Trustee volunteer roles

Excalibur Academies Trust, a dynamic and growing Academy Trust with schools spanning from Bristol to Reading, is looking to appoint a new Chair of Trustees, possessing extensive leadership, governance and chairing experience, to lead its Board. The Trust is based in Marlborough, Wiltshire, comprises 20 schools and has an annual budget of £140m.

Excalibur Academies Trust (EAT) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust based in Marlborough, Wiltshire. The Trust comprises 20 schools across a broad geographical area, stretching from Bristol in the West to Reading in the East. It includes six secondary schools (four of which have post-16 provision) and 14 primary schools, some of which include nursery provision, enabling the Trust to deliver education across the full 2–19 age range.

EAT was established in 2012 and has grown steadily, expanding significantly in 2023 by welcoming a five-school Multi-Academy Trust into its fold. The Trust now operates a diverse portfolio of schools serving a wide range of communities, from small rural primaries with mixed-age classes to large urban secondaries with over 1,700 pupils. The Trust includes five Church of England schools linked to the Oxford and Salisbury Dioceses, making EAT a ‘mixed MAT’ with bespoke Articles of Association that accommodate both faith-designated and community schools. The diversity of the Trust is a key strength, underpinning its inclusive ethos and commitment to high standards across all settings.

Ofsted has judged the majority of EAT’s schools as ‘Good’, with one school rated ‘Outstanding’. The Trust has a dedicated School Improvement Team which works closely with schools to support them on their development journeys.

The Trust’s finances are managed prudently, with schools maintaining balanced budgets despite ongoing pressures in the education sector. EAT has an annual income of approximately £140 million and holds comfortable reserves. Some schools include specialist resource bases for pupils with additional needs such as hearing or visual impairments or autism spectrum conditions, and EAT’s provision for SEND and safeguarding has been consistently strong. EAT receives annual capital allocations to maintain and improve its estate. A central estates team supports individual schools, ensuring all buildings are safe and well-maintained.

Governance at EAT is well-established and effective. The Trust has four Members, including a representative of the Church of England, and 13 Trustees from diverse professional backgrounds. Several Trustees joined following the 2023 merger, bringing valuable insight and expertise. The Board is supported by a Head of Governance and has benefitted from an External Review of Governance (ERG), conducted by the Confederation of School Trusts (CST). The recommendations from the ERG have largely been implemented, and the Trust operates a stable and robust governance structure. EAT is a member of both the CST and the National Governance Association (NGA), giving Trustees access to extensive training and support.

The Trust’s Requirements

Excalibur Academies Trust is seeking a new Chair of Trustees to lead the Trust Board and support the Trust’s continued development. The current Chair, who has served since 2018, will step down in summer 2025 due to increasing work commitments. This role offers a rare opportunity to influence the strategic direction of one of the largest and most diverse MATs in the South of England.

The ideal candidate will have previous experience of chairing a Board or acting as vice-chair or committee chair in a complex organisation. They will be comfortable leading a board of significant scale and overseeing matters such as finance, education, risk, and governance. A background in executive leadership—particularly within education, public service, or corporate governance—would be advantageous.

The Chair will play an important strategic and leadership role, working closely with the CEO, Trustees, Members, and executive leaders. While current arrangements do not include a regular scheduled meeting between the Chair and CEO, the CEO is open to establishing a routine catch-up—initially more frequent, then settling to monthly or half-termly as appropriate.

Board meetings are held six times per year, typically on Friday mornings from 9am – 11am, and usually followed by a school tour to see the Board’s impact in action. Meetings take place across sites in the Trust but most commonly include:

• St John’s Marlborough, SN8 4AX
• Ashton Park School, Bristol, BS3 2JL
• John O’Gaunt School, Hungerford, RG17 0AN
• Fairfield High School, Bristol, BS7 9NL
• The Wren School, Reading, RG30 2BB

Occasionally, meetings are held at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon, SN5 8UB.

