Trustees Volunteer Roles in Home Based

About the Role

The Bridge Project is a well-established Bradford based charity with over 35 years’ experience delivering services and projects addressing a range of issues such as substance misuse, risk taking behaviours, relationships, housing, physical/mental health, and employment. We work with individuals, families, partners, and communities to improve people’s lives in a sustainable way, empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

We currently employ over 120 staff, 40% of whom are ‘experts by experience’ and have joined us through our volunteering programme.  We are recognised as being innovative and recovery focused, and our services have been highlighted nationally  as examples of best practice in the sector. Our portfolio of services and projects are constantly evolving in response to the changing needs of our service users and our local communities. Currently this includes recovery focussed drug treatment services, housing and resettlement support, access to education, training, and employment (ETE), volunteering programmes, support for people engaged with criminal justice services and befriending/mentoring services for people with significant barriers to recovery and community reengagement.

What will you be doing?

Our Trustees play a pivotal role in governing the Bridge Project.  They are responsible for setting our strategic vision and priorities, ensuring our financial sustainability, and providing guidance and oversight to our operations. Our Board is committed to excellence, and we are looking for new individuals to bring fresh knowledge and experience to join us in this important work.  We’re committed to creating a Board which is representative of the communities we support, bringing together those with a variety of skills and experiences, to help shape what we do and how we work.  We’re particularly keen to hear from candidates from ethnically diverse backgrounds and from woman, however, we would be pleased to hear from you if you feel you can add value to our Board and would like to help us to make a positive contribution.  This is a rewarding role and you do not need to have experience of been a Trustee before, as there will be a comprehensive induction.

As a Trustee, you will have the opportunity to bring commitment, energy and enthusiasm to the role with a passion for doing your best.  You will work alongside other talented Trustees, engage with our staff and stakeholders, and contribute to our collective mission of empowering people experiencing multiple barriers to achieve positive change.

Our Trustees play a vital role in making sure that the Bridge Project achieves its core purpose. They oversee the overall management and administration of the charity. They also ensure that the charity has a clear strategy and that our work and goals are in line with our vision. Just as importantly, they support and challenge the senior leadership team to enable The Bridge Project to grow and thrive, and through this, achieve our mission.

Time Commitment

We ask that you are able to devote time to attend 4 Trustee Board meetings per year, 4 Sub-Committee meetings per year and 1 Planning meeting.  These are a mixture of in-person meetings in Bradford and zoom meetings.  Meetings are currently held in the evening.  Trustees are also encouraged to visit our premises to meet with the staff team and meet the people we support.

What Difference will you make?

You will be joining a friendly, highly engaged, and passionate group of likeminded Trustees who are keen to deepen the impact of the Bridge Project in local communities.  As a Trustee, you will have a real opportunity to offer your unique skill set to help the strategic direction of the charity and directly contribute to these objectives.

You will collectively be responsible for ensuring that the Chief Officer and his team not only grow our services to meet everyone that needs them, but that the service we provide is of the highest quality.  Last year we provided treatment and support to 4,900 individuals.

You will also have an opportunity to expand your knowledge of the voluntary and community sector and give something back to the local community as well as developing new skills.

Unfold is an established local charity (previously known as Westminster Befriend a Family), supporting young people and families to reach their potential, identifying and achieving their goals through mentoring.  We support families and young people in Westminster and its neighbouring boroughs with mentoring programmes and peer support groups for women with children.

Unfold Trustees 

Trustees play a key role in ensuring that Unfold achieves its core purpose and overseeing the overall management and administration of the charity. They also help to ensure that Unfold has a clear strategic vision and that we are working in line with our charitable aims. Trustees support and challenge Unfold’s CEO to enable Unfold to thrive.

We are looking for two Trustees to support our vision and take on the following responsibilities: 

Responsibilities 

• Support and advise on Unfold’s vision, goals and activities 

• Approve operational strategies and policies and monitor and evaluate their implementation 

• Oversee the charity’s budgets and financial plans and monitor and evaluate progress 

• Ensure that risks are being identified, monitored and managed effectively 

• Ensure the effective administration of the charity 

• Provide support and challenge to Unfold’s CEO 

• Keep up to date with changes within the environment that Unfold operates 

• Engage with and be accountable to our service-user accountability structures, our Youth Advisory Council and our Women’s Advisory Council, who support us in setting strategic direction and to whom we are accountable. 

