Trustee Volunteer Roles in Dorchester, Dorset

William Morris Society Trustee Recruitment (Treasurer-designate and LBHF resident)

The William Morris Society is recruiting for two new members to join our board of trustees – to contribute to the strategic direction and good governance of the charity as we head towards our milestone 70th anniversary.

Founded in 1955, the Society works to improve and diffuse knowledge of the life, work and influence of William Morris. This is achieved through an impressive programme of activity – including publication of a journal and a members’ magazine, delivery of in-house and high-profile guest speaker events, school and outreach opportunities and, not least of all, rolling exhibitions at our museum on the Thames in West London.  

In 2024 the Society welcomed Tristram Hunt, Director of the V&A, as our new President and appointed for the first time a CEO to run the charity. New board members will join the Society at a time of rejuvenation and growth, although we remain a small organisation (with turnover <£150k) with the usual challenges facing the heritage and arts sectors.

The members of the Society comprise a fellowship of those interested in the very many diverse aspects of Morris’ life and artistic output – ranging from his famous wallpaper and tapestry designs, through his stained-glass and literary works, to his perhaps less-well known political activism. With something for everyone, we are a diverse membership – from across the UK and further afield.

We combine our broad and international appeal with a strong local presence in Hammersmith based on the contribution of Morris to the arts & crafts movement and grassroots politics during his time living at Kelmscott House – the Coach House of which is today run by the Society as a museum. We work with organisations across the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham, including the Council from whom we receive an annual grant. To consolidate and further build our local connections we are recruiting for a resident of the community to join our board of trustees.

With our current Treasurer stepping down next year, we are also now recruiting for his successor. As Treasurer-designate, the successful candidate will have opportunity to work with and learn from the team, particularly with our finance officer, before stepping up to the role at our AGM in May 2025. For context, recent annual accounts can be viewed on the Charity Commission website.

We are keen to hear from all those with an interest in Morris and in supporting the work of the charity and who are either a) resident in the London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham or b) have financial experience to support the Society as our next Treasurer. The board meets quarterly with subcommittee meetings in between – including the Finance & General Purposes Committee, of which the Treasurer is ex officio a member. 

Application is by CV and brief covering letter to the Society’s CEO, Claudia Suckling. To schedule an informal discussion about either role with the Vice-Chair, Tara-Jane Sutcliffe, please get in touch.

Early applications are encouraged. Please note that these are voluntary (unpaid), charity trustee roles.

Closing date: Sunday 2nd June.

This role is one of two Trustee positions on the Board providing oversight of the Trust’s finances and financial management. In addition to the general duties of trustees (more information here), the role involves:

· Monitoring the financial standing of the charity.

· Ensuring that the charity’s finances are managed responsibly.

· Overseeing the reporting of the financial health of the charity to the Board of Trustees and of the charity’s financial risk-management process.

· Providing general support and oversight for the effective running of the Trust as a member of the Board of Trustees.

The role may also include chair responsibility for the Trust’s Finance Committee (not essential).

Specific Finance Responsibilities – in conjunction with the Chair of the Finance Committee

Scrutiny of papers produced by the Head of Finance & Operations (HoFO) and the wider Senior Management Team in the following areas:

Budgeting and strategic financial planning

• Ensure that strategic plans are financially appraised and that implementation plans are aligned with budgets.
• Provide constructive challenge to the annual and longer-term budget and forecasting processes.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in resource allocation.

Management Reporting

• Ensure that a high standard of management accounting is maintained.
• Liaise with the Chair of the Finance Committee to guide the HoFO in the preparation and production of high quality management accounts to the Board.

Statutory Financial Reporting

• Ensure the finalisation of statutory financial accounts by the HoFO in line with charity regulations and statements of recommended practice and the completion of the external audit process. Assist fellow trustees to formally approve the Trustees’ Annual Report and Annual Accounts

Reserves Policy

• Review the reserves policy.

Keep the Board informed regularly of the free reserves position and advise on strategies for coping with changing circumstances.

