Trustee volunteer roles in claygate, surrey

About Us

Home-Start Guildford is an independent charity based in Guildford committed to promoting the welfare of local families and children. We are part of Home-Start UK, one of the UK’s leading family support charities, benefiting from their policy framework and quality assurance, but not funding. Staff and volunteers offer regular support, including providing emotional and practical help to families in the families’ own homes and connecting families with specialist services within the community.

Job Title: Chair of Trustees

Location: Guildford, Surrey

Organisation: Home-Start Guildford

Role Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join our Board of Trustees as the Chair. The Chair will lead the Board in ensuring the effective governance of the charity, providing strategic direction, and supporting the Manager and staff team. This is a pivotal role that requires a strong leader with a passion for making a difference in the lives of families.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership: Lead the Board of Trustees in setting the strategic direction of the charity, ensuring that our mission and values are at the forefront of all decisions.
• Governance: Ensure the charity is effectively governed and complies with all legal and regulatory requirements, safeguarding the integrity and reputation of Home-Start Guildford.
• Support: Provide guidance and oversight to the Manager, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment that enables the staff team to thrive.
• Representation: Act as an ambassador for Home-Start Guildford, representing the charity at external events and meetings, and building relationships with key stakeholders.
• Communication: Facilitate effective communication and collaboration among Trustees, ensuring that all voices are heard and valued.
• Financial Oversight: Oversee the financial health and sustainability of the charity, working closely with the Treasurer to monitor budgets and financial planning.

Person Specification:

• Leadership Experience: Proven leadership experience, ideally within the charity sector, with a track record of strategic planning and governance.
• Governance Knowledge: Strong understanding of governance and the ability to navigate complex regulatory environments.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate others.
• Commitment: A deep commitment to the values and mission of Home-Start Guildford, with a genuine passion for supporting families.
• Financial Acumen: Experience in financial oversight and fundraising is desirable, with the ability to ensure the charity's financial stability.

Time Commitment:

The Chair is expected to commit approximately 2-4 days per month, including attendance at Board meetings and occasional events. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of families in Guildford.

What does becoming a trustee involve?

As part of the trustee role, you will be expected to:

• Attend, and prepare for, a minimum of six meetings per year.
• Undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
• Undergo a selection process as outlined by Home-Start Guildford.
• Commit to the legal and financial responsibilities of the role, as outlined in the charity's Constitution (‘Foundation’ model constitution).
• Visit and engage with the office and staff to enhance your understanding of how Home-Start Guildford works.

Training and Support:

Trustees are fully inducted into Home-Start at the start of their new role; they will receive:

• An online welcome event and e-learning, introducing Home-Start’s service and your responsibilities.
• Training in key areas including safeguarding.
• Reimbursement of paid expenses.
• Access to Home-Start’s online community via HSUK intranet – full of information and guidance on running a local Home-Start.
• Tailored support by other trustees and staff.

What do you get as a volunteer trustee with our organisation?

• An opportunity to exercise your strategic planning skills, probably in a different environment or context.
• An opportunity to influence and collectively lead an organisation supporting families of young children.
• A chance to expand and implement your understanding of our work.
• A chance to augment your experience of charities.
• A boost to your career and CV, if needed.
• Satisfaction of helping an organisation that supports families, thus giving something back to your community.
• Induction training from us; training, support, and assistance from local charity-support & advice agencies; reimbursement of reasonable expenses, if needed.

What do we get?

• Your strategic skills, knowledge, understanding, or experience.
• Your abilities to influence plans for our charity’s future, especially in this cost-of-living crisis.
• Enhancement to our overall governance and the Board of trustees; improvement in our operational growth.
• Your participation in our collective decision-making, contributing to all areas of our charity work.
• Your enthusiasm.

Contact Information:

For more information about the role, please contact Sarah Black or Louisa Tompkins in the first instance at the Home-Start Guildford office. We are happy to answer any questions and provide further details about this exciting opportunity.

How to Apply:

Please send your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role to our office email. We look forward to hearing from candidates who share our vision and are eager to contribute to our mission.