• Contribute to reviews of the charity’s governance 

• Attend board meetings and be adequately prepared to contribute to the discussion. At least 50% of those meetings will be in person in our fully accessible London office. 

• Support the promotion of Unfold's aims and reputation

• Contribute to the charity’s sub-committees and attend sub-committee meetings adequately prepared to contribute to the discussion 

Skill and Experience 

• Knowledge and experience of the charity sector 

• An understanding of and the ability to support Unfold’s fundraising strategy 

• An understanding of statutory services which might be supporting families, children, young people, mental health and wellbeing, which might be through knowledge and experience in local authorities or the public sector 

• Strong communication skills and able to contribute to board discussions 

• Knowledge or lived experience in the borough of Westminster

• Understanding of safeguarding the welfare of children or vulnerable adults 

Personal Attributes  

• Personable and positive

• Willingness to learn and contribute. 

• People orientated with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion 

• Passionate about supporting families to improve outcomes for children, young people and parents. 

Values 

Trustworthy, non-judgemental, transparent, caring and compassionate, empowering, proactive, self-motivated and accountable 

We Particularly Encourage Applications From: 

• Candidates from under-represented groups including women and those from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds

• People from marginalised groups, such as people who consider themselves LGBTQ+, disabled or otherwise facing challenges.

• Individuals with knowledge or lived experience of Westminster and the surrounding boroughs. 

• People with less experience but a keen enthusiasm and commitment to our aims based on lived experience. 

New Dawn New Day is a longstanding Leicester based women’s charity. A key focus of our work is supporting women who have come into contact with Criminal Justice Services or are at risk of offending, delivering a range of practical and emotional support designed to meet their multiple and complex needs.

If you have a commitment to, but not necessarily experience of working in the women’s sector, this role is a great opportunity to use your experience and leadership skills to help drive forward our work and build on our excellent reputation.

We are looking for a Chair to lead the Board, oversee our strategic direction ensure effective governance & inspire us.

Key Responsibilities

Ensuring effective governance

• Providing support and leadership to ensure trustees fulfil their duties and contribute to strategic decision-making
• Maintain a supportive team culture among trustees, leveraging their varied experiences and networks for the charity's benefit
• Supporting new trustees to develop their participation and contribution
• Oversee the plan for trustee recruitment to ensure succession, diversity & relevant skills

Development of the charity’s long-term strategy

• Working in collaboration with trustees, the CEO, and the Senior Executive Team to oversee the development of the long-term strategic plan
• Review  delivery of the annual plan to achieve funding & project objectives
• Research broader networks, potential partnerships & stakeholders to support the charity's strategic goals and funding requirements

Working with the CEO

• Develop a productive working relationship
• Agree their annual objectives and provide support and oversight to deliver them

Acting as a representative of the charity

• Be an ambassador, developing our network with decision makers and other stakeholders as appropriate

 For more details on the role & candidate requirements please find attached our Candidate pack for more details

Role: Chair of the Board of Trustees, West Smethwick Enterprise.

Salary: N/A - Voluntary Position.

Location: Birmingham/Sandwell.

Time commitment: Five x 3.5 hour Board meetings per year, plus the Mentorship of the Director of Childrens Services and occasionally representing the Charity at various events and meetings with key stakeholders.

The Chair is also expected to have regular meetings with the Director of Childrens Services to ensure that upcoming Board Meetings are well planned, efficient and the relevant information is available to enable Trustees to make timely and well-informed decisions. This would constitute approx. 8-16 hours per month in time commitment.

Closing date: 30th April 2024.

About West Smethwick Enterprise

West Smethwick Enterprise CIC is a community-based charity with an aim to improve outcomes for children and families in some of the most socially and economically challenged areas within the UK. We currently provide high quality Pre-Schools for children aged between 2-5, from 5 locations across Smethwick and Ladywood in Birmingham, as well as offering family support services for children and their families within the local community.

We are also building local professional capability for the Early Years sector itself through pioneering partnerships with Higher Education providers. This initiative is primarily driven through our Pre-School centre based in Ladywood, Birmingham.

As WSE’s Chair of the Board of Trustees (BoT), you will be responsible for engaging the Trustees to support our talented, committed employees to continue growing a sustainable, resilient and agile organisation, capable of delivering an ambitious strategy; developing talent and capability; building successful partnerships and attracting suitable investment/funding.