Governance and Financial Control

• Ensure that proper accounting records are kept, financial resources are controlled, invested and economically spent in line with governance, legal and regulatory requirements.
• Attend quarterly Finance Committee meetings and support the Chair of the Finance Committee in reporting financial matters to the Board of trustees.

The Langham Arts Trust is an extraordinary charity, combining a passion for creative excellence with a gospel mission: to make Jesus’ name known and glorified through music and the arts.

The work of the charity today encompasses a range of exciting musical ventures, from witnessing to non-believers through music and worship, to serving the wider church with the gifts and resources of the All Souls Orchestra. The charity is looking to expand its work with young people, and grow the capacity of the orchestra in order to engage in more opportunities to point people to Christ through music.

The Trust is seeking to appoint a new Chair and Treasurer. These two appointments will be instrumental in managing change and supporting growth for the Trust. In particular, the Chair will lead a refreshment of the Board and be a skilled relationship builder.

This is an exciting moment to join the board of an organisation with a vital, yet under-represented, mission in the UK church music landscape, and an organisation that is changing and growing rapidly.

Carnelian Search have been appointed to lead this search on behalf of Langham Arts Trust.

Bring your financial expertise to our engaged and committed board of trustees 

Unlock has achieved a great deal for the people we support and that is testament to the talents of our dedicated team of staff, volunteers, and trustees. Through listening and engaging with people who face difficulties because of their criminal records we have an impressive track record of identifying issues, finding solutions, and putting them into practice. We also influence policy and create systemic change. 

We have an opportunity to join our engaged and committed board of trustees as our treasurer. 

About the role 

Trustees play an important role in the leadership, strategic direction and governance of Unlock. 

Alongside this, the treasurer’s role is to maintain an overview of Unlock’s finances, ensure our financial viability and to ensure proper financial records and procedures are maintained. 

About you 

Can you bring the following attitudes and skills to our board? 

• Financial qualifications and experience. 

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities and liabilities of trusteeship. 

• The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences. 

• Willingness to be available to staff for advice on an ad hoc basis, with “hands on” involvement where necessary. 

• Commitment to the vision, values and mission of Unlock. 

While experience in charity finance is desirable, we are happy to train and support a successful candidate without this previous experience. So if you’re looking to step into the charity sector, don’t let that hold you back from applying. 

We’re committed to increasing diversity across the organisation, including our board of trustees. We’re especially keen to appoint people who have themselves met with and overcome the disadvantages of having a criminal record. 

If you’re excited by this opportunity to support, and drive, the work of a small criminal justice charity with an impressive national impact, we’re looking forward to hearing from you. 

How to apply 

Read the full Treasurer application pack. 

Download and complete the application form. 

Social Anxiety Alliance UK aim to provide information and resources for individuals suffering from social anxiety and social phobia.

This is an exciting opportunity to help shape and develop the UK’s first dedicated Social Anxiety charity. 

We are ideally looking for trustees with previous charity trustee experience or with experience working in the mental health or charity sector. Howerver if you beleive you have the passion, time and skills to help us take the charity forward please feel free to apply.

Trustees will typically lead on a particular project depending on their skill set e.g. editorial content, web site development, social media, networking with other charities, policies and procedures, funding/grants, human resources, writing articles for the website, review of online social anxiety courses and resources.

Other opportunities are available depending on your experience and skill set.so please see the charity website and use the feedback form if you have other skills the charity might need.

We are a friendly board, getting involved will mean that you can work with us on particular projects that suit your skills. We hold trustee board meetings for approximately 60 minutes each month and work on additonal projects as time allows.

As part of our board you will support and shape our work and strategic direction, as well as help us achieve our aim of helping people who experience social anxiety. 

Good Vibrations is an award-winning, national arts organisation that changes lives through music. We work with some of the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach people in the UK, including in prisons, secure hospitals, and in the community. We are best known for using the Indonesian gamelan, a magnificent set of bronze gongs, xylophones and drums. We use communal music-making to support vulnerable people in challenging circumstances to develop transferable life and work skills and to forge fulfilling, constructive lives.

