Support at home volunteer roles in tenterden, kent
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!
Are you passionate about helping people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues to live gloriously ordinary lives
Do you have a background and in-depth experience of strategic charitable fundraising and best practice?
Are you experienced in advising on charity fundraising at strategic and operational levels?
Have you got credibility and passion to help us make a difference?
If the answer is YES, why not consider becoming a FitzRoy Trustee
About Us
FitzRoy is a pioneering national charity, providing a range of support to people who need support to enable them to live independent lives. Our vision is a society where people are treated as equals within inclusive communities and empowered to ensure their rights and aspirations are met.
FitzRoy maintains a financially sound organisation , and whilst the majority of our funding comes through the provision of local authority contracts, the importance of fundraising and philanthropic support cannot be underestimated in this, the most challenging of environments for our sector and the people we support.
The Role
At this time, we are seeking to strengthen our Board by appointing a Trustee with dedicated experience in successful strategic fundraising and knowledge of corporate and philanthropic giving working with major donors, Trusts and Foundations, Patrons and Ambassadors, to help support our strategic objectives.
- Fundraising strategy, collaborate with the Board and Executive Leadership to support the development and implementation of a comprehensive fundraising strategy aligned with the organisations mission, vision and values.
- Work closely to advise our departmental teams on strategic direction to our fundraising and philanthropic efforts.
- Support the organisation in developing our approach to network relationships with existing and potential new donors, ambassadors and corporate partnerships.
- Provide knowledge and support to our team around grant sources and fundraising opportunities, branding and campaigns.
- Support the development of projects and causes to help create exciting, sustainable, appealing asks to funders.
As a Trustee you will have the opportunity to influence our development, and with the other members of our Board, you will be responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the Charity.
We welcome applications from communities currently under-represented on our Board, specifically those with Black or Asian heritage and women. We value a range of mixed voices and aspire to a governance which reflects the diversity of our workforce and the people we support.
Trustee experience in the charity or social care sector is not required, and training and mentorship will be available to those interested in developing their leadership skills through being a Trustee.
We do encourage applications from those with a personal experience of learning disability, autism or mental health issues.
In return, if you are able to commit your time, energy and passion, you will be rewarded by being part of a forward thinking charity dedicated to transforming lives of people with learning disabilities, autism and mental health issues. This is a voluntary role, with paid travel expenses , requiring approximately one day per month of your time.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
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!
Background to the role:
Keep Active is a volunteer-delivered project at The Creighton Centre, which aims to provide support to older people (60+) who have had a fall, stroke or other illness. We work in partnership with the NHS Community Rehabilitation Service across Hammersmith & Fulham. As a Keep Active Volunteer you would visit an older person (the average age is 84) once a week for up to nine weeks to help them with improving mobility indoors with exercises, or outdoors with walks in their community. This project aims to empower people to get back to independence, access community once more and reduce risks of future falls and hospital re-admittance.
Availability/commitment:
· To live in or near Hammersmith and Fulham, or travel regularly through
· To be able to spare 1-2 hours a week, preferably during working hours
Role of the Keep Active Volunteer:
· To attend an initial one-off training session [with Volunteer Coordinator and therapists from NHS rehabilitation teams].
· To visit an older person’s home once a week for up to 9 weeks to supervise and motivate them to continue practicing their exercise and walking goals, as prescribed by NHS rehabilitation teams.
· Support might include:
- A walk around their local community possibly going to the park or visiting shops.
- Encouraging them to complete a prescribed gentle exercise program.
- Keeping an older and sometimes isolated person company.
- Visiting someone in their homes to help them reach their exercise goals.
NB: Please note that this is a volunteer role and you will not be expected to provide any physical support. This is a motivational role only.
We will provide:
· Induction training and NHS Community Rehabilitation led training (weekday training).
· Regular contact and support from the project staff.
· Occasional social events for volunteers
· Occasional training opportunities for volunteers
· A reference after 3-6 months of volunteering with us
· An enhanced DBS check
· Reimbursement of travel expenses incurred during your volunteering
Skills needed:
· Good listening and communication skills and a good level of spoken English.
