Trustee chair of finance committee volunteer roles

RLS is seeking to recruit up to four new Trustees to join our Board from early 2026. We are looking for individuals who share our values and bring passion, perspective, and a commitment to supporting our mission. 

We are particularly looking for new trustees with experience in one or more of the following areas: UK legal aid, the Greek immigration and asylum system, fundraising, HR, communications, or financial oversight. We value lived experience of the asylum or immigration system and encourage applications from those who can bring this perspective to our work. 

About RLS  

RLS is an international legal support organisation, with operations in Greece, the UK and Northern France. We are registered in both the UK and Greece, reflecting our international scope and impact.

We’re committed to ensuring access to justice through expert legal information and advice to people seeking safety and family reunification. Our casework is a tool to tackle individual and systemic injustice in immigration systems. We strive to develop inclusive, sustainable and regenerative ways of working which are directly informed by those with lived migration experience. We support the global movement that fights entrenched inequalities, racism and other forms of discrimination that force people to migrate. In doing so we recognise that immigration systems are weighted against those forced to migrate and stand in opposition to hostile policies, along with all forms of violence against people compelled to migrate. 

We continuously think and challenge ourselves in how we develop our anti-racist practice and empower refugee leadership. We recognise that climate justice and migrant struggles are interconnected and view our work through this lens.

To get a fuller picture of our financial health and impact, have a look at our most recent accounts on the charity commission website. (Refugee Legal Support, Charity number: 1191680) 

Equality, Inclusion and Representation 

RLS is committed to ensuring that our governance reflects the communities we serve. We strongly welcome applications from: 

• People with lived experience of migration, displacement or the asylum system 

• Black people and people from minoritised ethnic communities 

• LGBTQ+ people 

• Disabled people 

You do not need to have previous board experience. We are committed to supporting new Trustees with a full induction and training. 

What Trustees Do 

As a Trustee of RLS, you will: 

• Attend four Board meetings each year (hybrid) 

• Provide strategic direction and oversight of the charity’s activities 

• Support and hold the Executive Director accountable 

• Review and approve budgets, policies and risk management 

• Join at least one Board committee (Finance, Risk, Casework or HR), which may involve additional meetings 

If you join as a Finance Trustee, you will also: 

• Review monthly management accounts and annual budgets 

• Provide advice on financial controls and strategic financial planning 

Skills and Experience We Are Looking For 

All Trustees should bring: 

• A strong commitment to our mission and values 

• Good judgment and the ability to work collectively 

• Energy and enthusiasm for our work and an interest in using their skills to contribute to our organisation 

• A willingness to learn and support others 

We are particularly seeking individuals with any of the following: 

• UK legal aid experience under an immigration contract 

• Knowledge of the Greek immigration and asylum system 

• Fundraising, philanthropy or communications expertise 

• HR and people management experience 

• Financial oversight and planning experience (for Finance Trustee role) 

• Knowledge of charity governance and risk 

• Legal background (especially refugee, immigration, or human rights law) 

Time Commitment 

• Approx. 8 hours per month 

• Board meetings held quarterly (a mix of in-person and online) 

• Participation in one subcommittee 

• Ad hoc support via email or calls, as needed 

• Initial term of three years, renewable once 

Location 

Our board is UK-based, with some trustees based in London. We welcome applicants from across the UK, and will support remote attendance at meetings where needed. Trustees may occasionally be invited to attend events or team meetings in London, though this is not essential. 

Chair of the Board of Trustees recruitment

Age UK Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham and Havering (RBH)

Age UK RBH is seeking an outstanding leader to serve as Chair of the Board of Trustees, guiding our charity through its next phase of growth, resilience, and impact for older people across our three boroughs.

About Us

Age UK RBH is a trusted local charity supporting older people across Redbridge, Barking & Dagenham, and Havering. We deliver vital services that promote independence, wellbeing, and dignity—from advice and information to social activities, home support, and specialist care. With a strong reputation for quality and compassion, we are proud to be a lifeline for older residents and their families.

The Role

As Chair, you will:

· Provide strategic leadership to the Board of Trustees, ensuring effective governance and accountability.

