Trustees volunteer roles in greater london

Join the Board of Via, the charity delivering vital person-centred and well-being care to people and communities affected by substance use across the UK.

Applications for this role close Monday 10th November.

Location: Flexible (Via has services across London, NW England and SW England)

Who we are

Via is an exceptional charity that puts people at the heart of everything we do. Over three decades, we’ve evolved from our origins as Westminster Drug Project, with a new now award-winning name and brand, into a dynamic, multi-service organisation delivering vital support across substance use, mental health, employment, sexual health, smoking cessation and youth services. With a turnover of £36m for 24/25 and remarkable growth of over a third in 2023/24, we’re now supporting over 12,500 service users annually across an expanding geographical footprint from London to Gloucestershire.

Our commitment to excellence and innovation is evident in our industry-leading services, which consistently perform significantly above the national average. We’re particularly proud to be pioneering the development of the UK’s first women-only detox facility, demonstrating our commitment to addressing crucial gaps in service provision.

Our Approach Makes Us Different

At Via, we believe in doing things differently. This starts with our commitment to staff well-being, including up to six months of full sick pay – a policy that exemplifies our trust in our people and our understanding that supporting our staff enables them to better support our service users. We achieved Investors in People Gold certification and were nominated for UK Employer of the Year and Third Sector Employer of the Year at the Investors in People Awards 2024, recognising our dedication to creating an outstanding workplace culture.

Our active Diversity, Equity and Inclusion group drives real organisational change, ensuring our services are accessible and effective for all communities. These aren’t just initiatives; they’re expressions of our core values: Care, Be Human, and Do the Right Thing, which guide everything we do.

The opportunity

As we have experienced growth and welcomed a new Chair to the Board, we are looking to appoint new Trustees. We are looking for three dedicated trustees to join our Board, each bringing distinct expertise to support our next strategic phase. We are particularly looking for trustees with:

• clinical experience in substance misuse or mental health services, who can provide valuable insights into clinical risk and governance, and service delivery.
• HR expertise, specifically in organisational development, who can guide our people strategy and support our workforce development initiatives.
• legal expertise, ideally someone with in-house legal experience who understands corporate operational challenges and can provide challenge and support.

These roles offer the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while contributing your professional expertise to advance our strategic objectives and ensure we deliver the highest quality services to those we support.

This is an exciting time to join with a new Chair, and next summer we will begin to plan our next strategy.

Diversity in governance isn’t just a goal for Via – it’s a necessity. Our services support people from every part of society, and we want our Board to reflect this diversity. We actively encourage applications from people with lived experience of addiction/recovery (whether personal or as family members/carers), and people from communities currently underrepresented at board level.

• Time Commitment: The equivalent of a day a month

The Board meets quarterly, usually in person. Including preparation time, representation at events, and strategic input, we estimate a commitment of the equivalent of a day per month. This includes:

• Four Board meetings per year
• Quarterly committee meetings
• Annual strategy away day
• Preparation for meetings
• Ad hoc conversations with fellow board members and the Executive
• Occasional representation at events and meetings with key stakeholders, including at services.

Making a Difference Together

This is an extraordinary time to join Via as we expand our geographical reach, innovate our evidence-based offer and increase access to more people. We’re not just growing – we’re evolving. You’ll help shape innovative services like our women’s detox facility while ensuring we maintain our unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and person-centred care.

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

Applications for this role close Monday 10th November.

About the organisation

Salterns Academy Trust is a flourishing community of three schools committed to providing exceptional education and opportunities for every young person in our care. We are a collaborative family of schools focused on driving continuous improvement for all our learners and staff., We are now seeking additional Trustees to join our Board and help shape the next phase of our journey.

We warmly welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. We are proud to champion equality, diversity, and inclusion in all that we do. We encourage applications from a wide range of professional fields and backgrounds. As part of our Board’s succession planning, expertise in Estates, IT and Facilities, Secondary Education, or Legal fields would help to strengthen and balance our collective experience. While being local to Portsmouth is not a requirement, an understanding of the local context would be advantageous.

As a Trustee, you will guide the Trust’s strategic direction, ensuring effective oversight and supporting our mission to deliver high-quality education across all our schools. This is a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in local education and contribute to the success of a forward-looking Trust.

The Trust oversees two secondary settings, Admiral Lord Nelson School and Trafalgar School, as well as Mayfield School, which is a through-school serving pupils aged 4 to 16. Together, these schools form a close-knit community that values inclusion, ambition, and continuous improvement.

