Trustee with fundraising volunteer roles in great wyrley, staffordshire

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare, genetic neuromuscular condition causing progressive muscle wasting (atrophy) and weakness leading to loss of movement.

Our current chair has been in the position for 6 years and after serving their maximum term, we are seeking a new Chair to lead the charity and help us deliver our four year strategic plan ‘Building a future together’.

The chair provides a pivotal role in ensuring the charity has a well governed organisation, strong staff team and board with clearly defined roles and responsibilities, with one shared goal of working towards the organisational mission underpinned by our values and principles.

The chair will support the CEO and ensure that the board functions as a unit and works closely with the senior leadership team to achieve agreed objectives. From time to time the chair will act as an ambassador and the public face of the charity in partnership with the CEO. An effective chairperson is a key player in ensuring effective governance for the charity. 

We are a small, friendly charity, run by four volunteer trustees and loads of volunteer fundraisers. We are a dynamic charitable incorporated organisation (CIO) based in Liverpool, dedicated to fundraising initiatives that create meaningful impact both locally and for baby and children’s hospitals in Sana’a, Yemen. Rooted in solidarity values, our work often aligns with principles of Islamic giving, including zakat, but is open to all who wish to give and support. On occasion, we co-fundraise with charities for Palestine.

We are seeking a volunteer treasurer to help us with financial management and reporting. Our turnover is less than £50,000 per year and we are therefore able to produce light touch accounts for the Charity Commission. We would like support with this, and with ensuring we remain financially compliant, as well as with ideas for sustainable fundraising. The trustees meet less than once a month and we anticipate a small time committment for this role. 

We are particularly keen to see applications from people who have a specific interest in health and wellbeing for people living in war affected states, especially Yemen; or who have a connection with Liverpool. We're a real passionate 'family' and look forward to welcoming a new member who shares our goals.

�� The Role

As our Volunteer Treasurer, you will play a vital role in supporting the financial health of the charity. You’ll oversee our finances, ensure transparency, and provide guidance to trustees on managing funds responsibly and in accordance with both UK charity law and, where relevant, principles of Islamic giving.

�� Key Responsibilities

• Maintain clear and accurate financial records using simple bookkeeping tools (e.g., spreadsheets or accounting software).
• Prepare simplified annual accounts and financial reports suitable for a small CIO.
• Advise the Board of Trustees on financial matters, ensuring informed decision-making.
• Oversee bank reconciliations, expense tracking, and budget monitoring.
• Ensure compliance with Charity Commission regulations and reporting deadlines.
• Provide guidance on zakat-eligible projects and ensure funds are managed in accordance with Islamic charitable principles where applicable.
• Help develop and review financial policies and procedures.
• Attend trustee meetings (typically quarterly) and provide financial updates.
• Brainstorm and share experience of novel and sustainable fundraising ideas.

�� Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Experience with bookkeeping, accounting, or finance (qualified accountant or qualified by experience).
• Familiarity with charity finance and reporting requirements (especially for small charities/CIOs).
• Strong attention to detail and ability to present financial information clearly to non-finance colleagues.
• Understanding of Islamic giving, including zakat, and ability to advise appropriately.
• Commitment to the values and objectives of the charity.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of digital accounting tools (e.g., QuickBooks, Xero, Excel).
• Previous trustee or treasurer experience in a charity setting.
• Experience of fundraising.
• Based in or familiar with the Liverpool community.
• Special interest in aligned issues or geographies.

�� What You’ll Gain

• Opportunity to make a tangible difference through financial stewardship.
• Be part of a passionate and friendly team of trustees and volunteers.
• Gain experience in governance and charity finance.
• Flexibility and autonomy to manage your time and role.

The Brain & Spine Foundation is the UK’s national charity dedicated to improving the quality of life for the 1 in 6 people affected by neurological conditions. Through expert information, compassionate support, and tireless advocacy, we empower individuals and families across the UK to navigate complex diagnoses with confidence. We’re now looking for a qualified and committed Treasurer to join our Board of Trustees. The ideal candidate will bring strong financial acumen, strategic thinking, and a passion for good governance to help  shape the future of our work.