· Empathy and a kind and patience approach.
· Enthusiasm and commitment.
· A friendly personality.
· The desire to make a positive difference to someone’s health and wellbeing
· Ability to cope with clients who are unwell.
· A positive attitude towards empowering and improving the lives of older people
· An understanding of and commitment to our policies (including: Confidentiality, Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities)
Accountable to:
Keep Active Coordinator
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Using Anonymous Recruitment
This organisation is using Anonymous Recruitment to reduce bias in the first stages of the hiring process. Submit your application as normal and our system will anonymise it for you. Your personal information will be hidden until the recruiter contacts you.
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!
Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and we'd love you to join us. We have a huge number of exciting and rewarding roles from directly supporting an animal in your home, or one of our centres across the UK, to supporting our shops and educational services. You may even wish to belong to our Pet Loss Support line. Find out more about the ideal role for you. Volunteering is fun and rewarding. We have centres and shops across England and Wales where you can get involved. Just search Blue Cross Volunteering for more info. Thank you.
Please apply online at the web address above.
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!
At Doorstep Library, we’re dedicated to bringing the magic of books and the joy of reading directly into the homes of children who need our support.
With 1 in 4 children in the UK leaving primary school unable to read or write properly, we recruit and train in-person and online volunteers to introduce children from under-resourced areas to the pleasure of reading.
What’s Involved?
As a Doorstep Library reading volunteer, you’ll visit the same families via Zoom every week with eBooks to share with the children and encourage their love of reading.
You will:
- Handpick eBooks from our online portals based on the children’s age, interests, and reading level
- Join families via Zoom with your volunteer partner for 20-minute reading sessions
- Make notes after the session to keep track of how the child/ren are progressing
Our unique home-based approach allows our volunteers to build trusting relationships with families, helping them to connect with the community and equip them with the skills they need to succeed later in life.
When and Where?
You can be based anywhere in the UK to become a Doorstep Library online volunteer.
- Time commitment: One evening a week (Regular Volunteer), one evening every other week (Semi-Regular Volunteer) or once every 3 weeks (Stand-In Volunteer) during school term times
- Hours per week: 2
- Days: Our projects run on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays from 4:30pm – 6:30pm
Why volunteer with Doorstep Library?
- It's incredibly fun! You get to explore your inner child and share your passion for books and reading.
- We invest in our team of volunteers to ensure they are valued, supported and are developing.
- You will be a part of the Doorstep Library community of families, volunteers and staff members.
- You can make a real difference to the lives of others. Providing you with a real sense of purpose and achievement.
- You give back to the community you live in or the community you visit every week.
- You build your confidence and improve your self-esteem and mental well-being.
- You will develop skills and enhance your C.V.
Doorstep Library is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and all those it comes into contact with. All volunteers undergo rigorous safer recruitment processes including specified interview questions, a DBS check, and the collection of written and/or verbal references. Safeguarding training is a mandatory part of the induction process for all volunteers, and they are expected to always adhere to our safeguarding policies and procedures.
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!
Here’s 5 reasons you’ll love to volunteer in our shops:
1. It's fun
2. It's flexible
3. You'll learn and share skills
4. You'll be making a difference
5. You'll work with a great team
We’re passionate about what we do, and love giving second-hand clothing a chance of going to a good home. Our shop teams are key to raising vital funds for our work and act as incredible advocates for the rights of children both in the UK and around the world.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.
Volunteering in the shop
Our Bexhill Shop Volunteers are in the middle of it all, and there’s plenty to get involved with. You might be sorting and pricing stock, engaging with customers, ringing items through the till, creating fantastic window displays or keeping our shop floor looking organised.
It’s up to you how much you commit. We have volunteers who support for a couple of hours a week and some do more. Many people volunteer either a morning or an afternoon each week - this is something that will be discussed at the selection stage, after you’ve applied.
Why volunteer with Save the Children?