Committee meetings are held online via MS Teams, usually on Friday mornings and lasting up to two hours. Trustees are expected to join one or two committees. The current committees include:

• Finance, Premises & IT (six meetings per year)
• Audit & Risk (three meetings per year)
• Education Scrutiny & Student Welfare (four meetings per year)
• Staffing (between four and five meetings per year)
• Academy Committee Chairs (six meetings per year)
• Christian Distinctiveness (one meeting per year)
• Admissions Panel (ad hoc as required)

While the Chair is not expected to lead all committees, the current view is that the incoming Chair will sit on the Finance, Premises & IT Committee (which will be chaired by another trustee, per DfE requirements) and attend Audit & Risk Committee meetings.

The successful candidate will be well-supported in their induction and transition into the role. Existing Trustees bring substantial experience and are committed to ensuring a smooth handover. EAT’s Head of Governance will provide detailed onboarding and compliance support, while the CEO and fellow Trustees will welcome the new Chair into a culture of collaboration, integrity, and shared purpose.

This is a high-impact opportunity for an experienced leader to contribute to the strategic growth and educational excellence of a forward-thinking, values-driven trust. With a proven track record of school improvement and sound financial stewardship, EAT is poised for continued success – and the new Chair will be central to that journey.

Are you the future FOMA leadership?

FOMA trustees seek Expressions of Interest (EoI) from parties that would like to explore the options to take forward FOMA under new trustee leadership, or merge FOMA with an exsisting organisation, as outlined below. Trustees are open to considering EoIs from any person or organisation, including organisation and people we have worked with previously.

Background
The Friends of Malawi Association (FOMA) was formed in 1969 to foster friendship, goodwill and understanding between
the people of the United Kingdom and the people of Malawi. It is strictly non-political. Many of the members have lived
and worked in Malawi and wish to maintain their links with the country and with one another. There are two entities that
form FOMA:
● Friends of Malawi Association - where FOMA members pay to be part of and support the organisation
● Friends of Malawi Association Charitable Trust Fund - which seeks to help the people of Malawi by providing
small project grants
FOMA has an active membership of around 300 people, and has a (mainly passive) income of around £10,000 per year.
Each year FOMA organises a Spring meeting online and Summer Garden Party as well as an AGM in September. At these
events there is the chance to hear about the projects we support, talks on Malawi’s history and current events, and meet
other members.
FOMA has delivered a huge amount of positive social impact, by providing grassroots grants to people or organisations
running projects, normally up to £1,000. We have a role is supporting people and organisations that are normally
overlooked by international development funders, due to the small size of grants. FOMA has funded over 255 projects
since 1990, totalling around £250,000. More information available on the FOMA Website.
 

FOMAs Future
FOMA was established to continue bonds of friendship between people in the UK and Malawi after Malawian
independence in 1964. This created a strong platform of members, but over time FOMA has not attracted new younger
members leading to the membership being largely an older demographic.

In late 2024, FOMA’s treasurer Peter Lawrance very sadly passed away. He will be very much missed, not in the least
because of the huge amount he did for FOMA as Treasurer, managing events and donations. FOMA’s trustees are now
unable to continue running the organisation in its current form.

Trustees are looking for options to continue the
organisation in its current format, if a suitable new treasurer and other trustees can be found:

• Recruiting a new treasurer, and other trustees to continue the organisation in it’s current format. Trustees have put out a live advert for this role.

However, the organisation has struggled to recruit new trustees in the past, and therefore the current trustees are also
considering the following options outlined by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO):

•  Merger. A merger is where two or more organisations formally come together. It’s most common for one organisation to transfer everything they own to the other. Typically this leads to one legal entity being closed. Trustees are happy to consider possibilities for merging FOMA to another organisation, in order to deliver the most social benefit from FOMAs history and association of members.
• Radically change FOMA ways of working. Since FOMA was established, the world has significantly evolved. Indeed, over the last year, the massive reduction in Foreign Aid globally has sped up this change. FOMA trustees would be open to a new set of trustees taking forward the organisation in a new direction. Examples of this may be to explore a partnership organisation like Scotland Malawi Partnership or a more Malawi based organisation.
• Closure. If the other options do not appear to present a viable alternative, then trustees will close FOMA. Given how far the world has moved on since FOMA was established in 1962, this may be the right option and will allow FOMA trustees and member to support new causes in Malawi.

FOMA trustees seek Expressions of Interest (EoI) from parties that would like to explore the options outlined above. Trustees are open to considering EoIs from any person or organisation, including organisation and people we have worked with previously.