Summary of the role of Trustee

Trustees are individually, and as part of the Board, the ‘guardians of charitable purpose’, making sure that all Board and Board Committee decisions put the needs of the beneficiaries first; safeguard the charity’s assets – both physical assets, including property, and intangible ones, such as its reputation ensuring these assets are used well, and in ensuring that the charity is run sustainably.

But this specific role requires the Trustee to Chair the crucial Board’s Income Generation Committee (IGC).

Like other hospices, in the context of Government decisions about tax and minimum wages and in the generally challenging environment for most donors, we are not able to purely fund our work from current donations, meaning we have been drawing from our reserves.

This has to change if we are to survive and satisfy the ever -increasing demands for palliative care.

Main duties and responsibilities:

• Chair the Income Generation Committee, which has the following key priorities:

• Review and constructively challenge the annual fundraising (FR) plans and budget

• Maintain an overview of current fundraising initiatives and their return on investments, working in partnership with the FR team

• Evaluate the risks to achieving projected income streams and advise the FR team and Board accordingly

• In conjunction with the FR team, creatively develop new and potentially high return initiatives that are intended to deliver significant additional income, in excess of current FR budgets

• As part of the Board of Trustees:

• set and maintain vision, mission and values

• ensure plans are in place to deliver income/cost levels that can at least fund current expenditure

• Develop strategy, set overall policy, define strategic objectives and evaluating performance against agreed targets

• Assure continuous compliance with the legal and regulatory standards governing the operation ofthe charity, the charity governing document and any other relevant legislation, updating the articles of association as required.

• Assure proper financial control and ensure the application of resources is exclusively in pursuance of the charitable objects i.e. the charity must not spend money on activities that are not included in its objects, no matter how worthwhile or charitable those activities are

• Assure the effective and efficient administration of the charity including funding, insurance and premises

• Assure that The Hospice of St Francis pursues its objects as defined in its governing document (e.g. the promotion of any charitable purpose for the benefit of the community in the district of providing palliative care at the Hospice, at patients home, in our Spring Centre and in the community, and in particular the advancement of education, the protection of health and the relief of distress and sickness)

• Assure employment procedures and policy and proceduresfor volunteering are compliant with legislation and regulation, subject to regular review and support the fulfilment of strategic objectives

• Assure risk assessments for all aspects of the business are carried out including accurate and timely reporting using the format of risk registers

• To contribute to, assure and maintain effective performance of the Board and Committees, including systems and processes for external assessment of these arrangements

• Support the CEO and Executive Team to fulfil their delegated responsibilities and hold them to account for delivery of strategic objectives

• To attend Board meetings quarterly, up to two Board awaydays annually and serve as a member of up to two Committees.

• Able to be registered as a Directors of the Charity at Companies House, sharing ultimate responsibility for governing the charity and directing how it is managed and run.

• Act as an ambassador supporting the work of the Hospice in generating income and in its relationship with the communities served.

Become our Trustee Tresurer and chair our Finance Committee.We need a Trustees with energy, enthusiasm and commitment to help accelerate our influcence on wildlife and nature recovery issues in the country and beyond.

With a refreshed 3-year strategy (23-26), “A Wilder Herefordshire, More Nature Everywhere” we’re working hard to recover nature at scale through deeper collaborations, working with local community organisations and networks to develop a clear plan for nature’s recovery. We are also working with neighbouring Wildlife Trusts, river partnerships and national partners such as the Woodland Trust, National Trust, and Duchy of Cornwall.

So, with lots happening, it’s an exciting if challenging time for the Trust.  Urgent action is needed to address the decline of wildlife in our beautiful county – and we need to muster all the resources and skills we can to succeed.

We are a welcoming board who support and challenge each other to do better for wildlife.

We look to recruit trustees from a range of backgrounds, life stages and skills to join us.