In over 110 countries, we support children to transform their lives. By providing live-saving short-term help, and pushing for deep-rooted social change, we help children take, their future into their own hands. We believe every child has the right to learn. Every child should have good food to fuel their bodies and every child should have medicine when they're sick.
Skills and experiences we seek
We welcome applications from people with a wide range of skills and experiences. You don’t need any retail or shop experience as full training will be provided. What’s important to us is that you are a team player, open to learning and to follow our policies as well as be an excellent representative for Save the Children.
We know that our shop teams are stronger when they are inclusive and representative of their communities. Everybody can make a real difference. People come to us for all sorts of reasons, from all backgrounds, and we will do what we can to find a role that works for you.
What happens next?
After you’ve filled in an application, we will invite you for an informal trial shift. It’s a great opportunity to visit the shop, meet some of our existing volunteers and have a go at some of the tasks that you would be supporting with as a shop volunteer. Hopefully allowing you to get a feel for the role and make sure it’s for you. We also ask for a couple of references (these don’t have to be formal workplace ones, just someone who has known you for over 6 months and isn’t related).
How to apply
Express your interest on email via the apply button.
Please note that this is a voluntary, unpaid role, based in the UK. We are unfortunately not able to provide support with visa requests.
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!
Join us as Dog A.I.D.'s new Honorary Secretary and you would be joining the Board at an exciting time as we have launched the charity’s Strategic Plan with a new CEO supported by a small but strong team, which we will be building further this year. As Honorary Secretary you would be using your skills and experience to support the leadership and strategic direction of our charity as we look to achieve ambitious strategic growth targets over the coming years, becoming a larger, more robust charity with increased profile and reach.
Dog A.I.D. empowers physically disabled people by coaching them to train their own pet dog to become an accredited Assistance Dog. By focusing on the existing pet/owner bond, outcomes for our clients include:
· increased independence and self-confidence
· improved mental well-being
· reduction in social isolation
· reduced reliance on family members and/or carers.
· increased opportunities, with many of our clients being able to return to work or education, supported by their accredited Assistance Dog.
We are looking for an active and well-organised Secretary who can provide support for our governance functions. You will be required to attend and minute online quarterly Board meetings and other ad-hoc meetings and strategic discussions.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Bgen, the Botanic Gardens Education Network, is seeking a new Treasurer Trustee to join its Board. This unpaid voluntary role offers a unique opportunity to support a small, but passionate charity at a pivotal moment in its growth.
Bgen is a specialist support network for professional plant and natural world educators. We help our members to connect people and plants in innovative and engaging ways, through online events, face to face training and networking events and our Annual Conference.
We are looking for a Treasurer who will bring enthusiasm, commitment, fresh perspectives and who will broaden the diversity of thinking on our Board. The successful candidate will combine professional financial knowledge and experience with a deep commitment to supporting our mission in this vital non-executive role.
As our new Treasurer trustee, you will play an active role within the Bgen Board and provide leadership on its financial health, ensuring robust processes, accurate records and sound-decision making with transparency and accountability.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the dynamic Board and support our work to empower plant and environmental education and engagement professionals across the UK.
Availability and commitment
As a Board member you will need to be able to attend up to six board meetings per year (held online) and the Annual General Meeting, organised in January – February each year. You will also spend around 2 -3 days per quarter in between meetings, to prepare the quarterly accounts, provide advice and coordinate payments, with support from the Bgen Coordinator and Bgen Bookkeeper. Days may vary throughout the year, depending on activity.
On October 7th, we are hosting a Bgen Board Strategy Away Day at Birmingham Botanical Gardens and your attendance would be extremely helpful.
This position would be for a period of three years minimum (term can be renewed after this time).
Please read the full role description and how to apply (attached).
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!
Jumble Sales Organiser Volunteer
Would you like to raise funds, have fun and join a super team of volunteers who together make our Jumble Sales in Thatcham a great success? As Jumble Sales Organiser you would be helping to make everything run smoothly for the team.