Our work currently involves a range of projects across the UK, including long-standing weekly music sessions at Bethlem and Lambeth hospitals, projects in around 12 prisons a year in England, and our Resonate programmes in Glasgow, Sheffield and Nottingham, which focus on those with disabilities and mental health issues in the community.

The Board of Trustees upholds the best interests of Good Vibrations, ensuring that we achieve our charitable aims whilst abiding by charity law and other relevant regulations.

Good Vibrations wishes to appoint a new Chair to our Board of Trustees who is experienced in organisational leadership, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  The Chair supports and empowers the Board and CEO to lead the charity so that we achieve our vision, mission and aims, whilst remaining sustainable and ethical.

The Board of Trustees

Good Vibrations is a registered charity in both England & Wales (1126493) and Scotland (SC048860). The charity is governed by the Board of Trustees, which currently numbers five following the standing down of some long-term members.

The Board is vital in Good Vibrations’ governance and is responsible for setting directions in strategy and maintaining oversight over all activity. Trustees also play an ambassadorial role in raising awareness of our work.

The current board includes expertise in arts and culture, legal and charitable affairs, finance and academia, helping to ensure that we extend our knowledge of the issues and challenges we face.

Good Vibrations is regularly in receipt of funding from Arts Council England and Creative Scotland, as well as from the National Lottery and several other Trusts and Foundations. The Board is currently involved in creating the organisation’s next 5-year Business Plan. You can see our most recent Annual Report and Accounts here.

What are we looking for?

The position has become available following the standing down of the current Chair Nick Jolliffe, who has been with the organisation since 2018. The organisation has recently appointed a new CEO, and this is an exciting time of development for the organisation.

As our new Chair, you will help shape the next exciting phase of our future development as we commence our new strategic plan, and embed our newest Trustees within our established Board. Your leadership and commitment will ensure we continue to provide and extend our range of much-needed support and services to our beneficiaries.

The role of the Chair is a voluntary, non-executive appointment. The role requires a commitment of approximately two hours a week, with the capacity to flex upwards should the need arise.

We are looking for someone who has:

• Strong leadership skills that engage, inspire and motivate the Board, staff, freelance team and other external stakeholders.
• Genuine interest and commitment to social justice issues and improving outcomes and opportunities for marginalised people in our society.
• A proven track record in developing strategic initiatives and steering an organisation toward success
• Previous experience on the Board of a UK charity, or operating at a senior strategic leadership level in previous roles
• Knowledge about UK charity governance and commitment to maintaining high standards of governance and risk management in all areas including finance.
• Excellent communication skills and networking capabilities, and able to act as an ambassador for the charity and cause.
• Ability to commit time, interest and effort to conduct the role well.

How our Board works

Trustees meet quarterly at Board Meetings, either in person in London or online from 5.00pm – 7.30pm.  There is also an annual Strategy day in London.

In addition, a Finance sub-committee meets quarterly, looking in-depth at finance and other matters, before putting recommendations forward to the Board.

Trustees do not receive remuneration or other benefits, but all expenses can be claimed including those required to cover access needs such as sign language, interpretation, captioning or travel expenses. The full legal framework for Trustees is laid out in the Articles of Association, which were recently revised in 2022.

Trustees serve for an initial term of three years and will have the opportunity to be re-appointed for a second and final term (maximum of nine years).

What Responsibilities will you have?

Trustees ensure the good governance and smooth running of the charity, supporting the Chief Executive Director, the wider staff team, and our team of freelance facilitators.

ow there are lots of ways that someone can gain experience and insight, not just through professional experience. Having trustees with lived experience of the settings in which we work is essential to our work.

All Board members can have access to training and charity networks to benefit not only the charity, but individual’s personal development.