In your EoI please outline the option you would like to explore, and summarise how you could see the option working in practice. Please summarise the inputs and help you would like from existing trustees. Please outline how you think the option would deliver on the FOMA Charitable objectives. Trustees will consider these options, before presenting an suggested option to members at the next FOMA AGM in September. 

About the opportunity

We are seeking committed vegetarians and vegans to join our volunteer board of trustees.

Vegetarian for Life (VfL) is the only UK charity specifically dedicated to supporting older vegetarians and vegans. If you share our belief that all older people should be enabled to maintain their chosen diet and lifestyle, have access to trusted information, and enjoy good quality plant-based food wherever they live, this role may be of interest to you.

Our trustees work with the CEO of VfL and its operational team to ensure strong governance and help realise the strategic aims of this unique and growing charity. Since its formation in 2007, VfL has earned widespread respect for its advocacy, training, and resources that support dignity and choice in later life.

In line with our new Vision for 2030, we are looking to strengthen our board with a new trustee who brings experience of business development and income generation. This role is ideal for someone who understands how values-led enterprise can fuel social change.

We are particularly interested in individuals with experience in:

• Social enterprise or ethical business growth

• Developing new income streams or commercial partnerships

• Consultancy, training, or service-based models

• Scaling mission-aligned products or services

You’ll work alongside a committed board and leadership team as we seek to build VfL’s long-term sustainability – including enhancing our earned income to complement strong reserves and existing financial support.

Experience of charity governance is welcomed but not essential. More important is a strategic mindset, commercial insight, and a strong commitment to VfL’s mission.

The role of trustee is a voluntary one, with expenses paid when incurred in connection with the role. The board meets quarterly, mainly via video conferencing, with at least one in-person meeting annually in Manchester. Meetings are held on Saturdays, with additional (short) discussions scheduled by arrangement when needed.

Our Vision for 2030

Business Development
We will be the go-to resource for those supporting older veg*ns – driving best practice in catering and care. VfL accreditation will be recognised as the mark of excellence, with plant-based options not just available but expected. We will strengthen the skills, confidence, and networks needed to support individuals and communities.

Supporter Services
We will be the trusted first point of contact for older vegetarians and vegans across the UK – offering responsive, personalised support. VfL will empower individuals, foster community, and help shape a broader nationwide shift toward plant-based living at all life stages.

Research and Policy
We envision a future where the rights of older vegetarians and vegans are protected in law, regulation and practice –given equal status to faith-based diets and recognised as central to dignity, identity and person-centred care. VfL will lead in building the evidence base and advancing understanding of the barriers older veg*ns face.

To be considered for this role

You should have the experience outlined above and a passion for VfL’s mission. You should be able to articulate how your skills can help further our strategic aims, especially around enterprise and sustainability.

To apply

Please send a covering letter along with a CV of no more than 2 pages FAO CEO, Amanda Woodvine. We usually offer an informal conversation about the role prior to a formal recruitment process.

Chair of Board of Trustees Recruitment

Founded in 1975, Rights of Women is the only charity dedicated to providing frontline legal advice to women experiencing all forms of violence against women and girls in England and Wales. We campaign for access to justice and safety for all women.

We are seeking a new Chair in our 50th anniversary year to lead our Board to replace Dr Annie Hedge, our long standing, inspirational, retiring Chair. Our new Chair will help us to build on our success and ensure that we continue to change women’s lives for the better.

We welcome applications from women* from diverse backgrounds whose skills and experience will complement our existing high performing Board, enabling us to stay at the forefront of women’s rights and legal policy debates.

We recognise the critical role that intersectional and structural discrimination play in society and welcome applicants with a strong commitment to addressing these issues throughout our work. We are keen to receive applications from Black and minoritised communities including refugee and migrant women, disabled women and women who have personal experience of the issues that are core to our work including domestic violence and abuse, insecure immigration status and workplace sexual harassment. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Rights of Women is a national charity however given the specific demands of the Chair role and our office location in London it is important for the Chair to be able to travel to London regularly.

We are keen to recruit a Chair committed to our vision and values who has:

· Experience in governance, leadership, and strategic decision-making, ideally within a charity or public sector setting.

· Strong financial and risk management acumen.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively

· Experience in supporting organisational growth and development.

Commitment:  Average 2 days a month

Full details can be found in our application pack.