Since our formation, the Trust has built a strong reputation for partnership working, effective leadership, and steady school improvement. Each school retains its own identity while benefiting from the collective strength, shared expertise, and resources of the wider Trust. The focus is firmly on delivering high-quality teaching and learning, fostering aspiration, and ensuring that all students are well-prepared for the next stage of their education and beyond.

Underpinned by values of respect, responsibility, and resilience, Salterns Academy Trust is forward-looking and community-minded, working closely with local partners and families to make a lasting, positive difference. The Trust benefits from an experienced and dedicated leadership team, continues to build on its successes and strives to provide the very best outcomes for children and young people across Portsmouth.

About the role

Time commitment: 8 hours / 1 day a month

Trustees work collectively to provide strong governance, effective oversight, and constructive challenge to the executive team. You will use your professional expertise and strategic insight to help us maintain high standards of performance, financial sustainability, and educational excellence as it continues to evolve and expand.

In this role, you will:

• Provide strategic oversight and governance as Salterns Academy Trust continues to develop into the primary education sector.
• Offer insights and guidance based on your experience to ensure the highest standards of teaching and learning.
• Support the development and implementation of policies that promote a nurturing and inclusive environment for primary school students.
• Collaborate with fellow trustees, the executive team, and school leaders to drive continuous improvement and innovation.
• Champion the Trust’s vision, mission, and values within the community and among stakeholders.
• Attend evening Board meetings (up to 6 per year) and committee meetings (up to 6 a year), as well as occasionally undertake school visits and meetings with senior leaders in

Who we are looking for

We are seeking individuals with the vision, integrity, and strategic insight to contribute to the continued success and growth of the Trust. The ideal candidate will bring professional expertise, sound judgment, and a genuine commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people. You do not need prior board experience; what matters most is the ability to think strategically, ask constructive questions, and share your experience in a way that supports the Trust’s development.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

• Strategic thinking skills with the ability to contribute to long-term planning and development.
• Strong commitment to educational equity and a passion for making a positive impact on children’s lives.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders.
• Professional expertise in areas such as Estates, IT and Facilities, Secondary Education, or Legal services, though other relevant backgrounds will also be considered.
• Integrity, independence of thought, and the confidence to both support and challenge constructively.

This is an opportunity to apply your skills and experience to help shape the future of a forward-looking, values-driven Trust.

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

Applications for this role close at 9 a.m. Monday 8th December

We’re looking for people who care deeply about making a difference, people who want to help shape a more compassionate, care-centred future for the performing arts.

Our aim is to build a Board that truly represents the people we serve — in background, identity, experience, and voice. We want everyone to feel that they belong and can play a meaningful part in our work.

We know that joining a Board can sometimes feel daunting, so we’re committed to removing barriers and offering the support you need to take part fully and confidently.

We especially welcome people with lived experience that reflects the realities of care — whether you’re a carer or young carer, a young person, or someone from a background or identity that’s often under-represented in leadership.

Your insights, your story, and your perspective are invaluable in helping us shape a more inclusive and responsive organisation — one that truly reflects and serves the communities around us.

If you’re passionate about what we do and ready to bring your experience and ideas to help lead positive change, we’d love to hear from you.

For full details of the role and how to apply, please download the Job Pack from our website.

Application closes: Monday 24th November 2025, 11:00

Key information about London PLAY and the Co-Chair role

About Play

Play is important. It is deemed so vital to children’s health, happiness, and development that the right to play is enshrined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Yet play in London is under threat:

• Space for play is threatened by development and traffic.
• Freedom to play is stifled by perceptions of risk, and fear.
• Time for play is limited by more testing in school and sedentary activities.
• Funding for play workers and play spaces is increasingly scarce. About London PLAY London Play works to ensure children have the space, time and freedom to play.

We want every child in London to have high quality, free play opportunities, near to where they live. We’re working to achieve this through campaigning, organising events, supporting play providers and play workers and others whose work or lives include children, and creating opportunities for more and better play across the capital.

About the role

London PLAY is seeking a Co-Chair of Trustees to work alongside our current Chair, oversee the implementation of our strategy, and help us increase our impact and influence. The Co-Chairs will work closely with other trustees and staff to ensure effective governance, and to achieve London Play’s aims. After a period of transition, it is envisaged that the new Co-Chair will take on the full responsibilities of the role of Chair.