All Good Vibrations’ Trustees have responsibility for the:

• governance of the organisation in line with legal and financial requirements of the Charity Commission, OSCR, other regulatory bodies, and funders;
• appointment, including the approval of job descriptions and pay levels of members of staff; agreeing terms & conditions and employment procedures;
• recruitment of new Trustees;
• approval of Good Vibrations’ strategy, its business, and artistic plans, and use of resources;
• approval of budgets, annual accounts and financial strategies;
• approval of all policies ensuring that they are updated in line with law and best practice.

The Chair, as the leader of the Board of Trustees, has some additional responsibilities including:

• working with and line managing the CEO to develop the direction and strategy of the charity;
• conducting annual performance reviews for each trustee and the CEO;
• ensuring high standards of governance, risk management and strategic direction
• ensuring that all Trustees have the information available to carry out this task and monitor progress;
• leading and developing the Board of Trustees and CEO including induction, training and succession planning;
• support of the CEO in their role, including developing external relations with key agencies;
• working with other members of the Board to organise and populate sub-committees and short-term working groups;
• planning the cycle of Board Meetings and working with the CEO to set agendas and plan meetings;
• chairing and facilitating Board meetings effectively, encouraging discussion, summarising key points and ensuring decisions are made fairly;
• acting as a principal ambassador for the organisation at Board level and developing external relationships for the benefit of Good Vibrations

Before you apply

Good Vibrations is committed to becoming an organisation that reflects society and promotes diversity of thought and experience and inclusion of those who are historically underrepresented in leadership roles. We would particularly welcome applications from people with lived experience of the contexts in which we work, including from people with a previous conviction.

For an informal conversation about the role prior to application, please contact us through details on our website.

Please note this post will require a Disclosure & Barring Service check (DBS) and references.

How to Apply

We welcome all applications but particularly those from individuals with lived experience of the criminal justice system, disability, including physical disabilities, sensory impairments, long-term health conditions, mental ill health, and autistic and neurodivergent people. We also encourage applications from those protected under the 2010 Equalities Act due to age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.

We are interested to hear from those who may not consider a position like this due to social or financial disadvantage. Those with caring responsibilities and on low incomes are encouraged to apply, and we will work to make provision where possible.

To apply for this role, please submit a CV and cover letter detailing your interest through Charity Job. We will also accept applications in any preferred format (including audio or video).

The closing date for this position is 14th May 2024 with interviews to be held on the week of 20th May.  Any access requirements will be met.

Are you passionate about making a meaningful difference in your community? Do you have expertise in finance and a desire to contribute to a cause that positively impacts lives? If so, we invite you to join our team as a Finance Trustee for our esteemed charity which is going through a period of renewal! We are developing a series of social enmterprise hubs across the country.

At Toc H, we are dedicated to serving local people through our social enterprise hubs across the country. Our organisation has been serving the community for over 100 years, providing essential services and support to those in need.

Role Description: As a Finance Trustee, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the financial integrity and sustainability of our charity. Your responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing the financial management and reporting processes.
• Reviewing and approving budgets, financial statements, and financial policies.
• Providing strategic guidance on financial planning, and risk assessment.
• Collaborating with the finance team and fellow trustees to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Representing the charity at finance-related meetings and events.

Qualifications:

• Strong background in finance, accounting, or related field.
• Previous experience serving on a board of trustees or similar governance role preferred.
• Knowledge of nonprofit financial management practices and regulations.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the charity.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Why Join Us:

• Make a meaningful impact: Your expertise will directly contribute to advancing our mission and helping those in need.
• Professional development: Gain valuable experience and expand your skill set in nonprofit governance and finance.
• Networking opportunities: Connect with fellow trustees, staff members, and community partners who share your passion for making a difference.
• Fulfillment: Experience the satisfaction of knowing that your contributions are making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Join us in our commitment to creating positive change and building a brighter future for our community.

What will you be doing? 
 