· Champion our mission and values, safeguarding the charity’s commitment to inclusion, equity, and measurable impact.

· Support and challenge the Chief Executive and senior team, acting as a critical friend and strategic partner.

· Represent Age UK RBH externally, building partnerships with funders, local authorities, and community organisations.

· Ensure the charity remains financially sustainable and operationally strong, delivering excellence for older people.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a visionary leader with:

· Experience of chairing boards or holding senior governance roles.

· Strong understanding of charity governance, financial stewardship, and risk management.

· Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to inspire confidence across diverse stakeholders.

· Commitment to equity, inclusion and diversity.

· Passion for improving the lives of older people and strengthening communities.

What We Offer

· The opportunity to shape the future of a respected local charity.

· A collaborative, committed Board and senior team.

· The chance to make a tangible difference to thousands of older people across East London.

Time Commitment

This is a voluntary role, with reasonable expenses reimbursed. The Chair is expected to commit around 2–3 days per month, including Board meetings, sub-committees, and external representation. There are six Board of Trustees Meetings usually on a Friday afternoon and additional training days as required.

How to Apply

If you believe you can bring strategic vision, governance expertise, and a deep commitment to older people, we would love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a short supporting statement (no longer than 2 pages) outlining your interest and suitability to 

Closing date: 31st January 2026

Interviews: week beginning 9th February

For more information please email:

Alima Qureshi, Chair of the Board of Trustees

Andreea Albu, Chief Executive

Age UK Redbridge, Barking and Havering

This is an exciting opportunity for passionate, innovative individuals to join our small but dynamic charity and make a lasting difference for people affected by alopecia.​Alopecia UK is a national charity with a vision for a world where people affected by alopecia live the life they want. The charity’s mission is to offer support, community and education to improve the lives of those with alopecia.

We are seeking talented trustees to strengthen our strategic leadership and support smooth succession as current trustees reach the end of their terms. This is an ongoing recruitment process, and we welcome applications at any time, particularly from those with expertise in the following areas:

• Charity fundraising: Leadership in a fundraising environment, ideally within the charity sector.
• Communications & Marketing: Senior communications or marketing role, with strong audience engagement insight.
• Legal: Experience providing legal advice at a senior level, preferably with charity or governance exposure.
• Dermatology in the NHS: Experience of treating patients with alopecia, with a deep knowledge of clinical pathways and related challenges in primary and secondary care.

About Alopecia UK

Founded in 2004, we work to help adults, young people and children affected by alopecia. This includes those with alopecia, as well as their loved ones. We are a small charity, with an annual income under £500,000, working nationally across the UK. Despite being small, we are the largest alopecia charity in the UK and have big ambitions to continue our growth and development, reaching more people than ever before. We agreed a new strategy in May 2025, and are committed to our key goal, which is to increase our reach, particularly in the communities that haven’t yet found us.

We have a fantastic and dedicated staff team (5.4 FTE) and board of Trustees. We also rely upon the generosity of volunteers, many of whom have personal experience of alopecia themselves. Alopecia UK receives no statutory funding from the government and is funded by community fundraising, donations, funding grants, and corporate partnerships.

​Alopecia UK Trustee Board

The Alopecia UK Trustee Board are a group of dedicated volunteers who are committed to Alopecia’s aims.

The Trustee Board meets four times a year (two face-to-face meetings and two virtual meetings). Face-to-face meetings tend to be held on Saturdays from approximately 10am-4pm. Virtual meetings tend to be held midweek from approximately 6.30-8.30pm.

Trustees are encouraged to participate in charity campaigns and attend flagship events, e.g., our Big Weekend and Alton Towers trip. Trustees are not paid, but out-of-pocket expenses are reimbursed. Trustees serve at least three years
 

We are seeking four new Trustees to join our engaged and dedicated Board.
Organisation: Age UK Kensington & Chelsea (AUKC)
Location: Hybrid; meetings in North Kensington
Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed)
Closing date: Monday 5th January 2026

Age UK Kensington & Chelsea is a £2.89m, community-rooted charity helping older people be heard, stay independent, and thrive. Our 80-strong team delivers advice, activities and practical support that tackle loneliness, improve wellbeing and make daily life easier—from social clubs to social prescribing and specialist dementia support.