Key responsibilities (shared with the other Co-Chair)

In addition to the general duties and responsibilities of a trustee, the Co-Chair will: ▪ Plan the annual cycle of board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Set agendas for board meetings, in conjunction with the Director. ▪ Chair and facilitate board meetings. ▪ Give direction to board policy-making. ▪ Bring impartiality and objectivity to decision-making. ▪ Represent the organisation at functions and meetings. ▪ Meet regularly with the Director to gain an overview of the organisation’s affairs and operation and for the purposes of providing support. ▪ Liaise with the Director to continually develop the board of trustees. ▪ Lead the annual performance appraisal process for the Director. ▪ Sit on selection, disciplinary, grievances and complaints panels, as necessary, and in particular where the appointment of new trustees is concerned. ▪ Support the organisation’s overall development. 

Person specification: Co-Chair of the board of trustees

▪ A commitment to the organisation, its vision and passion to make play accessible for all children. ▪ A willingness to devote the necessary time and effort. ▪ An ability to think creatively and strategically. ▪ An ability to work effectively as a member of a team. ▪ Selflessness, integrity, and objectivity. ▪ A willingness to be available to staff for advice and enquiries on an ad hoc basis.

Other key information

• The role of Co-Chair is not remunerated, but reasonable expenses will be paid.
• The board meets four times a year, twice in person and twice online.
• In person meetings are held in London.
• The Co-Chairs (and board members) serve a three-year term to be eligible for reappointment at the end of each term for a maximum of two additional terms.

Summary and how to apply

This is an exciting role and opportunity to co-lead a small but influential charity that has championed children's right to play for nearly 30 years. If you are interested in applying for this role, please email (email address listed below) a copy of your CV and a cover letter explaining why you are applying for the role and outlining your relevant experience. Your cover letter should be no more than two sides of A4.

We are committed to being an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from candidates from all backgrounds. We particularly encourage applications from groups currently underrepresented on our board including younger people, people from ethnically diverse groups, and people with disabilities.

Important dates to note

• Deadline for applications: Thursday 13 November, 5:00pm.
• Note that first-round interviews will be held online on Thursday 20 November.
• Second-round interviews will be held in-person (in Hackney) on Monday 24 November.

If you cannot attend an interview on either of these dates, please state this in your application and we will do our best to work around your availability.

Other information to note

Current Chair of Trustees (to become Co-Chair): Melian Mansfield

Current Co-Vice Chairs: Barry Walden and Hal Davidson

Use your skills and experience in supporting vulnerable groups to help drive forward our locally focused endowed foundation. Our purpose is to provide funding to relieve financial, physical and emotional hardship.

What will you be doing?

This is a great opportunity for someone keen to use their professional experience in supporting vulnerable groups to help drive forward the work of a locally focused endowed foundation. Our purpose is to provide funding to relieve the burden of financial, physical and emotional hardship in our local community of Hampton, Teddington, Twickenham and Whitton.

The perception of Richmond Upon Thames as a wealthy borough masks high levels of need and disadvantage. That means that support for those in need locally rarely comes from outside the borough which in turn means the work of local funders and voluntary sector organisations, like Hampton Fund, is critical.  Our endowment of £60m+ enables us to make grants to both individuals and community organisations of £2m-£2.5m pa.

We wish to appoint a new trustee who will have the enthusiasm, time and commitment to contribute to the work of the charity as it delivers an ambitious new three-year strategy.  You will be involved in making decisions on a wide range of issues, influencing the development of our work and bringing about change. We are specifically seeking a trustee with professional experience in any aspect of social care for vulnerable groups relevant to our grant making. This could, for example, be in the areas of cost-of-living support, health, social work or children’s services.

It is hoped that the candidate will have a connection to our area of benefit through either their daily life or work.

It is not necessary to have previous board committee experience as training will be provided. We encourage applications from people with a range of life experiences, ages and backgrounds.

What are we looking for?

Professional experience and expertise in a relevant aspect of social care to that of our grant making. 

We are looking for someone with a good current knowledge of social care infrastructure and systems across either the statutory or voluntary sector, or both. This could, for example, be in the areas of cost-of-living support, health, social work or children’s services.

It is expected that Trustees will either live, work or have another connection to our area of benefit. It is not necessary to have previous board committee experience as training will be provided.  

 Personal Qualities

• Empathy with the aims of the charity.
• The ability to think broadly and objectively: trustees are involved in making decisions on a wide range of issues.
• An understanding of the voluntary sector and the needs of voluntary sector organisations.
• An understanding of the broader issues around poverty and disadvantage.
• The ability to get on with people and work collaboratively.
• To act as an ambassador for the charity when attending external meetings and events as a trustee.
• To be discreet and respect confidentiality in all matters related to the charity’s activities. 