West Smethwick Enterprise in a nutshell

Pre-school settings – 5

Turnover - £800k

Staff numbers – 37

Our values: Kindness, Fairness, Determination, Collaboration and Imagination. These values are deeply ingrained in our culture and the way we work with our colleagues and with the children and families we serve

 

About the role

The operation and success of West Smethwick Enterprise is overseen by a capable, dedicated and experienced Board of Trustees and this is led by the Chair.

Working closely with their Board of Trustees, the Chair is responsible for ensuring that our WSE leadership team continue to deliver financial stability, strong operational grip, high quality children’s services and apply strong governance to the organisation. The Chair also plays a crucial role overseeing the development and successful delivery of the strategy.

The successful Chair will provide mentorship to the Director of Children’s services, who leads the organisation on a day-to-day basis, helping her to continue to create a climate where the wider team can thrive and achieve new heights.

The role is perfect for a leader who is an experienced people manager, passionate about supporting young children from economically disadvantaged areas to thrive, and wants to use their skills, professional network and experience for good.

It is a voluntary position, with reasonable travel costs and expenses being covered.

The Chair position is a central leadership role within WSE, with the successful candidate drawing on their skills and experience to ensure the organisation can develop to meet the growing requirement for high quality, low cost and/or grant funded pre-school education in the Birmingham Ladywood and Smethwick footprint. We are keen to hear from anyone who is passionate about our aims, has time to give and feels able to lead West Smethwick Enterprise through the next chapter of growth.

Please refer to the attached job description fro the full job specification.

Trustee

We’re looking for a Trustee to join our Board to help achieve our vision of London alive with nature, where everyone can experience and enjoy wildlife.

 We are also keen to hear from aspiring or existing trustees 30 years old and under. We know that diversity of both representation and thought is a powerful key to unlocking the full potential of London Wildlife Trust. Intergenerational perspectives are a key pillar to enabling better decision making and a high performing board.

 

Role & Responsibilities

Our Trustees serve as a vital pillar in our organisation, providing leadership, expertise and supportive guidance to ensure we achieve our aim and objectives.

We have a range of directorates from policy and planning, nature recovery, outdoor learning, visitor experience and retail. If you share our vision and have experience in any of the areas, my Trustee colleagues, we’d love to hear from you.

We are seeking Trustees who have experience in one (or more) of the below areas:

Visitor attractions: managing visitor experience and/or generating commercial income in a similar charity-led visitor attraction.

Retail: we have a longer term ambition to develop and online retail offering so experience in this area would be hugely beneficial

Outdoor learning: experience and expertise to strategically support our well-established outdoor learning programmes

Legislation and advocacy: an understanding of biodiversity policy and legislation, and an in-depth understanding of nature recovery and political advocacy at a national level, including the regional context of London borough councils, and Greater London Authority

Person Specification 

· A collaborative listener who works effectively as a member of a team. 

· Independent judgment, a willingness to share opinions and an ability to focus on making decisions. 

· Strong communication and relationship management skills. 

· A critical friend who empowers and constructively challenges the Chief Executive and senior management team. 

(Please see job description for full person specification)

Terms of Appointment

This role is unremunerated, but reasonable, pre-agreed travel expenses will be reimbursed.

Attendance at 6 yearly meetings plus an annual strategy session, half of which are typically delivered online

Occasional further contribution either in person or online to provide mentoring, advice and guidance

Trustees are elected at the AGM for a term of three years, which may be renewed for one further three-year term and then can be extended for up to two years if required.

Closing Date: Monday 6th May at 9am

 

Does this sound like you? We’d love to hear from you!

Our vision is a London alive with nature, where everyone can experience and enjoy wildlife. In order to achieve our goal of engaging everyone in protecting London’s wildlife for the future, we know that our staff team needs to better reflect and represent all of London’s communities. We are committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all. Alongside our inclusive Talent policy which outlines are commitments including giving fair opportunities to ex-offenders, we also offer an enhanced flexible working policy which is available to you from your very first day.

Read more about London Wildlife Trust’s commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion on our website.

The Royal Society for Asian Affairs (RSAA) is seeking to recruit three new trustees to support it at an important point in its development, approaching its 125th anniversary in 2026.

The Society has made big changes in recent years, including expanding its international audience, improving its accessibility to members and non-members, modernising its constitution and governance structures, and developing an ambitious new strategy that gives the Society’s original objectives fresh energy in a 21st century context.