At this time, we wish to recruit someone to take on the role of Treasurer, and chair our Finance Committee. You would need the following skills and qualities:

· A strong commitment to wildlife conservation and the Vision of the Trust;

· Demonstrable experience of financial management;

· The skills to analyse proposals and examine their financial consequences;

· A good understanding of governance, gained either as a Trustee of another charity, a director of a company, or as a manager who has worked with Boards;

· The ability to apply clear logical thinking and creativity to developing our strategy

If you are successful, you will be welcomed and supported by a talented and committed board of trustees, a strong and experienced staff team and an active and expanding band of volunteers and by the wider Wildlife Trust movement. We hope you are inspired to apply, and we look forward to hearing from you.

Alison McLean OBE, Chair, March 2025

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 223 (Halesowen) Squadron, 27 King Street, Halesowen, West Midlands, B63 3SU 
• 347 (Dudley) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, 5 Vicar Street, King Street, Dudley, West Midlands, DY2 8RH 
• 451 (Stourbridge) Squadron, Army Reserve Centre, Old Swinford Road, Stourbridge, West Midlands, DY8 2LQ 
• 2488 (Kingswinford) Squadron, Rear of Kingswinford Health Centre car park, off Standhills Road, Kingswinford, West Midlands DY6 8DN 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

Are you passionate about supporting young people and giving back to your community?

Whether you have experience in fundraising, governance, building corporate partnerships, or simply a willingness to get involved and make a difference – we’d love to hear from you! 

About us 

We’re part of the Royal Air Force Air Cadets, a national youth organisation empowering 12- to 20-year-olds through flying, adventure training, sports, and leadership development. 

West Mercian Wing supports over 900 cadets across 27 Squadrons in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, the Black Country, and overseas in Cyprus. 

Each squadron has a Civilian Welfare Committee, a team of trustees who support the squadron by overseeing governance, fundraising, and building community partnerships. Trustees are vital in ensuring squadrons can continue providing incredible opportunities for cadets. 

Squadrons in this sector 

• 63 (Bridgnorth) Squadron, Cadet Centre, Oldbury Wells School, Oldbury Wells, Bridgnorth, Shropshire, WV16 5JE 
• 83 (St Georges) Squadron, Territorial House Army Reserve Centre, Trench Road, Trench, Shropshire, TF2 8DY 
• 265 (Chetwynd) Squadron, The Lodge, Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport, Shropshire, TF10 8EU
• 333 (Ludlow) Squadron, ATC Centre, Lower Galdeford, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 1RU 
• 1130 (Wrekin) Squadron, Cadet Centre, King Street, Wellington, Shropshire, TF1 1NX 
• 2379 (Dawley) Squadron, Bridgman House Army Reserve Centre, Cavan Drive, Dawley, Shropshire, TF4 2BQ 
• 2497 (Cosford) Squadron, RAF Cosford, Wolverhampton, Shropshire, WV7 3EX 

Why become a trustee? 

Volunteering as a trustee isn’t just about helping others - it’s about growing yourself too! 

• Gain valuable experience in leadership, governance, and fundraising. 

• Expand your network and become part of a supportive team. 

• Make a lasting difference to young people in your community. 

• Shape the future of an organisation with a rich legacy. 

What’s involved? 

Meetings are structured but friendly, typically every three months for around two hours. A typical agenda includes: 

• Updates from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Squadron Commander 

• Funding requests and financial decisions 

• Future planning, upcoming events, and key priorities 

• Opportunities to contribute based on your skills and interests 

Beyond meetings, involvement is flexible depending on your availability and expertise. 

What we’re looking for 

We welcome all backgrounds and skill levels, but we’d particularly love to hear from those with experience in: 

• Fundraising 

• Governance & charity compliance 

• Corporate partnerships 

No military background or youth work experience is required—just enthusiasm, reliability, and a passion for making a difference! 

Opportunities for progression 

Trustees can take on leadership roles within their squadron, support squadrons at sector or wing level, or even contribute to regional and national RAF Air Cadets governance. Some trustees also transition into squadron volunteer roles, working directly with cadets. 

