Trustee board member volunteer roles in london

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications: 11th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling

Trustee with Legal Expertise - Join Us in Transforming Children’s Lives! 

At School-Home Support, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to be in school and ready to learn – no matter the obstacles they face. Our mission is simple yet ambitious: to ensure that every child is in school, every day, by 2050. We are looking for a passionate and experienced Trustee with Legal Expertise to help us make this vision a reality and have a lasting impact on children and families across the country. 

We’re seeking an individual who shares our passion for improving children’s lives. If you have experience as a trustee and are ready to take the next step in your governance journey, we would love to hear from you. 

Who We're Looking For: 

We are looking to recruit a Trustee with Legal expertise who is passionate about the work of School-Home Support and brings energy, commitment and leadership combined with a willingness to advocate for the work we do and the cause we serve. 

As a Legal Expert Trustee, You Will: 

• Contribute to setting goals, targets, and overall policy for the organisation

• Share your expertise and networks to support the development and growth of the charity. 

• Help ensure compliance with our legal obligations and the organisation’s core purpose. 

• Provide oversight of the budget to guarantee School-Home Support’s financial sustainability. 

• Ensure measures are in place for safeguarding for the children and families we support and the staff team

• Act as a champion and ambassador for School-Home Support, enhancing our reputation, representing us at key events, and supporting fundraising efforts. 

What We Offer: 

• Impactful Role: By joining our Board of Trustees, you will play a key role in shaping our national impact and supporting our mission to transform the lives of children in need. 

• Training & Development: You will receive tailored training specific to your role and access to additional learning opportunities through our staff-led EDI networks. 

• Networking Opportunities: You’ll have the chance to expand your professional network and make valuable connections within the education and charity sectors.

• Support Throughout Your Journey: We will buddy you with a more experienced trustee or corporate volunteer to ensure you feel supported and confident throughout your time with us.

Expectations: 

• Commitment: A commitment of three years to this voluntary role

• Meetings: Attend four half-day board meetings and one AGM each year, which are typically held in Stratford, London, or remotely. 

• Sub-Committees: Participate in one of our sub-committees to help guide specific areas of our work. 

• External Events: Attend 2-3 fundraising events each year (usually evenings) and make at least one school visit annually. 

• Inclusion & Diversity: A strong commitment to inclusion, equal opportunities, and the promotion of diversity in all aspects of your work. 

If you’re ready to make a difference and contribute to creating brighter futures for children and their families, we want to hear from you! 

To learn more about this exciting opportunity, please review the Trustee Pack and submit your application today!

Our existing 12 trustees bring a variety of skills and experiences, such as fundraising, safeguarding, finance and investments and lived RAF experience to the Fund. Your background, skills and experience will further enhance this for the benefit of the RAF Family.

The successful candidates will:

• be aligned to our vision, purpose, key goals and values and be able to demonstrate their commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion;

• be able contribute positively to the Fund in a non-executive capacity, operate strategically, be held accountable and hold others to account;

• be able to build supportive relationships and work as a team. This will involve working collectively with others, supporting collective decision-making, being comfortable in sharing your views and expertise with fellow trustees and the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) trustees whilst still bringing your own ideas, perspectives and experiences to discussions;

• have the ability to analyse and interpret complex information and evidence, demonstrate impartiality, intellectual flexibility and sound judgment;

• have the ability to listen, communicate and influence effectively;

• have the capacity and skill to understand stakeholder priorities; and

• be a collaborative and pragmatic problem-solver and have the ability to adapt and respond to change.

This is an opportunity to become Chair of a Charity which has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. If you are someone who is looking to make a “real difference” for mothers/birthing people and their families facing one of the most challenging and unexpected periods of their lives, then we would like to hear from you.  We are also looking for a Chair who can lead and “harness” the range of skills present within our existing Board members, who come with a range of experience.

Now into our second decade as a charity, it is exciting time to join Mummy’s Star as the Chairperson. We have broadened the conversation about cancer and pregnancy nationwide, and internationally too despite our small stature. We now must sustain what we have built and help take the charity to that next level where we can elevate the voices of those we support, so that their needs are not only understood, but are also prioritised and used to inform policy and planning.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in a new and ambitious organisation, drive place-based change for Greenwich, and support community action and social justice across the borough.

