Trustee volunteer roles

Do you want to play your part in supporting one of the UK’s leading disability charities to achieve its ambition for growth, providing more education and long-term living opportunities for people with complex disabilities?

We are seeking several people who share our vision of a world in which people with disabilities are able to realise their potential as equal and active citizens in control of their lives. As a member of our Board, you will also be a company director as the charity is also a registered company.

You will be part of a highly respected national charity, investing in services that will enhance the lives and independence of young people with complex disabilities and learning disabilities.

Our ideal Trustees will:

* Adhere to our values
* Have personal integrity and be able to demonstrate a passion and commitment to National Star
* Prepare and participate actively in meetings
* Work collaboratively with fellow Trustees and Governors, demonstrating empathy and awareness of the needs of others
* Have good communication skills, tact and diplomacy
* Have experience, or a willingness to learn, about strategic thinking and risk
* Have knowledge, or a willingness to learn, about issues affecting people with disabilities and the specialist education sector
* Be prepared to commit time to conduct the role well, including travel and attending events out of office hours.

What you will bring:

We are looking to recruit people with a broad range of experience and are particularly interested in attracting candidates with knowledge / experience of:
* Company law and the specific legal requirements for charities in special needs and social care sectors
* Marketing and communication expertise including networking and fundraising
* Business acumen with a strong financial background

National Star is a Disability Confident Employer. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community, including those currently under-represented on our Trustee board, which includes women, people with disabilities and members of black, Asian and minority ethnic communities.

Your commitment to us: 

The Trustee Board meets four times a year, generally during the week between 4pm – 7pm. In addition, Trustees are expected to become active members of a sub-committee. Board papers are distributed in advance to allow Trustees to prepare for each meeting.

We encourage Trustees and Governors to attend annual leavers’ ceremonies in Ullenwood, Wales and Hereford, as well as the colleague recognition awards and colleague long-service awards.

Benefits of joining our Trustee board:

By joining our Trustee board, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you are playing a part in the future development of one of the leading disability charities in England and Wales as well as being able to develop your own skills in board level discussions, executive decision making and strategic planning. Your fresh perspective could help us to see things in a different light and your professional expertise could be utilised to support our staff team in delivering our vision and values.

You will gain a broad understanding of the challenges faced by young people with complex disabilities and be able to build your professional network.

Trustee roles at National Star are volunteers. Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed. New Trustees are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring (DBS) check. 
Please note this role is voluntary and therefore not eligible for the full range of staff benefits.

To discover more about our Trustees and Governors please visit our website. 

The Role

We are now seeking a Trustee with strong financial skills and sound understanding of the regulatory and governance landscape to join our Board, act as the lead for financial oversight, and help guide the organisation through its next stage of growth and impact.

Trustees are expected to use their knowledge, skills, and experience to ensure that Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity achieves its charitable objectives, represents the interests of all stakeholders, and acts as ambassadors for the charity.

Principle Responsibilities

· Strategic Leadership: Provide direction and advice that aligns with the charity's strategic plan and objectives, ensuring we stay true to RDMCC's mission and values.

· Governance and Compliance: Ensure effective governance and the smooth running of the organisation, maintaining financial stability and adhering to all legal and regulatory requirements, including those set by the Charity Commission.

· Financial Oversight: Monitor the charity's financial health, ensuring strong internal controls, risk management, and financial reporting. Consider the financial impact of new or revised activities, making sure RDMCC operates within its means.

· Strategic Approval: Approve strategic plans, budgets, reserves policies, and authorisation limits, ensuring that RDMCC has the resources-both financial and human-to meet its goals.

· Executive Support: Recruit, appoint, and support the Chief Executive, delegating the day-to-day management of the organisation to them while providing oversight.

· Investments: Ensuring that our funds are invested responsibly and with care.

· Representation: Represent the Board at events, engaging with external stakeholders to promote and advance RDMCC's mission.

· Stakeholder Engagement: Connect with volunteers, beneficiaries, and other stakeholders to stay informed about our activities and the issues that affect our work.

· Ambassadorship: Act as an ambassador for RDMCC, upholding our reputation and promoting our values in all your activities.

· Remuneration Oversight: Oversee the remuneration, compensation, and benefits provided to staff, ensuring they are fair and aligned with the charity's policies and legal requirements.

Finance responsibilities

· To Chair the Finance & Investment Sub-committee.

· Oversee the financial strategy, budget and long-term sustainability of the charity.

· Liaise with the CEO and Director of Finance and HR on key financial matters.