All prospective volunteers must have the legal right to stay in the United Kingdom and you will be asked to produce evidence of this as part of the induction process.

Home-Start is committed to equality of opportunity and diversity.

Home-Start Guildford is committed to safer recruitment practice as an

important part of safeguarding and protecting children and vulnerable adults

Registered Charity No. 1154609

The Great Friendship Project is looking for a dynamic and committed Chair of Trustees to guide our Board, support our CEO, and champion our mission to tackle loneliness and build real-world friendships across the UK.

As Chair, you’ll play a pivotal leadership role, helping steer the charity through its next stage of growth.

You’ll lead a passionate and capable Board of Trustees, ensuring strong governance, sound financial oversight, and strategic clarity - all while acting as a critical friend to the CEO and a powerful ambassador for our work.

This is an exciting time to join, with high-profile campaigns, powerful partnerships, and growing national recognition, we’re looking for someone who can bring wisdom, challenge, and vision to our leadership team.

What are we looking for?

What we're Looking For

• Proven leadership experience, ideally in a non-profit, public, or purpose-driven organisation.
• Strong understanding of governance, charity finance, and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead with clarity and empathy.
• A commitment to inclusion, transparency, and social impact.
• Passion for tackling loneliness and championing authentic human connection.

Board Leadership & Governance

• Chair Board meetings every 1–2 months, setting clear agendas in collaboration with the CEO.
• Ensure meetings are purposeful, inclusive, and outcome-driven.
• Lead the Board in evaluating its performance and decision-making.
• Provide 1:1 support and mentorship to the CEO, fostering leadership development and succession planning.

Financial Stewardship

• Work alongside the Treasurer and CEO to oversee financial health and sustainability.
• Review quarterly management accounts and long-term forecasts.
• Support robust financial planning, risk management, and reporting.
• Present the Annual Accounts to the Board and ensure legal compliance.

Strategy & Development

• Guide the Board in shaping and reviewing the charity’s long-term vision and strategic direction.
• Monitor delivery against objectives and ensure mission alignment.
• Lead trustee recruitment, induction, and development to maintain a high-performing, diverse Board.

Risk & Compliance

• Lead quarterly review of the Risk Register and oversee the review of key policies.
• Ensure the charity meets all legal and regulatory obligations.

Reporting & Impact

• Oversee the creation of the Trustees’ Annual Report and support the CEO in developing an annual Impact Report.
• Ensure the charity is delivering meaningful results across programme impact, financial sustainability, and fundraising.

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

The Bike Project’s mission is simple – we refurbish unwanted bikes and donate them to refugees and people seeking asylum, giving them freedom and independence whilst they rebuild their lives.

“I’m really grateful because life is not only about surviving. It’s about joyfulness. I feel more freedom and independent in my life, and independent from government now.”  Bike Recipient

Most people seeking asylum are banned from working and many are forced to live off an allowance of £8.86 per day and those lucky enough to get refugee status still face high unemployment and isolation. Having a bike links people to essential services, including foodbanks and legal advice, as well as the local community.

The Bike Project has proved that a bike can make a difference. Not only is a bike a practical tool for tackling poverty, those who receive bikes from us report they are more connected in their community, happier and healthier as a result.

Alongside our core Bike Donations Programme, we support refugee women to learn to cycle through our Pedal Power Programme; provide ongoing support with bike maintenance through our Repair or Replace Programme; and offer the opportunity for connection and friendship through our volunteer-matching Bike Buddy Programme.

A number of trustees, including our treasurer, are coming to the end of their terms later this year and as such we are looking for a new treasurer and other trustees to join this dynamic group. 

You will be joining a highly committed group of trustees who give their time, expertise and contacts to support the charity. Our trustees are critical in enabling us to thrive. You will work together with your fellow trustees and the wider staff team to set our strategic direction and improve our work with refugees. At the heart of everything we do is the real and instant impact a bike makes to the lives of those who have been through so much. You will be part of us achieving that.

Our treasurer plays a key role in supporting the wider board to fulfil its financial responsibilities. You will be a qualified accountant with demonstrable commercial knowledge and awareness and the proven ability to communicate and explain financial information to others.