We are currently looking for a new, dynamic, creative and inspiring Chair of Trustees who can bring their energy and expertise to the organisation. We’re looking for someone with lived experience of emotional distress or maybe helping someone else through a tough time. We want to hear from people who like to think outside the box, brave enough to consider new ways of doing things and want to help bring around a new wave of support to our communities. Consider yourself a bit of a maverick, we want to hear from you!

We are particularly keen to recruit a Chair who is experienced in the following areas: 

• At least one year of being Chair for another small Charity 

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of Charity governance 

• Lived experience of mental health challenges/suicidal thoughts/attempts or experience of supporting others with these issues 

• Qualified counsellor/therapist is desirable

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person who could devote the time to volunteer with us as one of our Trustees. As a Trustee of the Branch, you will have the chance to influence how we care for and prevent cruelty to animals and drive the implementation of key initiatives. You will serve on the governing body of the charity and be instrumental in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

You will be volunteering with a small, but passionate and fun team made up of two admin staff, five retail and online sales staff, and a dedicated trustee board of five, from a range of backgrounds. 

We are a highly proactive, progressive and approachable branch, with a clear vision for the future - aiming for charitable excellence, a strong community focus, and a passion to support, signpost and advocate for our pet-owning community.

Among our animal welfare activities are schemes such as assisted neutering and microchipping, welfare events such as free microchipping and clinic sessions, provision of a local pet food bank, family fun day events in aid of animal welfare, and the delivery of educational materials - created by the branch team, for our younger audiences.

We support RSPCA frontline teams within our local area, and we are always keen to take on new challenges and innovative ways to fundraise and work alongside those in our community who need our support. 

The insights and skills of our trustees are the key to the future direction of the branch. 

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether or not the trustee takes on additional duties.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA.
• Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS).
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Support Specialist write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members.
• In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch if applicable.

What we are looking for in a volunteer

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas:

• Marketing communication including social media, PR, website;
• Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications;
• Local community and supporter relationships;
• Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or
• Are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee

• We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you with everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by local and national RSPCA staff in addition to any additional training provided by the relevant branch.
• The platform to utilise your skills and experience to oversee the charity and make decisions that have a direct impact on local animal welfare.
• The opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones, whilst making a real difference to the lives of animals.
• A way to expand your professional and personal network through working with like-minded people.

Ideally we would want a Trustee within the Sunderland, Hartlepool, South Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead or Durham area. However, the position can be done mostly via remote means - and so, you can be located anywhere in the country.

As treasurer you will play a vital role in the financial management of Borderline Support UK CIC. You will be responsible for overseeing the organisations finances, including budgets and accounts, and monitoring the organisations financial health, with our management team's support. 

As a key member of the board of trustees, you will also be involved in setting the charity's strategic direction and ensuring that it is run in a compliant and efficient manner. 

It is expected that the treasurer will attend monthly meetings and the annual AGM. 

Key responsibilities:

• Oversee finances, including accounts and budgets
• Advise the board of trustees on any financial matters
• Prepare and present monthly financial reports to the board of trustees
• Prepare annual reports
• Ensure that our financial records are accurate and compliant with legislation
• Contribute to and update financial policies and procedures

Essential skills and experience:

• experience in financial management and accounting
• Strong analytic skills
• Ability to think long-term and strategically
• Ability to work in collaboration with other board and management team members
• Computer literate: competent using Quickbooks, Email, Excel and Word. 
• A commitment to our mission and values
• Excellent communication skills

Desirable skills and experience:

• Experience of working with non-profit organisations
• Knowledge of BPD and the challenges faced by people with BPD
• Experience in fundraising

Time commitment:

• 3-year term
• monthly trustee meeting of 1-2 hours plus time to read minutes, reports, etc. 
• attend fundraising committee meetings as required
• attendance at annual AGM

As a trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Talk Lipoedema. Your expertise, passion, and commitment will contribute to our vision: ensuring that everyone with lipoedema receives an accurate diagnosis and access to comprehensive services and support. By joining our team, you’ll make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this condition.

