Side volunteer roles

Trustee - Fundraising

There are hundreds of thousands of members of the fire services community across the UK. Fire and rescue services don’t just fight flames, they rescue and respond to everything from floods, major disasters and terrorist incidents to road traffic collisions.  Those who serve in fire and rescue services, face distinct and lasting health and wellbeing demands arising from their roles.

For more than 80 years, Fire Fighters Charity has stood side by side with the UK fire and rescue services community, there for them with the tailored and timely care and support they need to manage the impacts of service on they and their families - physically, emotionally and socially.

Our care and support is confidential, free, and without judgement – always. We are there when it matters most, whether in person in one of our three centres, online or by telephone, as a charitable healthcare provider. We give people in the ‘fire family’ access to the independent and tailored health care and wellbeing support they need – both during and after service.

We are recruiting  new trustees to join our Board and we invite applications from those who are experienced in operating at a senior strategic leadership level within an organisation, have solid strategic and financial skills and relationship and influencing skills.

Specifically, we are looking for candidates who will ideally have background and skills in Fundraising, including for example with a substantial background as a senior charity fundraiser with a sound understanding and experience of voluntary income generation at both strategic and operational levels and/or knowledge and experience of brand development and/or digital audience engagement

We are increasingly becoming a group of individuals who reflect and understand the diverse communities we serve, and we value the creativity, contribution, and value that different perspectives and experience add to any organisation. We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities and cultures, including those from communities traditionally underrepresented in charity sector governance roles.

Closing date: Friday 10 October 2025. We reserve the right to interview on a rolling basis, so interested applicants are encouraged to apply early. Interviews will be held on Microsoft Teams.

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Do you have a great idea to benefit people living with MS? At the MS Society, we campaign on a range of issues like welfare, treatments, care and support that people with MS need. We want to do more locally and want to support your ideas on making change happen. Together we can do more.

Perhaps you’ve spotted there are no blue badge spaces at your local supermarket? Or maybe your neighbourhood has no kerbs easy for wheelchairs to use? In this volunteer role, you’ll help drive change for people with MS in your community and develop your networking and influencing skills along the way.

As a campaigner you’ll bring your own ideas, local knowledge and personal experience to your campaigns. You’ll make decisions about your own campaign activities and collaborate with other campaigners in your area.

This role is flexible and aims to fit around you. Time commitments for this role may vary depending on your activities and the campaigning you’d like to do. This is an ongoing role.

Apply 

1. Read through the role description carefully (available via file attached on the right hand side)

2. Apply online, and have a welcome chat with your support staff member

Key information about London PLAY and the Co-Chair role

About Play

Play is important. It is deemed so vital to children’s health, happiness, and development that the right to play is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Yet play in London is under threat:

• Space for play is threatened by development and traffic.
• Freedom to play is stifled by perceptions of risk, and fear.
• Time for play is limited by more testing in school and sedentary activities.
• Funding for play workers and play spaces is increasingly scarce. About London PLAY London Play works to ensure children have the space, time and freedom to play.

We want every child in London to have high quality, free play opportunities, near to where they live. We’re working to achieve this through campaigning, organising events, supporting play providers and play workers and others whose work or lives include children, and creating opportunities for more and better play across the capital.

About the role

London PLAY is seeking a Co-Chair of Trustees to work alongside our current Chair, oversee the implementation of our strategy, and help us increase our impact and influence. The Co-Chairs will work closely with other trustees and staff to ensure effective governance, and to achieve London Play’s aims. After a period of transition, it is envisaged that the new Co-Chair will take on the full responsibilities of the role of Chair.

Key responsibilities (shared with the other Co-Chair)

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities of a trustee, the Co-Chair will: ▪ Plan the annual cycle of board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Set agendas for board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Chair and facilitate board meetings. ▪ Give direction to board policy-making. ▪ Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. ▪ Represent the organisation at functions and meetings. ▪ Meet regularly with the Director to gain an overview of the organisation’s affairs and operation and for the purposes of providing support. ▪ Liaise with the Director to continually develop the board of trustees. ▪ Lead the annual performance appraisal process for the Director. ▪ Sit on selection, disciplinary, grievances and complaints panels, as necessary, and in particular where the appointment of new trustees is concerned. ▪ Support the organisation’s overall development. 

