Service manager volunteer roles in brent, derby
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy and numeracy?
Volunteers are essential to Shannon Trust and bring their energy, ideas and skills to train mentors in prisons, support learners in the community and enhance our business support team.
We are looking for volunteers to provide training and support to our mentors in prison. There may be some additional preparation and/ or administrative tasks in between volunteering days at the prison.
Our prison volunteers nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by delivering training sessions for prison mentors and offering ongoing advice, guidance and support through mentor meetings.
Volunteer recruitment dates
The closing date for applications to attend our next round of training is 25 January 2026. In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early. Successful applicants will be sent interview questions in advance with notice to prepare. We will respond to all applications. Successful applicants will be invited to an interview between 26 January and 6 February 2026. This is an opportunity for you to meet our regional team, to find out more about you and for us to share more information about the volunteering role.
Training:
You'll be given high quality training to prepare you for volunteering with Shannon Trust. This takes place over 4 training sessions and via our online training portal. We ask that volunteers aim to complete the training in one course as this means that you will be ready to start actively volunteering. The next training sessions for volunteering for people applying to be a prison based volunteer will take place as follows.
Please check that you can attend all of the training the dates prior to applying:
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17 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)
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24 February 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams))
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3 March 2026, 10am – 1pm (via Teams)
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24 March 2026, 10am-4pm (in person session, London)
You’ll also receive the opportunity to attend ongoing training sessions and peer support meetings during your time as a volunteer to build your skills and experience.
Why we want you
Shannon Trust’s vision is of a future where everyone can experience the positive impact of learning. As a prison volunteer your role will be at the heart of our organisation as you support our mentors in prisons. This will include delivering training to new mentors and supporting existing mentors to develop and deliver our Turning Pages and Count Me In programmes. You will be volunteering alongside Shannon Trust facilitators and / or frontline prison staff to empower mentors and ensure no one is left out of learning.
What you will be doing
- Delivering initial, and ongoing, training to mentors in prisons
- Supporting and encouraging the Shannon Trust facilitator and mentors to attract new learners and expand the reach of the Shannon Trust programme
- Arranging and leading mentor meetings to develop mentors’ skills, share good practice and to provide support to mentors to find solutions to concerns
- Supporting facilitators to engage prison staff and people in prison to set-up, maintain and develop the Shannon Trust reading and numeracy programmes across the whole prison, and contributing to progress planning for how to progress and achieve this
- Using your skills to build positive relationships with frontline prison staff, people in prison and other organisations
- Training and supporting mentors to collect and submit data and learner feedback
- Supporting with the planning of, and attendance at, celebration events
- Collecting and sharing good news stories and feedback
- Attending area meetings and sharing good practice with other volunteers
- Engaging with quarterly reviews to receive support and discuss progress
- Acting as an ambassador for Shannon Trust in all that you do, sharing the vision and values of the charity throughout your volunteering
The skills you need
- A commitment to providing non-judgemental support to people in prison
- Able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and have flexibility to visit the prison at times required
- Strong communication skills and are able to use these to inspire others
- Able to deliver engaging training and identify training and support needs for mentors
- Able to manage own time and prioritise
- Able to keep up to date with Shannon Trust news and communications and share relevant information with the wider prison team
- Able to use IT
What's in it for you
- Developing and growing your understanding of the HMPPS structure and prison system
- Reasonable, out of pocket, volunteering expenses are reimbursed
- You will receive induction training and ongoing training to support and develop you in your role
- All volunteers receive ongoing support and quarterly reviews to enable you to gain the most from your volunteering experience
- We recognise and are grateful for the added value that volunteers bring to our organisation
- We provide flexible volunteering opportunities, subject to the requirements of your role
Disclaimer
In some circumstances, volunteer vacancies may close early.