Time Expectations: 1 Saturday every other month (plus preparations)
This could be a shared role and tasks may include:
· Booking the hall for future Jumbles
· Contacting the Jumble team before events to check availability
· Set up stalls, running a stall and packing away at the end
· Collecting any items/resources needed from the centre the day before
Without volunteers, Cats Protection Berkshire Cat Centre simply wouldn't exist. Our amazing, friendly volunteers are a diverse group with a shared love of cats who fit volunteering around their home lives and personal commitments.
We're often looking to welcome new volunteers to join our brilliant team. As well as meeting great people and making an incredible difference to the cats of Berkshire.
Please note: Although we do welcome everyone, unfortunately our centre is not set up to accommodate young volunteers under the age of 18, including those on the Duke of Edinburgh programme.
Full training and support will be given for all roles. We look forward to hearing from you!
Applicants will need to complete an application form with two references.
Making a better life for cats, because life is better with cats


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Introduction
Do you care about the future of the countryside in North and East Yorkshire? Do you have skills and experience in in policy development in or for Local Authorities that you could bring to our work? CPRE North and East Yorkshire are looking for a Trustee and Local Authority Communications Lead to contribute to our important work protecting our beautiful local countryside and green spaces.
Who we are
CPRE campaigns nationally and locally for positive solutions which safeguard the long-term future of our precious countryside which is facing multiple threats. At national level, the charity produces in-depth research and sound arguments to press government, Parliament and other decision-makers to support our countryside, be it national landscapes or simply much loved local green spaces, through policies which ensure:
- The right development in the right place
- Active support to improve biodiversity and
- Countryside protection from climate change impacts and contribution to climate change solutions.
Here in North and East Yorkshire, the largest of the CPRE regions (6,900 square miles!), we have a successful track record of enabling residents and community groups to help shape development in ways that enrich the countryside around them. We also use our planning expertise to proactively campaign for local authority planning policies that safeguard and enhance our beautiful and varied landscapes.
The role
Our small but energetic team of volunteer Trustees enable people to protect the countryside they love and enjoy the benefits it brings wherever they live. But with your support we can do even more!
In joining us as a Trustee on the Board you’ll have a general role in developing the charity in line with our strategy and, together with other Trustees, ensuring compliance with Charity Commission and other legal and governance regulations. However additionally as our Lead for Local Authority Communications you will use your particular knowledge of policy development in this arena to inform and guide the Trustee Board on Local Authority campaigning and coordinate and drive forward related activities to meet agreed aims.
+Trustees initially serve a three-year term and may serve up to six years in total.
What we need and what’s in it for you
You don’t need to have prior Trustee experience but we are looking for applicants with manager/senior level experience in policy development in Local Authorities and/or as policy advisor to Local Authorities. By volunteering with us you’ll be using what you know to help find positive solutions for the major issues facing the countryside and the environment as well as being part of a group of people who share your passion for the countryside. Our friendly team will provide you with initial training and support to develop in your role. You’ll gain valuable skills and experience in charity governance and leadership. Further information on role responsibilities and our skill requirements are provided in the supplementary documents available on our application website, CPRENEY.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Join us on a transformational journey
Be part of something powerful. As a Trustee on the Board of AfriKids UK, you’ll help shape the future of a proven, high-impact organisation that’s ready to go further. You’ll bring your ideas, insights and perspective to help us improve and grow for the children and communities we serve.
About AfriKids
AfriKids is an award-winning, locally-led charity dedicated to ensuring the rights of children in northern Ghana. Our mission is to help unlock the power of communities to ensure child rights, with a focus on helping people secure the means, motive and opportunity for every child to complete a quality basic education, as the most sustainable route out of poverty. Locally-led and internationally supported, we work hand-in-hand with local communities to design and deliver programmes that create lasting change for children, so they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow. AfriKids UK exists to support this mission through faciliating access to international funding, partnerships, technical support and expertise — working in close collaboration with AfriKids Ghana, our independent local implementing partner.
