Public relations volunteer roles

Trustee with an HR-skills focus, for Home-Start Wokingham District

Do you want to help us improve the lives of parents and young children in Wokingham and surrounding areas, by helping us support our volunteers and employees?

You could be a trustee for Home-Start Wokingham District, an local charity that gives every child the best possible start in life.

 Set up in 1996, we offer “a lifeline”, a free family support service to families with at least one child under the age of five, provided by volunteers who are parents themselves, to support other parents. That home visiting service is unique in Wokingham Borough, providing compassionate, confidential and non-judgmental help and friendship to local parents struggling to cope with the daily challenges of family life.

We are affiliated to national Home-Start UK, but we are an independent local charity responsible for our own governance and securing our own funding.

As our services to local parents are delivered by our volunteers, who are in turn supported by our small employee team, we want to better aid of recruitment of both, and assist those who help our communities.

What we are looking for in a new trustee

Trustees are the people who make the top-level decisions for our charity. Our Board includes people with experience and skills in early years, education and business. We’d expect new trustees to have empathy with our cause and our beneficiaries.

We want to increase the recruitment, retention and training of our volunteers and employees, and are looking for a trustee to lead that strategy, develop our policies and help enhance the organisation’s ‘people offer’.

If you can think strategically and help us plan long-term, you have the primary skills needed by our trustees and will work collectively with all other Board members.

You don’t necessarily need prior experience of charity trusteeship, as support from local charity-support organisations is always available.  Full induction to our organisation will be provided, plus specialist support as a new trustee, including access to external training.

We are a charity not a business, but we apply business principles to governing our organisation. We are looking for people from a variety of backgrounds to join our charity. We want to expand the diversity of our board, in all meanings of the word, and strongly welcome applications from people from less-represented groups. 

We ask for about ten hours of your time per month, which includes all meetings, discussions, etc., many of which are held online. You’ll need access to digital communications, as much of our charity’s business is run that way.

 How to apply  

This appointment is being managed for us by inVOLve Community Services, a charity-support organisation, who offer a no-obligation discussion by  video. A detailed Role Description and Person Specification can be made available to you upon request.

Trustee appointments are subject to satisfactory references, to completion of an online Safeguarding course and an Enhanced DBS check. 

Your CV or similar will be read by our existing trustees, and an interview offered as soon as mutually convenient.

I need to know more 

Contact Mike Allen via Quick Apply, below, for more information and arrange to have a no-obligation initial informal discussion (Teams or Zoom).

Invitation to apply for the position of Society Chair

A. Description of the Society

The Society is the third oldest local conservation charity in England, founded in 1897 by many of the public figures who  campaigned to procure the passing of the 1871 Hampstead Heath Act, which saved Hampstead Heath as a public open space in perpetuity, and who went on to found the National Trust.

The Society is an unincorporated association, constituted by its contractual constitution, and is a registered charity. Its charitable objects are as follows:

3. (a)  to preserve those parts of Hampstead Heath which are subject to section 16 of The Hampstead Heath Act 1871* in their wild and natural state, and also to preserve the natural and characteristic features of the later additions to the Heath, so far as is consistent with their enjoyment by the public;

(b) to promote and maintain the amenities and characteristics of the environs of the Heath, and of the buildings and streets of Hampstead; and

(c) to promote public interest in the study of natural history, conservation, and the history of the areas referred to in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule 3.

*[Section 16 provides: The [Metropolitan] Board [of Works] shall at all times preserve, as far as may be, the natural aspect and state of the Heath, and to that end shall protect the turf, gorse, heather, timber and other trees, shrubs, and brush-wood thereon.]

The Society’s geographical remit is limited to Hampstead Heath, the fringes of the Heath, and the old borough of Hampstead (now legally subsumed into the London Borough of Camden).

It is governed by a ‘general committee’ of some 15 trustees which is supported by (i) three subcommittees (each of approximately a dozen members) responsible for the distinct areas of Hampstead Town, Hampstead Heath, and local planning applications, and (ii) a Plaque Selection Panel which is responsible for the erection of plaques on buildings in Hampstead Town commemorating famous residents.