Additional Information

• Trustees do not receive any remuneration, but reasonable expenses will be reimbursed.
• The appointment is normally for a period of five years and a Trustee can serve no more than two terms of office, i.e. ten years. 

What difference will you make?

As a trustee with experience in supporting vulnerable groups, you will be involved in making decisions on a wide range of issues, influencing the development of our work and bringing about change.  

Before you apply

Contact us via the Reach platform to apply.

Closing date for applications is Friday 7th November.

Interviews are likely to be held the week commencing 17th November 2025.

Number Champions supports London primary school children who struggle with numeracy. Independent evaluation shows our highly positive impact. We seek two capable and committed trustees to help drive our strategy and oversee delivery.One new trustee may become Vice Chair.

What will you be doing?

Numeracy, like literacy, is a core life skill. However, many children do not learn well in a classroom setting. Number Champions was the first and is still the only UK charity focused on supporting primary school children who struggle with numeracy. By helping children improve their confidence, enjoyment, and skills in maths, we support their wider development and help them achieve their potential.

Our trained volunteers run weekly one-to-one sessions with each child, during the school day but outside the classroom. They use games and other creative activities to engage the child and to enable them to build confidence and skills. Experienced teachers volunteering with us as “Mentors” provide support.

The trustee board meets about seven times a year. It sets strategic direction, reviews all aspects of the charity in rotation, and takes corrective action where it identifies that we are not achieving our planned objectives. All trustees are expected to study the papers for each meeting and to contribute to all discussions. We currently have eight trustees with two reaching the end of their terms, so we will be eight again after the recruitment process.

You would use your experience, skills, and current awareness to identify risks and opportunities to bring to the board’s attention, and you would influence the other trustees to follow your ideas through to implementation. 

Board meetings alternate between in-person in London and online.

We encourage trustees to meet our volunteers and staff, and to ensure that their experience and voice is taken into account in directing the charity.

What are we looking for?

You will:

• bring relevant senior experience from any sector, including education, business, professional, or charity.
• have skills which would enhance the capability of the board. The attached role descriptions list skills, but we are open to other skills you can offer which you can persuade us would be important to the charity.
• function effectively as part of a team, thinking creatively and strategically, listening, stating your position clearly and succinctly, and accepting group decisions.
• be open, deliver on commitments and show attention to detail without losing sight of the big picture, and understand your own strengths and weaknesses.
• be enthusiastic about our mission to help children achieve their potential.
• devote time to reading papers and attending board meetings and to progressing issues as needed between meetings – probably about ten to twelve hours a month.
• ideally have experience in fundraising or volunteer management, but this is certainly not a requirement for the roles.

We serve the diverse population of London children. This diversity is reflected in our volunteers but not in our current board. We welcome applicants from all ethnicities, orientations, and backgrounds, including those with disabilities.

You do not need experience as a trustee.

Trustee – Toynbee Hall

Help shape a fairer future as a Trustee at Toynbee Hall

Toynbee Hall has been tackling poverty and injustice from our home in London’s East End since 1884. We work alongside local communities to provide vital advice and support, carry out research and advocacy, and create space for people to come together and shape solutions to the challenges we all face.

We are now seeking new Trustees to join our Board and help guide the next chapter of our work. Trustees play a crucial role in setting our strategy, safeguarding our mission and ensuring the organisation remains focused, effective and sustainable.

We are particularly looking for a Trustee with a background in finance, accountancy or financial decision making to join our Finance Committee.

You do not need previous experience as a Trustee as we will provide a full induction and support, but you do need to bring independent judgement, strategic thinking and a commitment to building a fairer future.

We aim for a Board that reflects the communities we serve and especially welcome applications from people connected to Tower Hamlets and the East End, as well as from candidates who are Black or Asian or who bring diverse lived experiences.

Time commitment: Four evening Board meetings a year, an annual away day, and membership of at least one committee, which meets up to three times a year, usually online. Trustees serve a three year term, renewable up to a maximum of nine years.

Applications are open until midday on 10 November 2025.

Hillingdon Women’s Centre is seeking to recruit enthusiastic new Trustees to join our existing Board and actively contribute to the existing strength and growth of the charity!