Greenwich Giving is the new local giving scheme for the borough, launched in December 2024. Our mission is to inspire people who live and work in Greenwich to give – whether that’s expertise, time or money – to help shape their local spaces and to support Greenwich communities. Part of a network of place-based giving schemes across London, we connect people across the public, private and charity sectors to work in mutually beneficial partnerships. We believe in the power of local voices and connected communities to drive systemic change, particularly for those who are currently disenfranchised or vulnerable due to poverty and exclusion. 

We are recruiting a Board to help further our mission and navigate the transition (over the next 18 months) to Greenwich Giving becoming a registered and independent charity. As well as general board members, we are also recruiting for the specific roles of Chair and Treasurer.

We are looking for an Education trustee for Lancaster Independent School for Alternative Learning with senior educational experience.

What will you be doing?

We are looking for an Education Trustees who can contribute to the strategic direction of our small independent school based in Lancaster, Ofsted rated "Good"; attending termly Board meetings required by the independent school standards. 

The Board meetings are usually on a Friday afternoon and can be attended remotely.

Be the trustee presence on the Education Committee (other members of the committee are senior teaching staff), to provide oversight of the School Improvement plan and report back to the board of Trustees on status; attending bi-termly Education Committee Meetings.

The Education Trustee has line manager responsibility of two members of the school senior leadership team, including annual performance reviews.

At least once per term (3 times per year) the Education trustee will be expected to spend at least half day at school to complete lesson observations of direct report.

We are looking to make prompt appointment to better support our school.

What are we looking for?

Commitment to the ethos and values of the school and a willingness to devote time, enthusiasm and effort to the duties and responsibilities of a Trustee.

Specific professional knowledge and strategic experience in at least one of the following:

▪ Leadership experience within a school

▪ Experience of Independent School Standards  

Willingness to attend meetings of the Board and other meetings as required . Willingness to undertake training and participate in evaluation of the Board’s work.

The Charity and schools are committed to safeguarding and promotes the welfare of children and young people, and expects all staff to share this commitment.  An enhanced DBS check is required for all successful candidates.      

Conduct as a Trustee is underpinned by the seven principles of public life, as identified by the Nolan Committee:

Selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.

What difference will you make?

The opportunity carries the responsibility and purpose of ensuring the future viability of a very special school offering alternative education in the Lancaster area.

The school is not running at optimum capacity and strategic direction and support to broker key relationships to ensure student recruitment is operating in a way which reaches the young people most in need of our support is vital to the overall success of the charity and to open up opportunities for future investment and growth.

The Sheila McKechnie Foundation (SMK) was set up in June 2005 in memory of legendary campaigner, Sheila McKechnie.Campaigning is vital to a healthy society. We help campaigners to thrive. In a free and hopeful society, people need to know they have the power to make a difference: that they are able to envisage change and can push for that change to happen. For nearly two decades, we have helped all sorts of individuals, causes and charities to find their power as changemakers – as campaigners. We support, connect and champion these campaigners, equipping them to go after the social change they seek.

The Chair will hold the Board and staff team to account for SMK’s mission and vision, provide inclusive leadership to the Board and ensure that Board members fulfil their duties and responsibilities for the effective governance of SMK. The Chair will line manage and support the Chief Executive and ensure that the Board functions as a unit and works closely with the Chief Executive and staff team to achieve agreed objectives. They may also be asked to act as an ambassador and a public face of SMK in partnership with the Chief Executive and the Board.

For further information, see our website and the recruitment pack. 

About StreetVet

StreetVet is a fast-growing national charity, committed to providing free vet care to the pets of those experiencing homelessness and to keeping pets and owners together to maintain the human-animal bond. StreetVet relies on its team of over 250 vet and nurse volunteers in 23 locations around the UK to provide free veterinary treatment, funded by grants, corporate and private donors and partners. Since inception in 2016, the charity has treated nearly 3,000 pets and has won numerous awards including the Vet Trust Award for the Most Trusted Veterinary Charity, Purina Better with Pets Prize and Homeless Link Excellence Award for Excellent Support.