Person specification: Co-Chair of the board of trustees

▪ A commitment to the organisation, its vision and passion to make play accessible for all children. ▪ A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. ▪ An ability to think creatively and strategically. ▪ An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. ▪ Selflessness, integrity, and objectivity. ▪ A willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

Other key information

• The role of Co-Chair is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses will be paid.
• The board meets four times a year, twice in person and twice online.
• In person meetings are held in London.
• The Co-Chairs (and board members) serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment at the end of each term for a maximum of two additional terms.

Summary and how to apply

This is an exciting role and opportunity to co-lead a small but influential charity that has championed children's right to play for nearly 30 years. If you are interested in applying for this role, please email (email address listed below) a copy of your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are applying for the role and outlining your relevant experience. Your cover letter should be no more than two sides of A4.

We are committed to being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented on our board including younger people, people from ethnically diverse groups, and people with disabilities.

Important dates to note

• Deadline for applications: Thursday 13 November, 5:00pm.
• Note that first-round interviews will be held online on Thursday 20 November.
• Second-round interviews will be held in-person (in Hackney) on Monday 24 November.

If you cannot attend an interview on either of these dates, please state this in your application and we will do our best to work around your availability.

Other information to note

Current Chair of Trustees (to become Co-Chair): Melian Mansfield

Current Co-Vice Chairs: Barry Walden and Hal Davidson

Location: Remote 
Type: Freelance with potential to grow

We are looking for a creative and strategic Social Media Manager to join our team and support the growth of an exciting lifestyle and wellness brand. This is a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in building and managing the digital presence of a brand that blends health, wellness, community, and lifestyle.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and implement a results-driven social media strategy across platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest)

• Create engaging, on-brand content (graphics, captions, reels, stories) to drive awareness, engagement, and conversions

• Manage content calendars, ensuring consistent posting and alignment with campaigns

• Monitor analytics and deliver insights to continuously improve performance

• Engage with the community — responding to comments, messages, and building relationships with followers and influencers

• Stay up to date with trends in wellness, lifestyle, and digital media to keep the brand relevant and ahead of the curve

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in social media management (agency or brand side)

• Strong understanding of wellness, lifestyle, and community-driven content

• Proficiency with tools such as Canva, Meta Business Suite, Later/Buffer, or similar

• Excellent copywriting skills and a good eye for design and brand storytelling

• Ability to analyse metrics and translate them into actionable strategies

• Creative thinker, highly organised, and able to work independently

Nice to Have

• Experience with influencer outreach and partnerships

• Paid ads management (Meta, TikTok, Google)

• Interest in health, wellness, or lifestyle sectors

Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a dynamic team at an exciting time of growth, with the chance to make a real impact in shaping the voice and presence of a wellness brand that is gaining traction in both the UK and US markets. This is not just about managing social media — it’s about being part of a mission-driven movement that inspires healthier, more abundant living.

Note : This is a voluntary position for women only under the provisions of the Equality Act (2010), Schedule 9, Part 1. Such positive recruitment action is justified whenever it is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

What will you be doing?

Our Board is chaired by Peter Carter and of made up of seven Directors. We plan to add 2-3 more to strengthen the skills and experience, and widen our diversity

The Board of Directors have overall oversight of Trinity Academy Newcastle Trust. In Trusts the purpose of Governance is to provide:-

• Strategic Leadership
• Accountability and Assurance
• Strategic Engagement.

As a Director, on the Board of Directors, you will work in partnership with the CEO, to set the strategic direction of the Trust, challenge Senior leaders and to take the Trust forward as an excellent example for the type of alternative provision that it offers.