To apply, please submit an up-to-date CV, a covering letter of no more than 2 pages and a short Essential Information Form (including details of referees). Shortlisted applicants will also be required to attend an in-person interview at our offices and meet the Director and staff.

Key dates:

Closing date: Thursday 31st July 2025 5pm

Interview dates: Anticipated as week commencing Mon 11th August 2025

First Board meeting: Wednesday 17th September 2025

*Occupational Requirement (Equality Act 2010, Schedule 16, Part I) applies

Please note: We kindly ask applicants not to use AI tools when preparing their application. We value your personal voice and perspective, and we’re keen to hear directly from you.

BRANCH TRUSTEE – HR & EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations (RSPCA Chatham)

This is an exciting opportunity to pass on your human resources and employee relations expertise whilst helping the RSPCA; promote kindness and prevent animal cruelty, reach out to more supporters, and influence how we do things.

Overview of the Branch Trustee - HR & Employee Relations

As a HR & Employee Relations expert you would be supporting the branch by helping them maintain and develop staff throughout the organisation. You would play a key role in advising Trustees on the long-term and strategic direction of human resources and contributing towards policy setting.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for almost 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Medway West Branch

The RSPCA Medway West Branch is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA, we are currently going through the process of changing our status to CIO.

The main activities of our Branch are:

•  Helping people on benefits and low-income to afford veterinary bill.
•  Providing support for people to neuter their animals.
•  Providing support to the inspectorate to help get animals treated.
• Access to a pet food bank, working alongside local human foodbanks.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  Advise Trustees on the long-term vision and strategic direction for investment in human resources.
• Support the Branch grow, maintain, and develop staff throughout the organisation.
• Contribute to HR policy setting, strategic direction, goal and target setting, and evaluate performance against targets, budgets, plans and charitable objectives.
•  Ensure that HR activities and interventions are linked to the RSPCA Medway West Branches charitable objectives and complement the company culture.
•  Advise on and help improve management of HR.
•  Ensure the Board of Trustees properly remunerates staff, reviewing and rewarding performance and development opportunities.
• To work with the Branch Manager to review current HR management arrangements and provide guidance on HR strategy and short and long-term direction.
• Receive progress reports on HR and any recurring staffing issues.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

•  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 regional 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 committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside Human Resources experience, including a CIPD membership, 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.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Branch Trustee – HR & Employee Relations

•  We will provide you with a comprehensive trustee training course which will provide you will everything you need to carry out the role.
• Ongoing support is also provided by regional 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.

Practical considerations

• Please also note that to become a Trustee, you will need to be aged 18 or over and a member of our branch for three months before you are eligible to be elected.
• Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year.
• Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• Trustees must sign a Trustee Declaration of Willingness to Act to clarify that they are not disqualified from being a trustee and read the Charity Commission’s guidance for individuals on who cannot be a trustee or senior manager of a charity.
• References will also be required.

We hope you are interested in volunteering for our branch!

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need.

The Vacancies:

Emersons Green Village Hall is seeking to recruit a maximum of six new Trustees to its Board. We are particularly interested in hearing from you if you have professional experience of accountancy, banking, marketing or facilities management or if you attend activities or events at Emersons Green Village Hall.

Our Trustee vacancies are voluntary roles with a minimum time commitment of approximately two hours per month. Our Trustees attend our bi-monthly Board Meetings, which last up to two hours and are usually held on Tuesday evenings, and our AGM. Our Trustees may also support our Operational Staff between meetings if they wish to give more of their time and expertise. All meetings mentioned above are held in-person at Emersons Green Village Hall. Any other meetings may be held in-person or via Teams.

The Role of Trustee:

Trustees shape the strategic direction of our charity and are also its company directors. The role is an opportunity to make a difference in the voluntary sector and provides good experience of senior management. We are also happy to provide references for our Trustees upon request.

Please note that all Trustees must be aged 18 years or older.

About Emersons Green Village Hall:

Emersons Green Village Hall is a charity which runs the community centre with the same name. Our aim is to be at the heart of the community. We run our own events and activities and hire out our rooms.

How To Apply:

Please send your CV with contact details of two referees. While we do use LinkedIn, we will not accept your LinkedIn profile in lieu of your CV.