We’re a proud NHS partner: My Care, My Way now has 28 Health & Social Prescribing Coordinators supporting 7,000+ patients, reducing hospital admissions and boosting independence. Every GP practice in K&C is on board, and we’ve just secured a new three-year contract worth 4.1 million. We’re investing in fundraising for long-term sustainability and exploring innovative ways to help older people thrive.

This is an exciting time to join our Board as we shape our next three-year strategy. We want a Board that reflects our borough’s diversity and we welcome local residents, LGBTQIA+ people, disabled people and people from ethnic minority backgrounds.

Following a skills audit, we’re especially keen on hearing from people with skills in finance, fundraising, marketing/communications, and business development & service delivery. Above all, we’re looking for strategic, values-led champions who will support and challenge our leadership—and share our commitment to older people in Kensington & Chelsea.

If you would like to have a call with our CEO or Chair, please contact us via phone or email

We are looking to appoint a trustee with experience in Finance to oversee our finance functions, providing advice, scrutiny and support to the charity and to be the Chair of our Governance, Audit & Risk Committee (GAR) 

1851 TRUST – SPORT INSPIRED LEARNING  

We use the power of sport to inspire and empower the next generation. At the 1851 Trust, we believe every young person, has the potential to shape the future. Founded by Sir Ben Ainslie, our mission is to transform how young people connect with the world around them, helping them see themselves in it and thrive. 
 

Through our free to access education programme, STEM Crew, we bring science, sustainability, and innovation to life using the real-world context of high-performance sport. These sport-inspired resources are used in over 40% of UK secondary schools, helping teachers unlock potential, build confidence, and spark ambition in STEM, green skills, and maritime careers. 
 

Our work is driven by belief in young people’s potential, we focus on removing barriers to education and opportunity, as we aim to level the playing field and help all young people, particularly those from underserved communities to see that they belong in the world of STEM. 

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Finance Trustee

Remuneration: Like most Trustee roles, these roles are unremunerated

Reports to: Chair of the Board of Trustees

Start date: As soon as possible

Benefits: In addition to making a real difference in the lives of and deepening your understanding of youth organising, you will receive:

• Safeguarding Training and support in developing expertise here
• Reimbursement of expenses incurred in your role

At The Advocacy Academy, we envision a world where young people with lived experience of injustice (LEofI) harness their collective power to shape a more fair, just, and equal society. Our mission is to organise and support these young people to drive systemic change on the most pressing issues of our time.

We do this by offering deep coaching, delivering transformative leadership programmes, and creating clear pathways for sustained action. Through shared learning and community-building, we help young leaders build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to launch and lead proactive campaigns. We also recognise that real change starts from within - so we’re committed to a governance structure that is values-driven, participatory, and beyond reproach, ensuring TAA is as accountable to young people as it is to the communities we serve and its wider responsibilities.

We’re now looking to a Finance Trustee to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in the following area: Finance & Fundraising.

Trustees of The Advocacy Academy play a unique role in delivery of our mission. They are collectively responsible for the governance of the organisation, represent it to the community, and accept ultimate compliance authority for the charity and its activities. As a Trustee with experience in the UK’s youth sector, you will support the Board and the Executives in ensuring that TAA continues to deliver an exceptional quality of youth work, and the role that safeguarding plays in achieving this. As a trustee:

• Work with the Chair, Trustees and Senior Leadership team to ensure there is a clear, long-term and strategic vision The Advocacy Academy.
• Work with the Board to ensure we function within the legal and financial requirements of a UK registered charity and company, our constitution and that we strive for best practice
• Take responsibility with the other trustees so that the organisation has effective practice to safeguard the people it works with
• Act as an ambassador, spokesperson and champion our work supporting our income activities, and fostering networks that can help generate income.