Being a Director is a commitment to attending Board and Committee meetings that consider issues such as setting the Trust’s vision, mitigating financial risk and scrutinising educational outcomes, as well as overseeing the management side of the Trust.

Through oversight and strategic direction, the board will ensure that the Trust:

• Complies with governance documentation and relevant legislation
• Apply the resources solely towards pursing our purpose
• Have financial stability and sustainability
• Have effective  policies and procedures in place
• Evaluation performance against agreed goals

What are we looking for?

No previous experience is required and we welcome application from young and old alike from people with all kinds of backgrounds.

Our Directors must be:

• Willing and able to champion our Vision and Values
• Collaborative and open to new ideas
• Able to listen, express views constructively and be fair and objective.
• Reliable, ethical and honest
• Willing and able to contribute to the work of the Board
• Willing to undertake an enhanced DBS check

We are particularly seeking applicants with one or more of the following:

• Experience of the education sector and/or further education
• An understanding of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities
• Advanced financial/ accounting  skills
• An understanding of adolescence mental health

What difference will you make?

Directors play a vital role in making sure that Trinity Academy Newcastle Trust achieves its strategic vision. The Directors have the overall management of the Trust and provide support, ideas and constructive challenge to the CEO and Executive Leadership team. As a Director you will be able to develop your professional skills and experience in areas such as strategic planning, chairing, policy implementation and teamwork. 

Before you apply

Please apply via the Reach website.

Lay Representative 

Are you eager to contribute to a leading educational charity? The Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT), the UK's leading body for tax advisers, seeks a Lay Representative for its Council. We promote taxation education and aim for a simpler, more efficient tax system.

About the Role: As a non-voting Lay Representative, you will act as a 'critical friend', offering independent insight and challenging Council perspectives. Your external viewpoint will ensure the Institute benefits the public and upholds its charitable goals.

Key Contributions:

* Contribute to the development, implementation, and monitoring of the Institute's strategy.
* Ensure the Institute conducts its affairs in accordance with its charitable status and objectives, focusing on public benefit.
* Provide Council with a yearly report (approximately one side of A4) on perceptions of the charity's work in the public interest and towards its purposes.
* Utilise your skills to analyse complex issues and contribute constructively to discussions.

Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking an individual with strong governance and committee experience, ideally in a non-executive role, especially within charities or public bodies. You should have excellent analytical and communication skills, capable of engaging in strategic discussions and understanding complex reports. We value interpersonal skills, with proven ability to collaborate with diverse groups and influence constructively.

Important Independence Requirements: To ensure role independence, we cannot accept applications from Chartered Tax Advisers, tax-related professionals, or individuals with recent trustee, employee, volunteer, or business ties to the Institute, or close personal connections with trustees or senior management. Please declare you do not fall into these categories in your application.

Time Commitment & Remuneration: The role involves attending five to six Council meetings annually, including at least two in-person meetings in Central London, plus an annual half-day strategy session. A fee is paid for preparation and attendance at meetings and an hourly rate for other authorised work.

The Lay Representative is paid the following:

•£500 preparation, attendance (including the giving of feedback and any associated emails) for all Council meetings (whether in-person or virtual)

•£71.42 hourly pre-approved rate for all other work, which must be pre-authorised in advance by the Chief Executive via email setting out the work. Such instances are expected to be exceptional.

How to Apply: Please submit:

* A comprehensive CV.

* A cover letter (max 1,500 words) explaining how you meet the person specification and role criteria, including the required independence declaration.

* [Optional] A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form.

Applications must be submitted by email to Rakhi Patel (HR Operations Lead) at CIOT by 29 October 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews between 17 to 19 November 2025.

For an informal discussion about the role, please email Sarah Tempany at CIOT to arrange a conversation with Helen Whiteman, CEO

We are looking for a Trustee with fundraising and development experience to join our Board to support our small but mighty charity to bring the joy of reading to primary school children across the country.