The first step is for our Company Secretary to show you around Emersons Green Village Hall and answer any questions about our operations and the building. If you wish to proceed with your application after your visit and discussion, the Chair of Trustees will take up your references. If these are satisfactory, the Chair will interview you. The Board will then discuss any candidates proposed by the Chair at our next Trustee Meeting and you will be notified of the outcome by the Chair.

Our Company Secretary will then arrange for successful candidates to complete the necessary paperwork, including a basic DBS Check, before starting their roles as Trustees. Please note that the Chair meets with all new Trustees at the commencement of their role, to ensure that they receive an appropriate induction.

This is an exciting opportunity to influence and impact the educational experience and outcomes of children in east Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Hartlepool. At the heart of our trust is the aim to nurture, educate, achieve and transform the lives of all young people within the communities we serve across the North East.

We are a mixed Multi-Academy Trust, with eight schools (6 primary, 2 secondary) and a mix of community and Church of England schools. We are a fully inclusive, working with a range of stakeholders to ensure the best outcomes and destinations for our pupils. We also have a national research school, which aims to build and strengthen networks of schools throughout the region and help them access effective education research and implement it in everyday practice.

NEAT is looking for people to join our Trust Board of Directors. We're open to hear from any candidates who are motivated to contribute to the enhancement of education in our schools, whether that be with years of education experience, or with new insights and innovative thinking about how schools can and should support our learners.

We're especially keen to support people who may not have much experience on a Board, and those from underrepresented groups. If you have a passion for supporting pupils and some relevant skills or experience, we're keen to hear from you.

Our Directors work closely with our school governors and school leaders and have direct impact in the community through:

• decision making in the best interests of pupils to improve their education, wellbeing and future prospects and raise community aspirations
• shaping policies and strategic direction, allowing schools to focus on delivering high-quality educational experiences
• stakeholder engagement to ensure that the voices of staff, parents, pupils and other stakeholders are heard

As a member of the Finance, Audit and Risk (FA&R) Committee, you will be expected to provide FFL with scrutiny and oversight, with particular focus on risk within audit & finance. You will support the Co-Chairs of the FA&R and The Foundation ’ s Co-Chairs and wider Board to oversee all the financial and audit-related risks of the charity in line with good practice, and legal obligations of the Charities Act, providing the wider board with advice, recommendations and reassurances that all financial processes and related risk controls are operating effectively. The Finance & Risk Trustee will ensure that effective risks for financial sustainability, measures, controls and procedures are put in place and operate effectively. You will be expected to be an active board member and may also be asked to use your skill set, interests and wider stakeholder contacts for other duties such as networking, fundraising and charity promotion/ambassadorial commitments

We are recruiting a volunteer to join our Board of Trustees

• Time commitment: 6–10 hrs a month
• Location: meetings held in person in Southampton/Virtual
• Salary: Unremunerated, but expenses paid

What will you be doing?

City Catering Southampton (CCS) is proud to be the UK’s first charitable catering company. We are all about improving people’s lives through the delivery and promotion of wholesome, nutritious food. We are skilled in delivering delicious meals for the city’s vulnerable adults and school-age children across Southampton – meals that support their wellbeing, their growth and development, and therefore their ability to truly thrive. We have an outstanding track record and are proudly accredited by Food For Life for our school meals.

Our ‘why’ is to help support Southampton’s health and wellbeing, through the services we provide and the surplus that we generate and as such our vision and our business model is unique in the industry.

We are established as a strong, flexible, and profitable independent business, and are now seeking committed individuals to join our existing Board of talented Trustees. Our desire is to further expand the range of Trustees skills that we can draw upon, to help lead us through this exciting next stage in the company’s development. As such this opportunity is for a Trustee with experience in Safeguarding and preferably, some knowledge in HR.

We are looking for people who wants to make a difference by contributing their skills, enthusiasm and lived experience of the challenges facing our beneficiaries to our existing Board. We need you to help us turn our aspirations into reality.

We need Trustees who will join our Board ready to contribute actively and make a real and positive impact on the organisation’s future. We need Trustees that will give strategic direction; help set overall policy; help define goals and set targets; help evaluate performance; and help ensure the charity’s effective and efficient administration and financial stability. We need Trustees who fully understand the importance of being able to access a nutritious meal.