· Support the development of management accounts, annual accounts, and statutory returns, ensuring compliance with charity law, Companies Act (where applicable), and relevant regulations (e.g., SORP).

· Lead on relationship management with external auditors.

· Ensure that robust financial controls, risk management processes, and policies are in place and adhered to.

Time Commitment & Location

-  Approximately 10 days per year.

- Trustees are required to attend an induction at our office in Amersham.

- Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend all board meetings, held 3 times per year, generally in London during normal office hours, lasting approximately 3-4 hours.

- Trustee to chair the Finance and Investment sub-comittee.  These meetings take place virtually, also 3 times per year.

One opportunity can change everything.

A small loan can spark a business. A digital bank account can build a future. A savings group can support a whole village. At Opportunity International UK, we believe in the power of tools and trust - and now, we’re looking for a new Chair of Trustees to help guide the next chapter of our story.

We’re a Christian charity with deep roots in financial inclusion, equipping people across Africa with the means to lift themselves out of poverty with dignity. Our Microfinance Plus model brings together access to finance, digital innovation, agricultural support and hands-on training. And we’ve seen how these tools transform families, futures and whole communities.

As Chair, you won’t just lead our Board. You’ll shape strategy, strengthen culture, and support our senior leadership across both Opportunity International UK and our investment subsidiary, OMIL. You’ll champion governance, nurture donor relationships, and bring wisdom and encouragement to our partnerships, from HRH The Princess Royal to cocoa farmers in Ghana.

This is more than a governance role. It’s an invitation to be part of something bold, hopeful and deeply impactful.

We’re looking for someone with strategic leadership experience, a strong Christian faith, and a deep commitment to inclusion and impact. Experience in the charity sector or inclusive finance is helpful, but most of all, we’re looking for someone who believes that everyone deserves the chance to thrive.

If that sounds like your kind of place, we’d love to hear from you.

Please contact Adam Stacey, Managing Director, Charisma Charity Recruitment. Your expression of interest should be submitted through the Charisma website and include your CV and supporting statement.

We welcome and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate on the basis of disability, race, colour, ethnicity, gender, religion*, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or other category protected by law.

*In accordance with the equality act 2010 it is a genuine occupational requirement that the post holder is a practising Christian.

Closing date: 13 October 2025
Interviews with Opportunity International UK: w/c 27 October and w/c 3 November 2025

The Organisation

The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union (UPSU) is an independent charity that exists to advance the education of all students at the University of Portsmouth. Our vision is to have a ‘Positive Impact with every Portsmouth student’ and we aim to have both immediate and legacy impacts through our range of inspiring services and activities.

The University of Portsmouth Students’ Union (The Union or UPSU for short) is a forward thinking, friendly organisation with a vision of “delivering a positive impact with every Portsmouth student”. As a charity led by its values and guided by its members, we offer a wide range of services and activities to support and enrich the lives of our students. UPSU employs approximately 30 career staff, a further 40 student staff and we work with over 1000 registered student volunteers and over 100 student groups.

UPSU implemented a new 3 year Strategy from August 2023 and as always, our Strategy sets the direction for UPSU and ensures we are all focussed on the right things for the benefit of all University of Portsmouth students.

Our new Strategy focuses on three areas:

1. Academic Success - All students’ academic outcomes are improved as a result of the work that we do - making this the best we can for UoP students through our charitable aims of Representation, Development and Welfare
2. Social Capital - Students are supported to find themselves, be themselves, connect and belong
3. Future Readiness - Students’ futures are made clearer and enhanced by the work that we do

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.

Finance Experience: to support our current strategic direction and bring new skills to the Board, the Board of Trustees is looking for a trustee who has the following financial 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: The successful candidate would also be the Deputy Chair, and we are looking for the following 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.

Board meetings sit 4-5 times per year and in addition we ask our Trustees to share their expertise in supporting one of our sub-committees. The roles are voluntary and whilst we welcome all applicants, the requirement for regular meeting attendance may suit people within easy travel time to Portsmouth.

Further Information

For more information and details on how to apply, please visit out website

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

Completed applications must be received by midday on the Midday, 13th October 2025.

Join the Board of SOS Children's Villages UK

Trustee Opportunities - Fundraising & Finance

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children around the world?

SOS Children's Villages UK is seeking passionate, strategic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As part of a global federation operating in over 130 countries, the organisation is at a pivotal moment in its journey - scaling up income, transforming programmes, and amplifying its voice in child protection and advocacy.