Please note you must be over 18 to volunteer with us.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Justice4 is a registered charity and umbrella organisation dedicated to tackling systemic injustices through advocacy, education, and radical storytelling. Justice 4 Windrush, our inaugural campaign, is committed to exposing the ongoing Home Office scandal that continues to impact the Windrush generation and other Commonwealth communities, while driving systemic change to combat the hostile and racist attitudes towards immigration embedded in Britain’s history and perpetuated through its policies and practices today.
Through powerful storytelling and multi-faceted campaigns, we aim to inspire action and keep these injustices in the public consciousness. From film, television, music, and live events (theatre, concerts, debates) to exhibitions, podcasts, and digital campaigns, we are building a movement to educate the nation and demand justice.
About the Trustee Treasurer role
As Trustee Treasurer, you will play a pivotal role in overseeing the organisation’s financial health, ensuring robust governance, and helping guide strategic decisions that enable Justice4 to deliver impact and sustainability. This is an exciting opportunity to bring your financial expertise, passion for social justice, and commitment to ethical stewardship to a dynamic and mission-driven organisation.
We are looking for someone who can collaborate with our board, support innovative financial planning, and help us continue building a sustainable platform for justice. Your skills and experience will directly contribute to advancing systemic change and supporting the communities we serve.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Organisation: The Muslim Lived Experience Network CIC
Role Type: Volunteer
Location: Remote
Time Commitment: 3.5–7.5 hours per week, 6 months fixed-term
Reports to: Co-Directors
Start Date: Immediate
About Us
The Muslim Lived Experience Network is a lived experience-led organisation committed to supporting individuals experiencing mental health challenges. We offer faith-informed peer support interventions, lived experience-related workshops and events, Islamic talks on mental health related topics, hospital ‘Muslim Faith Kits’, training, consultation, ad hoc support and signposting.
Our team is made up of dedicated volunteers united by a shared mission to attain the pleasure of Allah (SWT). We strive to achieve this by bringing peer support and lived experience perspectives to our communities - to educate, reduce stigma, and improve the quality of life for people living with mental health conditions.
Role Purpose
We are seeking a highly organised and mission-driven Volunteer Operations Lead to join our team and support and streamline our internal operations. You’ll help build and maintain the organisational backbone of our CIC by coordinating people, processes and systems. This is a key leadership role within a small but growing team, perfect for someone passionate about using their skillset to help bring faith-sensitive support to our community.
Key Responsibilities
1. Operational Oversight
- Support day-to-day running of the organisation’s internal systems
- Implement and maintain operational processes, documentation, and protocols
- Coordinate calendars, internal meetings, and project timelines
- Track organisational goals and ensure progress reporting
- Help streamline workflows using digital tools (e.g. Sharepoint, Zoom)
2. Compliance & Admin
- Support data protection (GDPR) compliance and document management
- Keep internal policies and procedures organised and updated
- Assist with safeguarding processes and record-keeping
Person Specification
Essential Skills & Attributes
- Previous experience in the non-profit or CIC sector and/or experience in non-finance quality, legal, governance, HR or compliance/internal audit sector
- Understanding of safeguarding, GDPR and other relevant policies
- Strong organisational and planning skills
- Experience in operations, project coordination or administration
- Confident with digital tools
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to take initiative and work independently
- Passion for faith-informed approaches and/or mental health
- Alignment with the values of a Muslim-led, inclusive organisation
Desirable (but not required)
- Lived experience of mental health challenges
- Familiarity with the needs of Muslim and/or marginalised communities
- Experience in a leadership position
What You’ll Gain
- A leadership role in a purpose-led, community-rooted organisation
- A chance to directly shape systems and processes to help a growing CIC thrive
- Personal development and transferable skills in operations, leadership and project management
- Ongoing support, networking opportunities, and recognition for your contributions
- Flexible hours and a values-aligned, supportive team of volunteers
- A professional reference and volunteer certificate upon completion
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Shannon Trust fulfils an unmet need around adult learning, supporting people who’ve fallen through the cracks in formal education.
We know a lot of people have had negative learning experiences in the past, so our programme is designed to be different, with no exams and no classrooms. Our unique, evidence-based Turning Pages reading manuals are used by thousands of learners in prisons and the community to improve reading skills.