About

Trustees typically attend monthly board meetings, with occasional activities between meetings. The estimated time commitment is around 2 hours per typical month. New trustees will be supported with induction and access to ongoing training, including safeguarding and governance. We particularly welcome applications from women with lived experience of the issues we work on, and from those connected to the communities we serve in Hillingdon and surrounding boroughs. As a trustee, you’ll help shape the strategic direction of the Centre and ensure we continue to provide vital, trauma-informed support to women in Hillingdon and beyond.

About Hillingdon Women’s Centre

Hillingdon Women’s Centre is a women’s charity based in the London Borough of Hillingdon. For almost 40 years, we have been supporting the needs of women in our community. We provide access to services and work with women to help them overcome barriers in their lives and thrive. We are a proudly feminist, safe, and women-only space, inclusive of all women.

We are passionate about gender equality and ending Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). Our services are client-led; we listen, provide information, and enable women to make their own choices and take control of their lives.

Purpose of the Trustee role: 

Trustees have independent control over, and legal responsibility for, a charity’s management and administration. As such, they are required to:
 

• Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for public benefit

• Comply with the charity’s governing document and the law

• Act in the charity’s best interests

• Manage the charity’s resources responsibly

• Act with reasonable care and skill

• Ensure the charity complies with statutory accounting and reporting requirements

Key Trustee responsibilities: 

• Definition and review of a strategy/business plan for the charity in line with its objectives

• Set and maintain the vision, mission and values.

• Definition and review of charity policies and procedures

• Review and management of risks

• Attendance at board meetings, including the AGM

• Recruitment and management of the Centre Manager

• Review of financial processes and accounting

• General oversight and management of the charity premises

• Generation of funding for the charity, i.e. completion of grant applications, execution of fundraising activities, securing donors and ambassadors for the charity

• Promotion of the charity externally

We’re particularly seeking individuals with expertise in:

• Fundraising and income generation (e.g. donor engagement, campaign development, marketing strategy)

• Financial audit and compliance

• HR and people management

• External/public affairs and advocacy

• Governance and charity finance

• Strategic thinking and change management

• Lived experience of domestic abuse or connection to the communities we serve

Person Specification

We are looking for individuals who demonstrate:

• Integrity

• Strategic thinking and the ability to see the bigger picture

• Understanding and acceptance of the legal duties and responsibilities of a Trustee

• Willingness to devote the time and effort to the role

• Good independent judgement and creative thinking

• Ability to constructively contribute to conversations

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team

We are committed to creating a board that reflects the diversity of our community. If you have access needs or require support with the application process, please let us know.
 

How to apply

• Please send a short expression of interest and your CV 

• If you’d like to have an informal conversation before applying, we’d be happy to arrange a chat.

• Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone with transferable experience and a passion for our mission, we would welcome your application. If you’re passionate about gender equality and want to help shape the future of HWC, we’d love to hear from you.

Please note: This is a voluntary role, open to local female UK residents only. This is to ensure compliance with governance, legal, and operational requirements relevant to our charity’s work. 

WMDAS is a charity, part funded by the Welsh Government and is accredited by Driving Mobility. Referrals are accepted from individuals, DVLA, Motability and numerous other organisations.  Our purpose is to offer disabled drivers and passengers of all ages specialist advice and assessments to find solutions for their outdoor mobility. 

We are looking for people who may be considering taking their first step in a trustee role or may have been involved with trusteeship previously. Our trustees bring their skills, energy, enthusiasm and commitment to the role and play a vital role in making sure that the Wales Mobility & Driving Assessment Service (WMDAS) achieves its core purpose.

They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure WMDAS has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision.  Board members act as a group and have a collective responsibility to support and challenge the management team to enable WMDAS to grow and thrive and through this achieve our mission.

Trustee Duties are to:

· Support and provide advice on the WMDAS purpose, vision, goals and activities

· Approve operational strategies and policies, and monitor and evaluate their implementation

· Oversee the WMDAS financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress

· Ensure the effective and efficient administration of the organisation

· Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored and controlled effectively.

· Review and approve the WMDAS financial statements.

· Keep abreast of changes in the WMDAS operating environment.

· Contribute to regular reviews of the WMDAS own governance. Attend Board meetings adequately prepared to contribute to discussions

· Contribute to the broader promotion of the WMDAS objects, aims and reputation by applying your skills, expertise, knowledge and contacts.

Trustees are: Willing and able to understand and accept responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation. Effective communicators who participate effectively in discussion. Enthusiastic for our vision and mission

Time Commitment: There are 3 or 4 board meetings annually plus an Annual General Meeting. Currently meetings are held remotely via Zoom or in person at our mobility centre in Cardiff if possible, additionally trustees are available via email as required.