Location: Online
Salary: Voluntary with reasonable expenses reimbursed
Deadline for applications: 31st October 2025

About Us:

The Children’s Bookshow is a national charity that inspires children with a love of books and reading through an annual programme of inspiring theatre and digital performances and engaging creative workshops. We showcase some of the best authors and illustrators of children’s books from around the world, and celebrate children’s literature in translation. 

We are an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation that has been running successfully for 23 years. Each year, we deliver 15 events in venues ranging from iconic theatres such as The Old Vic in London to community spaces and smaller scale theatres such as the New Wolsey in Ipswich, plus a programme of 60 creative workshops in primary schools. We target areas of high socio-economic deprivation, support environmental sustainability through our programme, and partner with local authorities, libraries and education providers. Every child who attends our theatre performances receives a free copy of the author’s book to take home and keep. This is integral to our offer - putting excellent books directly into the hands of children.

“Having Frank Cottrell-Boyce in for a free workshop really did make such a difference to our school and to our children. Frank was able to inspire every single child to write, no matter their need or ability, and children who would normally be reluctant to share their ideas in front of the class were confident to do so. Every single one of them went home talking non-stop about the amazing author they had met - with many now inspired to become authors. I can't put into words how grateful we are or how much of an impact those couple of hours have had on both the children and staff.” 
Teacher, Winyates Primary, Peterborough 2024

The opportunities:

If you think you have the expertise and passion to support our work and help us to deliver the kind of impact and change experienced by Winyates Primary, then we would love to hear from you!

Thanks to successful fundraising The Children’s Bookshow is financially stable for the next two years. Iterative growth and continued financial sustainability are crucial for us to fulfill our aspirations for the future: 

• Give more primary school children the invaluable experience of a live author event at a local theatre
• Enable children to work creatively with a world class artist in their own classroom 
• Increase book ownership by putting a free book into the hands of every child who attends one of our performances

We are recruiting a Trustee to join our Board of highly-skilled, committed and friendly Trustees to guide and support us in achieving these aims.

The Role:
Trustees share oversight of The Children’s Bookshow’s artistic programming, operations, fundraising and finances, to ensure good governance in compliance with our governing document and with UK charity and company law.

Time commitment: around 4-6 days per year.

Trustee:
We are looking for a dedicated individual who has enthusiasm for our work as well as experience in fundraising and development in the UK charity sector, to advise on and support our longer-term strategic fundraising plans and assets (such as proposals and case studies).

A background in children’s literature, publishing or theatre would be an advantage, but not essential.

The Children’s Bookshow is committed to creating a collaborative Board of Trustees that is inclusive and representative of our society. We actively encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and from all sections of society to apply. 

Meetings:
There are typically four Board meetings a year lasting around an hour. Three of these meetings take place online and we endeavour to meet in person once a year in central London for a meeting followed by lunch. We welcome Trustees to attend our theatre performances and online events wherever possible to directly experience our work. 

We also have a Finance and Operations Committee that occasionally meets online and reports to the Board, which Trustees are invited to opt into to share their expertise in specific areas such as Finance, Fundraising and Development. 

How to apply

Please email your CV and a covering letter (each a maximum of 2 sides of A4) detailing your relevant expertise and experience for the role of Treasurer or Trustee, and why you would like to be part of The Children’s Bookshow. We look forward to hearing from you.

Inclusive Boards is pleased to be supporting Abbeyfield Living Society in their search for two Trustees and one Trainee Trustee.

Abbeyfield Living Society (ALS) is a charity providing housing, care and support to older people across England. ALS currently own 1,358 housing and care rooms/apartments across 63 properties and 28 counties in England, including sheltered housing schemes, care homes, nursing homes, and dementia care homes. ALS is seeking to recruit two Trustees and one Trainee Trustee to assist the Board of Trustees to ensure the future viability and sustainability of Abbeyfield by:

• Ensuring that ALS has a clear business plan that supports its vision, mission and strategic direction, and is focused on achieving these. 