Fundraising Trustee

Looking for someone with expertise in:

* Mass market fundraising and communications
* Strategic partnerships and/or philanthropy
* Driving awareness and income in a competitive charity landscape

Why Join Us?

* Be part of a positive, inclusive, and high-trust board culture
* Help shape the future of a globally respected organisation
* Contribute to transformational programmes like the Child Protection Hub and global care reform advocacy
* Work alongside a strong executive team and fellow trustees who value innovation, challenge, and collaboration

We welcome applications from both experienced trustees and first-timers. Diversity of thought, background, and age is important to us - so whether you're early in your career or a seasoned professional, we'd love to hear from you.

Time Commitment

* Quarterly board meetings (half-day, with two extended sessions annually)
* Subcommittee involvement (Finance, HR, Safeguarding)
* Approx. half a day of preparation per meeting
* Thorough induction and ongoing support provided

Recruitment timeline:

A Q&A webinar session will be hosted by SOS Children's Villages UK, where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar and we will send you a link: on Tuesday 7th October, 6pm-7pm.

-Application deadline: Monday 27th October 2025
-Interview: morning of 18 November or 21 November

How to apply:
Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to SOS Children's Villages UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointments at Charity People and request a candidate pack. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

Apollo Music Projects is looking for a Chair to join and lead our Board of Trustees. Apollo Music Projects brings the magic of live classical music to children who might not otherwise experience it. We work with primary and special schools to transform children’s lives through music, promoting wellbeing, self-confidence and creativity. We aim to make classical music accessible and relevant to all children regardless of their prior knowledge, experience or background. 

We prioritise partnerships with schools from disadvantaged parts of North and East London and ensure our programme engages the entire year group rather than a select group of children. All of our sessions are interactive with full involvement from the children. 

More than 18,000 children have benefited from our programme since we started in Hackney in 2004 and we are poised to partner with an even greater number of schools this year.

This is a wonderful opportunity to join the board of a dynamic and successful organisation.

“Apollo is a national treasure" – Sir Simon Rattle

The role requires a strong understanding of charity governance, and how good governance works in practice, particularly in building a positive and constructive Chair/CEO relationship.Prior board experience is desirable, ideally in the Arts or Education sectors.

The charity has a strong executive team of a CEO/Founder and four part-time staff, who are delegated by the board to run the charity’s operations and are supported by the trustees.

The Board of Trustees takes on the ultimate legal and financial responsibility for all the activities of the organisation. They maintain an overview of policy and strategic direction rather than being involved in day-to-day operations. 

Little Village is a baby bank: a simple idea with a big impact on the lives of families living in poverty in London. Our work is vital: more than one in three children in the capital live in poverty, with profound impacts from educational disadvantage to reduced life expectancy. We invite community donations of pre-loved baby and children’s items, passing them onto families who need them and saving them from landfill. Meanwhile, our guidance and signposting service provides tailored, one-to-one support, delivered with warmth and understanding.

Families either visit a Little Village hub, or items are packed with care and delivered to their home. But it doesn’t stop there. We also connect families into a wider network of support, helping them to build and extend their own ‘village’.

Thanks to the generous donations of loved items, precious time and money, in 2023 Little Village was able to support more than 8500 children. But the demand for help still outstripped our capacity to respond week on week. This role will play a crucial part in helping us to ensure stock is where it needs to be in order to reach more children with the things they need.   

Our wonderful Finance Trustee is reaching the end of her two terms, and we’re now seeking a successor to step into her very big shoes. 

We’re looking for a qualified accountant who can: 

• Bring fresh eyes and ideas to how we do things in help us increase our effectiveness 

• Collaborate with a passionate team of board members and the charity’s SLT to make our sum of the parts even stronger 

• Provide visionary financial oversight and robust governance at Board level. 

• Work alongside our Director of Finance to safeguard the charity’s stability and ensure its resources are managed with care and foresight. 

• Champion strong policies, processes, and controls that enable transparency, accountability, and lasting impact. 

• Share our passion for tackling child poverty and supporting families. 

• You may or may not have prior Board experience (it’s not essential!). 

  We are especially keen to diversify our Board and particularly welcome applications from men and people under-represented in charity governance, including those from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and people with lived experience of poverty. 

The role is primarily remote, however, you will be required to attend 3 hour quarterly board meetings, plus a strategy away day and involvement in sub committees. Please see the job pack on our website for further details.

Closing date is 9am on Monday 13th October 2025.