We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, and we're especially keen to hear from individuals who bring diverse perspectives, including those with lived experience of the asylum process, women, people of the global majority, and people with disabilities.

For an informal conversation about the role, please get in touch. 

No agencies please. 

Our client the Coroners’ Court Support Service is currently recruiting for two Trustees to join its board. is an independent voluntary organisation whose trained volunteers offer emotional support and practical help to bereaved families, witnesses and others attending an Inquest at a Coroner’s Court.  They are a charity who do not receive central funding, and rely on grants and donations to be able to undertake their work. 

The CCSS is now looking to appoint two new Trustees onto it’s board:

Public Relations /Media/Communications/Marketing Trustee – an experienced Marketing & Communications professional who will contribute to strategic discussions and decisions, with a particular focus on all marketing and communications aspects. You will be an expert in marketing or PR/Communications along with sector knowledge in press/media management.

Legal Trustee - A legal expert who can help guide the charity through the legal implications of their options, whilst also ensuring that the CCSS complies with its governing documents, charity law and relevant legislation.

Trustees have a duty to ensure that the charity is well run, solvent, legally compliant, and working towards the charitable purpose for which it was established, and Trustee roles are an important and highly rewarding way to support an award winning organisation. Please note that Trustee roles are unremunerated voluntary positions, although reasonable travel expenses will be paid.

The CCSS is committed to equality of opportunity, supports, and encourages under-represented groups, and values diversity. We seek people from a wide range of backgrounds, who will bring a fresh perspective to the Board, and having reviewed existing Trustee's diversity, skills, and experience, the CCSS are keen for the Board to reflect the diversity of the communities that they work with and therefore welcome applications from all sections of the community.

Please contact Heidi Earp, Director of Langton Not 4 Profit our retained consultants for further information on the role.

ABOUT TREES FOR CITIES

Trees for Cities is an independent national charity that engages local people and volunteers to plant, protect and promote trees in towns and cities worldwide. We cultivate lasting change in urban neighbourhoods by revitalising forgotten spaces, creating healthier places, and getting people involved in their local environments. In a world facing unprecedented threats from climate change, loss of biodiversity, and disconnection from nature, our work has never been more urgent or important.

The charity has seen significant growth and development over recent years, with expansion of our Trees for Streets, Trees for Schools and Trees for Neighbourhoods programmes in towns and cities across the UK.  It is imperative that the Charity continues to evolve as we move towards a new strategic phase (2025-30), with the strategic goal to create a movement for urban trees and tree equity.

We currently seek a Trustee with fundraising expertise to join our Board. This is a new role and an exciting opportunity to support the charity as we embark on our new strategic ambition to take a prominent, influential and leading role in urban forestry. We are particularly looking for someone with senior-level strategic experience and networks in corporate and grant fundraising.

ABOUT THE ROLE

The trustee will maintain an overview of Trees for Cities’ fundraising strategy.  The trustee will work closely with the Board and Executive Team, particularly the Chief Executive and Fundraising Director, to support the charity in pursuing its vision and mission and achieving its agreed objectives.  In addition to the skills, experience and qualities required of all Trustees, this trustee will have significant senior-level experience of fundraising strategy, policy and regulations as outlined in the person specification.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES

Everyone is welcome to apply. At Trees for Cities, we want to reflect and represent the diversity of communities that we serve. Few of our employees or trustees have lived experience (or close connection to someone with lived experience) of environmental injustice, and few are from Black, Asian or other minority ethnic groups, disabled, or lower socio-economic backgrounds. We encourage applications from senior fundraising professionals in one or more of these groups. 

HOW TO APPLY

If you would like to learn more about the role, please email Kate Sheldon, Chief Executive or direct message via Linked In.

To apply, please follow the link on our website. Applications should include a CV and short covering statement. 

Deadline to apply at 9am on Monday 30 June. 

In-person interviews scheduled Tuesday 15 July 2025 in Brixton SW9. 

This recruitment is not open to agencies.

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?