• Being focused on the needs of residents and their wellbeing through the provision of high quality and compliant services. 

• Working in partnership with other trustees, the CEO and other senior staff, contributing to and sharing responsibility for the Board's decisions. 

• Complying at all times with the National Housing Federation's Code of Conduct for its board members and staff.

Given that community is at the heart of Abbeyfield, we are working towards a board that is representative of the people and communities we serve. A diverse board will help to broaden our reach, and ensure Abbeyfield is demonstrating its commitment to helping diverse communities. Furthermore, ALS has signed up to the National Housing Federation (NHF) Code of Governance 2020 which includes the requirement that:

 'The membership of board and committees comprises people with diverse backgrounds and attributes, having regard to the diversity of the communities the organisation serves and in line with the organisation's stated commitments to equality, diversity and inclusion' (para 3.4(3)). 

To these ends, we actively seek applications from a diverse range of candidates. ALS is deeply committed to inclusive working practices, so during the application process we commit to: 

• Offering a guaranteed first stage interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the role. 

• Covering travel costs to and from in-person interviews. 

• Making reasonable adjustments at every stage of the process - for example, arranging a BSL interpreter or accessible interview format as needed. 

• Providing recruitment documents in alternative formats, such as accessible Word versions, on request.

For this role, you will need demonstrable experience of operating in a senior leadership role/board level in charitable, public sector or commercial organisation. The new trustees will complement the skills of the existing Board and will each bring specialist knowledge and experience in at least one of these specific areas:

• Care &/or housing services management and CQC &/or housing regulation

• Property growth & development

• Artificial intelligence

Regardless of professional background, candidates must be able to contribute at a strategic level to steer and drive the strategy, ensure good governance, help to promote the reputation of ALS and be advocates for the Abbeyfield movement.

For more information about this opportunity, please download the Candidate Information Pack using the links on this page.

If you wish to apply for this position, please supply the following by 11.59pm on 02/11/2025: 

• A detailed CV, setting out your career history, with responsibilities and achievements 

• A cover letter (maximum two sides of A4) highlighting your suitability for the role for which you’re applying and how you meet the person specification. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed. Please note that the cover letter is an important part of your application and will be assessed.

We are looking for a Treasurer with an accountancy background and Board level experience to join our Board to support our small but mighty charity to bring the joy of reading to primary school children across the country.

Location: Online
Salary: Voluntary with reasonable expenses reimbursed
Deadline for applications: 31st October 2025

About Us:

The Children’s Bookshow is a national charity that inspires children with a love of books and reading through an annual programme of inspiring theatre and digital performances and engaging creative workshops. We showcase some of the best authors and illustrators of children’s books from around the world, and celebrate children’s literature in translation. 

We are an Arts Council National Portfolio Organisation that has been running successfully for 23 years. Each year, we deliver 15 events in venues ranging from iconic theatres such as The Old Vic in London to community spaces and smaller scale theatres such as the New Wolsey in Ipswich, plus a programme of 60 creative workshops in primary schools. We target areas of high socio-economic deprivation, support environmental sustainability through our programme, and partner with local authorities, libraries and education providers. Every child who attends our theatre performances receives a free copy of the author’s book to take home and keep. This is integral to our offer - putting excellent books directly into the hands of children.

“Having Frank Cottrell-Boyce in for a free workshop really did make such a difference to our school and to our children. Frank was able to inspire every single child to write, no matter their need or ability, and children who would normally be reluctant to share their ideas in front of the class were confident to do so. Every single one of them went home talking non-stop about the amazing author they had met - with many now inspired to become authors. I can't put into words how grateful we are or how much of an impact those couple of hours have had on both the children and staff.” 
Teacher, Winyates Primary, Peterborough 2024

The opportunities:

If you think you have the expertise and passion to support our work and help us to deliver the kind of impact and change experienced by Winyates Primary, then we would love to hear from you!