About ShowerBox

ShowerBox is a registered charity dedicated to providing free, safe showers and essential supplies to people experiencing homelessness. Our mission is to create a welcoming environment that restores dignity, improves wellbeing, and helps to reduce isolation. We also connect our guests with health clinics and other vital services, supporting them to make long-term, positive changes in their lives.

Founded by our CEO, Sarah Lamptey, in response to the urgent need for accessible hygiene facilities, ShowerBox began in 2018 as a grassroots initiative and became a registered charity in 2021. Since then, it has grown into a multi-site service, operating both independently and in partnership with other organisations.

What are we looking for?

We are seeking a dynamic and committed Chair to lead ShowerBox into its next phase of growth. Building on the success achieved since becoming a CIO and expanding to three locations, the Chair will work closely with the CEO to shape the organisation’s future and strengthen its impact.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing effective strategic leadership to the Board, ensuring sound governance and clear direction.
• Supporting and constructively challenging the CEO, while holding them accountable for delivering agreed objectives.
• Ensuring the Board remains effective and diverse, with the right balance of skills, knowledge, and experience.
• Acting as an ambassador for ShowerBox, representing the charity externally and serving as a spokesperson when appropriate.
• Safeguarding the charity’s values, reputation, and financial sustainability.

We are looking for someone who can bring:

• A strong commitment to supporting people experiencing homelessness and hygiene poverty.
• Previous experience as a Trustee or Board member (experience as a Chair of a voluntary organisation is highly desirable).
• A solid understanding of the legal, financial, and governance responsibilities of trusteeship.
• Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to chair meetings effectively.
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills, with a collaborative approach.
• The time, energy, and commitment to support a small but growing charity.

Time commitment and terms:

• The Chair of Trustees is appointed for a renewable term of two years.
• Expected time commitment: up to two days per month, with flexibility for additional time during new projects or unexpected challenges.
• Board meetings are held four times a year (mostly online), with occasional subcommittees and events depending on interest and expertise.
• This is an unpaid voluntary role; reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Please send your CV and a short cover letter outlining why you are interested in working with ShowerBox. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Join the Board of SOS Children's Villages UK

Trustee Opportunities - Fundraising & Finance

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on the lives of vulnerable children around the world?

SOS Children's Villages UK is seeking passionate, strategic, and forward-thinking individuals to join our Board of Trustees. As part of a global federation operating in over 130 countries, the organisation is at a pivotal moment in its journey - scaling up income, transforming programmes, and amplifying its voice in child protection and advocacy

Finance Trustee

We're seeking a fully qualified accountant with:

* Experience in charity finance (international NGO experience is a plus) or capacity to develop the necessary knowledge and understanding
* Strategic insight into financial performance and risk
* The ability to contribute to the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee

Why Join Us?

* Be part of a positive, inclusive, and high-trust board culture
* Help shape the future of a globally respected organisation
* Contribute to transformational programmes like the Child Protection Hub and global care reform advocacy
* Work alongside a strong executive team and fellow trustees who value innovation, challenge, and collaboration

We welcome applications from both experienced trustees and first-timers. Diversity of thought, background, and age is important to us - so whether you're early in your career or a seasoned professional, we'd love to hear from you.

Time Commitment

* Quarterly board meetings (half-day, with two extended sessions annually)
* Subcommittee involvement (Finance, HR, Safeguarding)
* Approx. half a day of preparation per meeting
* Thorough induction and ongoing support provided

Recruitment timeline:

A Q&A webinar session will be hosted by SOS Children's Villages UK, where they will share further insights and answer any additional questions you may have. Please register your interest in attending this webinar and we will send you a link: on Tuesday 7th October, 6pm-7pm.

-Application deadline: Monday 27th October 2025
-Interview: morning of 18 November or 21 November

How to apply:

Charity People Ltd is acting as a recruitment agency advisor to SOS Children's Villages UK on this appointment. Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV to Senior Appointment at Charity People and request a candidate pack. For an informal conversation about the role or if you have further questions prior to applying, please contact Fabrice Yala at Charity People

We want you to have every opportunity to demonstrate your skills, ability, and potential; please contact us if you require any assistance or adjustment so we can help make the application process work for you.

Charity People is a forward thinking, inclusive organisation that actively and deliberately promotes equity, diversity and inclusion. We know organisations thrive when inclusion is at the forefront. We evidence our commitment by matching charity needs with the skills and experience of candidates irrespective of background e.g. age, disability (including hidden disabilities), gender, gender identity or gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation. We do this because we believe that greater diversity leads to greater results for the charities we work with.