ShowerBox is a registered charity that has been providing free and secure showers as well as toiletries and supplies, warm drinks, snacks and haircuts to individuals facing homelessness since 2018. Our mission is to enhance our guests’ sense of physical well-being and dignity, help combat social isolation, and provide access to other essential resources such as health clinics and mobile libraries. By empowering individuals, we hope to help them make long term improvement in their lives.

Learning of individuals having passed away from preventable illnesses on the streets due to an inability to get clean and the social stigma associated with poor personal hygiene, Sarah Lamptey (our CEO) started offering weekly showers in St. Giles churchyard in Soho, London, from 2019. ShowerBox became a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) in 2021 and since then has been expanding nationally. Now, we operate in multiple sites – Central London, Birmingham, and Barking – either independently or in partnership. Central London remains our biggest site, followed by Birmingham and Barking, and we are in initial discussion with others. We receive our funds through philanthropy – currently supported by National Lottery Community Fund, Vitol Foundation, HS2, amongst others. 

The Board of Trustees is the ultimate governance body for the organisation, serving as stewards of the organisation’s resources, and is ultimately responsible for ShowerBox’s strategy, operations, adherence to law and regulation and financial management. The Trustees serve on a voluntary basis, and meet four or five times a year (online or in person in London).

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a Chairperson to take ShowerBox forward into an important and influential role following and building on the success it has had since becoming a CIO and expanding into 3 locations.

The Chair leads the Board of Trustees and works closely with ShowerBox’s CEO to achieve its goals. The Chair is responsible for key areas, including:

• Providing effective strategic leadership and management to the Board of Trustees enabling them to fulfill their responsibilities for the overall governance and strategic direction of ShowerBox

• Providing support to the CEO and ensuring s/he is held to account for achieving agreed strategic objectives

• Ensuring the Board meets regularly to review activities, major risks and opportunities

• Ensuring Trustees fulfill their duties and responsibilities for effective governance of ShowerBox

• Ensuring the Board is regularly refreshed and incorporates the right balance of skill, knowledge and experience needed to govern and lead the charity effectively

• Conducts an annual appraisal and remuneration review of the CEO in consultation with other Trustees

• Acts as an ambassador for ShowerBox, representing it at external functions, meetings and events as appropriate and as spokesperson for the organisation when appropriate

• Ensuring financial stability and effective and efficient administration of ShowerBox

• Safeguard the good name and values of ShowerBox

Person Specification

• Interest in making a difference in the lives of people experiencing homelessness/housing insecurity

• Experience serving as a Trustee or Board member (in either for-profit or non-profit organisation). Previous experience as Chair of a voluntary organisation is an advantage.

• An understanding of legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship, together with an understanding of the financial aspects of running a charity.

• An ability to work effectively as part of a team contributing an independent perspective.

• Strong leadership, people management skills and the ability to chair meetings effectively.

• Ability to devote time and effort to support a small and growing charity and fulfill the duties outlined above.

• Prepared to attend four board meetings per year (mostly online) plus one or two ad hoc committees and/or events in line with their expertise, specific interest, or as needed

Terms of Appointment

Chair of Trustees is appointed for a 2 year, renewable term. It is anticipated that the time commitment should be no more than 2 days a month but there could be occasions when extra time will be required (for instance, during planning of new projects or when dealing with unexpected situations). The role of Chair is unpaid.

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. 

Are you passionate about ‘The Creative Arts’? At Bloomin’ Arts, we see and hear the difference made when ensuring disabled adults have opportunities to be artists and leaders within visual art, drama, dance, and theatre. As a Trustee you will share a responsibility to oversee how our charity is managed and run. Ensuring what we do is always in our participant’s best interest.

Do you recognising ‘art and culture’s’ place in society. Could you help us achieve our future objectives and impact our ability to empower the lives of disabled adults through the creative arts. As Chair, you will play a vital role in:

• · Supporting the development and growth of our charitable arts organisation.
• · Driving our commitment to disability provision and leadership within the arts.
• · Leading with empathy to tackle challenges and direct change where needed.
• · Leading governance and compliance in line with the charity commission.
• · Advocacy and support fundraising as an ambassador for the charity, leveraging your networks to advance the charity’s reach and influence.
• ·    Ensuring our values and disabled artists (participants) remain at the heart of everything we do.