The Chair, along with principal Society officers, is elected annually at the annual general meeting.

The Society has approximately 2,000 members and is in sound financial and reputational shape. Further details of the Society may be found on the Society's website. 

B. General role of the Chair

The general role of the Society Chair includes the duties outlined in the English Charity Commission document entitled “The essential trustee: what you need to know, what you need to do”, namely:

· help plan and run general committee meetings and in members’ meetings

· take the lead on ensuring that meetings are properly run and recorded

· take the lead on ensuring that trustees comply with their duties and the charity is well governed

· act as a spokesperson for the charity

· act as a link between trustees and committee members.

Reference should also be made to “A Chair’s Compass - A guide for chairs of charities and non-profit organisations”. 

Given the local remit of the Society, it is desirable that the prospective Society Chair should be resident in Hampstead (including West Hampstead), Belsized, Highgate or Hampstead Garden Suburb. The prospective Society Chair will be invited to join the general committee and ‘shadow’ the current Chair for the appropriate period before taking over.

C. Core and specific tasks of the Society Chair

Convene, set the agenda for, and chair bi-monthly meetings of the general committee, and approve the draft minutes of those meetings

Convene and set the agenda for the Society’s annual general meeting in June of each year, deliver a verbal annual report at that meeting, and approve the draft minutes of that meeting

Write the annual trustees’ report for inclusion in the annual return to the Charity Commission

Settle and approve the Society's annual financial statements as prepared by the Treasurer and the Society's auditors/examiners

Write a column of approximately 2,000 words for the Society's newsletter published in January, May and October

From time to time, as an observer, attend meetings of the Society's three subcommittees (Town, Heath and Planning) and the Society’s Plaque Selection Panel

Support the Society’s vice-chairs in their chairing of the Society’s three subcommittees (see above)

Oversee recruitment to the general committee and, as required, the Society's three subcommittees

As required, be the public or official face of the Society in dealings with the media, and the City of London Corporation (the freehold owner of Hampstead Heath and the sole trustee of the Hampstead Heath registered charity), Camden Council (including Hampstead Ward local councillors) and other local or governmental bodies

As required, lead (even if only in  a titular or nominal sense) campaigns run by the Society

Attend and, as required, host Society events, including the New Members Party, the Xmas Party and Society lectures (usually two to three a year)

Maintain relations with other non-governmental bodies with which the Society has regular dealings in matters of common interest, including the Vale of Health Society, the Highgate Society, the Hampstead Garden Suburb Residents Association, the Hampstead Neighbourhood Forum,  Heath Hands, the Kenwood Estate, Keats House, Camden History Society, the London Forum and Civic Voice

Identify, and suggest to its editor, items for inclusion in the Society's newsletter

Crossness Pumping Station (overseen by the Crossness Engines Trust) is a unique and valuable museum of UK and world reknown telling the history of how the ambitious management of sewage transformed London as a city of growth and innovation in the 1860s and helped eradicate cholera. Preserved and restored by a group of enthusiasts since 1987, we are now entering a second phase of major restoration and we need visionary trustees who can help us achieve it.

This role is one of three we have created for experts in their field to help us implement a major programme over the next 5-10 years. It really is your chance to be part of our history!

As well as the usual trustee roles (outlined in the role description attached) the specific skills needed for this role include:

Role Objectives

• Acting as lead expert on the Board in relation to management of Crossness as a heritage asset.
• Advising on regulatory and policy issues in heritage buildings and assets.
• Ensuring high standards of achievement in all aspects relating to Museum Accreditation including Building restoration, Collections and Archives.

Responsibilities

• Liaising with the Restoration, Archives and other relevant teams including developing work plans.
• Overseeing funding requirements in major grant applications.
• Being part of the Building Condition Survey sub-group.
• Liaising with volunteers and suppliers on developing work plans and ensuring their completion.
• Contribute to financial and business plans to achieve the heritage asset goals of the Trust.