To help us drive this forward, we are looking for an individual with a professional background in fundraising and income generation, ideally in the education sector, and an interest in Asia. Experience of working with charities is important. Familiarity with the RSAA would be useful but is not essential. We are keen to increase the diversity of the board and will particularly welcome interest from individuals from under-represented groups.

Trustees are accountable for the proper and effective operation of the Society, giving strategic direction to the Chief Executive, ensuring the financial health and good financial management of the Society, ensuring that the Society has sufficient funds to support its activities, and protecting the Society’s reputation and independence.

Trustees - Field Studies Council

Thank you for your interest in being a charity trustee at Field Studies Council. We champion field studies in and beyond educational curricula. We encourage curiosity for the natural world. We practice and promote sustainability.

The Organisation:
We are an environmental education charity, best known for providing residential and day field trips for those studying biology and geography. But our mission is to create outstanding opportunities for everyone to learn about nature. 

We have welcomed over 3.7 million visitors since we opened our first centre in 1946. In 2023 123,000 or so learners visited our centres: most were aged 25 and below and were in school or university groups. We (the Charity and its trading subsidiary) employ 325 or so people and in an accounting context have annual turnover in the range £15m to £20m.

The Role:
Who are we looking for?

You will bring diversity of thought and outlook, as well as new perspectives to the organisation.  You will improve board decision making and outcomes for an increasing range of members of the public, especially children and young people.

To find out more about us, the role description and person specification please download the Candidate Information Pack. 

Person Specification:
You may have had limited opportunity to explore nature, and you might be new to outdoor learning. And not every Trustee needs to be an academic, ecologist or environmentalist or have charity trustee, company director or equivalent experience. We are in particular looking for individuals who are able to bring their skills and expertise in the following areas:

•  Hospitality and tourism
•  The delivery of inner city projects for young people
•  Strategic management and development of a property portfolio

How to Apply:
If you are interested in applying for this role, please ensure you provide:

•  An up to date CV detailing your relevant experience and including the details of two referees (who will not be contacted without your prior consent).
•  A supporting statement addressing the criteria in the person specification and your motivations for applying.

If you have any difficulty uploading your application or if you would like to have an informal and confidential discussion about the role, alternatively please contact Melissa Baxter. 

Closing date for applications: Monday 4th March 2024
Interviews with Field Studies Council: Week commencing 18th March 2024

We are committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and working inclusively across our organisation and to reflect this are keen to have a more diverse Board. Field Studies Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.

Are you passionate about addressing the societal injustices faced by disabled people? Do you have the skills to lead the Board of a fast-growing, ambitious charity providing support and making a tangible difference in the lives of adults with learning disabilities and autism?

Share Community is seeking a Chair for our Board of Trustees, and up to three further Trustees to fill upcoming vacancies on our Board.

Role: Chair, Share Community

The Chair is a crucial role for Share, working closely with the Chief Executive to provide inspirational leadership, and ensure the charity delivers its mission and vision. Alongside all the other trustees the Chair will provide oversight of the Charity’s governance and strategic direction.

The Chair will be committed to reducing the social injustice faced by disabled people, and model Share’s organisational values: we’re inclusive, supportive and ambitious and work with kindness, integrity and respect.

The principal responsibilities of the Chair include:

• Leading the trustee body in ensuring that it fulfils its responsibilities for the governance of Share Community;
• Working in partnership with the Chief Executive, Executive Team and other trustees to ensure the charity delivers on its strategic and charitable objectives, vision, purpose and values;
• Ensuring that the Board reviews strategic issues, risks and opportunities on a regular basis, and can satisfy itself that systems are in place to take advantage of opportunities and mitigate risks.

Share is seeking a leader with experience at Board level as either a Trustee or Executive Director. Previous experience as a Chair is not a requirement of the role.

Role: Trustee, Share Community

Share’s trustee team has responsibility for overseeing strategy and performance. Share currently has ten trustees, and in light of some current trustees coming to the end of their term, is looking to recruit three more with the enthusiasm, skills and commitment we need to help guide Share through the next phase of its development.

Prospective Trustees must have a commitment to Share’s vision and values, and a passion for making a difference in the lives of disabled people. Share is particularly keen to encourage applications from individuals with specific experience of:

• Fundraising, particularly growing or diversifying income streams;
• Property and estates management;
• Setting up or running a social enterprise.