Prison volunteers live near to their local prison so that they can visit about once a month during the working week to nurture the growth of the Shannon Trust in their prison. They help unlock the power of reading by offering advice, guidance, training and support to prison staff and prisoner mentors who help other prisoners to improve their skills 1 to 1.
We are looking for volunteers who are able to work alone, able to give a regular, reliable commitment for ideally two years and able to deliver engaging training to groups of people in prisons. Due to the nature of the role, prison security vetting will be required.
We provide training for the role via e-learning and 4 training sessions which are a mix of live, online and group training.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the charity as we enter a bold new chapter for Sunderland Culture. This is a unique opportunity to help shape the cultural landscape of Sunderland, working closely with our CEO, Board of Trustees, and valued partners to support Sunderland Culture’s vibrant and ambitious vision.
The Role of the Board
The board governs the charity and ensures Sunderland Culture is well-run, legally compliant, and financially sound as a registered charity and company limited by guarantee. Trustees act as guardians of the organisation’s purpose, ensuring decisions are made in the best interests of those we serve. Core duties include;
- Work with the CEO and Partners to set strategic direction and shape the organisation’s long-term cultural vision, mission, and priorities.
- Safeguarding the mission and values of the charity, upholding our core purpose: “to improve life for everyone in Sunderland through culture.”
- Champion culture in Sunderland – acting as ambassadors for the city’s cultural sector, bringing networks and influence.
- Provide accountability – Reporting to regulators (Charity Commission, Companies House), funders (Arts Council England, trusts/ foundations), and the community.
- Financial Oversight - work with the senior management team and Finance Committee to review and approve budgets, key-funding decisions and long-term sustainability.
- Policy Oversight - Approve and oversee key policies, including safeguarding, equality and diversity, privacy policy, health and safety, and employment procedures.
The board is supported in its work by a Finance Committee, with trustee representatives also working alongside staff leads on Arts Council England’s Investment Principles:
- Ambition & Quality
- Dynamism (organisational resilience and business systems)
- Inclusivity and Relevance
- Environmental Sustainability
The Role of Chair
The Chair will provide strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring that Trustees fulfil their duties effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the Board: Shape agendas, chair effective meetings, enable constructive challenge and decisive governance.
Manage and support the Chief Executive: Provide counsel and stretch; agree priorities and success measures; ensure strong performance and learning.
Steward partnerships: Work closely with existing partners to renew relationships while openings doors to a wider range of strategic partnerships.
Steward change: Oversee complex transitions in assets, programmes and organisational design; ensure robust risk management and stakeholder engagement.
Promote inclusion: Develop and grow the board to reflect the city’s diversity and lived experience.
Ensure sustainability: Oversee financial strategy and reserves; support income generation across public, commercial and philanthropic streams.
Advocate and represent: Be a visible ambassador for Sunderland Culture locally, regionally and nationally.
Board effectiveness: Lead trustee recruitment, induction, appraisal and succession; uphold best practice in charity and company governance.
Person Specification:
Essential Criteria
Commitment to Sunderland Culture’s mission
Relevant values and networks Essential Proven leadership experience, ideally at Board or senior executive level.
Strong understanding of governance and charity/ company law.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Ability to inspire confidence and command respect.
Desirable Criteria
Demonstrable commitment to or interest in the cultural sector
Sunderland or North-East England based
Background in relevant sector (Culture or Creative Industries, Community Development, Education, Finance etc.)
This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
RSPCA Lincoln Mid & Lincoln
Do you have an animal welfare background? Volunteer and pass on your expertise, help promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty. You will be able to influence how we do things and with your support, we will achieve so much more!
We are specifically looking for individuals with a specialism in animal welfare, for example, those with experience in, animal rescue, animal care, the veterinary industry, veterinary nursing, or as an animal behaviourist.
Using this expertise as well as other skills, as a Branch Trustee, you will influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives.