Our Top Priorities

We are looking for a new Trustee with a veterinary background who can bring a fresh perspective to our board. Working with the Trustee Board and Senior Leadership Team to support with clinical governance, particularly regarding compliance, statutory, legal and regulatory requirements. As a young charity we still need practical, hands-on support from time-to-time from the trustees in their area of expertise while we work to mature into an organisation where the trustees can focus on a purely governance role. Being a trustee can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience, offering opportunities to help shape the future direction of the charity, enhance the lives of people in our local communities and gain valuable satisfaction of contributing to an effective and ambitious growing charity.

Role Description:

The Clinical Governance Trustee will oversee the charity’s clinical governance for the benefit of the animal patient and the client owner. Practical guidance will be provided to enable StreetVet to help all veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses to understand clinical governance, whether they are in clinical practice, or not.

Role Responsibilities and Duties:

• Play a full and effective role on the Board of Trustees (attend minimum 75% Trustee Board meetings)

• Act as a conduit for clinical governance information between the Trustee Board, CEO and Clinical Director.

• Meet with Clinical Director quarterly. 

• Ensure volunteers are familiar and coherent with the Royal College Veterinary Surgeons Clinical Governance Code and VMD requirements. 

• Keep up to date with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and new developments relevant to the area of work. 

• Reflect upon the charity’s performance, making appropriate changes to practice. 

• Critically analyse the evidence base for procedures used and making appropriate changes to practice. 

• Reflect upon communication with other members of the StreetVet team and making appropriate changes to practice. 

• Reflect upon communication with clients and making appropriate changes to practice. 

• Have clear protocols in place to ensure all staff are familiar with procedures for ensuring patient safety. 

• Communicate changes in procedure to the whole practice team. 
   

Who we’re looking for - knowledge and experience  

• A thorough understanding of the veterinary sector. 

• Knowledge of veterinary care within the charity sector would be beneficial. 

• Must be a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) 

• Ability to advise and recommend clinical governance activities and reviews, where necessary, to fulfil the requirements of RCVS code of conduct and VMD requirements.

• Excellent networking, influencing and communication skills

 Input and Time Commitment:  

• A time commitment of 2-4 hours a month would be expected. 

• Trustees are expected to be available for regular consultation and input on a range of issues in between meetings, usually via email.

• Attend at least one outreach a year. 

• Attend virtual quarterly board meetings, held on third Tuesday of January, April, July, October at 6pm. Meetings duration approx 1 – 2 hours. 

• Papers for the meeting are sent the week prior and Trustees are to ensure they have read and understood all the information in advance in order to participate fully. 

• Attend annual conference – usually 2 days in London. 

• Attend in-person annual strategic review, usually half a day, in London. 

• Training will be provided to give a good understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, liabilities and responsibilities of trustees.

 
Personal Attributes: 

• Good time management and personal motivation, and ability to work flexibly with a small fast-growing organisation

• Belief in the vision, mission and values of StreetVet

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion 

• An ability to think logically and objectively to identify key issues and good judgement to support robust decision making 

• Ability and willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to the role 

• Good communicator, able to both empower and challenge supportively 

• An ability to think creatively 

• A willingness to speak their mind and voice opinions even if these are not shared by other trustees 

• An ability to work effectively as a member of a diverse team 

• Up-to-date IT and digital skills to facilitate collaborative and remote working 

Potential Trustees must confirm that they are not disqualified under the automatic disqualification rules details on the government website - weblink included in the role description. 

Applications close: 31st July 2025. 

We’re looking for a strategic, forward-thinking leader to join our Trustee Board - someone who can challenge and champion our fundraising direction, who brings fresh ideas, a creative edge, and isn’t afraid to ask the tough questions. Your insight could shape where we go next and help ensure we’re investing in the right opportunities.

Carers Trust is a £13 million charity, leading a £150 million network of local carer organisations. We have a fundraising team that consistently punches above its weight.

If you love collaborating with ambitious teams, challenging the status quo and finding smart, inventive ways to make an impact – this could be the perfect role for you.

Ready to shake things up for a great cause?

Are you passionate about creating a culture of welcome for refugees in the UK? Do you have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation? This could be the perfect role for you! 