We want a wide range of people from different sectors and communities on the Board and seek to be representative of the diverse population of Southampton. We are an equal opportunities employer, and we value diversity – we would welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are particularly keen on bringing a Trustee onto the Board with knowledge or experience in Safeguarding and HR – as one of the key areas of focus for good governance.

What are we looking for?

We are particularly keen on bringing a Trustee onto the Board with knowledge or experience in Safegurding and HR – as one of the key areas of focus for good governance.

There is no need to have trustee experience to apply; your passion, enthusiasm and dedication is what we value most.

What difference will you make?

Trustees are expected to prepare for and attend up to six Board meetings a year, plus our AGM; Trustees also need to be available to contribute advice and support on an ad hoc basis, as needed by the business, and get involved in committee meetings, focusing on People, Audit & Risk, Finance, and Charitable Impact

Becoming a charity trustee is an amazing way to give back to the causes you love, connect with your community, boost your career, confidence, happiness, and health.

There is no need to have trustee experience to apply; your passion, enthusiasm and dedication is what we value most.

As a Trustee, you will have

• Induction, access to training, and reimbursable expenses

• Opportunities to make strategic decisions and develop new skills

• Opportunities to network with senior professionals

• Influence to shape innovative projects

• The chance to improve the nutrition of people and communities

Before you apply

Before you apply

• Please apply through Reach in the first instance and provide a covering letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience Shortlisted candidates will be asked to have an informal meeting with the Chair of the Board of Trustees and our CEO. 
• Please contact us via Reach with any questions.

As Chair of Trustees you will provide strategic direction for the charity, ensuring that we are meeting the demand for our services, and making certain that we help and support people in crisis in the local community.

What will you be doing?

This role involves leading and overseeing the trustee board in ensuring the effective performance of its legal, regulatory and governance responsibilities. It is also an essential part of the role to support the Foodbank leader to achieve the vision/objectives of the Foodbank and to ensure there is a positive relationship between the trustee board, Foodbank staff, volunteers, and any other stakeholders.

Chairperson Responsibilities:

• chair trustee meetings so that the board functions effectively and carries out its duties
• ensure the board sets an overall direction for the Foodbank with clear objectives
• ensure that the business of meetings is dealt with, and decisions are recorded and implemented
• in consultation with the rest of the board, recruit board members with relevant expertise and experience when required
• to ensure that there is appropriate line management in place to manage the FoodBank Manage

Ensure an effective relationship between staff, volunteers, and stakeholders:

• to plan with the Foodbank Manager, an annual schedule of any subcommittee/steering group meetings and other key events which board members should attend
• to work alongside the Foodbank Manager to ensure there is appropriate communication between the trustee board and staff, volunteers, and any other stakeholders.

Other responsibilities, along with the board of trustees, include:

• to approve, support and guide the charity’s purpose, vision, strategy, goals and objectives
• to manage the charity’s resources responsibly, ensuring the charity’s assets are used only to carry out its purpose, ensure the charity does not become over-committed, and ensure that key risks are identified, monitored and controlled appropriately
• to ensure the effective and efficient administration of the charity, responding to changes in the local community as appropriate
• to ensure appropriate financial plans are in place, budgets are monitored, financial statements are reviewed, and progress is evaluated
• to help promote the organisation to key stakeholders and beneficiaries
• to ensure the charity has appropriate procedures to comply with current legislation and good practice, including employment, health and safety, equity, diversity and inclusion, safeguarding, and GDPR compliance/data protection
• to prepare for and regularly attend and participate in board and subcommittee meetings and any trustee away days.

What are we looking for?

We are looking for people who want to help their local community and work towards the eradication of food poverty. Our ideal candidates would demonstrate:

• a knowledge of and commitment to the work of the South East Edinburgh Foodbank
• an ability to lead a trustee team in a supportive and confident manner
• experience of leadership and charity governance as part of a Board of Trustees, including familiarity with chairing meetings
• a broad knowledge and understanding of the third sector
• strong inter-personal and relationship building skills
• experience leading through periods of development and change
• excellent meeting and presentation skills
• sympathetic to the faith position of the South East Edinburgh Foodbank as a Christian charity

What difference will you make?

By leading the Board of Trustees, you are part of providing a vital holistic support function in your local community, ensuring a dignified experience to anyone visiting, or anyone who comes into contact with, the South East Edinburgh Foodbank.