Thanks to successful fundraising The Children’s Bookshow is financially stable for the next two years. Iterative growth and continued financial sustainability are crucial for us to fulfill our aspirations for the future: 

• Give more primary school children the invaluable experience of a live author event at a local theatre
• Enable children to work creatively with a world class artist in their own classroom 
• Increase book ownership by putting a free book into the hands of every child who attends one of our performances

We are recruiting a Treasurer to join our Board of highly-skilled, committed and friendly Trustees to guide and support us in achieving these aims.

The Role:
Trustees share oversight of The Children’s Bookshow’s artistic programming, operations, fundraising and finances, to ensure good governance in compliance with our governing document and with UK charity and company law.

Time commitment: around 4-6 days per year.

Treasurer:
We are seeking a new Treasurer to ensure high standards of financial governance and decision-making, and to act as a key sounding board for the Co-Directors in the financial planning, management and reporting of our charity. This will include overseeing our annual budget and cashflow and quarterly management accounts, and advising on how best to invest our reserve fund. 

We are looking for a qualified accountant with Board level experience with a UK charity and an interest in our work.

A background in children’s literature, publishing or theatre would be an advantage, but not essential.

The Children’s Bookshow is committed to creating a collaborative Board of Trustees that is inclusive and representative of our society. We actively encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and from all sections of society to apply. 

Meetings:
There are typically four Board meetings a year lasting around an hour. Three of these meetings take place online and we endeavour to meet in person once a year in central London for a meeting followed by lunch. We welcome Trustees to attend our theatre performances and online events wherever possible to directly experience our work. 

We also have a Finance and Operations Committee that occasionally meets online and reports to the Board, which Trustees are invited to opt into to share their expertise in specific areas such as Finance, Fundraising and Development. 

How to apply

Please email your CV and a covering letter (each a maximum of 2 sides of A4) detailing your relevant expertise and experience for the role of Treasurer, and why you would like to be part of The Children’s Bookshow. We look forward to hearing from you. 

Join us in shaping the future of the Royal British Legion

The Royal British Legion (RBL) is entering a pivotal and inspiring phase as we deliver Our Strategy to 2035, designed to respond to the changing world and evolving needs of the entire Armed Forces community: serving personnel, veterans, families, and the bereaved. Our strategy supports a sense of shared purpose across RBL and outlines what we need to do to make sure we will be fit for the future. Our vision is to bring society together to recognise, remember and support the Armed Forces Community and ensure that their unique contribution is not forgotten.   

As part of this commitment, RBL oversees Branch Property Trusts (BPTs)—separate charitable assets held on trust for specific local purposes connected to RBL Branches. These include both properties and proceeds from property sales, with approximately 775 BPTs in total, with around 400 holding property, and 375 representing sale proceeds valued at over £65m; held on trust for specific local charitable purposes connected to RBL Branches. These properties provide the RBL with a vital local community footprint. BPTs are separate charities and must be accounted for independently. RBL remains legally responsible, with decision making delegated to the Branch Property Trust Trustee Committee (BPTTC) to manage conflicts of interest.

Purpose of the role:

To contribute to the BPTTC’s discussions and decisions, to act as a Subject Matter Expert and to act as an impartial and objective guiding mind, supporting and advising on matters pertaining to assets held by RBL on trust, ensuring insight, challenge and assurance is provided on all BPTCC matters.

Independent Committee members are valued for their support, challenge and the advice they can provide to the Executive team and as such understand the roles of Trustees and Executive.

Who we’re looking for:

To support the BPTCC in its independent decision making, we are seeking to appoint two Independent Committee Members with technical skills and experience in the following areas:

· A legal expert with knowledge of property and/or charity law.

· A person with a commercial or operational background in the property sector.

Key Responsibilities:

· To ensure coherence to and support RBL’s Strategy to 2035, to meet the changing needs of the Armed Forces community and reinforce the bond with our society.