As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.
Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Animal Welfare Lead
- Act as branch specialist to compliance animal welfare across the branch.
- Act as lead of animal welfare for the branch dealing with enquiries mail/phone.
- Creation and maintenance of any branch specific animal welfare standards.
- Ensure branch trustees are kept informed of any events of note, including requests for extraordinary expenditure or decisions as and when they happen.
- Lead and organise animal welfare branch sub-committee.
- Provide written animal welfare report for every branch meeting.
- Maintain control of all veterinary and other animal services provided to the branch.
- Maintain control of animal welfare vouchering schemes.
- Creation and contribution to the animal welfare promotional materials.
- Act as second reviewer for adoptors and fosterers.
- Act as main contact for RSPCA Inspectors, vets, boarding facilities.
- Creation and contributor to branch communications.
- Compliance with Data Protection Act 2018.
- Submission of the RSPCA Reports as required.
What we are looking for in a volunteer:
We are committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.
Above all, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives, shares our passion for and knowledge of animal welfare, and who can put ideas into action.
You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.
What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – Animal Welfare Lead
- We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
- Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
- The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
- The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
- A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.
Practical considerations
- You will need to be 18 or over
- Ideally, the candidate will be based in or around Lincoln, Mid, or North East Lincolnshire; however, we also hold meetings remotely.
- The position is unpaid but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
- You must not be disqualified from being a Trustee. Please read the Charity Commission’s guidance on who can be a Trustee of a charity.
- References will be required.
How to find out more about being a Trustee
Our trustee applicants are encouraged to meet informally with the chair initially and then join a trustee meeting. We will take up references and undertake disqualification checks prior to co-opting you to our board. You will need to be a branch member to join our board.
For more information on becoming a Charity Trustee and to ensure it is the right decision for you, we recommend reading the Charity Commission's guidance on the role of the trustee and the RSPCA website about Branch Trustees.
We have an online session about Becoming a Branch Trustee, which should hopefully give you more of an idea of what the RSPCA Branch Trustee role will involve
How to Apply:
If you’ve got the drive and compassion to volunteer with the RSPCA and are passionate about improving animal welfare, we’d love to hear from you!
Please visit our website to learn more about what we do.
Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Whether you’re a jobseeker interested in a career in construction or woodwork, a student or recent college graduate seeking experience, or just someone with spare time on your hands, wanting to do something positive and meet new people, volunteering with the Touch Wood project at EMERGE 3Rs may be just the ticket!
Touch Wood is a wood recycling and upcycling initiative, which collects surplus and waste wood and timber and gives it a new lease of life, preventing it from being burned, chipped, or dumped in landfill.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
* Preparing wood for resale
* Assisting with the construction of wooden products, from small household items to pieces of furniture
Our Touch Wood volunteers are able to gain skills in practical woodworking, as we offer hands-on experience of working with reclaimed timber; from making basic lumber products ready for resale, through to assisting with the creation of bespoke items, such as kitchen equipment and home and garden furniture.
Full training in woodworking and health and safety is provided, along with Personal Protection Equipment.
The UK generates around 5 million tonnes of wood waste every year, but less than 1% is reused. Touch Wood rescues waste timber that would otherwise be landfilled or turned into woodchip; creating jobs and training opportunities for disadvantaged local people at the same time. We collect from construction sites, industrial estates and other commercial sources, reclaiming everything from pallets to indoor cycle tracks – you name it, we take it! Anything we can’t reuse is locally recycled, so nothing goes to waste. This reduces the carbon emissions associated with disposing of waste wood, offers cost savings for DIY enthusiasts, and provides training and job potential to volunteers in the workshop. Some of the timber we work with comes from high profile sources, including the entire track of the Manchester Velodrome cycling centre and wood removed in the recent refurbishment of Manchester’s historic Town Hall!
Our skilled team of staff and volunteers often use reclaimed timber to create beautiful and practical products, such as home and garden furniture. We regularly create bespoke pieces to order; some of it for famous clients like Olympic cycling champions Jason and Laura Kenny, for whom we made a table from the Manchester Velodrome track.