We are currently recruiting for new Trustees to join Stepping Stones, a fantastic member led organisation who provide a range of mental health support services to people in West Dunbartonshire, Scotland, who have mild to moderate mental health conditions.  The role of a Trustee is one where the Board have responsibility and overall governance of the organisation. Being a Trustee requires commitment and engagement. It is a wonderful opportunity to use your skills and experience to help shape the organisation, support people, and contribute to our strategies.

We are particularly interested in welcoming Stepping Stones service members, or those from a relevant charity or mental health background, and young people, onto our Board to help us with fresh perspectives and energy into our planning. If you have no previous Board experience, that's okay as training is provided, we have a mix of skills, experiences and perspectives. Becoming a Trustee can offer a rewarding personal and professional development experience.

Trustees meet every 6 weeks for Board meetings, they also attend the AGM and charity events and training. Whilst the preference of the Board is to meet in person, there is flexibility to attend virtual meetings when required.

Please have a look at our website to read our Trustee Recruitment pack, you can gather an overview of who we are, the impact our work has, and the role available. 

If you are inspired to apply for a Trustee role with Stepping Stones,  your first step is  to make an Informal enquiry, please do reach out by calling on the telephone (number avialable on our website)

If formally applying please send a letter of interest, along with your CV  (Optional) via Email (adress on website)

Or

Post: Stepping Stones, Ground Floor, Social Economy Centre, 63 Kilbowie Road, Clydebank, G81 1BL

Closing date October 10th

Trustee vacancies will be advertised in line with our equality, diversity and inclusion recruitment policies. Any successful applications will be contacted for an interview by the Board. All applications from Service Members will receive feedback. Thank you for your interest in wishing to join us, we look forward to hearing from you. 

Trustees are Volunteers, this is an unpaid role, but reasonable travel costs or expenses are paid.

Summary

We're seeking Trustees with expertise in grant making, the charity sector, finance or marketing to guide funding decisions and grow local philanthropy and benefit communities and charities across Essex.

Application Deadline

10/3/2025

Job Description

Become a Trustee and Make a Difference in Essex Next year marks 30 years of Essex Community Foundation (ECF) backing the charities at the heart of Essex, Southend & Thurrock. Each year we award grants to 500+ local organisations, supported by 200+ donors and fundholders. Why join our Board? Use your skills to shape funding that changes lives. Gain insight into the charity sector and work with people passionate about stronger communities. We’re recruiting voluntary Trustees with expertise in: • Grant making • Charity/voluntary sector • Finance • Marketing & Communications First-time or experienced Trustees welcome. We provide a full induction, ongoing training and mentoring. Commitment: Board meets 4× a year (in person/virtual). Roles are unpaid; expenses covered. We are passionate about our board reflecting the diverse communities we serve. Ready to help us grow our impact? Get in touch to learn more and apply.

Location

Essex

Working from

Hybrid

Remuneration

Voluntary role but expenses paid.

How to apply

Please submit your application via our website by 5pm on Friday 3 October 2025. Interested candidates can download our trustee Recruitment Information Pack via our website. Your Application must include your CV, and a short personal statement responding to three questions found in the pack. If you would like to have a chat with one of our current trustees, then please just email our recruitment team and we will arrange for a telephone call. 

MhIST is an innovative, user-led mental health charity in Bolton. We're looking for some new Trustees due to a couple of long-serving Trustees recently stepping down due to personal and work commitments

Our trustees play an important role in ensuring that MhIST achieves its core purpose. Trustees oversee the overall management and administration of the charity to ensure that our work, goals and actions are in line with our vision. Trustees act as a critical friend to the business, supporting and often challenging, where necessary, to make sure that all decisions put the needs of MhIST’s members (service users).

SUMMARY

Roles Description: Finance Trustee, Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee, and Legal 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 recruit three new Trustees to join our Board and help steer this work. We're especially keen to hear from people with leadership experience in one or more of the following areas: Finance & Fundraising, Community Organising and Campaigns & Legal

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.2• 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

1. Finance Trustee - 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.

2. Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee - The Community organising and campaigning Trustee will provide organising and Campaigns governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Director of Organising and Campaigns and fellow trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic oversight of The Advocacy Academy’s organising and campaigning activities and priorities.
• Ensure campaigns are ethical, legally compliant, and aligned with the organisation’s values.
• Support the development of effective, youth-led organising and campaigning strategies.
• Offer insight into advocacy trends, movement-building, and political landscapes.
• Serve as a sounding board for the team, offering critical friend feedback without operational interference.
• Help the board assess risks and opportunities related to public positioning, reputation, and partnerships.
• Good governance, diversity and teamwork are at the core of the Board’s values. We want to ensure trustees represent the young people we work with and we are particularly interested in applications from people with lived experience.