To join us, you’ll need to 

• Be 20 years or older 

• Have lived in the UK for at least 3 years 

• Attend an evening meeting every three months (varies by squadron) 

• Bring enthusiasm, reliability, and a willingness to support young people. 

Typical joining process: 

1. Submit an expression of interest. 

2. We’ll invite you to visit your chosen squadron to learn more. 

3. Complete a simple online application if invited. 

4. Undergo a DBS and basic security check. 

This process usually takes a few weeks, depending on availability and checks. 

Ready to make an impact? 

If you’re excited about supporting young people and helping your local squadron thrive, we’d love to hear from you! 

The Squad Club is an impactful hyper-local charity based in Merton - and we are looking for some very special skills to help us in a crucial period of deepening and sustaining our work. 

FINANCE TRUSTEE

We are particularly keen to hear from people with a background in Finance; 

Strong understanding of charity finance, reporting requirements, and relevant regulations (e.g. Charity Commission guidance, SORP).

Familiarity with financial management principles, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial controls.

Knowledge of accounting practices and financial statements (e.g. balance sheets, income & expenditure).

Ability to present financial information clearly and accessibly to non-finance board members.

Understanding of the charity’s governing document, structure, and objectives.

Please note we are open to having a Trustee who works in finance, accounting, charity finance and who is looking to develop their skills further and again Board-experience.

What are we looking for?

A motivated individual who would like to use their professional or other experience to contribute to and develop an ambitious long term growth strategy for a local charity.

We ask trustees to dedicate around 8 - 10 hours every 6 weeks of remote work to support the running, strategy, management and governance of The Squad. 

We particularly welcome applicants based in or around the Wimbledon/Merton area, who are able to help The Squad to build connections within the local community and are able to attend and support occasional club nights.

Individual contribution varies a lot depending on the person’s skills, expertise and the time they can commit. We ask that trustees get involved with a variety of aspects of The Squad; from financial matters, governance, marketing, fundraising, strategy or line managing staff.

The Squad is overseen by a Board of Trustees with a wide set of skills and experience. We draw our strength from having a team of people with a wide range of backgrounds.

As our current Board is geographically dispersed, applicants should be comfortable working in a remote team and communicating via Zoom, email and telephone.

Further information:

You will be welcomed and supported by the Trustee team (we are genuinely lovely and fun)

You will be invited to occasionally support club nights and work directly with our leaders, volunteers and members, to see us in action. 

Depending on your experience and interest, you will work with other board members and club leaders on specific fundraising, strategic or operational projects.

 The Squad club itself is based in Wimbledon, but we ask trustees to attend board meetings every 6 weeks on Zoom and to attend Thursday evening clubs 2 - 3 times per year. 

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

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

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

What are we looking for?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Ensuring financial stability and effective and efficient administration of ShowerBox

• Safeguard the good name and values of ShowerBox

Person Specification

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Terms of Appointment

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

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

About Jabalie

Jabalie is a UK registered charity that aims to educate and empower survivors and individuals at high-risk of gender-based violence to promote their safety, autonomy and economic independence. Our vision is a world in which people of all genders are economically empowered, free from violence and abuse, and lead full lives with freedom and autonomy.

We are currently developing an education and empowerment programme for survivors of gender-based violence, to be delivered in the UK and Kenya.

Our name is derived from the word “Jabali” meaning “strong as a rock” in Swahili, symbolising  the strength of all those we work with.

Role description

The Board of Trustees plays a vital role in making sure that Jabalie achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that Jabalie has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.

As a small and newly registered charity, our Trustees have an active role in the organisation relating to their area of expertise, beyond the Board meetings.

General Trustee Duties

The duties of a Trustee include:

• Attending and contributing at quarterly Trustee Board meetings.
• Ensuring that Jabalie pursues its stated objectives (purposes) defined in its Constitution, including helping to develop a long-term strategy to achieve them.
• Ensuring that Jabalie complies with its governing rules laid out in its Constitution.
• Ensuring that Jabalie complies with charity law, company law and any other relevant legislation or regulations.
• Ensuring the financial stability of Jabalie.