Please be advised that our volunteers require a fair level of physical fitness and manual dexterity as the role is entirely practical.
Our Touch Wood workshop and wood store is open Mon-Fri, 8.30am - 4pm.
We occupy a unit at Maynard House, inside New Smithfield Market, in Openshaw, North Manchester, which is accessed from the main entrance on Whitworth Street East (off Ashton Old Road). The site is served well by buses, and we have free parking onsite, as well as secure storage racks for pushbikes.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
You must be resident in the UK and living in Greater Manchester, or within easy commuting distance of our base, in order to volunteer with us. There are no exceptions to this rule. This is because we require volunteers to be able to reliably commit to regular shifts for some of our roles. We are unable to offer sponsorship for overseas applicants.
Know someone else who might be interested in volunteering with us?
Please pass our details on to them as we always welcome new people on our teams. :)
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Make a difference – become a school governor
You do not have to be a parent or member of staff to be a school governor – applications are appreciated from all with an interest in the local community. School governors come from all walks of life and specialist knowledge is not always needed. What IS essential is a desire to get involved in children’s education and make a difference to their lives.
We welcome applications from those with educational, health & safety and safeguarding experience but school governors are all volunteers and training and support is provided. The University of Chichester (Multi) Academy Trust partners new governors with a ‘buddy’ – a trusted and more experienced colleague on the governing body – who initially acts as their mentor. Briefing information and assistance is also available through newsletters, websites and helplines provided by the Department for Education.
The Mission is to create a vibrant inclusive and aspirational family of academies, transforming life chances for pupils through excellent teaching, le


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
We are looking for one Trustee & Deputy Chair to join our Charity Trustee Board to support the Union through its next steps. A strong and active Board is crucial for us as we develop and implement our strategy, face challenges, maximise opportunities and endeavour to create an even better Union; one that continues to be flexible and agile enough to react quickly to the changing needs and interests of our student members and achieve our vision.
The Person
The right candidate will thrive in a student led, highly responsive environment and have an enthusiasm for supporting and guiding a student organisation. They will command confidence, have sound judgement and strong communication and leadership skills. We are looking for a trustee with the following skills/experience
Finance Experience:
- Preferably financial experience from a charity outside of the SU sector
- Understanding of financial oversight
- Ability to interpret financial information to support strategic decision-making
- Awareness of charity finance and regulatory requirements
Chairing Experience:
- Ability to deputise for the Chair, and chair meetings of the Board
- Ability to build a strong and effective working relationship with the Board of Trustees Chair
- Ability to foster, maintain and ensure that constructive relationships exist with and between the Trustees
- Assist and support the Chair in providing leadership to the Board, through the governance arrangements, and also acting as a ‘sounding board’ and confidante to the Chair in the execution of their role
Due to the current make-up of our Trustee Board, we are not actively searching for candidates with skills, knowledge and experience related to the Student Union and HE sector and we would welcome candidates from other sectors or regions to apply. That said, we would very much like to encourage anyone who feels that they could bring something to our Board to apply, regardless of experience - our purpose and values also lead us to welcome first time Trustees too!
We are strongly dedicated to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within our community and we are passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment which supports everyone from recruitment through to appointment, regardless of your background. We welcome applications from all talented people and as part of this commitment, we are working to improve the diversity of our Trustee Board to ensure that it is as relevant and representative of our student community as possible and are actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.
Further Information
Application is via a comprehensive CV plus a supporting statement (of no more than two sides of A4) detailing why you are applying for the position and what requirements you meet to carry out the role
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as applications come in. They're ready to hire as soon as they find the right person. Don't miss your opportunity, apply now!
Wheels for All is a national charity that helps people of all abilities enjoy cycling in a way that works for them. Supporting more than 100 inclusive cycling hubs with over 30 years of experience, we’ve seen first-hand how cycling can change lives - improving health, confidence and community connection.