About Our Board of Trustees

• Our Board currently consists of four members, recruited, selected, and approved by the Board of Trustees.
• Each trustee serves a three-year term, and we are made up of individuals from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities.
• The Board meets quarterly (four times per year) to provide strategic oversight and governance. Operations/day to day are managed by the Executives.
• Given the size of the board, we expect all trustees to join at least one subcommittees meeting per year, unless there are extenuating circumstances. .The subcommittee meets are typically held prior to full Board meetings.
• Board meetings are held at our Liberation Centre in Brixton and subcommittee meets are held virtually
• The role of trustee is voluntary, though reasonable expenses are reimbursed.
• Trustees are expected to prepare in advance by reading reports and meeting papers, and are also warmly invited to attend our events throughout the year.

AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

The Finance Trustee - Will provide charity financial governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Finance Director and the Finance & Risk Committee will:

• Provide support on financial oversight and ensure compliance with relevant charity and regulatory requirements.
• Review and co-present financial reports and key insights to the Board of Trustees.
• Actively participate in the Finance and Risk Committee, ensuring effective financial scrutiny.
• Strategic contribution to long-term financial and fundraising planning and support the organisation’s risk management framework.
• Attend Finance and Risk subcommittee meetings quarterly.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Proven expertise in charity fundraising and financial management.
• Experience of charity finance and fundraising is essential.
• Previous board or trustee experience.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

EXPECTATIONS & ENTITLEMENT

• Attend at least one training programme that we run, so that you understand the work we deliver
• Attend trustee meetings, which are held four times a year in London or virtually, and last between 3 expected to attend at least three each year.
• Participate in one of our sub-committees as may be required by the trustee role.
• Demonstrate commitment to The Advocacy Academy by supporting fundraising efforts.
• Serve for a term of three years and be able to stand for re-election for a further term and possibly two.
• Work with the Chair to review your performance
• Claim reasonable travel and accommodation expenses to attend meetings -4 hours - trustees are expected to attend at least three each year.
• This is an outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Trustee roles, it is not intended as an exhaustive list and may change from time to time to meet the changing needs of The Advocacy Academy’s board. Any changes will be made in consultation with the post holders.

HOW TO APPLY

Please apply to be our Trustee by sending your CV together with a supporting statement to us. Your supporting statement should explain why you would like to be our Finance Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the role and requirements above.

DATES

• Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 12th January 2026 by 5pm.

Please note that there will be two rounds of interviews, and we will be conducting interviews on a rolling basis as applications are received. The application deadline may be brought forward if suitable candidates are identified early.

NOTHING ABOUT US WITHOUT US

We aim to be representative of the community we are working with. We encourage applications from people of colour, those who identify as LGBTQIA, working class as well as disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, refugees and migrants. We welcome people from all identities who are made to feel marginalised.

We’re not just committed to being an equal opportunity employer, we actively celebrate diversity in all its forms. Let us know if we can do anything to make the application or interview process more accessible. If you are invited to interview, we will at that point ask you for any accessibility requirements or preferences.

As an employer we make all reasonable adjustments to support employees in their work if they are disabled or have a health condition. We support the Access to Work scheme which could provide you with financial support to get the help you need to do all tasks successfully. We are happy to facilitate Access to Work assessments and reclaims, and would actively welcome applicants who would need this in order to do the job.

All staff who work on our programme must have, prior to starting work, a returned satisfactory enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) dated no earlier than 1st January 2021. The Advocacy Academy will assist the application for, and pay for the processing of, a new DBS for staff members where required.

We welcome applications from people with convictions. Please disclose in your application if you have any convictions, cautions, reprimands or final warnings that are not “protected” (as defined by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 

Could you lead the national conversation on international students in the UK? 

We’re looking for an exceptional individual to become our next Chair of Trustees. This is an exciting opportunity to lead an influential charity at the centre of international student policy and practice, helping to shape the future of international student experience in the UK at a critical time for the UK’s international education policy. 

UKCISA is the UK’s national body supporting international students and the professionals who work with them. Our expert advice, guidance, training and advocacy helps to ensure that every international student studying in the UK has the best possible experience. As Chair, you will guide a committed Board of Trustees, ensuring strong governance and effective decision-making. You will work closely with the Chief Executive to set UKCISA’s strategic direction, safeguarding its mission and ensuring it continues to innovate and deliver value for members and students. 