We are seeking a candidate with:

• ·        Ideally experience of charitable sector and/or arts and culture management.
• · A strong connection to or lived experience of disability.
• · Ability to lead and inspire other trustees and our staff.
• · Dedication to the role to ensure your contribution and leadership makes a positive difference.
• · Ability to be in person at Trustee Meetings, held at our venue in RH7. 

Why it’s an exciting time to join us:

• · This is a time of growth for us as a charity.
• · The challenges we face, we approach positively and openly.
• · We are constantly working to improve awareness and build our relationships to increase our reach and impact.
• · We love finding people who share our passion and vision and will stretch our viewpoints.
• · We celebrate diversity and make inclusion part of what we do every day.

 Length of term and time requirements:

Chair to join ideally for a 3 year term and opportunity for a further two.

Approximately 4-6 hours per month inc preparation and attendance for trustee meetings.

Renumeration:

Your services are always hugely appreciated, but services are offered on a voluntary basis and receive no renumeration except expenses reasonably incurred.

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

NEW CHAIR WANTED FOR AGE UK MERTON’S BOARD OF TRUSTEES

We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who shares our values and passion for supporting older adults in Merton. The new Chair will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

About Age UK Merton

 

We are an independent charity operating within the national Age UK network providing services for older adults in the London Borough of Merton. Our role is to ensure older adults can access the support, services and care they need to help them to live active and fulfilling lives.

Our vision: Supporting our communities with opportunities to love later life.

Our mission: To provide quality advice and services that meet the needs of older adults in Merton.

Our values: quality, integrity, kindness, inclusivity and collaboration.

 

Our priorities

 

We are passionate about making a difference to the lives of older adults in Merton. Our Strategic Plan 2023-2026 outlines our three key priorities in support of our mission:

1. Providing high quality advice and practical support.

2. Building social connection.

3. Creating opportunities for lifelong active ageing.

Our services

Living Well: we deliver holistic person-centered home assessments creating a motivational action plan and supporting older adults to access services and improve their health and wellbeing.

At Home: we provide practical help to enable people to feel comfortable, safe and secure at home with domestic support, shopping and respite for carers.

Activity programme: our weekly-programme of activities includes chair-based exercise, Zumba, Tai Chi, social club with board games, craft club, quiz sessions, walking group, monthly special lunches and aqua fitness. We also run a wide range of out and about trips annually.

 

Information and advice: our trained advisers offer free accredited information and advice to older adults on benefits, health and end of life, housing, social care, local services and more.

Befriending and volunteering: we provide a high-quality, free, face-to-face and telephone befriending service, helping to reduce social isolation and promote independence.

Foot health service: we offer a low-cost paid-for foot health service for our clients.

Role description

As Chair, you will provide leadership and strategic direction to the Board of Trustees. Your regular responsibilities will include liaising with the CEO to set the agenda and agree the papers for Board meetings, chairing Board meetings, holding regular catch-ups with Trustees, and leading on Trustee recruitment and retention and Board development. In addition, you will also be the line manager to the CEO, holding regular meetings and undertaking the annual appraisal and objective setting. You will also sit on the Finance Committee (chaired by the Treasurer) and be responsible for determining complaints and grievances where a decision is appealed.

As a Trustee, you will have a number of core duties, including ensuring the organisation complies with its governing document, charity law, company law, and relevant legislation; ensuring it pursues its objectives as defined in its governing document; ensuring the financial stability of the organisation; and ensuring the effective and efficient administration of the organisation.

 

Person specification

 

Essential

 

· Previous Board-level experience, either as a Trustee or in another non-executive capacity

· Experience of chairing (either a Trustee Board or other professional experience)

· Strong leadership and interpersonal skills

· Willingness and capacity to devote the necessary time

· Good independent judgment

· A commitment to Age UK Merton and its vision, mission and values

· An understanding of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of Trusteeship

 

Desirable

 

· Some experience or understanding of the adult social care or health sectors

· An understanding of Merton as a place

 

To find out more and to apply

 

We welcome applications from all sections of the community. While we would especially welcome applications from people who live in our local area, this is not essential to success in the role.