The Role
With nearly 25 years of experience behind us, our Boards in the UK and Ghana are now helping to lead us through a period of transformational change, to impact more children than ever. We are seeking two more trustees to join the Board of AfriKids UK. As a Trustee of AfriKids, you will share collective responsibility for the governance and strategic direction of the charity, with guidance and support to learn about your responsibilities as a trustee if you have not been one before. Trustees play a crucial role in ensuring that AfriKids operates in accordance with its mission, values, and legal obligations. This is an opportunity to lend your unique knowledge, skills and experience to help advance our mission and make a difference for children.
Unlocking the power of communities to ensure children's rights in northern Ghana, so that they can thrive now and as the leaders of tomorrow.



The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
As exciting plans for a new National Centre for Music (NCM) at Edinburgh's former Royal High School progress, we are searching for a Chair and Board of Trustees to help bring this iconic, cultural destination to life.
From our home in the former Royal High School building on Calton Hill in Edinburgh, the National Centre for Music will become an energising force in Scotland’s music sector. Through a variety of programmes and partnerships, the centre will nurture and celebrate music making from across Scotland. It will present a striking programme of music – across all genres – for audiences to enjoy within a spectacular location, as well as supporting artists and organisations to develop new projects, skills, networks and profile. Nestled within two acres of beautiful, landscaped gardens, the centre will be open every day for people to enjoy and expand their musical passions.
We are looking for around four new trustees, including a Chair, to work closely with our executive team to develop and launch the organisation - defining the brand, setting the business model and staff team, establishing business partnerships and ensuring integration and collaboration with the music sector, as well as with Edinburgh and Scotland’s wider cultural infrastructure.
During these early years, there is expected to be five board meetings per year, plus one strategy development day. Given the nature of the project, it’s hoped trustees will offer their expertise in leading working groups and attending workshops.
As we launch ourselves as a new national player, we need fresh entrepreneurial thinking to build an innovative, resilient organisation. We are particularly seeking candidates with expertise in:
- Business development
- Brand and marketing
- EDI (Equalities, Diversity and Inclusion)
- Finance
We also want to ensure the music community at large feels represented in our governance and welcome applications from musicians. So whether you’re an experienced Trustee or someone who has never been on a board before, if you have first-hand knowledge of the music sector in Scotland or feel truly passionate about what we’re trying to achieve, we’d love to hear from you – and we’ll make sure you feel welcome and supported.
To create a nurturing and inspiring environment where Scotland's musical history is made.
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!
The Caldecott Foundation provides specialist residential care, fostering families and education for disadvantaged, vulnerable and traumatised young people in the UK.
We are seeking a Trustee with risk management and/or auditing experience. You will join a team of Trustees and staff helping some of the most vulnerable children in our society to build a future and reach their potential.
This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a leading role for the Board on organisational risk management and audit arrangements. Whilst the organisation currently has expertise in finance and business who can contribute to discussion around organisational risk, the Caldecott Foundation is seeking to add to this expertise, primarily regarding risks concerning Ofsted regulations, reputational and service delivery risks pertaining to working with vulnerable young people.
Whilst applications from all sectors will be considered, it is hoped that this important role can be filled by someone with expertise in social care and, ideally, someone who understands the organisational challenges and risks inherent in working with children and young people.
Our Board meetings are held four times a year. You will also Chair the risk and audit committee, which meet 4 times a year.
Person Description
- Someone with a passion for helping the most vulnerable children build a future and reach their potential.
- Someone with significant experience of operating at a senior level of business, preferably within an organisation which links to children and young people or someone who has worked with children and vulnerable adults in the past.
- Experience of risk management and/or auditing (preferably in a service industry other than finance).
- Experience of working with committees and chairing committees.
- Exceptional interpersonal skills and ability to work with a range of people with different roles.
- Someone with the ability to listen to others and bring in external expertise when needed.
What impact the opportunity will have?
Your experience and expertise will add immense value to the existing Board. The Trustee role is a critical one within the functioning of the organisation and as part of a group of volunteer Trustees you will be an important member of the leadership team. Through your involvement you will contribute to an organisation achieving outstanding long term outcomes for some of the most vulnerable young people in our society.