BRANCH TRUSTEE - RETAIL MANAGEMENT (RSPCA OXFORDSHIRE)

We are looking for a volunteer who have expertise in retail management. You will gain new skills and experience as a Branch Trustee whilst enabling us to help more animals.

Overview of the Branch Trustee – Retail Management.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and passionate person, who could devote their time to oversee charity shop agreements with another branch and to begin the process of implementing charity shops in our area. 

Alongside passing on your expertise, this opportunity will give you 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, alongside fellow trustees, in the running of the Branch and setting out both the short and long term aims.

As a minimum, trustees would normally be expected to attend a monthly committee meeting lasting some 1-2 hours. However, the commitment may vary depending on whether the trustee takes on additional duties.

About the RSPCA

Founded in 1824 we have been saving animals for over 200 years and are proud to be the oldest welfare charity around. It has always been our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion, so our volunteers and employees work tirelessly to ensure that all animals can live free from pain and suffering.

Through our numerous campaigns, we seek to raise standards of care, and awareness of issues, affecting animals today. We rely heavily on our volunteers who play a significant role in enabling us to carry out this important animal welfare work every day!

The RSPCA Oxfordshire Branch

The Oxfordshire Branch was founded in 1875, it is one of the branches of RSPCA, but we are also a separately registered charity looking after animals in our local area. Much of the animal welfare work of RSPCA is carried out through local branches, which is run by our Operations Manager and a team of volunteers who have the support of the National Society of RSPCA.

The main activity of our branch is on rescue, rehabilitate and rehome animals rescued by the Inspectors from cruelty and neglect, we also to help members of the public with financial assistance for their animals for neutering, microchipping and unexpected veterinary fees.

Primary responsibilities of the Branch Trustee – Retail and Income Generation

· Assist the Branch Manager in maximising the profitability of the Branch’s three charity shops. 

· Work with the Branch Manager to explore any potential for expanding the retail operation by researching the potential for further charity shops.

· Support the Branch Manager in establishing the Branch’s e-commerce operation via online sales platforms such as eBay.

· Work with other trustees, the Branch health and safety provider and the Branch Manager to ensure the charity shops meet health and safety standards. 

· Explore other ways to generate income for the Branch and work closely with the Branch Manager to put these ideas into action.

Core Branch Trustee responsibilities

· 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 regional 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 committed to creating a Board which is representative of our society and in particular, our community and surrounding areas so encourage people from any background to apply for any of our opportunities.

Alongside retail operations and income generation 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.

You will need to be able to work with people and have good interpersonal skills. You do not need to be an expert although commitment, common sense, and the ability to be objective are vital.

Join us in making a real difference to the lives of animals in need

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

We are looking for enthusiastic people to join our trustee committee and help shape and deliver animal welfare in the East and South East London areas.
 

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch aims to align its core objectives with those of the National RSPCA — specifically: to rescue, rehabilitate, rehome, and protect animals.

The RSPCA East London and Havering Branch CIO (the "Branch") is seeking to appoint new Trustees to join the Branch Trustee Committee. This is an exciting time for the Branch as we aim to grow and enhance our services across East and South East London.

What does the Branch do?

Our Branch covers postcodes within East and South East London (those beginning with E or RM). We operate boarding facilities where we care for, rehabilitate, and rehome cats rescued by RSPCA Inspectors.

We are an independent charity, working in partnership with the National RSPCA, a separate charity. Together, we deliver the RSPCA's mission — focused on frontline animal welfare and community engagement.

As an independent branch, we fundraise and manage our resources independently to deliver animal welfare services. We receive some financial support and guidance on best practices from the National RSPCA to ensure we comply with Charity Commission regulations.

Future Plans

In the coming years, our plans include:

· Developing and executing plans for sustainable income growth 

· Building out our volunteer and supporter network

These plans are continuously reviewed and developed by the Branch Trustees to ensure we focus our efforts on helping as many animals as possible.

What are we looking for?

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

· Accounting

· Marketing and Communications (including social media, PR, websites)

· Fundraising (including corporate fundraising, trust fund and grant applications)

· Local community and supporter engagement

· Charity growth and development

· Veterinary or animal welfare

· Volunteer management

Alongside relevant experience, we’re looking for people who are committed to the RSPCA’s charitable objectives and share our passion for animal welfare. You should be a creative, innovative team player, bring a fresh perspective, and be able to turn ideas into action.