This is a voluntary position, but reasonable expenses are reimbursed.

Village Preschool E17 is a small charity in Walthamstow offering high-quality early years education. We’re currently undergoing a strategic transformation to improve operations, strengthen sustainability, and deepen our community impact.

What will you be doing?

Village Preschool E17 is a small, community-based educational charity in Walthamstow, providing high-quality early years education to local families. We are currently entering an exciting phase of transformation, and we’re seeking a new Chair of Trustees to guide us through this journey.

As Chair, you will play a vital leadership role in ensuring strong governance, strategic direction, and a sustainable future for the preschool. You’ll work closely with the Headteacher of Preschool and a committed board of trustees to improve operations, shape long-term plans, and uphold our values and charitable mission. You’ll also provide support and supervision to the Headteacher, lead termly board meetings, and act as a key representative of the organisation.

This role is both strategic and supportive, requiring sound judgement, strong interpersonal skills, and a collaborative leadership style. We’re looking for someone with experience in governance, leadership, or strategic planning—ideally within the charity, education, or early years sector. You should be confident in leading group discussions, supporting senior staff, and helping to identify funding and sponsorship opportunities.

If you’re passionate about early childhood education and community development, and want to use your skills to make a lasting local impact, we’d love to hear from you.

What are we looking for?

Leadership and Governance:

• Lead the Board of Trustees to ensure strong governance, strategic oversight, and compliance with legal and regulatory obligations.
• Chair termly trustee meetings and ensure all trustees are actively engaged and informed.
• Support the recruitment, induction, and development of trustees to build a strong and effective board.
• Ensure board decisions are actioned and followed up appropriately.

Support and Supervision:

• Provide regular line management and support to the Head of Preschool, including:
  • Leading the annual performance appraisal.
  • Acting as a sounding board for strategic and operational issues.

Communication and Representation:

• Main point of contact between the Board and the Head of Preschool.
• Create a positive, open relationship with staff, trustees, and stakeholders.

Strategic Oversight:

• Lead on the long-term development of the board and organisational planning.
• Facilitate effective collaboration and decision-making across the board.
• Take urgent action between meetings when necessary (not including decision-making unless explicitly authorised by the board).

Crisis Response:

• Act quickly and effectively in the event of emergencies or significant issues, working closely with the Head and trustees to coordinate an appropriate response.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Experience in governance, leadership, or strategic oversight—preferably within a charity, education, or early years setting.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to lead and facilitate group discussions and decision-making.
• Confidence in supervising and supporting senior staff.
• A genuine interest in early childhood education and community development.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of charity regulation, Ofsted requirements, or early years sector.
• Previous experience on a board or in a chairing role.
• Local to Waltham Forest or strong understanding of the local community.

What difference will you make?

As Chair of the Board of Trustees, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of Village Preschool E17. Your leadership will help guide our charity through an exciting period of transformation—strengthening governance, improving operations, and ensuring we continue to deliver high-quality early years education to local families.

You will be a key source of support for our Head of Preschool and a driving force behind a collaborative, effective trustee board. By bringing your skills and insight to strategic planning, compliance, and funding development, you will directly impact the lives of the children and families we serve.

This is a meaningful opportunity to use your experience for good—helping a valued local charity remain sustainable, inclusive, and deeply rooted in its community. Your voice, leadership, and vision could help secure a brighter future for Village Preschool E17.

Before you apply

Please provide a CV and cover letter detailing why you are interested in this role and your relevant experience.

**We are reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will close the opportunity once we've found the right person to join our board - early applications are encouraged.**

Chair of Trustees Role Profile

• Remuneration: This is a voluntary role. Reasonable expenses for travel may be reimbursed.
• Location: Must be available for board meetings in person in London
• Time commitment: Quarterly board meetings, annual strategy day, plus additional time for Chair duties as required
• Term: 3 years (renewable up to a maximum tenure of 9 years)