Before you apply
The TrusteeWorks Team at Reach Volunteering are supporting The Caldecott Foundation with their Trustee recruitment and applications should be made via TrusteeWorks in the first instance.
To apply please submit your CV along with a covering letter stating why you wish to join the organisation and how your skills and experience would add value to the Board.
Please let us know if you need any support with your application or to apply in a different way and we will be pleased to work with you to ensure this is possible.
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!
Become a Marie Curie Companion Volunteer
Location: Community Based in Bournemouth, Dorset
Commitment: 3 hours/week
Min Age: 18+
Driving: Not essential, but helpful
Criminal Record Check: Yes
Other Checks: 2 non-family references required
*Volunteers are not expected to cover all the areas mentioned
About the role
Marie Curie provides a vital service to those living with a terminal illness and their families. Your time helps reduce loneliness, offer emotional care, and assist with small tasks, allowing carers to take a break
What you will do
- Visit people in their homes or care setting
- Provide friendly support and care
- Help with tasks like making tea/coffee or going to appointments
- Offer emotional support and signpost to services
- Provide information and support around fuel poverty and accessing available resources
- Complete a short report at the ed of each visit
What we need from you
- Empathy, patience, and good listening skills
- Reliability and a commitment to weekly visits
- Respect for privacy and dignity
- Familiarity with basic IT – Microsoft Office, Email
What you'll gain
- Full training over 1 day and ongoing support throughout
- Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses each month
- A chance to make a real difference
Marie Curie is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of patients and their families and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Marie Curie will treat all volunteers fairly and with respect. We will not discriminate on the basis of disability, ethnicity, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, sex (i.e. gender), sexual orientation, religion or faith, or gender reassignment. We will not discriminate on the basis of age, unless the responsibilities of a role require us to do so in order to safeguard our volunteers and/or service users.
For more information or if you have any questions regarding this volunteer role, please contact us.
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!
Befriending Volunteer
You can make a difference…Age UK Wandsworth is a small, local, independent charity that has been working with older people in the area since 1963. We rely on your support to keep serving the older residents with in the Wamdsworth community. We have a dedicated team of experienced staff and a large network of dedicated local volunteers. Our aim is to enable everyone to age well in Wandsworth. We would love your help to be able to continue to support older Wandsworth residents.
Our Be-a-Friend service is one of our longest running services, matching people over 65, who live alone and have limited social contact, with a friendly local volunteer with similar hobbies and interests. The volunteer and their new friend set up a suitable time for them to meet each week for a chat and a cup of tea, which could be during the day, in the evening on the way home from work or even on the weekends . If you would prefer to volunteer from home, you can also be matched with an older person for telephone befriending. For many of our matched pairs, this is the beginning of a firm friendship.
Befriending Plus
Befriending Plus is an extended version of the Be-a-Friend programme, for individulas needing help with life admin and small tasks as well as companionship. For Befriending Plus pairs, time spent together can include helping to use a phone or tablet, helping the client to organise their file, going out for a coffee or popping to the post office together. This support can help older people to stay independent at home for longer, as well as increasing their confidence to do these tasks when the volunteer is not there.
Our mission is to help older people to age well in Wandsworth.


The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
We are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. We are member-led, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Introduction
Thank you for your interest in our Lay Trustee roles here at Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (The SU); based in beautiful Cornwall. We're very pleased to announce the opening of applications for our esteemed Board of Trustees. We are very proud of what we do, and we are looking for two dedicated Lay Trustees who will join our Board to support the strategic direction of the charity. You will need to share the values of the SU and commitment to achieve our priorities, working collaboratively to help take us to the next level. We are a member-led charity, funded by our universities and together with students we strive to create a world class student experience for all.
Our membership comprises of students studying with both Falmouth University and the University of Exeter (Cornwall) which creates a unique and special experience of which we love to be a key part of.
The role of Lay Trustee provides an opportunity to support our President Trustees and Student Trustees, foster a culture of student leadership and deliver a student focused service.