Philanthropy and Development

In addition to the general duties of a Trustee, duties of the Philanthropy and Development Trustee include the following:

• Developing and overseeing fundraising strategy with action plans, ensuring they align with Jabalie’s strategic goals and financial needs.
• Cultivating relationships with donors, funders, and key stakeholders to secure financial support and long-term commitments.
• Identifying opportunities to collaborate with businesses, foundations, and institutions for sponsorships, grants, and major gifts.
• Managing and maintaining data and information on potential opportunities and relationships for generating funds in a systematic way, such as using a CRM system.
• Working with the Marketing and Communications Trustee in developing initiatives and campaigns for fundraising and generating donations.
• Managing the planning and execution of fundraising initiatives, events and campaigns to engage the community and attract new supporters.
• Working with the Strategy and Impact Analysis Trustee in establishing and overseeing impact evaluation and performance metrics in alignment of funders’ requirements.
• Evaluating the level of success of the fundraising and donor engagement efforts, and providing feedback and data analysis that could shape future initiatives, events and campaigns.
• Ensuring fundraising efforts comply with relevant regulations and ethical standards, maintaining transparency and accountability.
• Acting as an ambassador for Jabalie, championing its mission and fostering philanthropic support through networking and public speaking (as required).

What we are looking for

• Commitment to the organisation and alignment with Jabalie’s mission and vision.
• Experience in philanthropy, fundraising, or development.
• Strong networking and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to engage with donors and key stakeholders effectively.
• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as Trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation.
• Willingness to devote the necessary time and efforts required for the role.
• Strategic vision and desire to support the growth of Jabalie.

Terms of appointment

• Trustees are appointed for a 3-year term of office, subject to renewal.
• Trustees must be available to attend quarterly Board meetings, held virtually. Occasional annual strategy days may be held in-person in London.
• This position is voluntary.​

We are seeking a Chair of Trustees to help steer Elayos as we grow and develop our work. Elayos exists to bring compassion, support and advocacy to vulnerable and isolated birthing people in Birmingham. As a charity, we come alongside, build relationships, listen and equip with the information needed to empower our clients to have a positive and informed pregnancy, birth and postnatal period.

Our staff and volunteers offer continuity of care as we assist with emotional, practical and physical needs. Where appropriate, we signpost and collaborate with other organisations to ensure that the greatest range of support is given. 

As a charity we are particularly interested in increasing the diversity of our board. We are especially interested in hearing from individuals representative of the communities in which we work. This includes people from BAME, disability and LGBTQ+ communities. 

In addition to increasing the diversity of our board Elayos aims to recruit board members who cover a wide range of skill sets. In particular those with a background in strategy, EDI, risk management and finance.

Thank you for your interest in the role of Chair of the Board of Trustees at Music For Youth (MFY); a national youth music charity that provides life-changing musical experiences for young people aged 25 and under. 

Music for Youth brings together over 40,000 young people a year to perform in live music festivals and concerts across the UK. The charity uniquely provides open access to young people, from whatever background or ability, to perform live to audiences: from grass-roots community halls to the Royal Albert Hall. We develop their musicianship, showcasing the richness and diversity of their music through our impactful live performance and development programmes. The wider social and life skills developed by participating in our events benefits all who take part and propels some of the UK's most promising young musicians onto career-changing platforms.

Our vision is to ensure that every young person in the UK can achieve their musical potential by performing the music they love. We believe that music, and the chance to participate in high-quality musical activities, should be open to every young person.

As Chair, you will guide a committed and experienced Board of Trustees, working closely with the CEO and senior leadership team to drive strategic growth, strengthen partnerships, and champion our cause at the highest levels. 

This is a crucial time for Music For Youth, as we navigate a changing funding landscape and continue to innovate to reach even more young people.

If you are an experienced leader with a passion for the vision, mission, impact and potential of this unique organisation, we would love to hear from you.