Candidate requirements

Essential

• Experience working in a senior heritage management role.
• Excellent understanding of the needs of heritage assets and the roles of volunteers and staff in their management.
• Understanding of key stakeholder networks and sources of information useful to the Trust.
• Excellent communication skills including with staff and volunteers as well as fellow trustees.
• An understanding of the importance of collaboration and problem-solving.
• Confident and proficient in the use of MS Office 365.
• Commitment to attend board meetings regularly and volunteer for other sub-committees as appropriate.
• Able to devote around 2-3 hours per week on preparing for meetings.
• Treating colleagues with respect and politeness.

Desirable

• Experience working in the charity sector.
• Experience as a volunteer at a similar organisation.
• Experience in Digital, Marketing and Finance would also be useful.

Crossness Pumping Station (overseen by the Crossness Engines Trust) is a unique and valuable museum of UK and world reknown telling the history of how the ambitious management of sewage transformed London as a city of growth and innovation in the 1860s and helped eradicate cholera. Preserved and restored by a group of enthusiasts since 1987, we are now entering a second phase of major restoration and we need visionary trustees who can help us achieve it.

This role is one of three we have created for experts in their field to help us implement a major programme over the next 5-10 years. It really is your chance to be part of our history!

As well as the usual trustee roles (outlined in the role description attached) the specific skills needed for this role include:

Role Objectives

• Acting as lead expert on the Board in relation to fundraising (eg grant funding, legacy funding, onsite donations, but not commercial trading/visitor charges).
• Advising on good practice and regulatory and policy issues in charity fundraising.
• Identifying future fundraising prospects and working with volunteers to achieve these.

Responsibilities

• Work with a volunteer lead/team on identifying future funding sources from grant-making bodies.
• Develop a fundraising strategy with volunteers.
• Develop corporate fundraising targets with other trustees.
• Investigate legacy fundraising and other visitor/member/donor opportunities.

Candidate requirements

 Essential

• Proven success in heritage or similar charity fundraising.
• Good knowledge of the standards required by the Institute of Fundraising.
• Ability to develop fundraising skills in volunteers.
• Good knowledge of relevant stakeholders in the fundraising community.
• Excellent communication skills including with staff and volunteers as well as fellow trustees.
• An understanding of the importance of collaboration and problem-solving.
• Confident and proficient in the use of MS Office 365.
• Commitment to attend board meetings regularly and volunteer for other sub-committees as appropriate.
• Able to devote around 2-3 hours per week on preparing for meetings.
• Treating colleagues with respect and politeness.

Desirable

• Experience in the charity sector.
• Experience as a volunteer in a similar organisation.
• Experience in Digital, Marketing and Finance would also be useful.

Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to create a world without barriers. This face to face opportunity will see you providing information about RNIB services and activities to help people with sight loss live the lives they want, enabling them to hear about the support that is available, and how they can help others.

What you’ll be doing
• Creating a welcoming and interesting display stand.
• Speaking directly to people affected by sight loss.
• Being a friendly face of RNIB locally - engaging with a diverse range of people.
• Providing information and demonstrations of basic independent living aids for the general public and professionals.

What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.

•  A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.

In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in meeting members of the public and serving customers.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.

In applying for / signing up for this role you agree to be contacted when we are seeking volunteers to help with an event in relation to this role description. We will contact you via a communication method for which you have given consent.

How often will I be needed?

• 4 Hours per Event

Key requirements

• 1 reference

Location

Region

• Northern Ireland

Additional location information

• Currently looking for applicants within the Belfast area Only

Who this opportunity will suit

Minimum age

• You must be at least 18 years old to apply

What skills and experience are needed?

• • An outgoing, friendly approach to meeting new people • An empathetic and professional manner. • Good communications skills with active listening. • An interest in helping people access the information they need.

National Clinical Lead (Nursing) – Volunteer Role

Location: Wales-wide
Time Commitment: Minimum 25 hours per month
Expenses: Reasonable travel and subsistence costs reimbursed
Tenure: Initial 3-year term, extendable by approval

St John Ambulance Cymru is seeking a dedicated and experienced nursing professional to take on a strategic volunteer leadership role as our National Clinical Lead (Nursing). This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of clinical care across Wales and make a meaningful impact in communities through expert guidance, collaboration, and innovation.

