have experience in financial management including budgets and forecasts, cash flow, investments and liquidity and financial systems

· an understanding of the audit process

You do not need previous governance experience – we will provide a full induction and training.

Personal skills and qualities

· An understanding of the difficulties faced by people experiencing significant challenges with their mental health.

· Willingness and ability to understand and accept their 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 willingness to speak their mind and engage in discussions in an open, frank, and assertive (not aggressive) way.

· A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.

· Enthusiasm for our vision and mission.

· Willingness to lead according to our values of Hope Equity Accountable Real Trust

· Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

Terms of appointment

Terms of office

· There is currently no fixed term of office.

· This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Time commitment

· Attending 4 Board meetings annually including the AGM. Currently meetings are held in person at Julian Support’s Head Office, 23 Pilling Park Road, Norwich, NR1 4PA

· Attending 2 Board Strategy days and training days as required

Committee membership

Ad hoc and occasional support through working groups and / or support to the executive team.

Additional requirement

Please note, all Trustees are required to have a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and hold an up-to-date certificate. The DBS check will be arranged by Julian Support.

About Reprieve

Reprieve is a leading international human rights organisation. Our aim is simple: to consign the death penalty and abuses carried out in the name of “counter-terrorism” or “national security” to history, drawing public and political attention to these past harms with a view to preventing them from occurring again.

In our view, you can best judge a society by how it treats prisoners, criminal defendants, and the far-flung targets of an ever-changing counter-terror policy. To us, the rule of law means little if we selectively apply it to people we agree with. It is for all of us. Liberty is always eroded at the margins.

Reprieve’s staff is made up of courageous and committed human rights defenders. Founded in 1999, we provide free legal and investigative support to people facing the death penalty and those victimised by states’ abusive counter-terror policies – rendition, torture, arbitrary detention and extrajudicial killing.

We fight our clients’ cases in courts around the world; investigate their mistreatment; and advocate on their behalf, encouraging public and political debate of human rights issues.

Reprieve’s main office is in London, UK. Reprieve also supports full-time Fellows, who work as lawyers, investigators and campaigners in the countries in which we work. We work closely with a number of partner organisations in jurisdictions all over the world, who provide access to clients, expertise, knowledge and guidance on specific issues or regions. We work in cooperation with relevant government officials, individual lawyers and human rights defenders, as well as individual, corporate and foundation funders to further the cause of our shared goals.

Reprieve works in close partnership with its independent sibling organisation Reprieve US.  This collaboration is mutually beneficial to both Reprieve and Reprieve US as it enables each organisation to work more effectively and take advantage of the strategic locations to increase the impact of our work.

About the Role

Our work would not be possible without the highest levels of governance provided by our Board of Trustees and its Chair.

The Board meets four times a year (normally January, May, July and October). Two Board meetings are in person, and we ask that the Chair attends other events when they can to meet staff and other key stakeholders, including donors. 

Day-to-day management of Reprieve is provided by the Senior Management Team. 

About You

Our new Chair will be passionate about our vision and mission and will be able to bring inclusive and knowledgeable insight to the Board and the Executive. They will have a keen sense of strategic purpose and an inclusive leadership style that inspires and supports other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate. They will be comfortable with challenge and debate and able to encourage that in others whilst fostering a collaborative Board environment. They will be able and willing to act as a figurehead and ambassador, and champion Reprieve’s work through personal networks, social media (if appropriate), and other channels.

They will be willing to lead according to Reprieve’s values and have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

They will have a passion for seeking justice for the victims of extreme human rights abuses. They will support our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion at Reprieve and share our commitment to fighting against racism and advancing racial justice, both in our work and within Reprieve.

Responsibilities

Your main duties will include:

• Leading the Board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Reprieve
• Chairing and facilitating Board meetings including giving direction to board policy-making and ensuring that decisions taken at meetings are implemented
• With the Executive Director:
  • Planning the annual cycle of Board meetings
  • Setting agendas for Board meetings
  • Developing the Board of trustees including induction, training, appraisal and succession planning
  • Addressing conflict within the Board and within Reprieve, and liaising with the Executive to achieve this
  • Liaising with the Executive Director to keep an overview of the organisation’s affairs and to provide support as appropriate
• Being an ambassador and figurehead for Reprieve.

Person Specification/ Criteria

• A willingness to speak your mind and challenge both the Executive and the Board
• A keen sense of strategic purpose
• An inclusive leadership style: able to inspire and support other Trustees, the Executive, staff and key stakeholders to participate 
• Experience constructively challenging and appraising senior leadership
• A willingness to be available to the Executive and staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis
• A clear commitment to Reprieve’s vision and mission
• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion
• Willingness to commit two days a month to the role
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship, as they apply to the Chair of the Board
• Experience of fundraising and its importance to a charity 
• Experience of committee work or being on a charity board.