About Us

Who We Are

Music For Youth is a national youth music charity that works with schools, youth groups, music hubs, and community organisations to break down barriers to music-making and showcase the incredible talent of young musicians.

Our Programmes and Impact

Each year, Music For Youth reaches over 40,000 young people across the UK, offering them platforms to develop their musical talents across all music genres, and gain confidence. Many of our alumni have gone on to successful careers in the music industry and beyond.

National Music Festivals and Concerts:

We produce and stage high-quality professional standard live music events (including gigs, concerts, and festivals) for young musicians, both regionally at grass roots level, and at the UK’s most prestigious live music venues.

Young Artist Development:

We nurture and develop young musicians so they can realise their musical potential, by initiating adventurous collaborations, commissioning new music, and providing a robust music mentoring programme.

Creative Skills Development:

We provide skills and training development for young people looking for a career in the creative industries in non-performance and stagecraft roles such as stage management, sound engineering, lighting and digital production skills. 

Advocacy for Young Musicians:

We campaign to highlight the brilliance of young musicians.

Our work takes place across the whole of the UK with events in all nine regions of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This coverage enables us to support and tour the work of other partner organisations so they can reach young people further afield.

For over 50 years, Music for Youth’s annual cycle of regional festivals, local events, a national festival and showcase concerts has made a significant contribution to the music education calendar, bringing together regional providers and young performers, and putting young people’s own achievements into a wider national context:

The Music for Youth Regional Festival is a collection of festivals across the UK aimed to inspire musicians at every level of experience and across every genre of music. This collection of regional festivals forms the UK’s largest festival for young musicians. 30,000 musicians take part every year and many go on to perform again at the Music for Youth National Festival and Music for Youth Proms.

The National Festival is a coming together of musicians, bands and ensembles from across the regions to perform on world-class stages including Symphony Hall, and the CBSO Centre. It is a key date in the Music for Youth calendar, hosted by the city of Birmingham in July. Over 12,000 young musicians aged 4-21 from across the UK take part, featuring all styles, instruments and genres of music. 

The Music for Youth Proms takes place at the renowned Royal Albert Hall in London. This two-day showcase celebrates the incredible diversity, talent and creativity of young musicians from all corners of the UK. From orchestral ensembles to choirs, bands, soloists, and more, these talented young performers get the unique opportunity to showcase their skills and share their music with a wider audience.

Staff and Head Office

Given the charity’s national reach, the head office recently relocated from London to Birmingham, now based in CBSO Centre (City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra) close to the city centre. The staff team of seven permanent staff are based across the UK, with hybrid home / office working arrangements.

Board and Governance

There are nine Trustees, each co-opted on to one (or more) subcommittees: the Audit & Risk Committee, Programmes Committee, and Fundraising Committee.

How Music For Youth is Funded

Music For Youth is one of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Organisations, receiving 42% of its funds from the annual grant of £279,980 in 2023/24. In addition, the charity raises income from fundraising (sponsorship, institutions, individuals) totalling 33% of annual turnover £672,938 in 23/24, with 10.6% from earned income including event ticket sales of £71,785 in 2023/24. 

The charity’s turnover in 2023/24 was £672,938, ending the year with reserves of £101,224.

For further information, please see our latest Annual Account and Report here.

The Opportunity

We are excited to be seeking our next Chair of Trustees to lead the organisation, as our current Chair, John Dixon, comes to the end of his term of service. 

With an energetic, skilled and focused Executive Team led by Phil Castang MBE - and a highly experienced supportive Board of Trustees bringing their wealth of collective experience spanning leadership in music, education, arts, fundraising and industry - now is an exciting time to join this unique national music charity, as we prepare for the next phase of development.

The Chair of the Board of Trustees will provide strategic leadership and governance to Music For Youth, ensuring the organisation is well-managed, financially sustainable, and delivering on its charitable objectives: 

Leadership 

• Chairing meetings of the Board and ensuring that it runs effectively, fulfils its duties and carries out resolutions. 
• Creating an environment in which all Board members are encouraged to participate and challenge constructively and appropriately. 
• Provide clear strategic direction for the charity, working with the CEO and Board to set long-term goals.
• Act as an ambassador for MFY as required, promoting our work and advocating for youth music at national and local levels.
• Support MFY in maintaining strong partnerships with funders, arts organisations, schools, and the wider music sector.