Consideration will be given to candidates who have experience within the following skill areas:

· A Medical or Allied Professions background

· Campaigning on health issues

· Grant and Funding sourcing

· Marketing, PR

· Social Media Management

Why We Need You: As a trustee, you will play a crucial role in shaping the future of Talk Lipoedema. Your expertise, passion, and commitment will contribute to our vision: ensuring that everyone with lipoedema receives an accurate diagnosis and access to comprehensive services and support. By joining our team, you’ll make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this condition.

We would particularly welcome candidates from under-represented groups including women, people from ethnic minority backgrounds, disabled people and young people. Strong empathy with the experiences of people affected by challenging health conditions is an essential requirement. Previous trustee experience is desirable but not essential.

Opportunities for training and development and to work in an organisation which is made up of extraordinary people who are passionate, innovative, flexible, dedicated, professional and fun.

Join us in our mission to transform lives and raise awareness about lipoedema. Together, we can make a lasting impact! ��

Learn more about Talk Lipoedema and our initiatives on our website: Talk Lipoedema.

Vision Action is a unique organisation, that works in low- and middle-income countries, supporting national governments to deliver and strengthen their eye health strategies. We work in partnership with local governments, civil society organisations, international and national NGOs, and the private sector. Our ambition is to increase equitable access to eye care services and glasses, and accelerate achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goal.

The role of the Board is to oversee the overall direction and activities of the charity, including its policies and procedures, to ensure that they are consistently in accordance with the charitable purposes defined in the objects clause in its Constitution. The Board sets and monitors the strategic direction of the charity, although the implementation of strategy is achieved through the executive team. The Board must always act in the best interests of Vision Action, taking decisions as a group and not as individuals.

1. Terms of service

For Vision Action the Trustees are Members who have been elected to serve on the Board. Vision Action’s constitution allows for up to 12 Trustees, who can serve a maximum of three consecutive terms of three years. Vision Action is a company limited by guarantee and the Trustees are its legal directors. The Trustee role is voluntary but out of pocket expenses are paid.

Trustees are appointed by the Vision Action Board of Trustees annually at the Board meeting following the Annual General Meeting. The time commitment in being a trustee involves attendance at four Board meetings per year, one of which will be an all-day strategy session. Otherwise, Board meetings are usually half a day in the afternoon of a weekday with at least half the meetings online. Papers are circulated for reading in advance.

In addition to this, it is expected that trustees attend the AGM held on a weekend and occasional Members’ Forums or other Vision Action events, which are usually arranged on the same day as a Board meeting in the evening. There may be other ad hoc meetings or online events to discuss specific topics. Trustees will be expected to commit time to receive a proper induction.

2. Main tasks

Charity Trustees have and must accept ultimate responsibility for directing the affairs of the charity and ensuring it is solvent, well-run and delivering the charitable outcomes for the benefit of the public for which it has been set up. Each Trustee will be expected to join one of the three sub-committees (Fundraising and Investment; Programmes; Finance, Administration and Remuneration). The Committees meet (in person or remotely) at least four times per year, usually timed with or in advance of the board meetings.

3. General Responsibilities

• Ensure that Vision Action complies with its governing document (i.e. its Constitution and Byelaws), charity law, and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensure that Vision Action pursues its objects as defined in its governing document.
• Ensure Vision Action applies its resources exclusively in pursuance of its objects, i.e. it must not spend money on activities which are not included in the objects, however worthwhile they may be.
• Contribute actively to the Board’s role in the formulation and review of strategy, setting overall policy, defining goals, setting targets and evaluating performance against agreed targets.
• Safeguard the good name and values of Vision Action and maintain good relations with its members.
• Ensure that all policies are implemented, monitored and reports are acted upon, (including the policies on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti- Bribery).
• Strive for Vision Action to reflect the full diversity of society in all its activities.
• Ensure the financial stability of Vision Action.
• Protect and manage the property of Vision Action and ensure the proper investment of its funds.
• Appoint and support the Chief Executive Officer and monitor his/her performance.