We’re now growing our national reach and impact, and we’re looking for new Trustees to join our Board and help guide us through this exciting next stage.
About the role
As a Trustee, you’ll help shape the direction of the charity, support good decision-making, and make sure we stay focused on our mission to make cycling accessible for everyone. We’d especially like to hear from people who:
- Have experience in communications, PR, campaigning or public engagement, and can help us share the power of inclusive cycling with more people across the UK
- Have strong networks or local knowledge in areas that are currently least well served by inclusive cycling - especially the North East, East Midlands or South West
If that’s not your background, please don’t be put off. We welcome people from all walks of life who share our passion for inclusion and want to make a difference.
Our Trustees also get involved in one or more of our focus groups, including:
- Governance and Risk
- Nominations, People and EDI
- Welfare, Safety and Safeguarding
- Finance
- Income Generation
We follow the Tier 3 Code for Sports Governance, which means we’re serious about running the charity to the highest standards - but we do it in a supportive, friendly and collaborative way. Full induction and training is provided.
Who we’re looking for
You don’t need to have been a Trustee before - we’ll help you learn the ropes. You just need to bring:
- A thoughtful, practical approach
- Willingness to ask questions and share ideas
- The ability to work well with others
- Commitment to equality, inclusion and fairness
- A bit of time and energy to get involved
How to apply
- Apply via othe link, and please upload your CV and a cover letter showcasing how you’re the perfect fit for the role
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As we shape the next stage of our programme and prepare to celebrate our centenary in 2029, this is a wonderful moment to become part of our story. We are in a period of thoughtful renewal, refining our strategy and exploring new ways to deepen our impact and enrich the musical lives of people of all ages.
Our Trustees play a vital role in the life of Benslow Music. They steward the governance of the charity, share responsibility for its financial and legal wellbeing, and help set its strategic direction in collaboration with the Chief Executive and staff team. Trustees also champion our work externally – supporting fundraising, building relationships, and helping the organisation thrive.
We are looking to appoint up to three new Trustees and warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and professional perspectives.
We are intending one appointment will be a trustee with legal expertise.
Following a recent skills review, we are also keen to hear from candidates with experience in:
- Charity governance
- Finance or accountancy
- Corporate or charity experience in SMEs
- Fundraising.
For further information and to download our trustee recruitment pack, plese visit our website.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We’re looking for trustees
I’m Tom, Chair of the Board of Trustees for We The Curious.
We are looking for individuals with specific skills to join our trustee board who are passionate about creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future through science and creative experiences.
Following a prolonged closure due to Covid and then a fire in our venue, We The Curious reopened to the public in July of 2024. One year later we have newfound opportunities and challenges ahead and we need people with fresh perspectives and particular skills to help us continue to grow.
Finance – we are looking someone who is a chartered accountant and who has financial experience and expertise that they can bring to our board, as well as our Finance & Risk Assurance Committee
Legal – we are looking for a qualified lawyer to bring strategic legal and compliance expertise to our board and our Finance and Risk Assurance Committee.
Fundraising – we are looking for someone with fundraising and development experience to join our board, and either our Purpose or Finance and Risk Assurance Committee.
Education – we are looking for someone with experience in primary or secondary education
If you feel energised by our charity, this opportunity and have expertise in any of these areas then we’d love to hear from you!
Tom Betts, Chair of Board of Trustees, We The Curious
What is a trustee?
Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as: Directors, board members, governors, committee members
Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who work with our experienced leadership team to provide support, encouragement, challenge when needed and help to decide how the charity is run. Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives. As part of the board of trustees at We the Curious you will be making a difference to the community in Bristol and the surrounding area and helping us to connect and empower people through science. Trustees use their skills and experience to support their charities, helping them achieve their aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the board.
-Charity Commission, find out more here
About We The Curious
We The Curious is an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading science centres.
We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas around science, technology, natural history and the environment.
We work with partners, locally and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing.