Governance & Compliance

• Lead an engaged and effective Board of Trustees, ensuring good governance and compliance with charity law.
• Manage, support and appraise the performance of the CEO, ensuring they and their senior leadership team have the resources and guidance to deliver MFY’s mission.
• Oversee financial sustainability, risk management, and organisational policies.

Fundraising & Advocacy

• Work with the Board and executive team to develop fundraising strategies, securing income from grants, corporate sponsors, and individual donors.
• Represent MFY at high-profile events, engaging with stakeholders and championing the value of youth music.

What we are looking for

As our new Chair, you will share a commitment to the mission of Music For Youth. While it is not essential to be from a Music or Music Education background, we are looking for someone who has passion for the impact - and potential - of the charity and can demonstrate how their experience can help us navigate the pivotal years ahead.

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate the following:

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking.
• Financial literacy
• High level networking and advocacy skills.
• Knowledge of charity and corporate governance.
• Experience and confidence in managing risk, change and innovation.
• Understanding and awareness of broader social, political and economic issues.

In addition, please let us know if you are able to bring experience, skills or knowledge in one or more of the following beneficial areas.

• Board membership in the not-for-profit sector
• Working in or with organisations and with individuals in the cultural sector
• Working in or with public bodies or national policy makers

The organisation recently undertook a Skills Audit of the Board and identified the following areas where we are looking to continue strengthening the experience. While not essential for the role of Chair, alongside the core skills and experience outlined, we would certainly welcome individuals who may also be able demonstrate experience around:

Digital: to take advantage of the potential for digital transformation

Finance: to provide additional oversight and financial rigor 

Fundraising: with income from individuals a future opportunity to explore further

Time Commitment

The Chair can expect to commit the equivalent of 12-15 days per year at - and in prep for - key Trustee meetings, including full Board Meetings held four times a year (at least one in person in Birmingham, where the charity is headquartered). This time also includes regular meetings with the CEO (the majority online), and regular comms with the CEO as required, which may ebb and flow, depending on the time of year. In person meetings are kept to a minimum.

In addition, the Chair would be expected to attend a minimum of two of our: Regional Festivals (March – April), National Festival (Birmingham or elsewhere, early-mid July) and the Youth Proms (London, end of November), to represent the Board and host key stakeholders, including funders. ,

Term 

We are looking for someone who can commit to an initial three-year term, which could then be renewed for a second term.

Learn more and apply

If you would like to have an exploratory conversation with the current Chair or Vice Chair about the charity or the role, please contact John Dixon (current Chair).

Application Process

To apply for the role of Chair at Music For Youth, please submit:

• 1. A CV.
• 2. A cover letter (max 2 pages) detailing:
• Why you are interested in this role.
• How your skills and experience align with MFY’s mission.
• What you would bring to the organisation.

Please send your CV and Cover Letter to Phil Castang (CEO) with the subject line: Application for Chair of Music For Youth.

Deadline for Applications: Friday 27th of June at 12pm.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the Music for Youth National Festival taking place between Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th July in Birmingham. (Please note - this is not a requirement of the application process but a chance for you to see the work of the charity in person).

Interviews: will take place on Wednesday 10th September in Birmingham.

The week before the interview (week commencing 1st September), you will have the opportunity to have an informal conversation with the CEO and other Trustees online. Date to be confirmed.

If you have any access needs or other practical questions - or if you would like to discuss any aspect of the role with the Vice Chairs before applying - please get in contact.

This role is advertised as part of TPP's Free Giving Back Services. This volunteer advertisement copy has been supplied to TPP and applicants apply direct to the organisation. Please contact the organisation directly if you have any questions about this volunteer role.