STAR is a dynamic and exciting national charity which makes a huge impact on a small budget. We are looking for our new Co-Chair of Trustees. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about creating a culture of welcome in the UK for refugees ,who believes in the power of young people as changemakers and who wants to empower refugees to reach higher education to join our board of trustees. 

 The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the governance of a charity or public sector organisation and be able to commit to at least 2 years in the role.

We are in particular looking for applicants who: 

• Have lived experience 
• Have HR experience 
• Have campaigns experience, in particular hybrid campaigning.
• Have charitable fundraising experience. 

 Applications from persons with lived refugee experience are highly encouraged. 

Role Description

To provide strategic oversight of:

• STAR’s compliance with its Articles of Association, policies, and law; 
• STAR’s compliance with all funding conditions and contracts;
• Whether STAR is best using its resources to meet its objectives; 
• The effective and efficient administration of STAR;
• Monitoring and reporting of financial information; 
• STAR’s funding and expenditure situation; and
• Implementation of STAR’s Equal Opportunities Policy and Safeguarding Policy in employment and service delivery.

Also to:

• Contribute actively to STAR by giving strategic direction and evaluating performance against targets
• Attend and prepare for board meetings
• Appoint board members and officers via the procedures in this policy
• Approve accounts
• Ensure that STAR and the board safeguard STAR’s values and reputation
• Provide any other assistance the board or STAR may require, as appropriate, particularly utilising any specialist skills or experience they may have.

Specific responsibilities of the Co- Chair

• Ensure the proper management of board meetings, including setting agendas in consultation with the Director, chairing meetings, facilitating discussions and decision;
• Oversee the administration and coordination of any sub-committees; 
• Monitor implementation of board and sub-committee decisions;
• Take "Chair’s action" between meetings, where an immediate decision is required;
• Serve as line-manager to the Director, and conduct regular planned supervision and appraisal;
• Represent Board as required to the public or external parties such as funders and government; and
• Keep other officers fully informed so that they can deputise if necessary
• Working alongside and in collaboration with the other STAR trustee co-chair, sharing responsibilities and ensuring excellent communicative shared working.

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Experience of governance of a charity or public sector organisation
• A commitment to STAR’s values
• An awareness of issues affecting both STAR and the wider refugee sector, the ever shifting landscape of refugee policy and media coverage, or a willingness to learn and stay abreast of these current topics and new developments. 
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to prepare for and attend regular STAR meetings for at least 2 years
• Integrity and good independent judgement
• Strategic vision and an ability to stay focused on strategic objectives
• Willingness to take part in STAR discussions, contribute constructively and listen to others
• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and liabilities of trustees of a charitable company
• Ability to work effectively as a member of a team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• A commitment to the principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, as well as an understanding and acceptance of the Equal Opportunities Policy
• Willingness to undertake training required to allow them to fulfil their duties.

Desirable 

Five years experience in one or more of:

• Working with people seeking asylum and refugees;
• Other work with the asylum/refugee/migrant sector;
• Charitable fundraising;
• Voluntary sector issues, such as trends for charities and partnership/network formation;
• Organisational development, growth or change;
• Human resources;
• Financial management/accountancy;
• IT;
• Negotiations;
• Marketing and public relations;
• Lobbying, advocacy and campaigning regarding social justice or social policy;
• Management and administration of a charity, for example as a director or trustee;
• Campaigning;
• Social Media/ Communications 

About Student Action for Refugees

STAR (Student Action for Refugees) is the national network of students building a society where refugees and asylum seekers are welcomed and can thrive. 

Set up by students at Nottingham University in 1994, STAR is creating a more understanding, just and welcoming society by: 

• empowering young people to be changemakers; 
• providing practical support and connecting local communities through volunteering and student volunteer led community projects; 
• challenging the structural barriers that refugees and asylum seekers face when seeking protection and building new lives in the UK; 
• Sharing trusted information about asylum and the lived experience of refugees to combat misinformation, hostile narratives and instead spread compassion and humanisation 

We have a small staff team who train and support the network and lead on national campaign and advocacy work, with expertise in improving access to higher education for forced migrants.