We are progressive, inquisitive, collaborative, playful and creative.
Vision
What if everyone is included, curious, inspired by science to build a better world together?
Mission
Our aim is to connect and empower people through sharing creative experiences which celebrate unknowns in science.
Our work as a charity is driven by five key pledges:
_Cultivate Curiosity
_Include Everyone
_Open Up Science
_Sustainable Futures
_Build Resilience
You can find out more about these in our Manifesto.
What will you do in this role?
As a trustee you will provide advice, knowledge and support to the leadership team at We The Curious.
With the steer of the Chair, the board of trustees ensures we pursue our purpose responsibly, are compliant with our governing documents, charity law and other relevant legislation. The board will review and advise on best practice and appropriate policies and procedures and uphold excellent governance.
Below are some of the key areas of work generally as a trustee.
As a trustee you will:
_Contribute individual skills and knowledge in support of the vision and strategic delivery
_Uphold the values of We The Curious
_Safeguard and advocate for the work and vision of We The Curious
_Act as ambassadors locally, nationally and internationally
_Assist with the evaluation and review of the policies, goals and targets of the organisation
_Encourage investment and growth
_Drive innovation and change
_Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and long-term financial stability
_Contribute to working groups for specific focus on projects
All Trustees should use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach informed decisions in the best interest of We The Curious.
This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussion and providing guidance as requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of our work in which the trustee has expertise.
Finance - as a trustee with strategic financial experience you will:
_Help to provide financial oversight for the charity, ensuring resources are used, invested and spent in line with legal requirements
_Ensure the charity complies with charity law and financial governance requirements
_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external financial advice for complex matters
_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and regularly monitor the management accounts and financial reporting with a view to becoming chair of the committee
We are looking for qualified accountants with practical up-to-date knowledge of management accounting principles, financial reporting and charity finances, analytical skills and strategic thinking.
Legal - as a trustee with legal expertise you will:
_Contribute strategic advice to the board on the legal implications of our plans and initiatives
_Advise the board and leadership team on when to seek external legal advice for complex matters
_Ensure the charity complies with its governing document, charity law and other relevant legislation
_Join our finance and risk assurance committee and work to manage any legal risks, ensuring policies and procedures align with best legal practices
We are looking for qualified lawyers with strong knowledge of company and charity law, analytical skills and strategic thinking.
Fundraising - as a trustee with fundraising and development expertise you will:
_Contribute strategic advice to the board around fundraising and development strategy
_Advise the board and leadership team on potential funding streams
_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee
We are looking for people with strong background in fundraising and strategic thinking.
Education - as a trustee with primary or secondary education expertise you will:
_Contribute strategic advice to the board around education of school aged children (key stages 1 to 4)
_Advise the board and leadership team on issues around education – which could include curriculum and traditional education, alternative education, CME or SEND provision
_Join either our finance and risk assurance committee or our purpose committee
We are looking for people who are passionate and knowledgeable around the education of young people and share our commitment to equitable education for all.
Time commitment
_We hold quarterly board meetings, typically from 4pm to 7pm. Trustees are expected to attend and contribute to all meetings either in person or by joining virtually.
_Papers for the board meetings are sent one week prior and from time-to-time will include specific asks or requests for information and input from trustees.
_ You will also be asked to take part in one of our quarterly committee meetings which take place virtually two weeks prior to the board meeting, typically from 4pm to 6pm.
_We hold one annual board away day, typically from 10am to 5pm which takes place in person.
_ Board Meetings are located at the We The Curious offices within the science centre in central Bristol, and our away days take place at an alternate venue in Bristol once a year.
_ You may also be called upon for advice or assistance by the leadership team, for example to give input on areas related to your specialism, attend additional meetings or to be present at We The Curious events.
Remuneration
This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered. Refreshments are provided at Board meetings and lunch is provided at the annual strategy away day.