You will be a prominent ambassador for UKCISA, representing the organisation externally and building relationships with sector leaders, government, and partner organisations. Your leadership will help ensure that the perspectives of international students are reflected in policy development at a government and institutional level. 

We are looking for an experienced charity trustee with executive leadership experience in the UK education sector. You will bring credibility, vision, and a commitment to international education, inspire confidence and command respect across our stakeholders, and lead with integrity and compassion. You will be supported by an experienced and knowledgeable team of staff and trustees, passionate about the international student experience and the objectives of our organisation.

• Remuneration: Voluntary (reasonable expenses reimbursed) 

• Location: UK-based, with travel to meetings and events. 

• Time Commitment: Four Board meetings per year (plus preparation), regular meetings with the Chief Executive, and representing UKCISA at external events. 

• Term: Three years, renewable for two more terms plus one year. Starting summer 2026. 

Applications close at 10 am on Monday 12 January 2026. Download the recruitment pack for details on how to apply. 

Quartet Community Foundation is seeking a new chair of trustees to lead our dynamic and committed Board.

Quartet distributes approximately £5 million across  1,000 grants each year to support local communities and charities in the region. ​Trustees on our Board  actively contribute to setting the strategic direction of Quartet, helping to advise and run the organisation. As Chair of Trustees, you will work with other members of the Board to form an effective, accountable governing body which provides leadership and support for the dedicated staff team in delivering Quartet’s strategic plan.​

The role of the Chair of Trustees

The chair, along with their deputy is appointed by the Board with the following key responsibilities: ​

• To effectively chair board meetings, ensuring that the board  considers and observes best practice governance of Quartet. ​
• To be actively engaged in setting the strategic direction and policy of Quartet.​​
• To contribute to the performance management and review of the strategic plan and related targets.​​
• To help set and agree a balanced financial budget and support the Chief Executive Officer and staff in remaining within it.​​
• To be an ambassador and advocate for the work of Quartet in the wider community, including representation at evening and daytime events (with and sometimes as a substitute for the CEO). ​
• To support the CEO in their work, conducting an annual appraisal of their work and setting realistic goals in agreement with them.​
• To participate in grant-making panels as a representative of Quartet, as required and to visit at least one funded project per year.​​
• To attend quarterly board meetings, the AGM, meetings of our four sub-committees, and chair of chairs meetings. ​
• To ensure that Quartet complies with its Memorandum and Articles of Association, charity law, company law, internal policies and procedures, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.​​
• To participate as appropriate in the national network of community foundations, contribute to its development and set the work of Quartet in the wider context.  This usually involves two days a year at a UKCF south west chairs and CEOs workshop.​
• ​Joining trustees are supported to understand and engage with all of these elements, and the successful candidate will also be offered the opportunity to shadow the existing chair  for 6-9 months, before she leaves the role in 2026.

South Cumbria MAT are seeking committed volunteers from a range of backgrounds to join as Trustees on their Board of Trustees.  Trustees are critical to the success of the Trust. Although they are volunteers, they provide challenge and monitoring. They ask questions and probe the information and data they have been provided with. Trustees are often seen as the ‘critical friend’ to ensure leaders are responding to the challenges and key priorities. Being a Trustee is supportive within a group of other volunteers who work together as a collective voice.  You do not need experience of being a trustee. South Cumbria MAT will support all new Trustees to develop in their role as well as additional training where needed.

Trustees come from many backgrounds. We are seeking individuals who may be able to offer expertise in the following areas:

• Education outcomes

• Special education needs

• Governance and compliance including experience of chairing boards

• School improvement

• Health and safety and facilities

• Finance, estates, and/or resources

South Cumbria MAT is a multi-academy trust and therefore registered as a Company Limited by Guarantee with charitable status. Due to this company status Trustees are registered with Companies House.

We are looking for one Trustee & Deputy Chair to join our Charity Trustee Board to support the Union through its next steps. A strong and active Board is crucial for us as we develop and implement our strategy, face challenges, maximise opportunities and endeavour to create an even better Union; one that continues to be flexible and agile enough to react quickly to the changing needs and interests of our student members and achieve our vision.