You will be taking up the role at a critical and exciting time, as we are undertaking two crucial pieces of work: finalising our new 2025-2028 strategic plan, and beginning the quintennial review of our Constitution. If you are excited at the prospect of contributing to the growth and development of the SU, then we eagerly anticipate the possibility of working alongside you to shape the future of our organisation.
We are especially keen to hear from applicants with experience in Finance, Higher Education, Human Resources, Charity or Employment Law.
About Us
We’re an autonomous organisation and we’re funded by the University of Exeter and Falmouth University. Acting independently ensures that we remain entirely focused on our students with one purpose in mind: to improve their student experience.
As a registered charity (1193045), our charitable purpose is the advancement of education, and our funds can for used for this charitable purpose only. This means that as a not-for-profit organisation: any income we gain goes straight back into providing services for students.
We are a member-led democratic organisation; our students are at the heart of everything we do. Our members views, opinions and experiences regarding students’ lives influence decision makers operating at every level, helping to shape the wider student experience and we enjoy positive collaborative relationships with both universities. Students have the power to shape what the Union does through our Annual Student Members’ Meetings and referenda, and they lead our Student Forum, which determine our Union priorities.
We are proud of the range of opportunities and services that we provide to students, which includes student led societies and sports clubs, volunteering opportunities, professional independent specialist advice, academic representation, and democratic activities. We also help students to organise a wide range of events and activities specifically for their fellow students.
Our Board
Our board is unique in the charity sector. We have a young and dynamic board; two thirds of the trustees are either recent or current students at the universities resulting in a purposefully high turnover of trustees. The charity is based in a complex, ever-changing Higher Education sector, working closely with two very different universities.
We have three sets of Trustees:
• Four President Trustees: a President and Vice President from each university, elected by cross-campus ballot. These are student leaders who have either just finished their degree or take a sabbatical to take up this role, in which they are also a full-time employee. Term: one year, maximum of two terms.
• Four Student Trustees: two from each university, appointed via the Appointments Committee. These are current students who offer direct insight into university life. Term: two years, maximum of two terms.
• Four Lay Trustees: appointed via the Appointments Committee. These trustees offer expertise, continuity, and insight. They are experienced, skilled members who enjoy being part of a dynamic board and supporting the younger trustees. Term: three years, maximum of three terms.
The Chair of the Board will always be a President Trustee, and the Deputy Chair will always be a Lay Trustee. Any Trustee can chair one of our three sub-committees: Finance, Appointments, Remuneration and Human Resources.
Why Should You Become a Trustee?
Being a Trustee is a valuable and rewarding experience. You’ll get to make a lasting difference to the lives of our students, and influence how the Union is run. You will use your skills, knowledge, and experience to support the Board in reaching sound decisions. You will be involved in leading discussions, making collective decisions, and identifying key issues. You’ll have the opportunity to mentor and support our President and Student Trustees. As a Lay Trustee, you are eligible to become Deputy Chair of the Board, or Chair of one of the sub-committees.
You will receive comprehensive induction training, and further training relevant to your role as a Chair or member of a sub-committee.
Job Description
We’re looking for someone to work collectively with our board of trustees to provide support and strategic direction to our Students’ Union.
Remuneration: Lay Trustees are voluntary, unpaid roles. However, all reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed, such as travel costs to board meetings.
Hours: Hours can vary however typically each year:
• Four Board of Trustees meetings – each meeting is around three hours long conducted online.
• Additional two (eight for Finance) sub-committees meetings conducted online – each meeting is around 45 minutes.
• There are usually one or two in-person events per year including a Board of Trustees meeting – each event is usually a day and/or an evening event. These are delivered in Cornwall (expenses paid).
Term of office: three years, up to three terms.
Location: Homebased with one or two in-person events in Cornwall per year.
Role Purpose
The Trustees are ultimately responsible, individually and collectively, for all activity within the SU. The Board is legally responsible for our staff, finances, risk management and reputation. The Board is responsible for setting the vision and values of the organisation and for ensuring the delivery of organisational purpose. The Trustees ensure development of and agree a long-term strategy. They approve and monitor plans to deliver the strategy.