You will have:
_Free entry to our venue during opening hours
_12 tickets per calendar year to give away
_20% off in the We The Curious shop at our venue and online
_Free parking at Millennium Square car park for meetings
_Secure cycle storage
Terms of appointment
_Trustees are appointed to an initial three-year term of service (including a 12-month probationary period).
_Trustees can serve a maximum of six years with a reappointment after the first term of three years unless the trustee holds an office, such as Chair or Deputy Chair, in which case they would be eligible for a further three-year term. The maximum term of office is nine years.
Probationary period
This post is subject to a 12-month probationary period.
What we're looking for from you
We have ambitious plans for We The Curious and are looking for people that embody our values and have some of these skills/knowledge to help achieve our plans.
Values
_Embody our values. Collaborative, Creative, Inquisitive, Playful and Progressive
_Be committed to our vision and key manifesto pledges of Cultivating Curiosity, Including Everyone, Open Up Science, Strive for Sustainable Futures and Build Resilience
_Have a positively questioning mind to help We The Curious fulfil its vision
_Act with integrity and in the best interests of We The Curious at all times
_Work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of We The Curious
Skills/Knowledge
We want to ensure that our board bring a variety of skills and knowledge to We The Curious. At this time we are looking for people to join us who have skills in finance, law, fundraising and education.
Including everyone
We want our people to reflect our city and build a place where everyone feels like they can belong. But we know that our organisation doesn’t yet represent the rich experiences and cultures of Bristol. We think when our board reflects our city it will lead to innovative , well informed and better decision making. We’ll be more resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to fulfil our vision and mission.
We especially want to hear from you if:
_You identify as and/or have lived experiences with either: African and African Caribbean heritage, Carers, d/Deaf, Disabled, East Asian heritage, Global majority, LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary, Neurodivergent, South Asian heritage, under 40, Visually impaired, Woman, Working Class
I’ve never been a trustee before, should I apply?
Yes! If you feel you connect with these values or have the skills/knowledge we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you.
You just need to be at least 18 years old. You don’t need formal qualifications, or previous trustee experience or a science background. We’ll give you training on good governance and opportunities for mentorship.
If you are an aspiring trustee or want to know more about trustees, you may find the charity commission guidance useful.
Supporting you
Training
If you join the board, you will have an induction and onboarding experience to support you with your role and get you connected with the rest of the organisation.
If you are a first-time trustee or want a refresher, we will provide you with training on good governance and other topics related to your role. We will also provide you with mentorship from other members of the board.
Support during the process
We The Curious is a Disability Confident Employer and we welcome applications from candidates who self-assess themselves as having a disability. We will guarantee an interview to applicants who advise that they have a disability and who meet the minimum criteria for a job vacancy. To help you, under the Equality Act 2010 a person is defined as having a disability if a) they have a physical or mental impairment, and b) the impairment has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.
We want to work with you to ensure the recruitment process is accessible for you.
If you are disabled, neurodivergent, or if you have a long-term health condition, we’ll be happy to make reasonable adjustments to our processes for you.
You’ll have the opportunity to let us know about any adjustments you may need throughout the application and selection process. We’ll continue this conversation if you join us as a staff member, and we’ll work with you to make sure you have the adjustments you need to succeed in your role.
Examples of adjustments could include:
_providing alternative formats at every stage
_options to apply
_extra time for tasks
_providing some extra information about what to expect
_office orientation before an in-person interview.
Application process
Deadline for applications:11.59pm Sunday 11 January 2026
Interview dates and location:26 January – 4 February 2026 at We The Curious
Start date: 16 February 2026, induction process will take place during February and March. First committee meetings will take place in April.
Application process:
If you would like to apply, please upload a copy of your CV and complete the application questions. The questions are designed to assess your experience and suitability for the role. You have the option to answer these questions in a written format or by submitting your responses by video or audio. Please see the application form for more details.
We appreciate interviews can be stressful, so we try to make them more of a conversation and a chance for you to tell us about how your qualifications, skills and experience make you the right person for the role.
If you have any particular needs or requirements, please do let us know so we are able to make the required adjustments.