About the Role

As the Clinical Lead for Nursing & Midwifery, you will:

• Provide national clinical leadership and support the implementation of clinical strategies.
• Develop methods to recruit, retain and support the work of nurses, midwives, health visitors, nursing associates, associate practitioners, and students within St John Ambulance Cymru - including integrating them into frontline practice.
• Lead on infection prevention and control, regulatory compliance, and clinical governance.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to drive quality improvement and best practice.
• Participate in senior clinical advisory duties and contribute to forums, reviews, and consultations.
• Line manage healthcare professionals and support their professional development.

You’ll work closely with the Deputy Chief Clinical Officer and other National Clinical Leads, ensuring our services remain safe, compliant, and of high quality.

What You’ll Bring

• NMC registration and NHS equivalent experience at Band 8 or above.
• Proven leadership in clinical settings, with experience in regulatory compliance and risk-based management.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• A collaborative mindset and ability to influence change.
• Commitment to safeguarding, health and safety, and the values of St John Ambulance Cymru.

What You’ll Gain

• A key role in modernising clinical practice within a national charity.
• Opportunities to influence strategic direction and improve volunteer satisfaction.
• The chance to make a lasting impact across Wales.
• Development of transferable leadership and operational skills.
• Connection with a diverse network of professionals and volunteers.

Support and Training

You’ll receive ongoing support from the Clinical Director and National Headquarters staff, along with access to statutory and mandatory training.

Join us as Treasurer and Trustee of Humanimal Trust

Are you an experienced finance professional with a passion for good governance and a commitment to making a difference? Are you skilled at translating complex financial information into clear insights? If so, we would welcome your application to join our Board of Trustees as Treasurer. This is a pivotal role at the heart of our charity, helping to shape our strategic direction and support our mission to drive collaboration between human and animal medicine, for the benefit of both.

About the role:

The Treasurer works alongside fellow trustees and relevant staff to oversee Humanimal Trust’s financial strategy, planning and management. You will provide the Board with clear, comprehensive information to inform decisions, ensure financial systems and controls are sound, and advise on the financial implications of strategic and operational plans.

You’ll bring:

• Professional financial expertise (e.g. accounting and financial management expertise).
• A strong understanding of charity finance and governance, or a willingness to learn.
• The ability to analyse, explain and present financial information clearly to non-specialists.
• Strategic thinking and sound judgement.
• Commitment to the mission and values of Humanimal Trust.

Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the preparation of budgets, management accounts, financial statements and cashflow forecasts.
• Ensuring effective financial systems and controls are in place.
• Supporting compliance with relevant legislation and reporting requirements.
• Ensuring the Board understands and fulfils its financial responsibilities.
• Advising on financial risks and opportunities in relation to strategy and operations.
• Overseeing the preparation of the annual accounts and reports for submission to relevant authorities.

What’s in it for you?

• A unique opportunity to use your financial skills to make a lasting impact on healthcare for both humans and animals.
• Development of career enhancing skills and experience, including charity finance, governance and leadership.
• The opportunity to be part of a team of passionate trustees, staff, and volunteers.

Appointment term: A minimum term of three years, with the possibility of two consecutive terms (six years) in total.

Time commitment: Quarterly Board meetings, c.2h per meeting, plus preparation, with some additional input for finance-specific matters.

Preferred background, knowledge and experience: An experienced accounting professional, ideally with knowledge of charity finance

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.

If you would like to use your financial skills to help drive positive change in human and animal medicine, we would love to hear from you. 

BLUE SMILE - CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Founded in 2010, Blue Smile is a Cambridgeshire charity supporting children aged 3-13 to manage big feelings, process difficult emotions, overcome anxieties and build resilience.

Blue Smile's mission is to transform the mental health and life chances of Cambridgeshire children through arts-based therapies, supporting over 200 children a week in the region’s schools, providing one-to-one therapy and groupwork. We work in particular, in accordance with our charitable aims, with those who face disadvantage or deprivation.

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES ROLE

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will provide strategic leadership and governance to ensure that Blue Smile fulfils its charitable objectives. You will lead the Board in an inclusive way, promoting collaborative working and provide support and challenge to the Charity Director.