3. Legal Trustee - The Legal Trustees will provide Legal perspective on governance oversight of The Advocacy Academy, including but not limited to: Working closely with our Trustees, they will:

• Provide strategic legal perspective on compliance with charity law, employment law, using legal knowledge or by signposting to our external legal support.
• Provide legal perspective on any strategic decisions the board makes, which the board can then pursue formal legal advice on.
• Provide legal perspective on risk related to public campaigning, partnerships and public communications.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

1. Finance Trustee -

• 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.

2. Community Organising and Campaigning Trustee -

• Understanding of power-building, community organising, or movement strategy (essential).
• Experience in grassroots organising and campaigns, advocacy, or social justice movements.3• Familiarity with political or social justice contexts in the UK.
• Willingness to support youth leadership and work in solidarity with young campaigners.
• Previous board or governance experience is helpful but not essential.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse team environment.

3. Legal Trustee -

• Qualified legal professional (e.g. solicitor, barrister, legal academic) with UK-based experience.
• Knowledge of charity, or employment law desirable.
• Experience in risk, governance, or compliance, particularly in the charity sector.
• A commitment to social justice and supporting youth organising work.
• Ability to translate legal concepts clearly for non-specialist trustees.
• 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 Trustee and the contribution you believe you would make to The Advocacy Academy, with particular reference to the specific Trustee role and Requirements above.

DATES

• •Closing Date: The deadline for applications is 7th October 2025 by 9am.

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 

Arthritis Action is a registered charity, and company limited by guarantee, whose directors are the members of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees is the ultimate decision-making body of Arthritis Action, and most of the Board also serve as members of committees or working groups which report to the Board. The Board of Trustees is committed to continually improving its governance of the Charity, and meets as a whole on a minimum of four occasions in each calendar year. For efficient operational purposes, the Board of Trustees is also sub-divided into two working Committees - the Finance & Risk Committee and the Remuneration & Nominations Committee. We are currently looking for Trustees with access to an established professional network, who can advise our growing organisation and support the delivery of our exciting strategy.

In particular, we would welcome new Trustees with the following areas of expertise:

• Charity Fundraising & Income Generation
• Law
• Accountancy
• IT & cybersecurity in the charity sector or small business
• Professional experience in the NHS We would particularly like to hear from individuals from under-represented or diverse groups

 The role of the Trustee is to:

• Ensure that:
  • you understand Arthritis Action’s purpose and that you are able to explain how all of its activities are intended to further or support its purpose;
  • the Charity pursues its purposes and objectives, as defined in its Articles of Association, and does not apply its resources on activities which are beyond the scope of its purposes and objectives;
  • the Charity complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations;
  • a high standard of governance is maintained at all times;
  • the Charity complies with statutory accounting and reporting requirements and is appropriately accountable to members, the Charity Commission and other stakeholders;
  • the Charity’s values, principles and good name are upheld in the delivery of its purposes and objectives.
• Act in the best interests of the Charity, its members and its stakeholders at all times, and either avoid or declare potential conflicts of interest.
• Work with fellow Trustees to:
  • set the Charity’s overarching vision;
  • shape and drive the Charity’s strategy; and o ensure that the Charity remains focussed on achieving its strategy by setting targets and evaluating performance against these targets.
• Devote sufficient time to prepare for and participate fully in board meetings, committees or ad hoc working groups.
• Contribute actively in leadership and decision making of the Charity, by making balanced and adequately informed decisions with due regard to the long term as well as the short term.
• Ensure efficient and effective management and administration of the Charity, including establishing internal accountability and making sure that appropriate policies and procedures are in place.
• Safeguard the Charity’s assets and resources and ensure the financial stability of the Charity.
• Use any specific skills, knowledge or experience you have to help the Board of Trustees reach quick and sound decisions by leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, or other issues in which you have expertise.
• Maintain confidentiality in respect of all sensitive information.
• Identify and manage risks with a considered, proportionate and balanced approach.
• Appoint and support Arthritis Action’s Chief Executive and monitor their performance.
• Promote the work of Arthritis Action externally.