If you are interested in applying, please send a CV (maximum 2-sides of A4) and cover letter (maximum 1-side of A4) to our current chair. Please also contact our chair if you would like to have an informal discussion about the role. The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday 25th July 2025. Interviews will be held in August/September 2025 and the successful candidate will formally take up the role at the AGM in November 2025.

Do you have proven experience in the charity sector, preferably at senior level? Would you like to make a positive, impactful difference to the lives of our vulnerable clients by using your skills? 

What will you be doing?

We're looking for passionate and committed people to join our Board of Trustees! Ashford Place is a thriving forty-year old charity based in NW London, making a real difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals. From one-on-one guidance to engaging group activities, we focus on building resilience and improving well-being in our community. As a trustee, you'll help guide our work and ensure we remain strong and sustainable, especially during these challenging times. It’s a chance to be part of something meaningful, shaping our future while helping us continue to provide vital support in London NW2.

What are we looking for?

• Proven experience in the charity sector, preferably at senior level.
• Commitment to, and an enthusiasm for, our mission and values.
• Skills in governance, finance, legal, fundraising, risk management, and/or advocacy.
• Understanding of trustee responsibilities, including financial oversight and strategic planning.
• Collaborative mindset and excellent communication skills.
• Solutions driven
• Available

What difference will you make?

As a valued member of our board, you will play a pivotal role in shaping our vision, steering our strategic direction, and driving the success of our mission. In an increasingly competitive charitable world, your expertise and leadership will be instrumental in ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our community.

As a local charity, a significant proportion of our funding is derived from partnerships with statutory organizations. We are seeking a trustee who can strengthen our engagement within this sector, increasing our meaningful connections and identifying opportunities to secure vital funding. Your efforts will enable us to sustain and expand our impact, ensuring we can continue delivering essential services to those who rely on our work.

Before you apply

Please contact us via Reach with any questions.

Somebody goes missing in the UK every 90 seconds. Missing People exists to ease the heartache experienced by those missing someone, and to help people who are away from home find their way back to safety. 

What will you be doing?

Missing People's vision is for every missing child, adult and family left behind to find help, hope and a safe way to reconnect. We are a non-judgemental, highly skilled team of staff and volunteers working for everyone who needs us. We provide free, confidential support, help and advice by phone, email, text and live chat.

In our 30th anniversary year, The Trustees and Executive launched a new 2023-2028 Strategy 'From Crisis to Hope' in consultation with people with lived experience and key stakeholders. The three key goals are:

1. Going missing is understood as a crisis that can be a matter of life or death
2. All missing people and their loved ones get the right help at the right time
3. Fewer missing people come to harm.

The new Chair of Trustees must be passionate about Missing People, its purpose and its values. We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who brings valuable experience, skills and expertise. This might relate to the issue of missing (including personal experience of going missing), senior financial experience, charity experience, policing, legal experience and safeguarding. We are keen to further broaden thinking and perspectives and welcome applications from all areas of the United Kingdom, from all communities, which is important as missing touches every community. We believe diversity is important, and we aim for our board to have a mix of people, talents and backgrounds..

What are we looking for?

We are looking for a new Chair of Trustees who brings valuable experience, skills and expertise. This might relate to the issue of missing (including personal experience of going missing), senior financial experience, charity experience, policing, legal experience and safeguarding.

You will need to be aged over 18 and have:

• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to your duties as the Chair of Trustees - approximately 2-3 days per month
• Leadership, strategic vision and creative thinking
• Ability to manage a trustee board and take decisions for the good of the charity
• Ability to chair board meetings effectively and manage diverse perspectives
• Strong communication, interpersonal and networking skills
• Independent judgment and be willing to speak your mind
• The ability to read, understand and question reports including financial plans and information
• The ability to follow the rules of governing documents and any professional advice
• The ability to work effectively as a member of a team and encourage team working
• A commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion policies and practices
• Prior experience of committee / trustee work (desirable) 
• Knowledge of the type of work undertaken by the charity (desirable) 
• Wider involvement in the voluntary sector (desirable)

What difference will you make?