This role is vital to ensuring the charity operates in accordance with the law, delivers public benefit, and remains financially and strategically sustainable.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IN OUR NEW CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Our new Chair of Trustees will:

• Have board level experience as Chair, Non-executive or Trustee.

• Show a strong understanding of governance, strategy and the legal duties of a charity trustee.

• Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

• Have sound judgment, diplomacy, and the ability to build a collaborative environment.

• Demonstrate a passion for improving children’s mental health and wellbeing which aligns with the charity’s values and commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

TIME COMMITMENT

• Six meetings a year, including one as the AGM and an annual strategy day. Board meetings are currently held online.
• Monthly scheduled meeting with the Charity Director with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue.
• Ad hoc/occasional support through working groups and to the wider Blue Smile team.

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

• The Chair is appointed for a 5 year term of office, renewable for 1 further term to a maximum of 10 years in line with Blue Smile’s Articles of Association.
• This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

TO APPLY

If you would like to be part of a welcoming and well-respected charity, please send your CV and a covering letter, outlining your interest and suitability for the role. We will be recruiting on a rolling basis so please do get in touch soon!

Blue Smile is committed to a diversity of voices in our organisation. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. 

Safeguarding is central to all Blue Smile activities, and we recognise that the welfare of all children, young people and adults at risk, is paramount and that all have equal rights of protection. We have a duty of care when they are in our charge, and we will do everything we can to provide a safe and caring environment whilst they attend our activities.

We are committed to safer recruitment and trustees will be asked to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service check.

War Memorials Trust works to protect and conserve the nation's 100,000 war memorials. It is looking for new Trustees, with the right skills, experience, enthusiasm and commitment, to join the Board and help guide the charity's efforts. 

The charity provides advice and expertise to help anyone who looks after a war memorial to manage, repair and conserve it for the benefit of those who live locally, those who are commemorated and their families and the wider population. Sadly, names are added on a regular basis, hence many are living memorials as well as commemorating those from conflicts past. It also encourages public engagement especially through its website War Memorials Online to which anyone can add information and upload photographs. So, if the Trustee role isn't for you, you may still be able to contribute by signing up to War Memorials Online. 

A skills audit has identified key areas of expertise that the Board needs to enhance as

• fundraising expertise to ensure we are here for the long term 
• legal expertise to support the charity deliver its objectives appropriately

If you have a sympathy with our vision and have skills which match those we are looking for, we would love to hear from you. We can consider wider enquiries but those are our current priorities. 

This role is home based with board meetings rotating between in-person at the London office and online, although all can be joined online. Some attendance at events or visits to war memorials may be undertaken. Reasonable expenses related to the role will be available. Minimum engagement is for four, two-hour board meetings per year (plus reading of papers beforehand). Additional input will be welcomed and Trustees may be approached by staff, on a collective or an individual basis, between meetings, particularly in relation to their expertise.

Full details of the role can be found on War Memorials Trust's website via the 'Redirect to recruiter' button.

Cats Protection is the UK’s leading feline welfare charity, and our vision is a world where every cat is treated with kindness and an understanding of its needs.

Cats are at the centre of everything we do, and our objectives are homing, neutering and educating people about cats and their care.

We help thousands of cats across the UK each year thanks to our network of dedicated volunteers, employees and supporters.

A bit about this role...

Every penny counts when it comes to improving the lives of the thousands of cats and kittens across the UK that need our help each year. Our Collection Box Volunteers help us raise vital funds by collecting and distributing collection boxes in their local area. Making a difference can mean as little as raising 20p, which is enough to feed one cat in our care for a day, to £150 which is the average cost of a cat in our care.

What can I expect to be doing?

As a flexible role, you have the choice to be involved in the following:

• Researching local shops, pubs and businesses to place Collection Boxes
• Delivering Collection Boxes to locations
• Recording donations and thanking local businesses and supporters
• Collecting and replacing Collection boxes when they're full
• Sharing your passion for cat welfare and promoting the work of Cats Protection

What are the benefits to you and the cats?