Share is looking for people with or without Board level experience, and we would welcome applications from adults of all ages.

Representation

Share believes strongly that diversity of thought and experience directly contributes to better organisational outcomes, and that the composition of the Charity’s leadership should be reflective of the diversity of Share’s student body.

Share is therefore particularly keen to encourage applications for the Chair and Trustee roles from groups currently under-represented on the Board, including people who have lived experience of disability or caring for someone with a disability, those from minoritised ethnic backgrounds, and men.

About Share

Share is a charity based in Wandsworth and Lambeth, working with adults with learning disabilities and autism.

The story of Share began in 1972, when a group of disabled people came together as a self-help group to improve employment and training opportunities for disabled people. Over the years, Share has grown and evolved, responding to changing needs and opportunities.

Share appointed a new Chief Executive in 2022, and the Charity is in the second year of a three-year strategy. Delivery of our strategy will help Share achieve its mission of providing a safe, empowering and progressive experience where disabled adults can develop their skills, wellbeing and purpose to enable them to live happier, healthier and more independent lives.

Share principally supports people from south west London, with the majority of students coming from Wandsworth and Lambeth. Share currently operates from four sites and supports more than 160 students each week across our range of programmes which focus on personal development, independent living skills, and employability.

Share’s vision is to live in a world where disabled adults are genuinely valued and included, can make choices and have the freedom to fulfil their ambitions. Share is inclusive, supportive and ambitious and works with kindness, integrity and respect.

3x Trustees - Breakout Youth

Breakout Youth is a registered charity that provides services and facilities for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Questioning (LGBTQ+) young people.  Breakout Youth supports and advocates for LGBTQ+ young people by providing safe spaces, education, and promoting awareness as a visible, current, inclusive, and trusted LGBTQ+ charity.

Specifically, it is seeking Trustees with either fundraising or human resources experience to drive activity in these crucial areas. Although, it is also seeking general Trustees to join its growing team.

Are you passionate about making a difference in your local community? Do you possess the skills, knowledge, and commitment to help shape the future of community initiatives? If so, Broxbourne Big Local (BBL) is seeking enthusiastic individuals like you to join our team of Trustees.

About Broxbourne Big Local: Broxbourne Big Local is dedicated to proactively meeting the needs of the people in the borough. Our primary objective is to provide valuable opportunities and services centred around the Wormley Community Centre, to expand our reach across the borough in the future. Our current Trustees, who are local residents deeply invested in community welfare, have successfully prevented the demolition of the Wormley Community Centre and secured a 999-year lease, marking a significant milestone in our journey.

The Role: As a Trustee of Broxbourne Big Local, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of our organisation. Working alongside like-minded individuals, you will contribute to the ongoing development and sustainability of the Wormley Community Centre and our broader community initiatives. Your responsibilities will include strategic planning, financial oversight, and ensuring that our activities align with our charitable objectives.

How to Apply: If you are excited about the opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of Broxbourne Big Local, you can find more information in the Trustee recruitment pack.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Join Us: Be a part of a dynamic team dedicated to building a cohesive and sustainable community in the Borough of Broxbourne. Your knowledge, skills, and talent can make a meaningful difference. Join Broxbourne Big Local today and help shape a brighter future for all.

Sutton Mental Health Foundation was established as a charity in 1998 and the aim of the Foundation is to support people with mental health needs in the London Borough of Sutton, helping to keep them well and active and helping them to have a voice in mental health care in the Borough.  Our vision is to provide a community in Sutton which values mental wellbeing and understands how to respond positively to anxiety and distress.  The Foundation works together to promote mental wellbeing resilience and recovery from mental distress.We provide nonclinical support, and we are part of the Voluntary Sector. 

The Foundation is seeking to add to the expertise of our experienced, professional Board of Trustees, who are all volunteers.  All our Trustees need excellent communication skills, the ability to work effectively as part of a team, strategic vision and good, independent judgement.  Although not limited to, we would particularly value the experience and skills in the following areas : 

• Company Secretary/Legal Experience 
• Fundraising in the following areas – Grant, Corporate and Public 
• Marketing 

Lived or shared experience of mental health – desirable. 

Inclusion is one of our values and we are looking for diversity in the makeup of our Board and that we particularly welcome applications from underrepresented communities.

The Board of Trustees meets every six weeks, in the evening at 7 p.m. for approximately 1 ½ hours in Sutton.  Sometimes our Board meetings are on-line.