Our Chair of Trustees is integral to the mission and purpose of the charity, holding the Board and Executive Team to account for delivering the mission and achieving our ambitious goals. The Board of Trustees is made up of an experienced team of individuals who bring breadth of background, a range of deep skill sets, lived experience of the issue of missing and demonstrable empathy and passion for the work of Missing People. The Chair of Trustees will be responsible for the effectiveness of the Board of Trustees, planning and guiding meetings to ensure broad dialogue, good decision-making and clear actions.

Our Chair will work closely with the CEO and the Board to develop the charity’s strategy and to oversee its implementation and progress against its business plan. As part of this the Chair will provide support and challenge to the CEO and their senior team. 

As the Chair of Trustees at Missing People you will be driven by a powerful mission to be a lifeline when someone disappears. You will work closely alongside the Board, Executive team and Chief Executive in a collaborative way to lead the charity. The role provides a good opportunity to be involved in strategic planning in an organisation grounded in the issue of missing with a diverse group of committed and motivated Trustees.

Trustees meet quarterly at online and in-person meetings (usually in London). The Board has dedicated Committees for Finance, HR, Ethics, and Safeguarding, and Advisory Groups representing people with lived experience of the issue of going missing, policing, fundraising and policy. The Chair will attend and be a member of other committees or working groups and ensure that the governance arrangements are working in the most effective way for the charity.

Before you apply

Please apply through Reach or the application form on the Missing People website, attaching your CV and a supporting statement (maximum 2 A4 pages) that demonstrates how you meet the criteria listed in the role description attached. 

On the 'Work for Us' page of the Missing People website you will also find a Letter to Applicants detailing more information about the role and the charity. 

Join the Board of ScotsCare, a historic charity making a real impact for Scots in London.

Applications close on: Monday 14th July 2025

Location: London EC1Y 2AJ

Time commitment: c.1 day per month

About ScotsCare

For over four centuries, ScotsCare has been a beacon of hope for Scots navigating life’s challenges in London. Our journey began in the early 17th century, and today, we stand as a testament to resilience, compassion, and community support.

Our mission goes beyond simple financial aid. We understand that true support means addressing the complex, interconnected challenges individuals and families face. Whether it’s a family struggling with complex issues, a homeless individual seeking support, or an older person experiencing isolation, ScotsCare offers a holistic approach to support.

Our work spans multiple dimensions of care. We provide financial grants to alleviate immediate economic pressures, but we don’t stop there. Our team of dedicated professionals offer bespoke mental health services, including substance misuse, job coaching, housing and homelessness support, and advocacy services. We see each person as an individual with unique strengths and potential, not just a set of challenges to be solved.

The heart of ScotsCare is our people – both staff and volunteers. We’re constantly seeking passionate professionals who believe in our mission of breaking cycles of deprivation. Our team represents diverse backgrounds and skills, united by a common goal: creating meaningful opportunities for Scots in London.

We operate three sheltered housing sites, provide psychotherapy sessions, and run community-building programmes like our ScotsCare choir. These initiatives are more than services; they’re pathways to reconnection, healing, and empowerment.

About the role

As we establish our newly formed Property Sub-Committee, we are looking for a new Trustee to join our board and committee.

As a Trustee, this is an opportunity to be part of shaping ScotsCare’s vision.

Who we are looking for

We seek an individual passionate about supporting Scots in London with executive-level property experience to join our existing, skilled, and diverse team of Trustees.

Experience in property, asset management, estates management, housing and/or development or construction will be vital in ensuring the property strategy is congruent with strategic direction.

You will demonstrate an ability to provide constructive challenge, offering insights that support. Communication is key, so we are looking for a Trustee who is personable, approachable, and able to work seamlessly with our Chief Executive and property lead.

You will be a trusted advisor who brings both professional rigor and a genuine commitment to the charity’s goals, helping to drive ScotsCare’s vision and supporting its important work for Scottish communities.

Please click 'Redirect to recruiter’ to be redirected to the Peridot Partners website, where you can find full details of the candidate profile and register your interest to apply.

Applications for this role close on Monday 14th July 2025.