In addition to the above statutory responsibilities, each Trustee should attend Board meetings and use any specific skills, knowledge or experience they have to help the Board reach sound decisions. This may involve leading discussions, focusing on key issues, providing advice and guidance on new initiatives, evaluation or other issues in which the Trustee has special expertise; and then always upholding the decisions taken by Board. Trustees are also expected to support Vision Action’s fundraising initiatives.

4. Additional Specific Responsibilities

In addition to the above, we are looking for a Trustee who can be the Chair designate and assume the role of Chair in November 2024.

Vision Action is looking for a Trustee who will be able to support us in 3 key areas:

1) Provide advice and experience at the level of Chair so that they can provide leadership to the Board of Trustees as well as the CEO

2) Act as the Chair designate until they assume the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees in November 2024.

3) Provide insight, knowledge and connections to help us build our reputation and position as a worthy international charity in the eye health sector in the UK and Internationally so that Vision Action can grow its relationship with individuals, bodies and corporates in the sector.

Person Specification

Each Trustee must have:

• A commitment to the mission and value base of Vision Action.
• A commitment to the key policies of Vision Action – on Harassment and Misconduct, Safeguarding, Whistle-blowing, Recruitment of ex-offenders, Child Protection and Anti-Bribery.
• A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort.
• Integrity.
• Strategic vision.
• Good, independent judgement.
• An ability to think creatively.
• A willingness to speak his/her mind.
• An understanding and acceptance of the legal duties, responsibilities, and liabilities of trusteeship (training/information will be offered in this area).
• An ability to contribute effectively to the workings of the Vision Action Board and any sub-committees or working groups.

In addition to the above, this specific appointment is looking ideally for Trustees who have:

• Previous experience of leading and Chairing at the senior level in an organisation;
• Previous experience of governing and managing at the Board level;
• Previous Board level experience in the charity sector;
• Willingness to undertake obligatory tasks with the Charity Commission on behalf of the organisation;
• Willingness to stay updated on changes to governance issues and policies that might impact Vision Action;
• A willingness to engage in activities in the vision sector as it relates to the work of Vision Action, including fundraising.

We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds as well as those who may have a connection to the vision sector either through personal or professional experience and those who might come from one of the countries that Vision Action is currently active in – Zambia, Ghana, Sierre Leone, and Ethiopia.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people whose lives have been shattered by conflict and disaster to survive, recover and rebuild. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, we first helped people fleeing violence and persecution in Europe find safety in the United States.

Today, we work in over 50 crisis-affected countries, bringing ingenuity, fortitude and optimism to making a lasting impact for the people we serve. We arrive at the onset of crisis and aim to stay as long as we are needed. We also help refugees and other vulnerable people integrate into their new communities across dozens of cities in Europe and the Americas.

The IRC is committed to a culture of bold leadership, innovation in all aspects of our work, creative partnerships and, most crucially, accountability to those we serve. The IRC is a tireless advocate for the most vulnerable. 

IRC UK
 

IRC UK is a registered charity in the UK and forms part of the IRC’s global network. Our team in the UK works to raise profile, deliver policy and practice change, and increase funding to help restore health, safety, education, economic wellbeing and power to people devastated by conflict and disaster. Since 2021, IRC UK has also provided integration services directly to refugees in England.

IRC UK Board of Trustees 

Members of our Board of Trustees are the charity’s Trustees and act as company directors. They are responsible for overall good governance of IRC UK in accordance with the provisions of relevant legislation and guidance, including the Companies Act 2006 and Charities Act 2011. 

The primary focus of the Board is on furthering IRC UK’s charitable purposes as set out in the Articles of Association, and in turn growing and improving the support that IRC clients receive. To this end, Board members work closely with IRC UK’s leaders in setting strategic direction in areas such as fundraising, advocacy, communication, people and culture, and also technical oversight of UK programmes. They also work with leaders across the IRC global network who are responsible for delivery of our international programmes. Staff may seek advice and support from Trustees on subjects where they have expertise. 