Here are just some of our highlights from last year:

• 37  STAR university student society groups, across 28  towns and cities, run by 222 STAR student leaders. 
• 262 events were organised by STAR groups to educate, campaign, and fundraise for a more welcoming UK, from art exhibitions to cookery classes and film nights.
• 1,280 refugees and people seeking asylum were supported by 413 volunteers  through 28 community projects and 25 one off volunteering events. 
• 100s of students mobilised to support calls for better treatment of refugees in the UK including standing against detention, for a fairer plan for refugees and to lift the ban on work.
• 88 UK universities now offer sanctuary scholarships for refugee students. The STAR staff team was involved in the development of many of these new scholarships and the improvement of  existing scholarships. We also ran workshops for hundreds of  university staff. 
• 15 STAR groups campaigned for Equal Access at their institutions and 4 won!
• 65 aspiring refugee students were supported by our mentoring project and we provided signposting and advice about accessing HE to over 470 people.

If you would like an informal chat before applying, please get in touch.

Deadline for applications: 11th July 2025

Interviews: Rolling

Role Overview:

The Chair will ensure that the board functions effectively, maintains high standards of governance, and that the charity's mission and goals are achieved.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Board Leadership:

   • Lead the board in setting and implementing the charity’s culture, direction, and strategy.

   • Ensure the board operates inclusively and effectively.

   • Chair board meetings, ensuring decisions are made and actions are followed up.

2. Strategic Direction:

   • Guide the development and implementation of the charity’s strategic plan.

   • Ensure the charity’s activities align with its mission and goals.

3. Oversight and Accountability:

   • Monitor the charity’s activities and ensure high standards of governance.

   • Hold staff members accountable and support their professional development.

   • Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements (this includes Charity Commission and companies House requirements).

4. Close Supervision:

   • Ensure that all members of staff have adequate line management and supervision (not necessarily by the Chair as this may be allocated to another trustee).

   • Act as the primary point of communication between the board and the staff.

5. Direct Involvement:

   • Take a hands-on approach to day-to-day operations, as necessary.

   • Assist in tasks typically handled by additional staff due to the charity’s limited resources.

6. Enhanced Communication:

   • Ensure clear and consistent messaging between the board and the staff member.

7. Financial Oversight:

   • Oversee the charity’s finances, possibly taking on some treasurer responsibilities (currently the board has an appointed treasurer and an honorary accountant).

   • Ensure the charity operates within its financial means.

8. Volunteer Coordination:

   • Recruit and manage volunteers to support the charity’s activities as and when appropriate..

9. Policy Development:

   • Ensure the development, implementation and review of policies to ensure effective and legal operation of the charity.

10. Annual Review:

    • Lead the board in reviewing its structure, effectiveness, delegations, and key policies annually.

Person Specification:

• Leadership Skills: Proven experience in leadership roles, preferably within the charity sector.

• Communication Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and guide the charity’s direction.

• Financial Acumen: Understanding of financial management and oversight.

• Commitment: Dedication to the charity’s mission and values.

• IT competency: Able to use cloud-based systems (currently Google Drive)

Location: Remote
Department: Executive
Contract type: Fixed Term Contract
Hours: Part time, 4 board meetings per annum
Salary: Expenses only
 
Who they're looking for 
 
Our client is seeking a new Trustee with a background in veterinary or medical practice to support their Board and team in achieving their charitable aims. They are looking for someone who, in addition to their own expertise, has an interest in human-specific research approaches. This is a unique opportunity to join the country's leading animal-free medical research charity, where you will play a key role in helping to advance science to improve treatments for humans without the use of animals. You should have a strong interest in their mission and be willing to advocate on the charity’s behalf. Previous experience of being a Trustee is not necessary as a full induction and ongoing support will be provided. 
 
Equality, diversity and inclusion 
 
They want everyone we work with, as a colleague, volunteer, supporter, or stakeholder to feel included and that they belong. Our client is committed to building a diverse organisation that represents the communities they serve and ensuring inclusion in everything they do. They will support you to make sure that you bring your whole self and can be at your best. 
 