Key Responsibilities:
• To ensure The SU acts in accordance with its charitable purpose, constitution and other governing documents and relevant legislation while remaining true to its Mission, Vision and Values.
• To contribute actively to the Board of Trustees role by determining the Students’ Union strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Ensure The SU uses its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects/purpose.
• Act as guardians of The SU’s assets and ensure the financial stability of the organisation.
• Prepare for Board meetings by reading through materials and Board papers beforehand, scrutinising information and be able to discuss issues.
• Take advice on matters on which you are not competent to decide.
• Provide support to President Trustees and Student Trustees.
• Take part in Board Reviews and Skills Audits each year.
• Use personal skills and experience to ensure the Union is well-run and efficient
• Seek external professional advice where there may be material risk to the Union or where the Trustees may be in breach of their duties or at any other appropriate moment.
• Add value to the Trustee Board and the Union through generating ideas, challenging the status quo, broadening thinking and supporting and promoting innovation and creativity.
• Abide by the Union Trustee Code of Conduct.
CRITERIA
All Trustees must display the following characteristics
Commitment to and passion for The SU.
Willingness and reliability to devote the necessary time and effort.
Strategic vision.
Good, independent judgment.
Ability to think creatively.
An understanding of and commitment to the values and principles of student representation and democracy.
Willingness to speak their mind.
Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship.
Ability to work effectively as a member of a team.
Responsible, especially when handling sensitive and confidential information.
A commitment to act in accordance with the Nolan principles for ethical conduct in public service.
We are looking for individuals who have skills, knowledge or experience in one or more of these sectors
Finance
Higher Education
Human Resources
Charity or Employment Law
How To Apply
Please visit the role posting on our website for further details on how to apply. We require the completion of a Person Details form, and Skills Audit spreadsheets, along with your CV and covering letter. The deadline for applications is 09:00 on Friday 16 May. Interviews will take place online via MS Teams on Wednesday 21 May, an additional slot is also available on Thursday 22 May if this is not convenient.
You must be available to attend Trustee Training on Friday 20 June, and Board of Trustees on Wednesday 25 June (as an observer), both online via MS Teams. Your term of office will start on Tuesday 1 July.
Eligibility
There are strict conditions placed on charity Trustees by law and all applicants must declare that they are eligible to become a charity Trustee. You will not be eligible if:
• You are on the Sex Offenders’ Register
• You have any unspent conviction for an offence involving:
o deception or dishonesty
o terrorist offences
o money laundering
o bribery
o misconduct in public office, perjury, perverting the course of justice
o contravention of certain preventative Orders of the Charity Commission (Section 77 of the Charities Act 2011)
o attempting, aiding or abetting the above offences
• You have any designation under specific anti-terrorist legislation
• You have been convicted of contempt of court
• You have been removed from:
o trusteeship, or as an officer, agent or employee of a charity by the Court or the Commission for misconduct or mismanagement
o a position of management or control of a charity in Scotland for mismanagement or misconduct
• You have been found guilty by the High court of disobeying a Commission order or direction
• You have an undischarged bankruptcy
• You have a composition or arrangement with creditors which includes an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA) and is currently on the Insolvency Service Register
As part of the recruitment process, we will ask you to sign a declaration that you are legally entitled to become a Trustee and commit the required time.
Data Protection
We’re committed to data protection and it’s important to know what’s happening with your data when you apply for a role. That means we’ll only use the information you supply for the purposes of progressing your application (or to fulfil legal or regulatory requirements if necessary) and we’ll never share your information with any third parties for marketing purposes or store it outside of the European Economic Area.
Equal Opportunities
We’re committed to ensuring our workforce accurately reflects the diversity of the world we live in. We positively encourage applications from all individuals irrespective of their gender, age, home country, ethnic background, sexuality, religious beliefs or disability. All candidates will be treated equally and all appointments made on merit.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.