The Chair of the Board of Trustees provides leadership to the Board, ensuring it functions effectively to support and guide the charity in achieving its mission. The Chair is responsible for setting the tone for the Board’s work, promoting a strong culture of governance, and facilitating effective, inclusive decision-making. The Chair helps to steward the strategic direction of Dallaglio RugbyWorks, ensuring that the charity remains focused on its purpose, values, and long-term sustainability. The Chair also acts as a key ambassador for the organisation and helps build productive relationships both within the Board and with external stakeholders, including the charity’s founder.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the Board in maintaining a clear and strategic focus on the charity’s mission, values and long-term goals.
• Chair quarterly board meetings, facilitating inclusive, well-informed, and effective decision-making.
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance among Trustees.
• Provide a supportive and constructive relationship with the CEO, acting as a sounding board and trusted advisor.
• Ensure that the board fulfils its legal and governance responsibilities, including oversight of financial health, compliance and risk.
• Ensure robust financial oversight, including the long-term financial sustainability of the organisation, and the appropriate use of resources.
• Build and maintain a constructive and appropriate relationship with the charity’s founder, supporting their continued connection to the mission while ensuring clarity of roles and governance.
• Represent the charity externally, where appropriate, to build its profile, credibility and influence.
• Support the executive team by facilitating introductions to key contacts, influencers, and potential supporters or partners.
• Lead board development, including Trustee recruitment, succession planning, and reviews of board performance.
• Champion best practice in governance and uphold the charity’s values and reputation.
• The Chair is a member of the Nomination, Remuneration & HR Committee, with twice yearly online meetings to be attended.

General Trustee Responsibilities

As Chair, you also carry the core responsibilities of a Trustee, including:

• Ensuring that the charity complies with its governing document and all relevant legislation and regulation. Using your skills, knowledge and experience to support sound decision-making and organisational development.
• Safeguarding the assets and values of the charity, and ensuring resources are used effectively to achieve charitable purposes.
• Acting in the best interests of Dallaglio RugbyWorks at all times, exercising reasonable care and independent judgement.
• Promoting transparency, inclusivity, and integrity across the organisation.

The above list of duties is indicative only and not exhaustive. Trustees will be expected to perform all such additional duties as are reasonable commensurate with the role. The Board of Trustees is jointly and severally responsible for the overall governance and strategic direction of the charity, its financial health, the probity of its activities and developing the organisation’s aims, objectives and goals in accordance with the governing document, legal and regulatory guidelines. All Trustees, should also be aware of, and understand, their individual and collective responsibilities, and should not be overly reliant on one or more individual Trustees in any particular aspect of the governance of the charity.

Person Specification

We are seeking a strategic and inclusive leader with a deep commitment to improving outcomes for young people.

Experience

• Proven experience chairing a Board or senior committee in a charity, public body or corporate setting.
• Previous experience serving as a charity Trustee, with a strong understanding of governance and collective responsibility is highly desirable.
• A respected professional with credibility and connections in relevant sectors, able to influence and support the charity through relationships and networks.
• Strong alignment with the mission and values of Dallaglio RugbyWorks.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective relationships with Trustees, senior leaders and stakeholders.
• A track record of strategic thinking, sound judgement and independent decision making.
• Familiarity with governance frameworks and the legal duties of charity trustees.

Skills & Attributes

• A strategic and inclusive leader with strong facilitation, communication and interpersonal skills, able to build consensus and navigate complex discussions.
• Prepared to commit the time required for effective leadership, including attending quarterly Board meetings in person and supporting ad hoc responsibilities between meetings.
• Willing to use personal and professional networks to support the charity’s development, profile, and partnerships.

We are seeking a Director and Chair of Trustees Designate to help shape the future direction of our organisation. We are looking for an individual with proven senior leadership experience - ideally, though not necessarily, within the third sector - who can bring strong strategic thinking, sound judgement, and a collaborative leadership style.

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of people with refugee status and those seeking asylum in south west London? Consider joining our team at Refugee Action Kingston. We are always looking for dedicated individuals who share our values. We are a small, friendly team, driven by a passion to create positive and lasting change in our community.

Overview

Refugee Action Kingston (RAK) is an active and forward-looking charity based in Kingston Upon Thames. We help refugees and people seeking asylum to access essential services, including immigration and welfare advice, English classes, counselling and support into employment, volunteering and training.

We are a small charity that has significant impact: last year we assisted over 2000 individuals.  RAK won the Best in Supporting Young People award and was Highly Commended at the Kingston Borough Business Awards (KBBA) in 2025. 

The charity is seeking to recruit a volunteer chair of trustees, and would suit someone who has management experience in public or voluntary sector organisations. The chair will work closely with the CEO to help guide our next chapter of growth, providing governance and strategic direction inline with RAKs mission and values. Our board of trustees bring a wide range of expertise to the charity and work together, along with staff and volunteer input, to make decisions that inform its direction and achieve the best outcome for clients.  Your contribution will make a huge impact in shaping the future of those seeking sanctuary in our community, and we're excited to welcome someone passionate to the board. 