· Help to ensure the BPTTC makes decisions which adhere to legal and regulatory requirements, charity law, and the governing documents of the appropriate BPTs in question.

· To bring an impartial and independent perspective to the committee's discussions, helping to improve the quality and objectivity of decision-making. 

· As relevant to the BPTTC, to collaborate with RBL’s Executive team and Trustees committee members to develop and review RBL’s strategic goals, plans and initiatives.

· To support the BPTTC to ensure that RBL complies with all laws, legislation and corporate governance standards.

· To review and approve corporate policies and procedures relevant to the BPTTC.

Come and be part of the leading Armed Forces charity, making a difference to the lives of those who have served to keep us safe and protect our way of life.

The BPTTC will meet virtually every two months for 2 hours, and an estimated 1.5 hours of preparation is required prior to each meeting. 

For more detail on the role, please click here to access our information pack.

RBL is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive organisation, reflecting the diversity of the armed forces community and of wider society. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and personal characteristics.

Closing Date: 4th November 2025

Interview Date: 13 November 2025 (Virtual)

About CAAS

CAAS provides an Autism and ADHD Support Service across the 8 boroughs of NW London from our base in Eastcote and offices around London. We offer information, advice, and support to ADHD/Autistic people, their families, and professionals, with the aim of improving quality of life and building neurodivergent-aware communities.

We are incredibly fortunate to be in a sound financial position, with income of around £1.7m per year, and around 40 staff.  We offer 60 different services, including personalised one2one support, social groups, psycho-education courses and specialist workshops.  We also have a thriving training and awareness raising service, providing ADHD and autism training to statutory services, schools and voluntary sector organisations across NW London.

We’ve grown steadily over the last 25 years, and last year we supported more than 9,000 people, across 18,000 attendances.  Looking ahead, our priority is making sure everyone who could benefit from CAAS knows we’re here for them. We’re investing in outreach, inclusivity, and accessibility - breaking down barriers so our support reaches every corner of our community.

In this role, you will be leading the established (and lovely) Board of Trustees, who provide operational governance for the charity, determine its strategic direction, and help shape a positive, sustainable future for CAAS and the communities we serve.

Most importantly, you will be contributing towards our impact intention, which is that ADHD and autistic individuals, and those who support them, have improved mental wellbeing, are better able to engage with home-life, school, or work, and need less support from NHS/statutory services.  Ultimately, we want to help people to thrive.

To Apply

Please submit your CV and a Supporting Statement of no more than 2 sides of A4.  Your supporting statement should cover why you are interested in applying for the role, and how you fit the role and person specification.

About The Role

Charities like CAAS can only exist with the help of Trustees, and we are hugely grateful to everyone that volunteers to take on this role.  The Chair plays a unique role in guiding the Board, leading strategic discussions, supporting and challenging the CEO, and fostering a culture of inclusion, transparency, and good governance. 

We work hard to ensure the Chair is supported effectively to discharge their responsibilities and feel a sense of pride – and of enjoyment – in leading the Board of CAAS.

As Chair, you will work closely with fellow Trustees to ensure the Board fulfils its responsibilities, and with the CEO to provide support, oversight, and thought partnership. This is a rewarding opportunity to help shape the future of a thriving, impactful organisation, and to champion the rights and wellbeing of neurodivergent people across NW London.

We know that every Chair is unique, and bring their own range of skills, experience, and perspectives to support the organisation’s leadership and development.  We are therefore looking for someone who has a passion for what CAAS is trying to achieve and a willingness to commit to attending our meetings and leading our discussions.  You don’t need to have chaired a Board before. We’re looking for someone who can lead with integrity, listen well, and help us make thoughtful, inclusive decisions.

Having a Diverse Board

CAAS recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equity and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds, and we are particularly seeking applications from Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority communities, from disadvantage socio-economic backgrounds, and from people who identify as being autistic or having ADHD. 