Being a Trustee of IRC UK requires you to: 

• • Fulfil the legal responsibilities of being a Trustee and act in accordance with these to ensure good governance of the organisation.
  •  Use your specific experience and skills to provide the Board with strategic advice and guidance and lead discussions on areas relating to your expertise.
  • Support the IRC UK Senior Management team and Executive Director.
  •  Work with fellow Trustees to oversee implementation of the organisation’s strategy.
  •  Support IRC UK with regard to its Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (GEDI) Strategy, including by holding management and staff to account in delivering on its ambitions and by committing to the Board’s own GEDI action plan. 
  •  Engage meaningfully with the IRC clients through, for example, attending events with our clients in the UK or travel to international programmes. 
  • Promote the organisation externally – attend/contribute to social events, meetings with donors, and supporters.

In terms of time commitment, Trustees are required to: 

• • Prepare for, attend, and participate fully in at least three Board meetings per year, plus one development meeting.
  • Participate in at least one Board Committee, and as such prepare for, attend, and participate fully in at least three Committee meetings per year.

Board members may serve up to two three-year terms. At the recommendation of the People & Culture Committee, the Board may vote to keep a Board Member (who wishes to stay) for a third term of one or maximum two years. All board members must rotate off the board after eight years.

Skills, experience and knowledge we are looking for 

The Board places an emphasis on ensuring that our Trustees provide a mix of skills, knowledge and experience (including lived experience) that are important to the charity’s objectives and activities. All new Trustees receive a full induction programme and training to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities, including with respect to safeguarding and Gender, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

We are seeking up to three Trustees to join the Board as several current trustees come to the end of their terms. The roles are unpaid, however reasonable expenses are reimbursed in line with IRC UK’s Expenses Policy. 

We are seeking Trustees with strong general governance and management experience, through, for example, membership of other Boards or in senior positions in other organisations (non-profit, public or private). The successful candidate(s) will have: 

• • The objectivity and ability to decision-make independently and influence accordingly;
  •  Ability to communicate complex information to members of the board and other stakeholders;
  •  Ability to work collaboratively with others; and
  •  An interest and willingness to devote the necessary time and effort to successfully deliver this role.

We're looking for enthusiastic and passionate people to help shape the strategy of our branch, maximising our income to help us deliver maximum benefit to the animals we serve.

The key activities of the role are:

• Appreciate and support the aims and policies of the RSPCA - Work in conjunction with fellow trustees and branch officers and jointly act in making decisions for the best interest of the branch and the RSPCA.
• Work with national RSPCA staff to ensure that the branch meets all minimum animal welfare standards (MAWS) - In conjunction with your fellow trustees and Branch Partnership Manager write, adopt, monitor, and review a development plan setting out the short and long term aims of your branch.
• Actively participate in branch committee meetings and to attend the branch annual general meeting and regional conference.
• Be aware of the outcome of regional board meetings and support local initiatives.
• Actively promote and advertise the society in an ongoing programme to recruit new branch trustees and volunteers and welcome new members - In conjunction with your fellow trustees, ensure the proper management and control of all activities and decisions relating to any premises held or staff employed by the branch.

We are looking for people from all social and cultural backgrounds, with experience and skills in any of the following areas: Strategic planning; Finance including accounting, budgeting; Marketing communication including social media, PR, website; Fundraising including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications; Local community and supporter relationships; Hands-on experience in growing charities; and/or you are or have been part of the groups and communities we would like to attract.

Alongside the relevant experience, we are looking for someone who is committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and shares our passion for animal welfare. You would be creative, innovative, bring a fresh perspective, and can put ideas into action.

The role is largely home based, but we have veterinary clinics in Chelmsford and Colchester, plus 4 charity shops (Frinton, Maldon, Chelmsford & Lexden).

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 2 to 3 hours. However, we are a busy branch requiring 2-3 hours additional commitment per week from our Trustees.