The Person

The right candidate will thrive in a student led, highly responsive environment and have an enthusiasm for supporting and guiding a student organisation. They will command confidence, have sound judgement and strong communication and leadership skills. We are looking for a trustee with the following skills/experience

Finance Experience: 

• Preferably financial experience from a charity outside of the SU sector
• Understanding of financial oversight
• Ability to interpret financial information to support strategic decision-making
• Awareness of charity finance and regulatory requirements

Chairing Experience: 

• Ability to deputise for the Chair, and chair meetings of the Board
• Ability to build a strong and effective working relationship with the Board of Trustees Chair
• Ability to foster, maintain and ensure that constructive relationships exist with and between the Trustees
• Assist and support the Chair in providing leadership to the Board, through the governance arrangements, and also acting as a ‘sounding board’ and confidante to the Chair in the execution of their role

Due to the current make-up of our Trustee Board, we are not actively searching for candidates with skills, knowledge and experience related to the Student Union and HE sector and we would welcome candidates from other sectors or regions to apply. That said, we would very much like to encourage anyone who feels that they could bring something to our Board to apply, regardless of experience - our purpose and values also lead us to welcome first time Trustees too!

We are strongly dedicated to embedding equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within our community and we are passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment which supports everyone from recruitment through to appointment, regardless of your background. We welcome applications from all talented people and as part of this commitment, we are working to improve the diversity of our Trustee Board to ensure that it is as relevant and representative of our student community as possible and are actively encouraging applications from underrepresented groups.

Further Information

Application is via a comprehensive CV plus a supporting statement (of no more than two sides of A4) detailing why you are applying for the position and what requirements you meet to carry out the role

As we shape the next stage of our programme and prepare to celebrate our centenary in 2029, this is a wonderful moment to become part of our story. We are in a period of thoughtful renewal, refining our strategy and exploring new ways to deepen our impact and enrich the musical lives of people of all ages.

Our Trustees play a vital role in the life of Benslow Music. They steward the governance of the charity, share responsibility for its financial and legal wellbeing, and help set its strategic direction in collaboration with the Chief Executive and staff team. Trustees also champion our work externally – supporting fundraising, building relationships, and helping the organisation thrive.

We are looking to appoint up to three new Trustees and warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and professional perspectives.  

We are intending one appointment will be a trustee with legal expertise.  

Following a recent skills review, we are also keen to hear from candidates with experience in:

• Charity governance
• Finance or accountancy
• Corporate or charity experience in SMEs
• Fundraising.

For further information and to download our trustee recruitment pack, plese visit our website. 

Kidney Research UK is the leading charity in the UK focused on funding research into the prevention, treatment and management of kidney disease. As a member of the board of trustees you will be responsible for setting the strategic aims, objectives, and direction of the charity. You will use your knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure we achieve our charitable objectives and represents the interests of all stakeholders.

Kidney Research UK has been at the forefront of pioneering research for six decades, investing in talented researchers and funding work that could ultimately lead to a cure. Our work has resulted in vital breakthroughs in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of those affected, changing the future for many kidney patients.

We have made remarkable progress but there is still much to do. The number of people living with kidney failure continues to rise and we must go further to drive innovation and increase investment in renal research. Of course, like so many other charities and organisations we are doing this important work during challenging times.

We have adapted well to the changing world, and we are finding exciting new ways to reach our goals. We know we must rise to the challenge for kidney patients everywhere and we remain determined to grow our income so we can deliver more impact.

Our trustees play a vital role in the governance of Kidney Research UK, which enables and accelerates the impact that we have as an organisation for our patient community. Working closely with your fellow Trustees, the chief executive and wider leadership team, you will be part of a team that guides and oversees the delivery of Kidney Research UK's strategic priorities. We have a number of trustees who are due to retire from their roles during the next 12 months, and we are looking for new trustees to join our board and be part of this exciting transformation.

If this sounds like you and you think you could make a difference, we’d encourage you to review the attached role description below and apply to join our dedicated board of trustees.