Kids in Museums is looking for people who are passionate about improving access to culture for children, young people and families to join our Board of Trustees.

As a Trustee, you can help shape our mission to change the museum and heritage sector to make it better for all children, young people and families, particularly those who currently have the least access. You’ll be joining a dedicated Board that brings a wide range of skills and experiences to the charity and have the chance to become involved with exciting Kids in Museums programmes such as the Family Friendly Museum Award and Takeover Day.

Our Trustees have the opportunity to

• Learn new transferable skills such as strategic planning and risk management. 
• Join new professional networks in the museum sector and beyond.
• Give something back by improving access to the museum and heritage sector.

All Trustees receive a free package of training and support to help them settle into their roles. All expenses are covered by Kids in Museums. 

We are also looking for candidates who have:

• An interest in Kids in Museums’ mission to improve access to museums and heritage for families, children and young people.
• An analytical approach to decision-making.
• An ability to communicate clearly and engage with a range of different stakeholders, staff and volunteers.
• A set of skills to enable them to handle challenging situations. This could include offering advice under time pressure if the charity was facing a reputational challenge. Alternatively, it could be providing support and advice on a staff disciplinary process.
• An ability to give feedback to staff, volunteers and other Trustees kindly and constructively.
• A strong commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• A willingness to participate in the charity’s income generation work. This could include representing Kids in Museums at networking events, making introductions to potential supporters or reviewing funding applications.

If you are passionate about our mission, but don’t feel confident you meet all the points on the person specification, we still encourage you to consider applying. We’re keen to widen that range of people on our Board and your perspective may be one we need.

We welcome applications from everyone, but we are particularly keen to hear from first time Trustees, people who identify as D/deaf and/ or disabled, people from ethnic minority backgrounds and people from working-class backgrounds. 

Trustee

We’re looking for trustees​

I’m Nick, Chair of the Board of Trustees for We The Curious. We are looking for individuals to join us on the board who are passionate about creating a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future through science and creative experiences.​

Since the temporary closure of our venue due to fire and water damage, we have been working hard to continue our mission with our 'out and about' activity as well as focussing on reimagining our strategic plan (Plan 2030) and governance.

We are now on the cusp of reopening our iconic Bristol venue, and as we do, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to our strategy and help us create a place where everyone is included, curious and inspired by science.

We have newfound opportunities and challenges ahead and we need people with fresh perspectives and skills . As a trustee, you’ll share our values, be motivated, and have a positively questioning mind to help us realise our vision.  You can find more about our history and who we are here.

If you feel energised by our charity and this opportunity, then we’d love to hear from you!

Nick Jones, Chair of Board of Trustees, We The Curious​

What is a trustee?​

Trustees have overall control of a charity and are responsible for making sure it’s doing what it was set up to do. They may be known by other titles, such as:

Directors, board members, governors, committee members

Whatever they are called, trustees are the people who work with our experienced leadership team to provide support, encouragement, challenge when needed and help to decide how the charity is run. Being a trustee means making decisions that will impact on people’s lives. Depending on what the charity does, you will be making a difference to your local community or to society as a whole.

Trustees use their skills and experience to support their charities, helping them achieve their aims. Trustees also often learn new skills during their time on the board.

About We The Curious​

We The Curious is an educational charity and one of the UK’s leading science centres. 

We produce experiences that bring people together to play, get creative with science and explore different ideas around science, technology, natural history and the environment.

We work with partners, locally and nationally, supporting people to be inquisitive, develop new skills and improve their wellbeing.

We are progressive, inquisitive, collaborative, playful and creative.

Vision

​What if everyone is included, curious, inspired by science to build a better world together?

Mission​

Our aim is to connect and empower people through sharing creative experiences which celebrate unknowns in science.

Our work as a charity is driven by five key pledges:

_Cultivate Curiosity

_Include Everyone

_Open Up Science

_Sustainable Futures

_Build Resilience

You can find out more about these in our Manifesto.

What will you do in this role?​

As a trustee you will provide advice, knowledge and support to the leadership team at We The Curious.

With the steer of the Chair, the board of trustees ensures we pursue our purpose responsibly, are compliant with our governing documents, charity law and other relevant legislation. The board will review and advise on best practice and appropriate policies and procedures and uphold excellent governance.