Key Responsibilities

The chair should lead or contribute to:  

• Regular trustee board meetings and key activities, including recruitment of trustees.

• Development and implementation of RAK's strategic plan.

• Governance of the charity to ensure it meets legal and regulatory requirements.

• Monitoring operational performance and implementation of a continuous improvement programme.

• Oversight of financial performance and fundraising strategy to ensure long-term sustainability.

• Promotion of relationships with key stakeholders, including funding bodies, suppliers, and contractors.

• Regular meetings with the CEO, with flexibility to respond swiftly when issues arise.

• Act as a spokesperson for RAK as needed.

Desirable

• Good understanding of issues and challenges faced by refugees and people seeking asylum in Kingston.

• Leadership qualities, including critical thinking and decision making.

• Experience of financial management and fundraising.

• Operational management experience gained in the commercial or voluntary sector.

• Experience of the principles and practices of governance in a commercial or voluntary organisation.

• Experience of being a trustee.

• Ability to use time and resources efficiently and responsibly to maximise the impact of our services for clients.

Core beliefs

• Commitment to promoting social justice and equity for all individuals, regardless of religion, culture, or background.

• Valuing and respecting diverse backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs, and fostering teamwork through inclusivity.

Please note that this is a voluntary role with reasonable volunteer expenses covered. The chair role requires a significant commitment of time and effort.

We seek individuals who are dedicated to contributing meaningfully and who are open to learning in areas where they may lack experience.Further information about RAK is on our website.

To apply, please submit your CV along with a personal statement of no more than 300 words that outlines your interest in becoming the chair of trustees.

Please note: RAK may hold interviews as and when volunteer chair of trustees applications are received. With this in mind, we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. 

Become a Trustee with WCC and use your professional expertise to support Londoners affected by trauma, inequality, and mental health challenges. We’re looking for passionate, collaborative, and strategic thinkers with skills in finance or fundraising, who are committed to inclusion and improving mental health outcomes. As part of a dedicated and diverse board, you’ll play a vital role in guiding our growth and impact.

We are currently recruiting for two trustee roles:

Finance Trustee- One Role

In this finance trustee role, we are looking for a qualified accountant and member of recognised UK accounting body, so you will be an experienced financial professional preferably with knowledge of charity accounting. The finance trustee will be able to apply this strategically to support with budget forecasting and financial planning

Specific responsibilities of a finance trustee:

• Support and provide advice on WCC’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities

• Oversee WCC’s financial plans and budgets and monitor and evaluate progress

• Ensure that key risks are being identified, monitored, and controlled effectively

• Review and approve WCC’s financial reports and statements

• Provide support and challenge to WCC’s senior manager in the exercise of their delegated authority and affairs

• Support the Finance Manager in ensuring trustees understand financial reports as it is a group responsibility of all trustees to understand and agree with the financial affairs of the charity

• Contribute to regular reviews of WCC’s governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect WCC’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation

• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member • Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion

• A strong personal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

• Willingness to lead according to our values 

Fundraising Trustee- One Role

You will have the opportunity to use your fundraising skills and experience to support us in building fundraising plans and strategy, and to educate other trustees about this area. Your expertise in fundraising and communications will help us open up new funding streams and opportunities for growth, helping us to have an even greater impact on the lives of Londoners struggling with mental health difficulties and trauma.

We are looking for someone with skills and experience in charity fundraising or communications, including areas such as Trusts and Foundation funding, the National Lottery, community/corporate fundraising and individual giving. Ideally we are looking for someone with understanding of the fundraising challenges facing smaller charities.

Duties of a fundraising trustee:

• Support and provide advice on WCC’s purpose, vision, goals, and activities

• Oversee WCC’s fundraising plans and work with the CEO to monitor and evaluate progress

• Supporting the delivery of a realistic but ambitious funding pipeline

• Work with the CEO to identify new funding opportunities and income streams, and build new relationships

• Ensure that key funding risks are being identified, monitored, and controlled effectively

• Contribute to regular reviews of WCC’s own governance. Attend Board meetings, adequately prepared to contribute to discussions.

• Use independent judgment, acting legally and in good faith to promote and protect WCC’s interests, to the exclusion of their own personal and/or any third-party interests Personal skills and qualities

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation

• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member • Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion

• A strong personal commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty, and leadership.

• Willingness to lead according to our values