BLUE SMILE - CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

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

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

CHAIR OF TRUSTEES ROLE

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

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

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR IN OUR NEW CHAIR OF TRUSTEES

Our new Chair of Trustees will:

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

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

• Be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

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

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

TIME COMMITMENT

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

TERMS OF APPOINTMENT

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

TO APPLY

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

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

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

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

We are a dynamic charity, focused on helping survivors of modern slavery rebuild their lives and achieve sustainable freedom by providing invaluable training, coaching, work experience and advocacy across the UK. It is now two years since we launched a new strategy from which we have increased our impact whilst strengthening and broadening our services for survivors of modern slavery. In these challenging times it is even more important that we continue to be bold, resilient and effective.   

We are looking to find up to 3 inspirational Trustees with experience in one of more of the following areas: 

• Legal (employment, contract, and charity law)   
• Development/Fundraising (significant networks amongst corporate partners or major and mid-level donors) 
• Policy/Advocacy or Public Affairs (with an understanding of the Modern Slavery or adjacent human rights topics) 

As a trustee of the Sophie Hayes Foundation, you will be part of a small team of volunteers who are collectively responsible for developing and guiding the strategic direction of the organisation and ensure that we continue to support and advocate for survivors of modern slavery.   

Trustee Role & Responsibilities

The people that we work with come from all over the world and have a wide variety of beliefs, experiences and backgrounds. We are committed to sharing in and reflecting this rich diversity amongst our staff, volunteers and trustees and would strongly encourage applicants from minority and under-represented groups, and from those with lived experience. We are committed to inclusion and diversity and to building a culture where everyone is appreciated for the unique person they are.     

Responsibilities

As a trustee of SHF, you will work collectively with fellow board members to provide effective governance, oversight and strategic support. Your core duties will include:   

1.Upholding SHF’s Mission and Values

• Support and advise on SHF’s purpose, vision, goals and charitable objects.
• Act at all times in the best interests of survivors and SHF’s mission.
• Promote SHF’s values, including survivor-centred practice, inclusion and safeguarding.

2. Governance, Compliance and Ethical Oversight

• Ensure SHF complies with its constitution, charity law and relevant regulations. 
• Ensure resources are used responsibly and exclusively to further SHF’s charitable purposes.
• Maintain high standards of integrity, including declaring and managing conflicts of interest.  
• Support effective governance structures, including participation in learningfocused reviews.

3. Financial Stewardship and Risk Management

• Oversee the charity’s financial health, ensuring sustainability and protection of assets.
• Monitor financial performance, risks and internal controls.
• Contribute to board-level scrutiny of finance and risk, supporting informed decision-making.

4. Strategic Support and Constructive Challenge

• Provide strategic guidance and support to the Executive, helping to shape direction, priorities and performance.
• Contribute to discussions on strategy, planning and organisational development.
• Offer constructive challenge in line with SHF’s values and governance expectations.

5. Safeguarding, Culture and Psychological Safety

• Promote a safe, transparent and inclusive organisational culture.
• Support safeguarding responsibilities, ensuring staff, volunteers and people with lived experience feel safe to raise concerns.

6. Board Participation and Collaboration

• Use your skills, experience and networks to strengthen the Board’s effectiveness.
• Prepare for, attend and actively contribute to Board and relevant committee meetings.
• Work collaboratively and respectfully with other trustees, the Chair and the Executive.

7. Advocacy and External Engagement

• Act as an ambassador for SHF, promoting our work and raising our profile.
• Advocate for survivors of modern slavery and support SHF’s influence, partnerships and fundraising efforts.

Specialist Responsibilities

We are seeking up to 3 trustees who can bring specialist expertise in one or more of the following areas, complementing the skills of the Chair and wider Board:

Legal

• Experience in employment, contract, charity or human rights law.
• Ability to advise on legal risk, governance obligations and regulatory duties.

Development / Fundraising

• Strong personal or professional networks with potential corporate, philanthropic or major donors.
• Ability to open doors, strengthen partnerships and support revenue generation.

Policy, Advocacy & Public Affairs

• Understanding of modern slavery or adjacent human rights issues.
• Ability to support SHF’s policy development, influencing work and external relationships.