Board meetings and time commitment 
 
The Board ordinarily meets four times per year in March, May, August and November. Two of these meetings are held remotely via video call on a Saturday, and two are held in person in London across weekends. In addition, Trustees are encouraged to join a Committee relevant to their area of expertise which meets at least once per quarter via video call. An appropriate time commitment will be required over the course of the year for preparative work between meetings. Trustees are also invited to attend occasional charity events and join recruitment panels on an ad hoc basis. Following a probationary period where Trustee-elects attend at least 3 board meetings, appointed Trustees serve a three-year term, with the option to renew for a further three years. Trusteeship is an unremunerated position, though reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be paid. 
 
If this opportunity to join a small but ambitious charity appeals to you, and you have enthusiasm and a commitment to their vision of a world where animal-free, human specific technologies secure breakthroughs for patients then they'd like to hear from you.
 
You may also have experience in the following roles: Board Member, Non-Executive Director, Charity Trustee, Medical Advisor, Veterinary Advisor, Clinical Director, Medical Trustee, Healthcare Trustee, Scientific Advisor, Research Trustee, etc.
 
REF-222 147

As our new Chair, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our organisation and the lives of those we serve. The Chair leads the board, ensuring that it governs the charity effectively, in service of the charity’s vision and mission.

About Youth Concern

We are an independent charity based in Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire that supports 13-25 year olds. We are inclusive; we aim to support all 13-25 year olds, but specialise in helping those facing additional challenges.

What will you be doing?

Your expertise, passion, and fresh perspective will be invaluable assets as we navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the Vale’s young people. Your commitment to our cause will be met with unwavering support and appreciation from fellow trustees and our dedicated executive team.

Role summary 

You will:

• Provide strategic leadership to the charity and the board, ensuring that Youth Concern achieves its mission, and fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation
• Work in partnership with the Chief Executive and team
• Lead the board in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of the organisation
• Optimise the relationship between the board and Youth Concern’s staff and volunteers.
• Plan and chair the board meetings, with others (mainly and normally the Chief Executive) as appropriate
• Act as a spokesperson and figurehead for Youth Concern; be willing to champion Youth Concern’s work through personal networks
• Provide supervisory support, annual appraisal and ongoing development and input to the Chief Executive

 Time commitment (estimated at two days per month)

• Attending 6 board meetings annually. Currently meetings last 2 hours and are held in person, with the option to attend remotely. 
• Attend sub-committees as required, which are around 1 each month (although as Chair, you are a member of all sub-committees, so can attend more as desired/needed)
• Monthly scheduled meeting with the Chief Executive with flexibility to respond swiftly to the occasional ad hoc issue
• Attending an annual half day strategy session.

What are we looking for?

Essential

• Experience of being a trustee. (You do not need to have been a Chair previously.)
• Experience of working with or for young people
• Experience of leading organisations through periods of growth
• A keen sense of strategic purpose
• An inclusive leadership style and the ability to listen and engage effectively
• Oversee Youth Concern’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress. Whilst the trustee/treasurer takes the lead on this, the Chair is a member of the finance sub-committee
• Be responsive
• Live within easy and quick travel time of Aylesbury

What Difference will you make?

Why should you apply?

Youth Concern believes every young person has the right to be fed, to a safe home, to a good education and later, to employment.

In becoming a trustee, you will be helping young people thrive. And because:

• You believe a few hours a month, working for young people, is a good investment of your time
• You want to give something back
• Your skill set will benefit a growing local charity
• You want to be part of Youth Concern’s success story

Birkbeck Students' Union is looking for two exceptional individuals to join our Board of Trustees as volunteer Lay Trustees. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the student experience at Birkbeck, guiding our strategic direction and ensuring we continue to support and enrich the lives of our diverse student body.

Role Overview: As a Lay Trustee, you will attend and actively participate in five Board of Trustee Meetings and five Finance & Audit Committee meetings per year. Your strategic oversight and governance will help ensure the Students' Union operates in line with its mission, values, and legal obligations. You will provide guidance and insight based on your expertise in one of the following areas Cybersecurity; Fundraising; Legal; and Marketing.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit a resume and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience and motivation for applying. Applications should be sent via email by 13th April 2025. 

Any questions about the role please email Yousuf Joondan (CEO).

Birkbeck Students' Union is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all individuals, regardless of background, who meet the role's criteria.