As a trustee you will:​

_Contribute individual skills and knowledge in support of the vision and strategic delivery

_Uphold the values of We The Curious

_Safeguard and advocate for the work and vision of We The Curious

_Act as ambassadors locally, nationally and internationally

_Assist with the evaluation and review of the policies, goals and targets of the organisation

_Encourage investment and growth

_Drive innovation and change

_Oversee the effective and efficient administration of the organisation and long-term financial stability

_Contribute to working groups for specific focus on projects

All Trustees should use their specific skills, knowledge or experience to help the Board of Trustees reach informed decisions in the best interest of We The Curious.

This will involve scrutinising Board papers, leading discussion and providing guidance as requested by the Board on new initiatives or other issues relevant to the area of our work in which the trustee has expertise.

Time commitment

​_We hold quarterly board meetings, typically from 4pm to 7pm and one strategy away day per year. Trustees are expected to attend and contribute to all meetings either in person or by joining virtually.

_ Board Meetings are located at the We The Curious offices within the science centre in central Bristol, and once a year at another location around the City.

_ You will also be asked to take part in one of our subcommittee meetings which take place online, at least once per quarter. There are currently sub-committees for Finance & Risk Assurance and Purpose Strategy.

_ You may also be called upon for advice or assistance by the leadership team or to attend occasional events.

Remuneration

​This is a voluntary role. Reasonable travel expenses will be covered. Food is provided at the quarterly Board meetings and strategy away days.

You will have:​​​​​​​

_Free entry to our venue during opening hours

_12 tickets per calendar year to give away

_20% off in the We The Curious shop at our venue and online

_Free parking at Millennium Square car park for meetings

_Secure cycle storage

Terms of appointment​

_Trustees are appointed to an initial three-year term of service (including a 12-month probationary period).

_Trustees can serve a maximum of six years with a reappointment after the first term of three years unless the trustee holds an office, such as Chair or Deputy Chair, in which case they would be eligible for a further three-year term. The maximum term of office is nine years. 

Probationary period

​This post is subject to a 12-month probationary period.

What we're looking for from you​

We have created a bold new Plan 2030 strategy, and we are looking for people that embody our values and have some of these skills/knowledge to help achieve it.

You will:​

_Embody our values. Collaborative, Creative, Inquisitive, Playful and Progressive

_Be committed to our vision and key manifesto pledges of Cultivating Curiosity, Including Everyone, Open Up Science, Strive for Sustainable Futures and Build Resilience

_Have a positively questioning mind to help We The Curious fulfil its  vision

_Act with integrity and in the best interests of We The Curious at all times

_Work effectively as a member of a team and take decisions for the good of We The Curious

Skills/Knowledge

​We want to ensure that our board bring a variety of skills and knowledge to We The Curious. We are particularly looking for people to join us who have skills/knowledge in any of the following areas:

_Disability awareness

_Finance and accountancy

_IT (Information Technology)

_Legal Media/PR (Public Relations) 

_People management

_Property management

_Science communication Science industry research 

_Sustainability and climate action

_Surveying / Architecture 

_Venue operations

_Education and learning

Including everyone

​We want our people to reflect our city and build a place where everyone feels like they can belong. But we know that our organisation doesn’t yet represent the rich experiences and cultures of Bristol. We think when our board reflects our city it will lead to innovative , well informed and better decision making. We’ll be more resilient, inclusive, and better equipped to fulfil our vision and mission.

We especially want to hear from you if​

_You identify as and/or have lived experiences with either:  African and African Caribbean heritage, Carers, d/Deaf, Disabled, East Asian heritage, Global majority, LGBTQIA+ and/or non-binary, Neurodivergent, South Asian heritage, under 40, Visually impaired, Woman, Working Class

We are also working with Rising Arts to recruit two young people (18-25) to our board this year. 

I’ve never been a trustee before, should I apply? 

​Yes! If you feel you connect with these values or have some the skills/knowledge we are looking for, then we’d love to hear from you.

You just need to be at least 18 years old. You don’t need formal qualifications, or previous trustee experience or a science background or have reached any stage in your career. We’ll give you training on good governance and opportunities for mentorship. This opportunity would suit someone who is new to governance or hasn’t been a trustee before. 

If you are an aspiring trustee or want to know more about trustees, you may find these resources from Getting on Board useful.

Supporting you​

Training​

If you join the board, you will have an induction and onboarding experience to support you with your role and get you connected with the rest of the organisation.