We have recently completed a skills audit of the current Trustee board, and as well as looking to increase the diversity of our board, we would also particularly welcome applications from those who identify as having particular skills in the areas of HR & legal, digital & IT, statutory services provision, or marketing & communications. 

Please don’t be put off applying if you don’t have one of these skills or attributes or are worried that you don’t meet all of the points noted in this role description.  Every trustee who joins will receive a comprehensive induction and training package, and be supported by current trustees, so there will be lots of opportunity to learn ‘on the job’ for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Governance

· Provide leadership to the Board, ensuring effective governance and strategic oversight.

· Chair Board meetings effectively, ensuring all voices are heard and decisions are made collectively and transparently.

· Ensure the Board operates within its Terms of Reference and complies with legal and regulatory requirements.

· Support the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan and monitor progress against agreed objectives.

· Take urgent decisions between Board meetings where necessary, in line with delegated authority and in consultation with trustees

· Ensure the Board regularly reviews its own performance and effectiveness

· Champion equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s governance and culture.

Support and Mentoring

· Act as a mentor and support to the CEO, providing guidance and challenge as appropriate.

· Facilitate strong working relationships between trustees and the senior leadership team.

· Act as Vice Chair during the transition period, supporting succession planning, continuity, and building relationships with the Board and CEO.

Representation and Advocacy

· Represent CAAS externally, where appropriate, including at events, meetings, and with key stakeholders.

· Act as an ambassador for the charity’s mission, values, and strategic priorities.

Board Development

· Lead on trustee recruitment, induction, and development, ensuring the Board has the necessary skills and diversity.

· Conduct annual Board performance reviews and support continuous improvement in governance practices.

Board Participation

· Attend and actively participate in quarterly Board meetings and relevant sub-committees or working groups.

· Prepare for meetings by reading papers and contributing to discussions.

· Participate in Board development activities, including training and annual reviews.

· Champion equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of the charity’s governance and culture.

Person Specification

Essential

· Demonstrable leadership experience, ideally within a governance or strategic context.

· Passion for CAAS work

· Capacity to attend meetings, and willingness to devote the time and commitment required.

· Strong understanding of charity governance and the role of trustees.

· Commitment to CAAS’s mission, values, and strategic pillars.

· Excellent communication and facilitation skills.

· Ability to build consensus and manage differing views constructively.

Desirable

· Lived or professional experience of ADHD or autism.

· Being from a disadvantaged socio-economic background, or from a minority ethnic background

· Previous experience as a trustee or Chair.

· Understanding of equity, diversity and inclusion principles and their application in governance.

Commitment

The Board meets 8 times a year, mostly by video call, and Board meetings are usually around 2hrs in length.  Once a year we meet for a longer session, in person, to consider strategic items in more depth.

All Trustees will be asked to read a few papers in advance of the meeting, which could take 1-2hrs each meeting. 

All Trustees are also encouraged to engage with the organisation between meetings, for example attending events, meeting staff, or supporting specific initiatives.

The Chair will need to take on additional responsibility for preparing for Board meetings, supporting through transition periods and strategic planning cycles, or representing CAAS at external events.  As such, the total time commitment for a Chair is around 1 day per month. 

The successful candidate will initially join as Vice Chair, working alongside our longstanding Chair, whose term ends in November 2026.  Appointment to Chair will be mutually agreed with the Board, on or before that date

Trustee Terms are ordinarily for 4 years, and Trustees can be appointed for a 2nd 4-year term if desired. Chairs will serve within their normal Trustee Terms.

Exclusions

Please note that Section 72(1) of the Charities Act 1993 disqualifies anyone who:

· has been convicted of an offence involving deception or dishonesty, unless the conviction is spent

· is an undischarged bankrupt

· has previously been removed from trusteeship of a charity by the court or the Charity Commissioners

· is under a disqualification order under the Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986

It is an offence to act as a charity trustee while disqualified unless the Charity Commission has given a waiver under section 72(4) of the Charities Act 1993.

CAAS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  The successful candidate will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS disclosure.