You will have the opportunity to develop your knowledge though Cats Protection’s learn online system, providing you with the skills to thrive as a fundraiser. You’ll also have the chance to meet new people and be part of a dedicated team of Volunteers.
Money raised by our volunteers enables us to put cats first. Cats are at the centre of all we do. We care for them, ensure their welfare, and help others to understand and better support them.

We're looking for someone with:

• Sympathy to cats and our values
• Good communication skills
• Confidence in speaking to members of the public
• Confidence in handling money

How much time is expected of me?

Our Collection Tin Volunteer role is very flexible and can be completed at your own pace, independently with our dedicated support.

Support, guidance and keeping you safe

At Cats Protection we believe our volunteers should be happy and confident in their roles. We provide support and guidance from our National Cat Centre and through our regional and local volunteer groups and teams. We offer engaging online and face-to-face training, expenses and have policies and processes to help volunteers get the most out of their time with us.

The wellbeing of our people is important and at Cats Protection we are committed to safeguarding children, adults at risk and all those that we encounter as part of our activities.

Thank you for your support and sharing in this commitment and for everything you will do during your time with Cats Protection!

Treasurer (Trustee Board Member)

Location: Hybrid with flexible arrangements
Commitment: 4 Board Meetings and 4 Finance Sub-Committee Meetings per year plus ad-hoc support
Type: Voluntary role. Reasonable expenses incurred in relation to trustee duties can be reimbursed, subject to prior agreement with the Chair or Chief Executive
Closing Date: 5th December

Help shape better lives for older people in the community

This charity supports thousands of older people every year through life-enhancing services including advice, wellbeing activities, befriending, day support and more. The organisation combines strong local knowledge with trusted, community based service delivery. The aim is to ensure older people are valued, supported and able to lead fulfilled lives.

The Role – Treasurer

As Treasurer and Trustee you will:

· Oversee financial strategy and overall financial health, ensuring good governance and sustainability

· Chair the Finance Sub-Committee and lead Board discussions on finance, investments, reserves and risk

· Support and challenge the CEO and Finance Director, offering strategic guidance

· Help ensure robust financial planning aligns with service delivery and long term impact for older people

· Work closely with fellow Trustees and a skilled senior team to make a meaningful difference

What We Are Looking For

We welcome applicants who:

· Are qualified accountants (ICAEW, ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA) or experienced senior finance professionals

· Have strong financial acumen and the ability to clearly communicate financial information to non-finance colleagues

· Have some experience of charity finance, fundraising or pension schemes

· Have an interest in governance, strategy and positive Board teamwork

· Are committed to equity, diversity and inclusion, and improving the lives of older people

Previous trustee experience is helpful but not required. Full induction and support will be provided.

Time Commitment

· Board meets 4 times per year, usually evenings and hybrid

· Finance Sub-Committee meets 4 times per year and is chaired by the Treasurer

· Additional availability to liaise with the Chair, CEO and Finance Director, usually monthly

· Attendance at the Annual General Meeting and Annual Away Day

Total yearly commitment: approximately 6 to 8 days with flexibility and remote options.

Why Join

· Make a tangible difference to older people in the community

· Gain or deepen non-executive leadership experience

· Work with a friendly, committed Board with a collaborative culture

· Join an organisation that values diversity, inclusion and personal development

How to Apply

Please send a CV and short covering note outlining your interest.

Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds and particularly from groups currently underrepresented in governance.

Make a Real Difference in Norfolk's Learning Disability Community

Mid Norfolk Mencap seeks up to 6 committed trustees to join our Board  

Are you looking to use your skills and experience for meaningful impact? Mid Norfolk Mencap, supporting people with learning disabilities across Norfolk, is recruiting trustees to guide our charity.

Location

Our charity’s office and principal activities are in Dereham, Norfolk.  All Board meetings are held in person. Sub-committees can meet face-to-face or hybrid via Teams to suit sub-committee members. We encourage our trustees to visit the office and all services whenever possible.

Support 

You will be supported by the Chair, other members of the Board of Trustees, and the CEO.

Responsibilities

As a trustee, you have important personal responsibilities to ensure the charity is well-governed, effective, and operates for the public benefit.

· Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes and delivering public benefit

· Understand the charity’s purposes as set out in our governing document, and be able to explain how all activities further or support these purposes

· To ensure that the charity pursue its stated purposes, as defined in its governing document, by developing and agreeing a long-term strategy

· To ensure that the charity complies with its governing document, applicable charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations

· Manage the charity’s resources responsibly by making sure that the charity applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its charitable objects for the benefit of its members

· Ensure that the charity’s assets, beneficiaries or reputation are not exposed to undue risk

· You must exercise reasonable skill and care, drawing on your own expertise and experience, and seek appropriate advice when necessary

· You should dedicate sufficient time, thought, and energy to your role, ensuring you are well-prepared for, attend, and actively participate in all Board meetings.

· Be able to demonstrate that the charity is complying with the law, well run and effective

· Ensure appropriate accountability within the charity, both to members and in relation to delegated responsibilities.

Qualities and experience 

This role is best suited to candidates who can demonstrate knowledge and experience that will benefit the charity, and who possess the following characteristics:

· A proven track record of integrity and respect for confidential and proprietary information

· A keen and respectful listener who can empathise and respectfully challenge

· Commitment to the charity, approachable for the people we support, and enthusiasm for its vision, mission and aims

· Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship

· Willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to their duties as a trustee (we estimate this to be 2-3 hours per week in addition to Board meeting commitments below)

· Strategic vision

· Sound, independent judgement

· Willingness to participate in frank and open discussion

· Ability to work effectively as a member of a team

· The ability to read and understand management reports

· Skills to analyse proposals and their consequences

· Preparedness to make unpopular recommendations to the Board

· General competence with IT

· Willingness to be available to provide guidance to the senior management team on an ad hoc basis

Time commitment

The charity holds quarterly Board meetings, with each lasting approximately 2 – 3 hours. All Board meetings are held outside of normal office hours.

It is suggested that approximately two hours preparation time be allowed for prior to each meeting to ensure trustees are familiar with items to be discussed.

Sub-committees meet quarterly with each lasting approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. Approximately one hour is suggested for preparation in advance of the meeting.

Typically, all trustees attend the AGM in person, and at least one annual fundraising or social event hosted by the organisation. These are held on evenings or weekends.

To allow time to settle into the role, and to see the fruits of your work, we suggest that candidates assume a three-year commitment to Mid Norfolk Mencap at the outset.  

Training

You will be given a basic induction to the charity and opportunities to meet with the leadership team. 

All trustees are required to complete the statutory Oliver McGowan training. Additional training opportunities will be identified based on your individual experience and qualifications, ensuring you have the support needed to excel in your role.

Through the trustee recruitment and on-Boarding process, we will arrange for you to meet with our Chair and CEO, and we encourage you to explore their motivation and rewards as part of your evaluation of us.

Rewards

The role of a trustee is voluntary and is not accompanied by any financial remuneration. Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed for required travel, training, communication and childcare/carers to enable trustees to attend and participate at Board meetings.  

Conditions of engagement

Applicants must be at least 18 years old. At Mid Norfolk Mencap, we celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an environment where every employee, volunteer and Board member is valued, respected, and empowered – no matter their background.

You cannot serve as a trustee if you are disqualified under the Charities Act. This includes situations such as having an unspent conviction for an offence involving dishonesty or deception (for example fraud), being bankrupt or having entered a formal arrangement with creditors (such as an individual voluntary arrangement) or having been removed as a company director or charity trustee due to misconduct.

Appointment to our Board of Trustees is subject to the receipt of satisfactory references and the production of a clean enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) certificate.

Application process

If you would like to apply for a trustee role, or to discuss it informally, please contact us.

Our recruitment process will typically include the following:

· Interview, providing the opportunity for you to meet with the Chair, CEO and other members of staff

· An invitation to attend the Mid Norfolk Mencap office to meet some of the people we support

· Dedicated email/phone support for any queries or concern

Closing date for applications 14th November 2025. Interviews will take place 24th November - 5th December 2025. Successful applicants will be formally nominated to join the Board at our AGM on 22nd January 2026.