If you are a first-time trustee or want a refresher, we will provide you with training on good governance and other topics related to your role. We will also provide you with mentorship from other members of the board.

Application process​

Deadline for applications: Wednesday 18 March

Interview date(s) and location:  Week commencing 15 April

Start date:  6 May 2024. Induction will take place over 2 weeks with first board meeting to attend on Thursday 23 May 2024.

To Apply:​

If you would like to apply, please click on 'Apply via Webiste' and follow instructions on the job description. It contains questions designed to assess your experience and suitability for the role. You have the option to answer these questions in a written format or by submitting your responses by video or audio. 

Please do not send in CVs or covering letters as we don’t review them.

If you are invited for an informal interview with members of the board of trustees and staff of We The Curious, we’ll send you the questions that you’ll be asked beforehand so that you have time to prepare.

We appreciate interviews can be stressful so we try to make them more of a conversation and a chance for you to tell us about how your qualifications, skills and experience make you the right person for the role.​

If you have any particular needs or requirements, please do let us know so we are able to make the required adjustments.

If you would like to talk about the role or application process, please email people(at)wethecurious(dot)org.

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We are looking for a Trustee who can help us strengthen and deepen our reach with stakeholders, communities, and funders.

Ideally you will have some professional experience within the third sector or a personal connection with what we do. However, wherever you are now, you will recognise how significant our organisation is within our community and will share our desire to further strengthen our impact and ensure we continue to be a sustainable provider of services to people with complex needs.

Key Attributes We Seek in Trustees:

· Commitment to the YSS Mission: A keen belief in YSS's mission of fostering independence and empowerment is vital. We believe our Trustees should be driven by a passion for effecting positive change in people's lives.

· Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability is non-negotiable. Trustees must embody honesty and ethical behaviour in all endeavours.

· Strategic Thinking: Effective trustees possess strategic foresight and the ability to analyse complex issues. They contribute valuable insights to shape YSS's long-term direction and goals.

· Leadership Skills: Demonstrating strong leadership qualities is essential. Trustees should inspire others, foster collaboration, and proactively identify opportunities and challenges.

· Financial Awareness: Understanding financial matters is crucial for fulfilling a Trustee’s financial responsibilities to the organisation. Trustees should actively review financial reports and plans to ensure YSS's financial health.

· Diversity and Inclusion: YSS serves diverse communities, and we value diversity in our Trustees. Commitment to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion is paramount.

· Effective Communication: Trustees should possess strong communication skills, articulating ideas clearly and engaging with stakeholders effectively.

· Collaborative Approach: Operating through collaboration is a hallmark of YSS. Trustees should be team players, working collaboratively towards common goals.

· Adaptability and Resilience: Trustees should be adaptable and resilient in navigating change and uncertainty while staying focused on the organization's mission.

· Commitment and Availability: Serving as a trustee requires dedication of time and energy. Trustees must commit to attending meetings, participating in discussions, and engaging in relevant activities.

Principal responsibilities

· Provide strategic direction.

· Monitor performance.

· Ensure compliance.

· Safeguard reputation and values.

· Ensure financial viability.

· Contribute to MD's appointment, support, and performance monitoring.

· Participate in appraisal, recruitment, and disciplinary panels.

Desirable Areas of Skills and Experience:

· ICT and digital transformation

· Legal

· Safeguarding

· Criminal Justice

· Social Care or Social Enterprise

· Accountancy and financial planning/reporting

· Organizational Management

· Human Resources

· Community Development

· Balancing conflicting views sensitively

· Networking and relationship-building

· Commitment to the charity's vision and values

· Strong leadership with credibility and enthusiasm

· Effective decision-making and independent judgment

Summary of the Role: As a Trustee, you'll be responsible for setting strategic aims, objectives, and direction. You'll ensure YSS achieves its objectives, represents stakeholders' interests, and act as an ambassador for the charity.

Structure, Governance, and Management: YSS is governed by its Memorandum and Articles of Association. The Board delegates responsibility for day-to-day management to the Managing Director, aided by the Senior Management and Leadership Team.

Strategy: YSS has a broad 3-year strategy linked to our organizational Theory of Change. Bi-annual strategic reviews are undertaken by the Trustees and Senior Management Team.

Priorities for 2024-2025:

· Implementation of impact measurement metrics

· Creation of staff and service user forums

· Focus on income sustainability and relationships with local authorities and funders

· Further development around our social value strategy