About Adventure Ashram 

Adventure Ashram is a small but mighty UK-based charity founded by adventurers in 2007. We support grassroots partners in India to deliver essential projects focused on: 

• Combating human trafficking 

• Supporting education for vulnerable children 

• Providing access to vital healthcare 

Our approach is bold, adventurous, and collaborative. We raise funds through exciting events, creative campaigns, and overseas adventures—like our flagship global initiative, Yoga Stops Traffick.

Role: Trustee – Finance Specialist (Treasurer Role Available) 

We are looking for a new Trustee with strong finance or accounting expertise to join our Board and help steward the charity’s finances. 

This is a key governance role. 

What we’re looking for 

We’re seeking someone who can provide financial oversight and strategic advice to ensure our resources are used effectively and transparently. 

You might have experience in: 

• Charity finance, audit, or financial management 

• Budgeting and forecasting 

• Risk management and financial reporting 

• Strategic financial planning 

• Investment, reserves or funding models for small charities 

• Serving as a Treasurer or Finance Trustee (desirable, not essential) 

A recognised accounting qualification (e.g., ACA, ACCA, CIMA) would be valuable, but we welcome applications from those with relevant experience regardless of qualification status. 

Trustee Commitment 

• Board Meetings: 4 per year (weekday evenings, usually online) 

• Committee Involvement: All trustees join a committee (Finance, Fundraising, or Programme Management). The Finance Committee meets every 2 months. 

• Events: Attend 1–2 UK-based Adventure Ashram events per year (where possible) 

• Approximate time commitment: 1–2 hours per week 

Why Join Us? 

By joining Adventure Ashram’s Board, you’ll: 

• Play a vital role in ensuring good governance and financial health 

• Help steer a unique, adventure-fuelled charity into a sustainable future 

• Contribute to life-changing work supporting survivors of trafficking and vulnerable communities in India 

• Gain experience in nonprofit governance and leadership 

“Adventure Ashram is a brilliant small charity; it supports fantastic projects in India and manages to have a lot of fun in the process. Volunteering as a trustee gives me a chance to do something meaningful with good people—and I can’t wait to welcome more members to the team.” 
— Current Trustee 

We are looking for a Finance Trustee to support the Board by providing an oversight of our affairs, ensuring our financial viability and that proper financial records and procedures are maintained. 

We are a small CIO with 3 part time staff.  Our Finance Trustee will participate in all areas of our governance but take a special interest in the financial  strategy and governance. They will use their sound financial skills & experience to support the Board’s understanding & interpretation & to ensure legislative compliance.

Our payroll is outsourced and we have an external investment portfolio manager.

Our current finance trustee has served their term of office & it is now time to look for their successor.

All meetings except our AGM/annual award event are remote. We need you to be available to attend: 

2 (evening) Board meetings

1 summer (evening) business meeting

3 Finance subcommittee (evening) meetings

1 in person day Board/AGM/Award event

Fundraising sub committee meetings - frequency tbc these will be held remotely in the evenings

The Finance Trustee will adhere to the role description of a trustee & in addition has the following key responsibilities:

• To support the Board to oversee & to ensure appropriate presentation of budgets, accounts, management accounts and financial statements.
• To ensure appropriate presentation of accounts and records, ensuring that financial resources are spent in accordance with the charity’s policies, good governance, legal & regulatory requirements.
• Liaising, where applicable, with the Chair/ other appropriate members of staff & supporting on financial matters
• Supporting the Board to monitor the financial viability of the charity.
• Creating in conjunction with relevant trustees & staff sound financial processes & procedures for the control of the charity’s assets.
• Advising on the financial implications of the charity’s strategic plan.
• Reviewing the annual accounts &, where applicable, liaising with the charity’s external bookkeeper to ensure the accounts are compliant with the current charities’ SORP.
• Ensuring that sound financial management is maintained & ensuring expenditure is in line with the charity’s objects.
• Authorisation of charity expenditure & banking transactions set up on online bank accounts
• Liaison with the fund manager responsible for the charity’s investment portfolio
• Oversight of payroll, HMRC reporting & operation of auto-enrolment pension scheme for staff