Please note: our recruitment process is designed to facilitate a two-way dialogue.  We recognise that you need to be as comfortable with us and our operating model as we are with you. Our commitment throughout, is to be open, transparent and to give you as much information as we possibly can so that you can be sure you are making an informed choice to volunteer as a trustee with us.

Who we are:

Manchester is a young and vibrant city, with two in every five residents aged 25 or under. Yet, nearly half of our children (43.8%) are growing up in poverty.

Young Manchester is a youth-led partnership of more than 160 local non-profit organisations and community groups, supporting over 15,000 children and young people across the city every week. We resource, strengthen, and champion Manchester’s youth and play sector, centring young people’s voices, experiences, and leadership, and working to ensure that those most excluded have access to opportunities, support, and joy.

Our vision:

A Manchester where all children and young people can thrive and lead purposeful lives in a joyful, safe and healthy environment.

Young Manchester's Board of Trustees 

Young Manchester has a diverse, active and engaged board. However, we are particularly looking for further support around financial oversight and guidance, to ensure effective management of Young Manchester’s resources in line with its charitable objectives.

Young Manchester is working to expand its strategic engagement with business and diversify its fundraising streams through corporate and enterprise opportunities.

We are keen to hear from individuals with background in finance, or experience in fundraising, grant management, or investment portfolio. They will support the CEOs and Finance & Operations Manager by reviewing budgets, management accounts, cash flow forecasts, and financial statements.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Work with the other trustees to ensure Young Manchester is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit.
2. Comply with Young Manchester’s governing document and the law.
3. Act in Young Manchester’s best interests.
4. Manage Young Manchester’s resources responsibly.
5. Act with reasonable care and skill.
6. Ensure Young Manchester is accountable by supporting and challenging its leadership.
7. Work closely with Young Manchester’s leadership to execute our strategy in alignment with our vision, mission and values.

Winter Bucket Collections Volunteer - Norfolk

Do you want to raise some money for Shelter, while having fun along the way?

Information about the role 

This role involves supporting our Community Fundraising teams. You’d be joining bucket collection events in the community to help us raise money. This is a highly flexible role. We’ll let you know about upcoming opportunities, and you can choose which you’d like to do. 

Location:  Shelter Norfolk, Whitefriars House, 50 Fishergate, NR3 1SE

Suggested contribution: It’s up to you! You can choose the shifts you’d like to volunteer at.

Availability: This is a varied opportunity with bucket collections taking place on different days. You can choose the days that best suit your availability.

The above is the essential information you need to know. You can apply now by clicking ‘fill in an application’ or read on more for details.

Main activities may include: 

• Holding collection buckets in public spaces.

• Making sure the money raised is counted and safely banked for Shelter.  

This role fights the housing emergency by raising funds that enable Shelter to provide advice and support and campaigning for change.

Benefits of volunteering with Shelter 

Volunteers are essential to Shelter’s mission to end housing injustice. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds. The insights and life experiences our volunteers bring to Shelter are valued as much as their contribution through volunteering. 

We aim to provide our volunteers with a positive experience. This is by prioritising accessibility and tailoring the support we provide to the needs of the individual. We make sure our policies and processes are equitable, which means that no-one is unfairly disadvantaged while volunteering because of their background or identity. 

Your skills and experience  

No specific skills or experience are required for this role. We’re looking for volunteers who are passionate about joining our fight for home! 

Supporting you 

• You will be provided with an induction into your role, access to relevant learning and a copy of our volunteer handbook. 

• The role, including learning and communications, are flexible, so can be tailored so they best suit your needs and preferences.

• You will be able to claim reasonable volunteering expenses in line with Shelter’s volunteer policy. Where financial circumstances would be a barrier to volunteering, we may be able to offer these funds in advance.

• You will be able to access our volunteer support package, including our colleague assistance programme and Shelter’s network of mental health first aiders. 

Next steps 

You can apply for this role and we will then get back to you about your application. Shortlisted applicants will have a recruitment conversation to discuss the role further. 

Upon offer of role, you will be asked to declare any unspent convictions. Having a criminal record does not automatically mean you can’t volunteer with us. We will have a conversation with you to discuss the convictions in relation to the role you have applied for. Sometimes it may limit the ways you can get involved. Please contact us if you require more information.