We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals who live or work in the areas we cover (E or RM postcodes), or who can travel to London for Branch meetings and fundraising activities.

What can we offer in return?

We offer all Trustees:

· Support from both the RSPCA team

· A platform to utilise your skills and experience to shape the charity and directly impact local animal welfare

· An opportunity to gain new skills and develop existing ones while making a real difference

· A chance to expand your professional and personal network by working with like-minded people

Practical Considerations

Please note:

· You must be based in London or can have regular access to London to join our fundraising activities

· You must be aged 18 or over and a UK tax resident to join the Trustee Committee

· You must be a member of our Branch before you are eligible to be co-opted or elected as a Trustee

· Trustees are elected for a 12-month term each year

· Reasonable expenses will be reimbursed

· Trustees must sign a Declaration of Willingness to Act and confirm they are not disqualified from being a Trustee (more information is available on the Charity Commission website)

What difference will you make?

As a Trustee, you will:

· Help shape the strategy and direction of the Branch

· Contribute your unique skills and experience to decision-making

· Work as part of a collaborative and motivated team

· Develop your own skills or pass them on to others

Together, we can make a significant impact on animal welfare in our community.

Please include also a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role and detailing your relevant skills, knowledge, experience, and motivation.

Hartlebury Parish Hall was built in 1952 with the support and effort of the whole community. The parish hall is a charitable institution, run as a non-profit making organisation by a voluntary committee. It is a key focal point for events in the village and is close to St James parish church, Hartlebury Castle and the White Hart village pub.

The role of Treasurer is an important one in our team. We require someone experienced in managing accounts, used to excel spreadsheets and who comes with a friendly and community spirited mindset.

The work involves close liaison with our bookings secretary and we also have an excellent Trustee who helps with monetary issues(but works full time). Our bookings system is 'Hallmaster' and it may be helpful to be acquainted with this , but not at all essential. 

We are a good team brimming with ideas, the accounts are currently very tidy, so the applicant would not be coming in to chaos! 

Can you support our trust in its innovative approach?  Do you share our values of inclusion, innovation & impact? Are you excited about Educational and Operational Excellence. Could you be an #EMATter? What would it mean for you?

What will you be doing?

EMAT needs a committed and enthusiastic trustee, with experience in holding senior leaders to account whilst sharing their professional experience and expertise.  Our recent skills audit shows our board to have a broad and deep skill base and we are now looking to build upon that with colleagues that have specific interest and or experience in Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and / or Safeguarding. 

Any new governance #EMATters will ideally be local to, or have strong links to Northamptonshire and / or Milton Keynes and will have capacity to attend at least 6 x 2 hour meetings in person at our central office in Grange Park (Hybrid attendance is available when necessary).   We would particularly welcome those that have additional capacity to then attend opportunities throughout the academic year, to really get to know the trust, it's academies and all those that work and learn within them. 

What are we looking for?

We would welcome applications from committed and enthusiastic members of our local community (Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes) who have a passion for education and opportunities for young people.

We are particularly interested in those with lived or professional experience of Equality, Diversity & Inclusion and / or Safeguarding. Previous experience of governance is not a pre-requisite but is welcomed. 

Trustees must be confident to speak within a group and express their opinion and share their expertise.

What difference will you make?

As a member of our board you will support and shape our work and strategic direction, as well as help us achieve our purpose that every child will be the best that they can be. 

In joining a well established and effective board you will contribute to supporting our trust in its innovative approach. We have exciting projects focusing on inclusion and equality, that will benefit from your experience as well as an ongoing cycle of continuing improvement and pursuit of Educational and Operational Excellence. Could you be an #EMATter?  What would it mean for you?

Our trustees have a trust level responsibility but are strongly encouraged to network and interact with our local advisory boards so that they have a strong understanding of each of our academies when discussing and challenging finance, risk, safeguarding, teaching and learning and 'beyond the classroom' services.  

Before you apply

Please express your interest through Reach in the first instance.  We can then have an informal conversation, either in person or on teams about the role, before we ask you to complete an application form and our safer recruitment process.